Magazine July 2016

www.visionasia.com.au

July 2016

VIDYA BALAN Redefining the heroine’s role in Bollywood

Rajkummar Rao

Defying convention

Tamannaah Bhatia

Finding her space

Amitabh Bachchan

Big B’s fiction television debut

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Speaking Frankly

With outstanding performances over her career, numerous awards including a National Award and a Padma Shri, Vidya Balan has left no doubt as to her reputation as one of the most talented actress in Bollywood today. The actress, who had to go through several rejections before she made her place in Bollywood, has never followed the conventional path to success.

From her debut in Parineeta to the bold actress in The Dirty Picture, the pregnant woman in Kahaani and a temptress in Ishqiya, Vidya Balan has garnered a place for herself amongst the heroes of the industry with her huge talent and iconic women-oriented roles. While her last two films Ghanchakkar and Shaadi Ke Side Effects did not do well at the box office, Vidya is now looking forward to her upcoming film, Bobby Jasoos, where she plays a detective. The talented actress talks about the film and looks back upon her career in a candid interview with Vision Asia.

CREDITS Editor Sandra Noronha Associate Editor Manishaa Rajender Mandlecha Writers Subhash Jha, Jasbir Kaur, Tarla Dalal, Manishaa Rajender Mandlecha Designer Dharmendra Jangid Images Image Clicker

Vision Asia has some exciting shows lined up in July with a host of new dailies and reality shows.

Amitabh Bachchan is making his debut in a fictional show on television with Yuddh on Sony featuring an ensemble cast including Sarika, Kay Kay Menon and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.

New dailies for the month include Shastri Sisters, Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi & Aasmanon Pay Likha on Colors and Baawre: Chal Jahan Chalen Mann Ke Paav Re on Life OK. Colors is also debuting a new talk show Kucch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai with host Anupam Kher bringing his unique attitude to the small screen.

New reality shows to watch out for include Splitsvilla Season 7 on MTV with Sunny Leone as host and Jhalak Dikhhlaa Jaa on Colors, back in its seventh avatar.

Super hit movies for the month include Dhoom 3, Bullett Raja, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Yaariyan, The Dirty Picture, Student of the Year, Krrish, Gunday. Classics include Golmaal, Anand, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, Hatya, Namak Halal, Pukar.

We wish you a very happy Eid this July. We would like to hear from you. Do write to us on feedback@visionasia.com.au TEAM VISION ASIA

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This publication has been independently audited by the Circulations Audit Board.

Audit period March 2014.

CONTENTS STRAIGHT TALK

4

STRAIGHT TALK

4

FITNESS

10

FITNESS

10

QUICK UPDATES

12

QUICK UPDATES

12

PREVIEW

20

PREVIEW

20

TRAVEL

22

TRAVEL

22

PRIME TIME VIEWING

24

PRIME TIME VIEWING

24

NOSTALGIA

28

NOSTALGIA

28

OPINION

30

OPINION

30

NEWS EXPRESS

32

NEWS EXPRESS

32

TELECHAT

36

TELECHAT

36

TELLY TATTLE

38

TELLY TATTLE

38

ENCOUNTER

40

ENCOUNTER

40

FACE TO FACE

42

FACE TO FACE

42

FOOD

46

FOOD

46

COVER STORY 14 I don’t think I will come across a situation where I will be jobless someday. - Vidya Balan

STRAIGHT TALK

“BMB has inspired me to believe that the really difficult things in life can be achieved by sheer application”

I am automatically drawn to challenging roles After rocking the year with his superlative performance in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Farhan Akhtar is now set to take his acting potential to newer heights with his forthcoming films. The multifaceted actor talks to Subhash K Jha about his plans ahead.

You seem to have entered a phase in your career where you are more active as an actor than a filmmaker?

When you are surfing and you happen to catch a nice wave, you don’t leave it halfway through to find a better one. I am in that kind of a space. This journey seems so correct. I am truly enjoying this experience of working with the most amazing talent. Right now, I am looking forward to Dev Benegal’s film which is my next film as an actor. I am also looking forward to working with Kareena. We intend to start shooting for the film immediately after the release of my upcoming film Shaadi Ke Side Effects.

Does Dev Benegal’s film give you the opportunity to attempt something new?

That’s become a subconscious precondition for every role that I do. It would be dangerous for me to consciously seek unpredictable roles. As a matter of fact, I am automatically drawn to 4 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

challenging roles that take me to the other end of the spectrum.

edy all the way. Apart from that, I enjoyed shooting with Vidya Balan.

Tell us more about Shaadi Ke Side Effects.

The story of the film is about situations and dilemmas that all married couples go through. In every marital alliance, there is always space for improvement and adjusting to your partner’s point of view. To that extent it does have similarities to my own life. But then I guess every character you play has to steal into your own life to borrow moments. That’s how you nail down a character.

Are you consciously selecting a different costar in each of your films?

It is true that I have been working with a different co-star every time but it hasn’t been planned that way. I’ve made no conscious effort to pick different co-stars for my films.

Either way, I consider it a good occurrence. Every time you work with a new co-star, there’s a whole new dynamism to your chemistry on screen.

Is this is the first time you’re attempting a comedy?

This is definitely the first time I am doing a fullon comedy though there were pronounced elements of comedy in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

When I read Saket Chowdhary’s script I found it genuinely funny. At the same time it is maturely written. It truly felt like a romantic com-

You seem to be a regular feature in your sister Zoya Akhtar’s films. Reportedly you will also be seen playing an important role in her third film.

Why not? I am happy being a constant in her films. This film will be shot simultaneously while I am doing Dev Benegal’s film. I have seriously different looks in both the films.

STRAIGHT TALK

Zoya’s film is about a brother and a sister. Is it based on your relationship with her?

That confusion has prevailed for a while now.

Let me take this opportunity to clarify that Zoya’s film has nothing to do with our real-life relationship. It is entirely a work of fiction.

Are you doing any other films as an actor?

I am also looking forward to a film produced

by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, directed by Bejoy Nambiar. It’s Vidhu’s script and that makes it something special.

How do you look back on the Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (BMB) experience? Would you call it your most decisive film so far?

In terms of my personal evolution as an actor, the film stands tall. I actually led Milkha-ji’s life. In all respects, BMB is definitely a milestone in my career. Having said that, I’ve to admit that there are other films like Rock On, that have also taught me a lot as a director,

writer and actor. If I single out BMB, it would be unfair to the people I’ve collaborated with since Dil Chahta Hai. I’d say BMB is an essential part of my growth. Dil Chahta Hai and Rock On were also decisive.

You cannot deny the fact that so many films of yours have been trendsetters?

That is if you choose to call them so. To me BMB is definitely a landmark. Every day I get a renewed sense of what this film continues to achieve. Last week I went for my daughter’s sports day and all the little students in school were hiding behind each other and calling out ‘Milkha’ to me. That felt wonderful. A child’s mother told me her son ties his teddy bear around his waist and runs around the house.

Do you think BMB has also impacted the way we look at sports besides cricket?

Students who have met me tell me that the film has changed the way sports and games are

looked upon in the college curriculum. I think BMB has opened up a world of possibilities.

It has inspired me to believe that the really difficult things in life can be achieved by sheer application. It doesn’t matter which vocation one is into.

“Let me take this opportunity to clarify that Zoya’s film revolving around a brother and sister has nothing to do with our real-life relationship”

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016

5

STRAIGHT TALK

card-house My work is my

On the eve of his 60th birthday, Kamal Hassan spoke to Subhash K Jha about his obsession with the camera and how he lost out on an opportunity of working with the legendary film-maker Raj Kapoor.

Once I announce a project and the camera rolls, I’m happy 6 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

STRAIGHT TALK

You’re now 60. Out of these a good 50 years have been spent in front of the camera. Aren’t you wary of acting?

I have never looked upon acting as work.

Working for money or fame saps you. I stopped doing it 30 years back. The only time I am really happy is when I am in front of the camera. When I am not, I start retrospecting. I equate acting to building card-houses which I used to do as a child.

For me it was building the Taj Mahal. My work is my card-house. I truly admire what they do on the beaches of Orissa. They create true work of art on the beaches and then watch the wind and the waters sweep it away.

give her a chance to do the background score in the Tamil film, Unnaipol Oruvan.

It wouldn’t matter to me if she failed as a movie actress. But right now it looks she is on a winning streak.

Will there be any replacement for you and Rajnikanth as actors?

Has your perception of acting changed over a period of time?

The first 100 films that I got were marketdriven. They were films which everyone presumed were going by the market demand. Fortunately for me, people advised and counselled me about my career. So one day I woke up and decided to nurture Kamal Haasan, the actor.

You are often forced to take over problematic projects. Wouldn’t you just like to focus on acting?

I was always a reluctant actor and I will continue to be one. Once I announce a project and the camera rolls, I’m happy.

I continue to do leading parts even now apart from the exception of my mentor K Balachander’s films, for which I can do even do a walk-in role. When he directed his 100th film, I just walked in to do a small role. I just clowned around on camera.

Balachander is my inspiration.

Are you enthused by Hindi cinema?

Yes, some of it. I am very happy Aamir Khan is now attempting films that should’ve been done ten years ago in Hindi. People attribute this new cinema to the entry of corporate houses in Hindi cinema. But these corporate houses were nowhere in existence when Hrishida (Hrishikesh Mukherjee) made his films and Gulzar-bhai made Achanak.

Brilliant films are possible in every corner of India and at any time.

Your elder daughter Shruti Haasan has made a career in both Tamil and Hindi films. Are you happy for her?

I’m proud of her because she isn’t doing a product of our home banner Rajkamal Films.

The only thing Rajkamal did for her was to

screen. He told me that it was the secret of his future success. I assured him my style would also be a winner. He turned around to say, ‘Fair enough. You do your thing and I’ll do my own.’ Rajni is a phenomenon too.

Both of us were young actors who started from scratch. He was the bus conductor with acting aspirations. I was the clapper boy who got the clap in my very film (Kamal Haasan played a character with venereal disease in his first adult role). We didn’t have fathers to make movies for us. But we had the same godfather K.Balachander.

I’M SURE IF I HAD DONE SWATHI MUTHYAM WITH RAJ KAPOOR-SAAB I’D HAVE FOUND A PLACE IN HIS HEART Don’t you want to act in a film with her?

Shruti has been telling me that we should.

But I don’t want her to do it just for the heck of it. She is a star now. I want her to act in one of our home productions for the glory of our banner. By the way for the Tamil version of Dasavtharam she was my coach for my American accent. She had just returned from the US and was the perfect medium to help me master my American accent skills. She was a bully. She made me do many retakes in the dubbing.

What do you think about Rajnikant as an actor?

When we were in our 20s, I had once asked Rajnikant why he chose to be so stylised on

There are so many gifted new boys. And I’m eager to encourage them. People said there would be no one like Warren Finnerty until Charlie Chaplin came along. In Hindi cinema there are stunning performers like Paresh Rawal, Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan in certain films. I’m inspired by them even though some of them aren’t driving the same car as me. As actors they win hands down.

I brought out a side of Om Puri’s talent in Chachi 420 that hadn’t been seen before.

He calls me Anna. We are like brothers.

You once came close to working with Raj Kapoor. Do you feel regretful that the project did not come through?

This was soon after the release of my Telugu film, Swathi Muthyam. Raj Kapoor-sir liked my character very much and humbly offered to produce it in Hindi. If it would have worked out, I’d have become a part of the RK family. Unfortunately the director K. Vishwanath had already committed himself to another Kapoor for the Hindi version.

Having lost that opportunity I think of myself as a big loser. I’m sure if I had done Swathi Muthyam with Raj Saab I’d have found a place in his heart.

I had once asked Rajnikant why he chose to be so stylised on screen. He told me that it was the secret of his future success www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016

7

STRAIGHT TALK

I want to

from the

happy-go-lucky girl image

After her successful transition to Hindi cinema with Chashme Baddoor, southern sensation Taapsee Pannu is now looking forward to her second release, RunningShaadi. com, besides a film with Akshay Kumar that will bring her acting credentials to the fore.

The vivacious actress chats up with Subhash K Jha on her Bollywood plans.

8 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

STRAIGHT TALK

I specifically opted for the role in Baby because I saw it as a great opportunity to break away from the image of the smalltown, feisty, Punjabi girl.

You seem to be gearing up for a long innings in Bollywood with two films in your kitty. Tell us about your forthcoming films.

RunningShaadi.com will be my second film, after the near perfect debut I made with Chashme Baddoor. It is the ideal follow-up film I needed after my first film. I also have another film, Baby with Akshay Kumar. I am quite happy with the way my career is going.

I am aware of the fact that my struggle has just begun. The first film happens with zero expectations. In the days ahead, I will have to prove myself.

Now that your career in Hindi films has taken off, have you decided to call it quits as far as your career in the south is concerned?

I am yet to take a call on that. Currently I’m shooting for a Tamil film, an old commitment that I had to fulfill. It is the third part of a Tamil franchise film called Muni. There were other heroines in the earlier two parts though. The Tamil film industry is a maledriven industry and audiences need to constantly add to the glamour quotient of their movie viewing experience. It’s a sad situation.

Do you agree that you didn’t have to struggle much to get a foothold in Hindi cinema?

Frankly, I never had to struggle much in my life. I got my big break in Hindi films with Chashme Baddoor despite the fact that I wasn’t a great actor. I didn’t really qualify

The fact that I could connect very well to the character in RunningShaadi.com also helped me a lot. for stardom nor did I have a production house to support me. No sugar daddy and no protective mummy either. I did it on my own. I guess I got lucky.

Coming to your second Hindi film, apparently you will be once again seen in the role of a bubbly effervescent young girl in RunningShaadi.com. Aren’t you worried that you may end up being typecast in the same kind of roles?

Wait till you see me in my third film Baby, in which I will be seen in a completely different role. As for RunningShaadi.com, I had a ball shooting with the two Amits, my co-star Amit Sadh and director Amit Roy, in the film. We’d shoot for 12-13 hours at a stretch, but I never felt the weight of the long hours. That’s the spirit I like to shoot in. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

How different was the experience working with debutante director Amit Roy in RunningShaadi.com from your first director David Dhawan?

This is Amit Roy’s directorial debut and he

was very flexible. I was more like a comrade on the sets. I took the liberty of asking for changes in scenes and constantly questioning him. The fact that I could connect very well to the character in RunningShaadi.com also helped me a lot. On the other hand, DavidSir had already edited Chashme Baddoor in his mind before we could start shooting. He was very clear about what he wanted. Of course he did allow us to improvise on our performances. But with his experience I had to think a million times before making a suggestion.

Coming to your third film Baby, do you consider yourself privileged to have bagged a film opposite Akshay Kumar despite being a newcomer in Bollywood?

I am not the first actress from the south who will be working with Akshay. He has been doing films with other south actresses who have made a foray in Bollywood like Kajal Aggarwal and Tamannah Bhatia.

Also, doing an Akshay Kumar film does not mean that I am going to preen as an Akshay Kumar heroine. My criteria for accepting

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016

9

FITNESS

Fitness

starts in the mind

With a body to die for, Vidyut Jamwal was the cynosure of many eyes when he first made his debut in John Abraham’s Force. His subsequent performances in Commando and Bullet Raja brought the actor in to the limelight.

Vidyut discusses his fitness mantra and how he diligently adheres to his routine to keep his body fit.

10 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

FITNESS

Vidyut is not just passionate about fitness; he is a fitness freak to the core. The actor believes that health, fitness and lifestyle go hand in hand and it is very important for every person to respect his body and treat it with care. Vidyut is also among those who does not subscribe to the existing trends of six-packs and rippling muscles. He believes that even simple exercises like running, swimming or playing an outdoor game, can make a difference to fitness levels.

His initiation into fitness Vidyut got initiated into an exercise routine from his early childhood days when he learnt Kalaripayattu, the ancient art of sword fighting, in Kerala. He later trained in gymnastics and martial arts, after which he imbibed yoga into his routine for attaining flexibility. The actor says that a regular exercise regimen supported by a proper diet plan can work wonders on your body.

“It is important to keep your adrenalin levels charged all the time. It also makes a big difference to the way you feel,” he says.

His exercise routine: Being a martial arts expert, Vidyut dedicates five days of the week to martial arts and the other two days for weight-training. He trains in martial arts for almost six-eight hours a day. “I dedicate three hours in the morning and evening to my routine,” he says.

His other workouts are exclusively designed for the lower body. “I put a lot of emphasis on the lower body workouts especially legs and calves with squats, lunges, roman rings, push-ups and bars. I feel it is very important to work on the lower body first in order to build up resistance,” he says.

His Diet Being a hardcore vegetarian and an ardent supporter of PETA, Vidyut makes sure that he includes enough protein in his diet in addition to his daily intake of fruits, vegetables and cereals. “I make up for the protein through Tofu. I also have a protein shake after my workout.” He also makes it a point to avoid fried foods, aerated drinks, alcohol and smoking.

Among his many dietary norms, Vidyut believes in having six meals a day. “It helps to maintain your energy and keeps up your metabolic pace. It is important to eat in moderation but it is also important to keep your metabolism activated by spacing out your meals every two to three hours,” he says.

It is important to keep your adrenalin levels charged all the time. It also makes a big difference to the way you feel.

His day stars at 6 a.m. in the morning with four glasses of water. “Water is the most essential component for a fit body. That’s the first thing I take in the morning to flush out all the toxins from the body. On an average I make it a point to drink at least 8-10 litres of water a day,” he says.

He follows it up with a bowl of muesli before hitting the gym in the morning. Post workout, he has a breakfast of idli-sambar.

“I consider it the best breakfast since it has a lot of nutrition and is light on the body too.”

His mid-day pre-lunch meal consists of a protein shake and a bowl of seasonal fruit, while lunch consists of rotis, vegetables and dal. His evening snack is a bowl of upma, after which he wraps up the day with a light dinner by 8 p.m.

According to the actor, it is very important for youngsters to cultivate the right attitude towards fitness, “Fitness starts in the mind. It all depends on how much importance you give to health and fitness in your daily routine. You don’t need to spend hours in the gym for that. You can simply enjoy a morning walk or go cycling or swimming. Also it is important not to indulge in anything more than your body requires. Those are the simple keys to fitness,” he signs off.

(As told to S.Bhagat)

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 11

QUICK UPDATES

E

kta Kapoor has acquired the rights of the title track of Mohit Suri’s Aashiqui 2. Ekta plans to use the tune for her upcoming TV show Meri Aashiqui Tumse Hai. The enterprising producer had initially planned to name the soap Kyunki Tum Hi Ho, inspired by the lyrics of the chart buster but she couldn’t go ahead as the title was already registered with another producer.

Ekta recently revealed that the song had a fabulous connect with the audiences and she was in love with it.

12 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

K

atrina Kaif is said to have directed her wrath on the media in Cape Town, when she reportedly came across stories about her showdown with boyfriend, Ranbir Kapoor. The actress who has been shooting at a stretch for Jagga Jasoos which is coproduced and co-stars beau Ranbir Kapoor, had committed to do a photo-shoot for a popular local magazine there but delayed the shoot as she was upset with the reports.

A

ctress Sunny Leone is all set to shed her sexy image to play a royal princess in her next film Leela to be produced by Bhushan Kumar and Ahmed and Shaira Khan. Sunny will be seen in a completely different avatar in the nine-song musical to be directed by Bobby Khan. The film marks a unique collaboration between T-series head honcho Bhushan Kumar and ace choreographer, Ahmed Khan.

QUICK UPDATES

S

uperstar Amitabh Bachchan who has championed various social causes in the past including his critical work as the UN ambassador for the girl child, will sponsor the training and coaching of two talented female athletes for the upcoming Commonwealth World Championship and Asian Games in 2014. Bachchan will sponsor the two athletes Ayonika Paul and Pooja Ghatkar in rifle shooting as part of the Medals4India campaign initiated by the NGO Olympic Gold Quest.

A

fter training hard for a brawny physique for the role of a worldrenowned boxer in Mary Kom, Priyanka Chopra recently lost seven kilos of weight in an incredible span of 20 days for her svelte look in her forthcoming film, Dil Dhadakne Do. The transformation was difficult given the paucity of time but Priyanka’s fitness trainer helped her achieve it with a protein rich diet and exercise. Priyanka plays the role of a suave businesswoman from a Punjabi family in the film, which is currently being shot aboard a cruise liner sailing through Europe.

A

ctor Sidharth Malhotra’s career is high on action these days. After performing hi-octane action in the recently released, Ek Villain, Siddharth has now been signed for a film on mixed martial arts titled Warrior.

The film which is said to be a remake of the 2011 Hollywood boxing drama of the same name, is a story of two brothers who face each other in a martial arts tournament.

Siddharth will be training extensively in martial arts for his role in the film, to be produced by Karan Johar.

A

ctress Alia Bhatt and Shahid Kapoor have been paired together for a film titled Shandaar, to be directed by Vikas Bahl who delivered the critically acclaimed Queen. The film which is a take on destination weddings will see Alia and Shahid playing characters who are suffering from insomnia.

Apparently, it will be their sleeplessness that bonds them together and makes them fall in love. Vikas and his writing team have been reportedly doing a lot of research on the subject.

A

ctor-producer John Abraham is planning to rope in some real football players for his next production, 1911. John, who is closely following the current FIFA World Cup, is known to be an ardent football fan and is also the co-owner of a football team- Indian Super League (ISL) Guwahati franchise North East United FC. 1911 is an inspirational story of the late Indian footballer Sibdas Bhaduri. The film will be directed by Shoojit Sircar of Vicky Donor and Madras Cafe fame. John, who will also be acting in the film, plans to start shooting for the film in early 2015.

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areena Kapoor has reportedly turned down Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s untitled thriller starring Amitabh Bachchan and Farhan Akhtar. The actress who is currently busy shooting for Singham Returns, the sequel to Singham, is in no mood to take a call on the project. This is the second film Kareena is said to have refused in the recent past, the other being Sujoy Ghosh’s Durga Rani Singh.

Sujoy had approached the actress for the title role after he was turned down by Kangana Ranaut. Meanwhile there is news that Kareena has been finalized opposite Salman Khan for Karan Johar’s Shuddhi. www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 13

COVER STORY

I don’t think it is important to be seen in a

Khan starrer From her debut in Parineeta to the bold actress in The Dirty Picture, the pregnant woman in Kahaani and a temptress in Ishqiya, Vidya Balan has garnered a place for herself amongst the heroes of the industry with her huge talent and iconic women-oriented roles. While her last two films Ghanchakkar and Shaadi Ke Side Effects did not do well at the box office, Vidya is now looking forward to her upcoming film, Bobby Jasoos, where she plays a detective. The vivacious actress talks about the film and looks back upon her career in a candid interview.

Tell us something about your role of a lady detective in Bobby Jasoos. How well did you connect to the role in the film?

Bobby is a lady detective with a difference.

Most detectives resort to various tricks in the trade to solve complex mysteries. They also don multiple avatars but Bobby is someone who is a specialist in disguises. She is very street smart and uses her common sense in difficult circumstances. The best part about her is that she hails from a small town and aspires to become the world’s best detective

14 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

and it was this trait of the character which I could identify with. Like Bobby I too hail from a simply family in Chembur. It is a well-known fact that I worked my way up in films despite having no godfathers in the industry.

Apparently your role is inspired by Pankaj Kapur’s character in the detective serial Karamchand. How far is it true?

Actually whenever I think of a detective, the first image that comes to my mind is

that of Karamchand and his assistant Kitty.

For some reason, I never think of Sherlock Holmes. Even during the workshops for the film, I started imitating Karamchand’s mannerisms and asked my on screen sister to play the role of Kitty. Pankaj Kapur’s wife, Supriya Pathak, who plays my mother’s role in the film, was also amused when she saw me playing the character to the hilt.

Which of your disguises in the film did you find the most challenging?

COVER STORY

Whenever I think of a detective, the first image that comes to my mind is that of Karamchand and his assistant Kitty

I have twelve different looks in the film. I have disguised myself in some of the most unbelievable characters from a Maulvi (priest) and a peon to a bangle-vendor. The toughest one was the maulvi because after wearing heavy clothes, I had to run around in it. I was also wearing a bodysuit inside to look like a man, so it was a bit difficult. I was so worried that my wigs would fall off from my head while running (laughs). The most challenging part was applying facial hair on my face and using different wigs for the role of the men in the film.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 15

COVER STORY

WHEN I WAS DECLARED THE PADMASHRI AWARD WINNER, IT TOOK SOME TIME TO REGISTER

Have you met any detectives in real life?

Have you spied on anyone in real life?

When we started our research we went to various detective agencies. It also came to light that there were a good number of women in this profession. Women do jasoosi when they gossip, but I didn’t know that they also take it up as a profession. I was surprised when I met them. As for being a detective in real life, I remember playing a detective for some of my close friends in college. For instance, there was a friend who was infatuated with a guy but was not sure about his feelings for her. So I casually went up to the guy and found out whether he was indeed interested in my friend. I have done that for quite a few of my friends but sadly I did not find anyone when it was my turn.

What about your husband Siddharth?

Did you ever spy on him before or after marriage?

Siddharth never gives me a chance to spy on him. He’s such a boring guy. And yes, he’s very simple in real life.

Ali Fazal, your hero in the film is not a known name. How was it working with him?

I have never watched his films. He’s a fabulous actor and his comic timing is unbeatable. We became friends during the workshop. He inadvertently became Tassavur the character, because he also belongs to Lucknow.

Most of the actresses love to look glamorous on screen but you don’t seem to be too concerned about your onscreen appearances be it Bobby Jasoos or your curvaceous look in The Dirty Picture or the pregnant woman in Kahaani.

I am willing to do anything for the role as far as it conforms to my character in the film.

It can never look ugly if it adds value to the character. One of my disguises in the film is the role of an astrologer. When I saw myself in the film I was shocked. Even my parents did not recognize me.

Considering that you have known actress turned producer Dia Mirza from your debut film, Parineeta, how was it working with her this time?

Dia is one of the nicest people to work with.

We haven’t been great friends but we have always met with a lot of warmth. Dia looks so angelic and her goodness reflects on her face. Apart from that, working with Dia and Sahil as producers was one of the most humbling experiences in my career. They are wonderful people and the way they treat people, including the crew, is amazing.

They look at every team-member with the same amount of respect.

My family is my lifeline. They have made me who I am

16 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

COVER STORY

I know I will grow old but I don’t think I will come across a situation where I will be jobless someday

You have not been cast in any of the Khan starrers so far. Does that bother you?

I don’t really attach importance to these things. You will see me working with the Khans only if I have a role of equal prominence in the film. I don’t think it is very important to be seen in a Khan starrer to make your presence felt as an actress.

How do you react when there are stories doing the rounds about your personal life? Recently there was news that your marriage was going through troubled times.

I have always ignored such rumours but when it involved my husband Siddharth, I took it very seriously and decided to talk about it. At first there were rumours that I was ill after which there were at least ten stories about me getting pregnant. I ignored all those media reports but when baseless stories of my marriage hit the headlines, I clearly told the media not to discuss my marriage. I believe that everyone has a right to his private life and the media should respect that.

Why did you refuse to do Durga Rani Singh, besides Mahesh Bhatt’s film with Emraan Hashmi? You are also said to have returned halfway from the IIFA awards?

It was difficult for me to refuse Durga Rani Singh because it was a Sujoy Ghosh film and I had a great bonding with him from the Kahaani days. Unfortunately the film was to start at a time when I was held back due to my health issues. Mahesh Bhatt’s film got delayed for the same reason. Now that I am feeling better, I am doing the film. As for IIFA, I went for workshop at IIFA and attended the press conference too but I could not push my health too far. I realized I had to take care of my health so I came back.

What is your opinion on awards?

Awards are inspiring; they are an appreciation of your hard work. I had always aspired for the best actress award from the early days of my career and I was happy every time I received it. When I got the National Award, I was over the moon but when I was declared the Padma Shri award winner, it took some time to register. I had never thought I would win such a great honour.

Does the thought of growing old and not having work ever bother you?

It doesn’t. I know I will grow old but I don’t think I will come across a situation where I will be jobless some day. Cinema is coming of age now. If I want to work there will be lot of roles but probably I will have grand children by then and be busy with them.

You seem to be very attached to your family. We are told that you make it a point to spend time with your parents and sister, despite your busy schedule after marriage.

My family is my lifeline. They have made me who I am. Whenever I am not working, I spend time with my family. I do have a few close friends but we hardly get time to meet. I am also very attached to my niece and nephew. I get to spend time with my family when Siddharth is out of the country.

I get unconditional love from them which is priceless for me.

By S Bhagat (with inputs from Srabanti Chakraborty)

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 17

COVER STORY

excellence Actress par

The talented and versatile Vidya Balan has come up the hard way in her career. The actress, who had to go through several rejections before she made her place in Bollywood, has never followed the conventional path to success. Today with the National Award and a Padmashri to her credit, the actress stands tall and is ready to take on the world.

The Early Days Born on January 1, 1978 in Ottapalam, Kerala to P. R. Balan (Vice President of ETC Channel) and Saraswathy Balan, a housewife, Vidya did her schooling at St. Anthony Girls’ High School, Mumbai and later attended St. Xavier’s College where she majored in sociology. She always aspired to become an actress since her school days. At the age of 16, the actress got a chance to star in Ekta Kapoor’s sitcom Hum Paanch. Following the success of the show Vidya was flooded with television offers but the actress was keen on making a career in films.

Her acting debut While pursuing her master’s degree, Vidya was cast as the female lead in the Malayalam film Chakram, opposite Mohanlal and was subsequently signed for 17 other ventures in the south. However the film got shelved, leading to her ouster from other films as well. She was labelled as a jinx and her career came to a halt.

Taking failure as the first step to success, Vidya went on to do television commercials and three musical videos for director Pradeep Sarkar. In 2003, she was signed on for a Bengali film, Bhalo Theko for which she won the Anandalok Puraskar Best Actress award in Kolkata.

I clearly told the media not to discuss my marriage

18 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

Her foray in Hindi films and the story thereafter It was director Pradeep Sarkar, who had worked with Vidya in several commercials and musical videos, who signed her for her first Hindi film, Parineeta in 2005.

Vidya got critical and commercial acclaim for her performance in the musical drama. She also won the Best Debut (Female) award for her role in the film. The following year she appeared opposite Sanjay Dutt in

COVER STORY

You will see me working with the Khans only if I have a role of equal prominence in the film

the role of a radio jockey in the musical comedy, Lage Raho Munna Bhai. The film became the second highest grossing film of the year with a net total of 118.57 crore.

That was followed by a supporting role in Mani Ratnam’s semi-biographical drama, Guru.

The low phase in her career Vidya’s career graph witnessed a sharp drop after the disastrous response to Salaam-e-Ishq: A Tribute To Love, a romantic comedy featuring her in an ensemble cast. Her subsequent films like Vinod Chopra’s Eklavya, Sajid Khan’s Heyy Babyy and Kismat Connection, were equally inconsequential at the box office. Vidya was also criticized for her dress sense and her weight, with critics labelling her as a sore thumb in films. However the actress went on to regain lost ground and won appreciation for her performance in the psychological thriller Bhool Bhulaiya. In the film she played the role of a woman suffering from a dissociative identity disorder.

Critical acclaim Vidya’s talent came to the fore in 2009 when she played the role of a young independent gynaecologist and single-mother struggling with her 12-year-old son’s progeria syndrome in Paa. Amitabh Bachchan played the role of her son Auro. Vidya was widely appreciated for her performance in the film.

That was followed by the black comedy Ishqiya in which she played the role of a sexually manipulative abandoned wife.

Her performance in the film got her several awards including a Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress.

In 2011, Vidya was seen in the semibiographical thriller, No One Killed Jessica with actress Rani Mukerji. The film, based on the Jessica Lal murder case, saw her play the real-life character of Sabrina Lal, Jessica’s reticent sister who struggled for years to get justice.

Her first national award and recognition It was her sensational performance in The Dirty Picture that gave Vidya Balan the distinction of being one of the most talented and versatile actresses in the industry. Vidya played the bold and brazen character of Silk in the biopic based on the life and death of the controversial Indian actress Silk Smitha. She received unanimous praise for her portrayal in the film, which was declared a blockbuster soon after it got the biggest opening ever in the history of Indian Cinema for a woman-oriented film. Vidya also won her first National Award for Best Actress.

In 2013, Vidya once again proved that she was an actress par excellence when she played the role of a pregnant woman in search of her missing husband in Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani.

Forthcoming releases Vidya’s last two films, Ghanchakkar and Shaadi Ke Side Effects made little impact at the box-office. The actress is now looking forward to her next release, Bobby Jasoos, in which she plays the role of a lady detective.

She also has Mohit Suri’s Hamari Adhuri Kahani opposite Emraan Hashmi among her future projects.

Vidya’s personal life The actress was said to be in a short-lived relationship with Shahid Kapoor at one stage though both actors denied it. Later she was also said to be dating John Abraham briefly. However the news fizzled out as John was going steady with Bipasha Basu at the time. In 2012, Vidya finally admitted that she was dating Siddharth Roy Kapur, the CEO of UTV Motion Pictures. On 14th December 2012, the couple got married in a private ceremony. More recently, there were rumours that she was pregnant after she opted out of a couple of projects, but Vidya has denied those stories.

Vidya the philanthropist Vidya supports PETA and is listed as one of India’s hottest vegetarians. She also promotes humanitarian causes and supports charitable institutions. She has endorsed World Wildlife Fund’s Earth Hour campaign in India and has campaigned for the cause of nutrition in India for CINI (Child in Need Institute), a non-profit organisation based in Kolkata. Vidya has also been appointed by the Government of India as their brand ambassador in the drive to improve the country’s sanitary conditions. In August 2013, she served as the grand marshal of the India Day parade held in New York City. In September that year, she launched a technology-based learning platform for underprivileged children in a village in Uttar Pradesh.

Her endorsement deals Vidya Balan has been roped in as a brand ambassador for a number of products like Dabur Vatika, Aliva, and Toshiba range of products, Goodnight mosquito repellent, Catch Masala and others.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 19

PREVIEW

Vision Asia previews films to watch out for in the months ahead.

Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania Produced by Karan Johar and directed by debutant Shashank Khaitan, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania is a romantic comedy of a cricket-obsessed young boy who falls in love with a headstrong Kareena Kapoor fan. When Kavya Pratap Singh, a chirpy girl from Ambala, decides to make a trip to Delhi for her marriage shopping, she meets a young, carefree Delhi lad, Humpty Sharma. Humpty’s father is the owner of a campus bookstore, where Humpty and his two best friends, hang out.

Enamoured by the vivacious Kayva, Humpty feels that Kayva is a distant dream. Not one to give up easily, he decides to get close to her with the help of his two friends. Amidst their carefree attitude and their love-hate banter, the two discover that they are more than friends but Kavvya heads back to Ambala knowing well that her doting father would never accept Humpty. How Humpty, decides to convince Kavya’s family to agree to his alliance with her, forms the crux of the film.

Set in Chandigarh, the film stars Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt in the lead roles, besides Siddharth Shukla and Ashutosh Rana. This is the second time Varun and Alia will be seen together after they made their Bollywood debut with Karan Johar’s Student of the Year. All indications are that their crackling chemistry will be even more evident in this film.

At the trailer launch, Karan Johar described the film as an ode to the all-time successful Shah Rukh Khan-Kajol starrer, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.

One of the highlights of the film is a futuristic Punjabi number Saturday Saturday, for which a famous colosseum was recreated in Film City. The film is scheduled for a July 11 release.

Kick Produced and directed by Salman’s close friend, Sajid Nadiadwala (his directorial debut), Kick is the remake of a 2009 Telugu blockbuster of the same name. The screenplay of the film has been written by Chetan Bhagat who last wrote the screenplay for the Salman starrer, Hello. Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez will play Salman’s romantic interest in the film.

The film also stars Randeep Hooda in the role of a sincere cop and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in a negative role, besides Mithun Chakraborty.

According to reports, Salman will be seen in the role of a thief with a devilish streak, who keeps robbing people in order to accumulate wealth. He does everything in life to get a kick out of it and enjoys the experience of dodging cops and being chased by them. His girlfriend played by Jacqueline Fernandez lives in London and takes a fascination for this devil. A cop played by Randeep Hooda makes all possible efforts to capture the thief, until he comes across Jacqueline who leads him to the famous trickster.

Besides sporting a beard and a moustache, Salman will be also seen wearing a mask in the film. The superstar, who has been trying to connect to the masses with his characters in films, is also said to have attempted daredevil stunts in the film without using a body double. One of the scenes required Salman to hang from the 40th floor of the Palace of Culture and Science, the tallest building in Poland. The actor chose to do this scene himself. The film is scheduled for a July 25 release.

20 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

PREVIEW

ACTION JACKSON After taking the audiences by storm with his daredevil action stunts in Singham Returns, Ajay Devgn is set to return in a new action avatar in his forthcoming film, Action Jackson. The film tells the story of a fun-loving crook who is pursued by a young girl, who is under the notion that the former will bring her good luck. However a comedy of errors follows with another Devgn look-alike also making his presence on the scene.

The consequences that follow are hilarious and thoroughly entertaining.

Devgn will be seen playing a double role in the film with two distinct characters-one of a city bred rowdy guy and the other of a simple villager.

Among the highlights of the film are the extensive martial arts sequences, besides a complex sword-fighting sequence for which Devgn is said to have undergone massive training. The intense actor will also be seen putting on his dancing shoes for a sensational dance number, in which choreographer-director Prabhu Deva has paid homage to the King of rock and roll, Elvis Presley.

Produced by Gordhan Tanwani and Sunil Lulla of Baba Films and directed by Prabhu Deva, the film stars Ajay Devgan, Sonakshi Sinha, Yami Gautam and Manasvi Mamgai and is scheduled for a 5th December release.

PK Produced by Rajkumar Hirani, Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Siddharth Roy Kapoor and directed by Rajkumar Hirani, PK is a story of an alien who comes to earth to meet a prostitute with a heart-of-gold and changes the opinion of people in the way they perceive God. Reportedly, the film also hits out at corruption and the existing political system. The alien in the film is played by Aamir Khan and the prostitute

by Anushka Sharma.

While the Rajkumar Hirani-Aamir Khan combination is being eagerly anticipated, the fresh pairing of Aamir and Anushka Sharma will be something to watch out for. Apparently, the lip-lock between Aamir and Anushka in the film will be one of the longest ever in Indian cinema. The film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Anushka Sharma, Sushant Singh Rajput, Boman Irani and Saurabh Shukla. The film is all set to hit theatres on December 19, which happens to be Aamir Khan’s favourite week. www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 21

TRAVEL

SEVEN THINGS TO DO IN

Brussels

The Brussels flower carpet on the Grand Place 22 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

TRAVEL

The Atomium

Brussels is a city often neglected in favor of the well established European cultural destinations such as Paris or Rome. Contrary to its impression of a dull and soulless city that is home to the European Union, the Belgian capital has so much more to offer as a holiday destination in itself.

Here is a selection of some of the finest treasures that Brussels has to offer.

Grand Place Originally built for trade hundreds of years ago, the square boasts spectacular architecture, including the Brussels Town Hall, the spire of which can be seen across much of the city. Every other August, a stunningly beautiful flower carpet is created from a million begonias in the centre of the square, adding another dimension to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The big three clichés Belgium is famous for its chocolates, waffles and beer, and rightly so. Shops selling chocolates abound in Brussels, and the waffles on offer range from simple affairs to those with a range of toppings. The beers brewed in Belgium number well into the hundreds, and Brussels is surely as good a place as any to try as many as you can manage!

Manneken Pis. This small bronze statue of a urinating child is just a street or two away from the Grand Place, and is one of the most famous attractions in Brussels. There are at least five different popular legends behind its existence, all of which involve a young child urinating on the street corner. In the stories, the child either saves the town in this way (peeing on the heads of soldiers etc.), or the child is simply found relieving himself after a lengthy search. The statue is regularly dressed up in costumes, and with around 800 to choose from, the statue may well look different every time you see it!

are welcome to look around the palace throughout the summer, free of charge.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart A little to the north of the cultural heart of Brussels stands one of the largest church buildings in the world. This is the biggest Art Deco building to be found anywhere on the planet, and as you would expect, the basilica dominates the skyline from its position at the top of a hill.

Mini Europe and the Atomium.

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral Conveniently located near many of the other major attractions in the city, this Gothic style cathedral is stunning both inside and out. With a history that dates back almost a thousand years, no visitor to Brussels should bypass the beautiful architecture and deep serenity of the cathedral.

Royal Palace of Brussels Despite the fact that this palace is no longer used as a royal residence, the relatively recent neoclassical building is still a very attractive major landmark. Visitors

Further north again sits the Atomium, a monument designed to look like an iron crystal magnified more than 100 billion times. Originally constructed for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958, it is now an important tourist attraction, containing a variety of exhibitions in its unique ‘atomic’ spheres.

At its feet is Mini Europe, a fascinating site that allows you to tour the major attractions of an entire continent in miniature, scaled down 25 times. The models are of a very high quality, and include everything from Big Ben in London to a live model of Mount Vesuvius in Italy.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 23

PRIME TIME VIEWING

What’s on VISION ASIA

Itna Karo na Mujhe Pyar

This is the story of Neil and Preeti who meet each other after 15 years on the occasion of their daughter’s wedding. Years have passed but they have not been able to reconcile their differences and have immense hatred for each other . Despite the animosity, they come together for the well being of their kids .The show explores the universal truth that ‘husband and wife can divorce each other but, parents can never separate’ Time: On Sony Tue-Fri. 21:30 AEST/18:30 AWST

Maharakshak Aryan

Everest

Maharakshak Aryan is a two-fold narrative of coming-ofage and a walk into the darker realms of fantasy where a hero will face his worst fears, rewrite destiny and emerge a winner.

Produced by famed Bollywood filmmaker, Ashutosh Gowariker and directed

by Glenn Baretto and Ankush Mohla, the serial tells the story of a small-town young girl who loves trekking and aspires to scale the peak of Mount Everest one day, which was her father’s unfulfilled dream. In order to find a place in her father’s heart, she sets out on this perilous quest of conquering the highest peak in the world. The serial is a welcome change from the saas-bahu sagas that are a regular on the television scene. Shot at various locations including the Mount Everest base camp and Dokriani glacier, Ashutosh is said to have spent over two years making this TV show. Besides being visually stunning, it has an ensemble cast put together by the maker.

Time: on Zee TV Sun & Mon 11:00 AEST / 8:00 AWST

Time: On Star Plus every Tue –Sat at 8:30 AEST/5:30 AWST

24 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

PRIME TIME VIEWING

Tum Aise Hi Rehna

Every girl dreams of a husband who will love her unconditionally all her life, but does the husband’s love change after marriage? Tum Aise Hi Rehna explores the delicate yet emotional relationship shared between a husband and a wife. Starring Kinshuk Mahajan and Shefali Sharma in lead roles and set against the backdrop of Rajasthan, the show chronicles the lives of Abhimanyu and Ria are deeply in love and decide to get married against much opposition. However, Ria realizes the other side of love when she becomes a daughter-in-law and a wife. How Ria bridges the gaps and tries to strengthen the family ties along with keeping Abhimanyu and her romance alive post marriage, makes Tum Aise Hi Rehna a contemporary story.

Time: On Sony Tues-Sat- 20:00 AEST/17:00 AWST

Adhoori Aurat

Chakravarti Ashok Samrat

Adhoori Aurat tells the story of a married woman, Maryam, who believes in the power of love and sacrifices everything to keep her husband and family life happy. However, she is heartbroken when her husband abandons her for another conniving woman. She manages to win the trust of her kids back with her patience and perseverance. Her husband also feels remorseful but Maryam has lost the respect and love for the person who was once the centrifugal point of her life. Directed

by Furqan Khan, the Pakistani drama stars a talented lot of artistes who have given great performances.

Written by author Ashok Banker, who is making his comeback on television after nearly two decades, Chakravarti Ashok Samrat showcases the journey and life of Emperor Ashoka from his rise to power to his subsequent state of penance following the gory blood-bath in the Kalinga battle that made him give up war to embrace Buddhism.

This is the first time that the king’s story is being narrated on television.

The show is being produced by Contiloe Entertainment.

Time: On Colors every Sun and Mon 9.00 AEST / 6:00 AWST

Time: TBC on Colors www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 25

26 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

Ayushmann Khurrana www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 27

NOSTALGIA

ed to s s e l b I feel ted i r e h n have i

s ’ r e h t a f my lent a t c i t poe

28 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

NOSTALGIA

He considered it beneath his dignity to approach people for work.

wn o d s e tar go fond h k A ved a J lives r e r e t i d r n W ane a l , the r y e r h o t a m f in a s i , me r h a t f h o k rA ries memo y Jan Nissa ash K Jha. ar bh legend tion with Su sa conver

My father did not believe in peddling his poetry to producers.

It’s the centenary year of my father and as his proud son it fills me with joy to see his birth anniversary being celebrated. He is known for his some of his memorable film lyrics like Ay dil-e-nadaan(Razia Sultan), Yeh dil unki aur nigahon ke saaye (Prem Parbat), Gam ki andheri raat mein dil ko na beqaraar kar (Sushila), Bekhudi had se jab guzar jaaye (Kalpana) and many others. He scarcely wrote for movies, not because he was not prolific but because he didn’t know how to sell himself to the film industry. He belonged to the old school of humble, modest and self-respecting people. He considered it beneath his dignity to approach people for work. His poetry was revered but not marketed properly.

My relationship with my father went through troubled times during my childhood days.

He belonged to the Communist ideology and had to go underground in Mumbai after an arrest warrant was issued against him. I was barely 10 years old then.

My mother was left behind to look after me and my brother. She was ill and bedridden in Lucknow while my father lived as a paying-guest in Mumbai. We went through more difficult times after my father got remarried and our stepmother lived up to her stereotypical image. Even when I came to Mumbai, I didn’t stay with my father.

I began to bond with my father over poetry.

When I was 18 he recognized the poet in me and encouraged me to write. He would recite what he wrote and we’d discuss his poetry. He would also take my criticism seriously. We spoke poetry like equals. I learnt a lot from him but he was too timid to take a stand. Now when I look back, I realize that my father’s shortcomings were understandable. Over a period of time I’ve washed away my bitterness and come to terms with the person that he was.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 29

OPINION

HAVE STARS BECOMING WARY OF

SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES? There was a time when Bollywood stars were excited to reach out to their fans through social networking sites. Almost every other star was hooked on to Twitter and Facebook, posting details about their films and the events in their day-today lives. But over a period of time, the perception about social media has changed.

While some stars continue to be loyal to these sites, there are others who find it a deliberate intrusion in their privacy. A section of stars reveal why they consider social media more of a liability than an asset.

I have no intention of being on any social networking sites for reasons. One of the reasons is the questions posted by followers.

There are also people who post vicious comments on these sites. This could also lead to arguments and disputes. I don’t think I would like to thank people for posting negative comments. The only exception among social networking sites that I like is Instagram, which is very good for uploading pictures. From a visual perspective it is a great site because the quality of pictures is good.

Katrina Kaif

30 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

I am not on any social networking sites.

I feel there’s nothing to mention on these sites once a film releases. I want my work to speak for me. I do interact with my friends and media when my film releases. Otherwise I am not interested in telling people that I am going to the loo or that I am sleeping.

I am against the idea of talking about my personal life.

Imran Khan

OPINION

I am not on Twitter. It’s a social platform where people can voice their opinion but it doesn’t interest me. It’s a liberal world and I have a right to my point of view. I do agree that it’s a tremendous platform for stars to build up a rapport with their fans and say cool things to keep them entertained. However I am cautious about posting my views since I have a tendency of saying stupid things and often fall into trouble.

Saif Ali Khan

When I was young I was curious about stars and wanted to know about their personal life-what they did, where they went and the kind of life they led. Now even a layman has become a journalist thanks to Twitter and Facebook. I can’t delete the comments that appear on these sites. I am public property and I feel that my work should do the talking for me.

Unlike super stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman khan, Aamir Khan and Akshay Kumar, I have done just a few films.

I am not tech-savvy at all. I hate sending messages. I’d rather talk to a person than send messages. Also I hate the idea of clarifying things after reading anything negative about me. I am better off reading good books and spending time with my family.

Vidya Balan

I am totally off social network sites considering that I don’t even have the time to talk to people around me. There is no question of communicating with strangers.

I don’t want people to peep into my personal life. People tweet something or the other and are always under constant pressure to find something new to write about. It’s sad that they do so because they are lonely or do not have anyone to talk to.

Kangana Ranaut

Ranbir Kapoor Now even a layman has become a journalist thanks to Twitter and Facebook”Ranbir Kapoor

I hate sending messages; I’d rather talk to a person than send messagesVidya Balan

I don’t want people to peep into my personal lifeKangana Ranaut

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 31

NEWS EXPRESS

big debut

Jennifer Winget is all set to make her

in films

Jennifer Winget is the latest television star, who is set to make her foray into films. The Saraswati Chandra actress talks about her dream debut in a conversation with Subhash K Jha

Like many of her peers from television, Jennifer Winget is ready to take the big leap into films with her debut-making film, Phir Se. However unlike Sushant Singh Rajput, Ayushmann Khurrana or Manish Paul, Jennifer didn’t have to wait long for the transition.

“It happened so suddenly!” she exclaims in disbelief. “I don’t know why Kunal Kohli considered me for the role in Phir Se but I bagged the role without any effort. I got a call from his office and was asked to do a scene in the second meeting. That was it,” recalls Jennifer excitedly.

The film will also see Kunal Kohli exploring the medium of acting. The famed producer, screenplay writer and director, best known for his film, Hum Tum, will be seen romancing

32 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

Jennifer in the film. What Jennifer likes the best about the role is that she gets to play her own age in the film. “Neither Kunal nor I have to pretend to be younger or older. So that immediately puts us in a comfortable zone. We need that kind of confidence because we are both making our debut. It’s scary and at the same time exciting,” she avers.

Few are aware that the talented actress has been doing television for many years the latest serial being Saraswatichandra. Says Jennifer, “I’ve virtually grown up on the television scene. It would be wrong to say that I’m moving on. Basically I love to act irrespective of the medium. Right now it’s a feature film but I may very well take up a television serial next.”

NEWS EXPRESS

About Phir Se Produced by Shiv Kumar, codirected by Kunal Kholi and Ajay Bhuyan, Phir Se will tell the tale of the intricacies of a new romance and having a second go at making things work for the best. The film also stars Rajit Kapoor, Dalip Tahil, Kanwaljeet Singh and Sushmita Mukherjee Bundela. It is scheduled for a May 2015 release.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 33

NEWS EXPRESS

Moon Moon Sen’s new

political mission

Fresh from her victory in the Lok Sabha elections from the Bankura constituency in West Bengal, Moon Moon Sen is all geared up to work for the development and upliftment of the poor. She talks about her political ambitions in a conversation with Subhash K Jha. Actress Moon Moon Sen is on cloud nine.

Post her astonishing electoral triumph from the Bankura constituency of West Bengal, Sen is determined to make a difference to the lives of voters who unanimously chose her. She admits that she is overjoyed with her huge electoral win but it is the call of duty that matters more than anything else, “I am more concerned about the daunting task ahead,” she says.

The actress adds that politics is not exactly her scene but she is determined to take her new responsibility seriously for the people of Bankura, “In a nation that is so vast and so poor, no political party has really made a difference to any state. Bankura is the second-largest district in West Bengal and I want to make a significant contribution to its progress,” she says.

To start with Moon Moon Sen is keen on ensuring that Bankura provides the best health facilities for its people. She has already begun the task of recruiting young dynamic people from diverse backgrounds to help in this endeavour. Additionally, she is also planning to rope in NGOs and doctors from Kolkata to set up makeshift hospitals for the poor.

There are industrialists who need to get their files moving but it is any day better to ask for funds from people who wish to contribute instead of taking a bribe 34 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

Another priority of the actress turned politician is to boost tourism in the region.

“This place has a great potential for tourism. The food here is wonderful and the people are so gracious. While travelling across West Bengal I realized how humble and cultured these simple people are.

But the first thing I want to do is to start a cleanliness drive in town,” she reveals.

Sen is very clear that she wants to ensure transparency in allocation of funds towards development projects, “It’s important to

change the image of politics and politicians.

There is no need to be corrupt while granting favours. Yes, there are industrialists who need to get their files moving but it is any day better to ask for funds from people who wish to contribute instead of taking a bribe,” she says.

Looking back, she also attributes her election win to her two daughters, Raima and Riya Sen, who stood next to her in the scorching 45 degrees heat while she was campaigning, “During the election campaign it was my daughters who encouraged me to do something for the people of Bankura.

Riya promptly sent mails and messages to political journalists about our progress. They were my two star campaigners, who built a rapport with the masses. I never expected villagers to react so warmly to Raima and Riya. Many of them had not even seen them because they have no cinema or television in many villages there.”

Now that she is likely to be busy in her new role as a politician, her family may have to spend long periods without her but Sen is not unduly worried, “This is not the first time I will be away from my home for a long time. There was a time when I would travel all over the country due to my shooting schedules. Once I was busy shooting in Australia for a serial and my husband had a tough time locating me.”

Sen is glad that she has a very accommodating husband who understands her professional commitments and her priorities. “My husband has been exemplary.

He has brought up our two daughters very well. He is my support system. In fact, he is the happiest person after my win in the elections,” she quips.

NEWS EXPRESS

“Farhan took my breath away in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.

I am really looking forward to working with him.”

Will Dev Benegal’s

Bombay Samurai work wonders

for Kareena’s career?

With her innovative pairing with the very talented Farhan Akhtar in Dev Benegal’s Bombay Samurai, Kareena Kapoor Khan is likely to attain renewed heights of success, says Subhash K Jha. The gorgeous Kareena Kapoor Khan’s career seems to be heading to an exciting new level. Phase two in Kareena’s career begins now. Post-marriage she seemed to flounder in her choices with her half-hearted crusader’s role in Prakash Jha’s Satyagraha and the totally inane social activist’s role in Gori Tere Pyaar Mein.

With Dev Benegal’s film titled Bombay Samurai, Kareena is likely to get her post-marriage formula right. According to sources, the film is, “a crazy, zany and rollicking roller coaster ride with amazing twists and turns. There are 7-8 pivotal characters but Kareena and Farhan preside over the show. They play a couple that has never been witnessed on screen before.

They are whacky and unpredictable. The

two actors will have a ball playing their outgoing zestful characters.”

A filmmaker who has been lamenting Kareena’s recent choice of roles says, “It’s good she’s working with a man like Farhan Akhtar after doing two films with a young lad like Imran Khan. When the pair obviously didn’t work in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, why did Karan Johar cast them together in Gori Tere Pyaar Mein? Besides, both films had dialogues justifying their age difference!

Why cast them together when you know the hero looks younger than the leading lady?”

Apparently the Farhan-Kareena pairing has been waiting to happen for some time now. Besides, both Kareena and Farhan were keen to work with one another. Says

Farhan, “I’ve seen Kareena’s work. She is consistently excellent. I have been looking forward to working with her. Dev’s film gives us a chance to try something different.”

Kareena expresses the highest admiration for Farhan, “I admire Farhan for being multi-talented. Which other director has done so well as an actor? Farhan took my breath away in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. I am really looking forward to working with him.”

The Farhan-Kareena film starts after Kareena’s annual holiday in Switzerland in December. Incidentally, she unfailingly goes on this annual Christmas-New Year holiday with Saif. “It’s an annual ritual that the whole knows about,” laughs Kareena.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 35

TELECHAT

I have seen the worst time of my life but due to my mother’s blessings and love, I have managed to overcome everything

Govinda is back on

television

36 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

TELECHAT

After regaining his fan base in films with his recent appearances in films like Kill Dil and Happy Ending, dancing sensation, Govinda, recently made a comeback on television as the celebrity judge on the popular show, Dance India Dance Supermoms. The star comedian, who is celebrated for his dance moves, is judging the reality show along with ace choreographers Geeta Kapur and Terence Lewis. The veteran actor recently had a brief media interaction in which he spoke about his decision to return to television, his career and how his equation with David Dhawan had changed over a period of time.

Unlike the modernday actors, I never gave any importance to six packs and eight packs when I was at the peak of my career

After refusing several promising television shows in the past, what made you say yes to DID Supermoms?

As you know I have done television before and I used to get a lot of offers from television but I did not find any of them exciting, though the money was very good. When the makers of Dance India Dance Supermoms approached me as a celebrity judge, I took it up because I love dance and enjoy doing anything related to dance. I also felt that this would be a great opportunity to connect with talented moms and help them to showcase their talent on a national platform. The second reason is my mother who has always been a big inspiration in whatever I have done in life.

She is no more with us but I still feel her presence around me and that’s a blessing.

What is your criterion for judging moms?

First and foremost I look at the expression, which is the most important factor for any form of dance. I personally believe that any dance form should be easy and casual but it should be replete with expressions.

Personally, my favourite dance form is the Govinda style dance which the kids perform during Janmashtami on the streets of Mumbai.

At one point you too had to struggle hard to make a mark in your career. What would you say has been the key to your success?

My struggle in life started at the early age of 14. I wanted to pursue acting but didn’t know anyone in the field. Fortunately, I always had the right amount of passion to sustain in the industry but I owe my success entirely to my mother. I think my mother’s blessings have always been with me. I always followed her advice and obeyed her. I have seen the worst time of my life but due to my mother’s blessings and love, I have managed to overcome everything.

Are you content with the kind of roles that you are doing in films?

I have no complaints. Last year I had two big releases but they did not perform too well at the box-office. I did not get upset by that. Rather, I was happy about the fact that two of my films Happy Ending and Kill Dil got released at a time when my films were not releasing for almost four years. I

got a lot of appreciation for the song in Kill Dil, when I wasn’t even expecting to do a song in the film. In Happy Ending, I thought I would be merely playing a cameo but my fans liked me in that brief appearance. It was my biggest achievement. Now I am eagerly looking forward to my next film Abhinaychakra, which I have also written.

The film is complete and ready to release.

Actors like Varun Dhawan and Ranveer Singh are often compared to you for their spontaneity on screen and their dancing steps. What is your take on that?

It feels good. I have seen Varun grow up in front of my eyes and I have always seen my sparks in both Ranveer and Ranbir.

They are all hardworking and dedicated.

They came in the industry thoroughly prepared and that’s really commendable.

Unlike the modern-day actors, I never gave any importance to six packs and eight packs when I was at the peak of my career. But looking at them today, I feel that they all look so healthy and fit. They must be definitely making a lot of efforts to maintain that physique.

Your daughter Namrata is finally making her debut in films. Are you happy for her?

I am definitely happy for her but Namrata is a sensible girl and I have never gone to her set and disturbed her. I would not like to give the impression that I am interfering in her work or influencing people by doing so. Whatever she has done, it’s her hard work and passion towards the art. I am always there for her. On the contrary, I often consult her when I am confused.

Will you work with David Dhawan again?

When I needed David Dhawan the most in my bad times he was not there. When someone thinks that you are not competent enough to do his film, it is futile asking him for work. David and I gave several blockbusters films at the box office. I hope the affection remains the same. Right now he is a proud father and I want him to be happy and enjoy this phase. I don’t discuss his films.

By Srabanti Chakrabarthy

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 37

TELLY TATTLE

Kumkum Bhagya’s Mrunal is in a dilemma

TV actress Mrunal Thakur, who plays Bulbul in Kumkum Bhagya, is busy with two wedding preparations - in real and reel life. While her real life sister Lochan is due to get married soon, her on-screen sister Pragya will be getting married too. “I am actually running around doing the same things on the shoot for Pragya and at home for my sister,” the actress reveals.

Not many people are aware that Mrunal Thakur and Sriti Jha share a special bond as sisters on the sets of Kumkum Bhagya. The 21-year-old Mrunal looks up to Sriti for advice as well as for all the masti on the sets. Their close friendship blossomed on the sets of the serial and they spent some of their best moments with each other. Mrunal is now in a dilemma as to which one of the two events is more important in her life - her reel sister’s onscreen wedding and or her own sister’s real wedding. While Mrunal does not want to miss out on a single wedding related activity back home, she knows that there is no way she can miss out on her shoot given that she plays an important part in the wedding celebrations on the show.

38 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

SRK to reveal his success story on Anupam Kher’s talk show

There is a good deal of curiosity about Anupam Kher’s talk show, Kucch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai, which will see the multi-faceted actor converse with celebrities on their trials and tribulations in life. The show which is an extension of Anupam’s autobiographical play Kuchh Bhi Ho Sakta Hai will also highlight his journey in life as an individual and how he managed to overcome his failures to achieve success. Sources reveal that Anupam has already shot with a good number of celebrities for the inspirational chat show but it will be the episode on Shah Rukh Khan that will be one to watch out for.

Anupam recently shot with SRK and got some of the most lucid details on his Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge co-star’s life, including his amazing success story from being a TV actor to the second richest actor in the world with a net worth of $600 million. The King Khan was so pleased with the experience that he took to Twitter to thank Anupam for the show. “It is always nice to bare yourself in front of people who have loved you unconditionally,” he said. The talk show is scheduled to be aired on Colors and Shah Rukh Khan will reportedly be the first guest on the show.

TELLY TATTLE

Puja Banerjee seeks blessing of Lord Ganesha She is loved and admired by the audiences in the role of Parvati in the famous mythological serial, Devon Ke Dev Mahadev. Now Puja Banerjee is keen on giving her best shot as a participant in the seventh season of the celebrity dance show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Banerjee, who is a strong devotee of Lord Ganesha, recently walked to the well-known Siddhivinayak temple in Mumbai with her choreographer Rajit Dev, to seek the blessings of the Lord. The talented actress was seen standing in front of the Ganesha idol in the wee hours, praying for her success. According to sources, Banerjee has always sought the blessings of God in all her endeavours.

Few people are aware that Banerjee is also an experienced dancer in her own right. The actress, who has featured in Tollywood movies, was earlier seen in actor Govinda’s music album Gori Tere Naina and had danced with him in all the tracks of the album.

Kapil Sharma’s Comedy Nights to come to a glorious end

His laugh riot Comedy Nights With Kapil gave him a new place on the popularity charts. Now Kapil Sharma is all set to bid goodbye to his successful and popular show, with the show going off air from September 2014. The ace comedian recently posted the news on twitter, “Comedy Nights With Kapil is going off air from September.

We will come back with new characters and a new set. Till then, keep smiling.”

For Kapil, it must have been a difficult decision to bid goodbye to the show that gave him his identity. The comic actor however had his own compulsions for calling off the show. Apparently he was forced to take the decision soon after he was signed by Yash Raj Films for their film Bank Chor, which required him to shoot for 40 days at a stretch. Sources point out that Kapil tried his best to convince the channel to reduce the number of episodes per week so that he could still accommodate the show alongside his film schedule. However the channel bosses rejected the idea. Meanwhile, the channel is said to be already in the process of choosing an alternative for Kapil’s show.

When Ruqaiya Begum met Salman Khan

While Salman Khan has been at the receiving end of a lot of fans attention over the years, a recent incident left him completely speechless. The superstar was shooting for one of his upcoming films in Karjat close to the sets of the historical television serial, Jodha Akbar. Seeing the actor getting out of his vanity van, Lavina Tandon who plays the role of Ruqaiya Begum (the first wife of Emperor Akbar) in the serial immediately proceeded to meet the star. Apparently, the superstar was stunned to see Lavina suddenly race from her set next door to meet him.

Being the chivalrous man he is Salman spent a good amount of time chatting up with the beautiful lady, talking about his upcoming film and her show Jodha Akbar. If sources are to be believed, the two did not just chat up but also ended up clicking selfies. Lavina decided to save her pictures with Salman as her personal and prized possession.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 39

ENCOUNTER

has not changed anything

After her hush-hush wedding to beau Aditya Chopra in Italy this April, actress Rani Mukerji is readying for Mardaani, her first film post marriage. The actress who had been keeping a low profile for several months before finally taking the plunge, recently opened up to the media about her marriage, her career and her forthcoming film, which will see her in an altogether new avatar.

40 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

ENCOUNTER

As a person Adi has made a conscious choice to be known for his work more than anything else.

Your quiet and discreet marriage at a private ceremony in Italy surprised everyone since you had said not so long ago that you would publicly announce your wedding date and have a grand ceremony. What was the reason for the change?

I didn’t have any choice. My husband had already made his decision and took me to Italy. I merely followed him like a docile girl (smiles).

Your husband, filmmaker Aditya Chopra, is known to be reclusive and has always shied away from the media. Will we see you posing together at social events now that he has married an actress?

Marriage has changed nothing; it’s just an extension of our lives. Just because he has married me, it doesn’t mean that Adi (Aditya Chopra) will make his presence felt at events. As a person Adi has made a conscious choice to be known for his work more than anything else. He has his right to privacy and there is nothing wrong about it if he does not appear at social dos. It doesn’t matter to me if he is invisible to others as long as he is visible to me (giggles).

How would you like to be addressed now? Will the Chopra tag change all that?

I don’t intend to change my name as people know me by the name of Rani Mukerji.

When I admit my children in school they will definitely carry the Chopra surname, but for my fans I will always be Rani Mukerji.

Tell us about your upcoming film Mardaani.

Mardaani explores the issue of child and women trafficking. It talks about the manly spirit in women which is aroused when a woman is challenged. I play the role of police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy, who takes on the perpetrators of crime single-

handedly. I would like to awaken that spirit in every young girl’s heart with my role in the film. I was reminded of the Queen of Jhansi when I first heard the story of the film.

When I was young my father would often take me for morning walks to the Jhansi Fort, where he would narrate stories of the queen. She was a strong woman in spirit.

Women have an inherent power in them and we want to show that spirit in women so that no one takes undue advantage of them.

This is your second film with director Pradeep Sarkar, with whom you had last worked in the forgettable Lagaa Chunari Mein Daag. How confident are you about the prospects of this film?

I am happy and excited to have collaborated with Pradeep Sarkar on this film. Hopefully we will be able to wash away the blotch we

had created with our last film together.

Apparently you did extensive research for your role in the film.

I met several women police officers, some of whom have made significant contributions to society. Most of them are often taken for granted, which comes in the way of their profession. I also learnt of some disturbing facts about the life of the women police force. The truth is that female officers are not only as good as male officers but they are better than most of the men in the field.

The Mumbai Police Joint Commissioner Himanshu Roy himself told me that these women officers were far better than some of the male officers they had in their teams.

It is high time we changed the perspective towards lady police officers and this film is the first step in that direction.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 41

FACE TO FACE

I would like to work in only those films that people can watch with their families

I am not striving for

stardom 42 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

FACE TO FACE

Known to be one of the hottest sensations in the south, Tamannaah Bhatia has been trying hard to gain foothold in the Hindi film industry. Her debut Hindi film, Chand Sa Roshan Chehra, (2005), was a box-office dud while her second Hindi film Himmatwala, released last year, sank without a trace at the box-office. An unfazed Tamannaah is now looking forward to her next film, Humshakals, once again with director Sajid Khan. She talks about her film and her future plans.

Your first film Himmatwala with director Sajid Khan did not do well at the box office. What kind of expectations do you have from Humshakals?

I agree, both I and Sajid gave a flop in Himmatwala. The film was a remake and I was compared to Sridevi. After the debacle of the film, we decided to prove ourselves.

Sajid was looking for a script that was way apart from his previous film. So when he approached me for Humshakals, I was more than happy to take up the offer. Also, I share a great rapport with Sajid so I was delighted to be part of his team once again.

I was surprised how he could conceive me in a different role this time.

Among the three roles that Saif Ali Khan plays in the film, which of the three characters will you be romancing?

I can’t disclose much at this stage because there is a surprise element in the story. For all you know, you may well find three versions of me in the film too. All I can say is that I play a cool character named Shanaya in the film. She is a VJ by profession and is also the host of a reality show. Sajid helped me with my role as he has also been a successful reality show host in the past. I have imitated him completely in the film; in fact you will see a feminine version of Sajid in me.

Were you comfortable doing a comedy?

I am an ardent Govinda fan and have watched many of his films in the past.

I used to enjoy his comedies but when it came to acting in one, I did face some initial problems. I also found it difficult to understand this kind of slapstick comedy, so I would sit on the sets and watch others shoot. I would observe their reactions so I knew what to do when Sajid would ask me to react to a particular situation.

There were rumours that you were not happy with your role?

I am curious to know where this news has come from. I would be the last person to be unhappy with my role in the film. Sajid Khan is one director who is very straight forward. He calls you and informs you of your character well in advance. I remember he told me about the other two characters too when he sounded the script. He also said that he had already thought of Esha and Bipasha for the roles. He is not the kind of director who will promise you something and shoot something else. He has lived up to his promise.

Knowing that the film is a multi-starrer with two other heroines, Esha Gupta and Bipasha Basu, were there cat fights on the sets?

I am aware that ego clashes do happen when three heroines work together. But to tell you the truth we all enjoyed working together, especially Esha. She took great care of all the co-stars. I remember I was feeling a little low on one particular day because of the work pressure and Esha was the one who encouraged me and pepped me up. Even Bipasha was very friendly.

We heard that Kareena Kapoor bonded very well with you when she visited the sets and felt that you resemble her sister Karisma Kapoor.

Kareena did come on the sets and spoke very warmly to me. She told me that I reminded her of her sister Karisma. I had heard this earlier too but coming from Kareena it was a great compliment. I have been watching Karisma Kapoor’s films since my childhood and she is a charming and talented actress in her own right.

I agree both I and Sajid gave a flop in Himmatwala. The film was a remake & I was compared to Sridevi www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 43

FACE TO FACE

It was a great compliment when Kareena told me that I reminded her of her sister Karisma

44 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

How do you intend to strike a balance between your work here and your films in the south?

Each film has its own sensibilities. I love acting and am passionate about it. I started my career in the south very early in life. Fortunately for me the roles that I have got so far have all been to my liking. I have also mastered a number of languages now, be it Telugu, Tamil or Hindi. I have just begun my journey in Hindi films and I am enjoying the experience. If this film works well for me, I intend to take up more offers but I am sure that will not hamper my work down south.

What kind of films are you looking forward to doing?

I want to do different kind of roles.

Stardom is not what I am striving for.

Stardom automatically follows when you give successful films in a row. I don’t work for money either. What I am striving for is good roles. I like to meet people whom I feel confident working with.

Are you open to sex comedies?

I think I would like to work in only those films that people can watch with their families.

My parents shouldn’t squirm on the seats watching a film of mine. I don’t mind watching such films but personally I can never be a part of them.

Tell us about your next film It’s Entertainment with Akshay Kumar.

The story of It’s Entertainment revolves around a dog and it was a novel experience for me. I never had any experience with pets earlier but now I have bought a pet for myself after working in the film. As for Akshay, he is a brilliant actor. He can make a simple scene look extraordinary. I had great chemistry with him. Akshay is also a very down to earth person. He puts so much energy into his shots, that he motivates everyone around him. Working with him was a learning experience every day.

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14/01/2014 2:39 pm www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 45

FOOD

Moong Dal and Paneer Pudina Chila Chock-full of nutrients and abundant in flavour too, the Moong Dal and Paneer Phudina Chila is a wonderful snack to have any time of the day, whether for breakfast, supper or as a tea-time treat for a sudden guest. Ready in minutes, this flavourful chila features an exciting stuffing of mint-tinged paneer.

PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINS COOKING TIME: 4 MINS MAKES 4 SERVINGS Ingredients 1/2 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow gram), soaked for 4 hours 1/2 tsp ginger-green chilli paste 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing) 1/2 tsp sugar Salt to taste To Be Mixed Into A Topping 1/2 cup crumbled paneer (cottage cheese) 1/4 cup finely chopped mint leaves (pudina) 1/2 tsp finely chopped green chillies 1/2 tsp chaat masala Salt to taste Other Ingredients Oil for greasing and cooking

46 July 2016 | www.visionasia.com.au

Method 1. Divide the topping into 4 equal portions and keep aside.

2. Drain the soaked moong dal, add ½ cup of water and blend in a mixer till smooth.

3. Transfer the mixture into a bowl, add the gingergreen chilli paste, asafoetida, sugar and salt and mix well.

4. Divide the batter into 4 equal portions and keep aside.

5. Heat a non-stick tava (griddle), grease with a little oil, pour a portion of the batter on the tava and spread it evenly to make a 125 mm. (5�) diameter round.

6. Spread a portion of the topping evenly over it and press it gently so the topping sticks to the chila.

7. Cook, using a little oil, till it turns golden brown in colour from both the sides.

8. Repeat steps 5 to 7 to make 3 more chilas.

9. Serve immediately with green chutney and tomato ketchup.

FOOD

Paneer Makai

While you would surely have tried the common combo of paneer and green peas, here is a mind-blowing preparation of paneer with sweet corn, perked up with crisp capsicum, green chillies, ginger and spices. One exciting aspect of Paneer Makai is that sweet corn is used both in whole and puree form, so its flavour is very dominant, making every mouthful a pleasurable experience.

PREPARATION TIME: 10 MINS COOKING TIME: 12 MINS MAKES 3 SERVINGS Ingredients 1 1/2 cups paneer (cottage cheese) cubes 1 cup sweet corn kernels (makai ke dane) 1/2 cup thinly sliced capsicum 2 tbsp oil 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera) A pinch of asafoetida (hing) 1 1/2 tsp finely chopped green chillies 1 tsp grated ginger (adrak) 1/2 cup boiled sweet corn kernels (makai ke dane) A pinch sugar Salt to taste For The Garnish 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander (dhania)

Method 1. Combine the sweet corn kernels and ½ cup of water in a mixer and blend to a coarse paste.

2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a deep pan, add the capsicums and paneer and sauté on a medium flame for 4 to 5 minutes or till they are lightly browned, remove and keep aside.

3. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of oil in the same pan and add the cumin seeds and asafoetida.

4. When the seeds crackle, add the corn purée, green chillies, ginger and ½ cup of water, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 5 minutes, while stirring occasionally.

5. Add the boiled corn, sugar and salt, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 1 minute.

6. Add the sautéed capsicum, paneer and mix gently and cook on a medium flame for 1 minute.

7. Garnish with coriander and serve hot with parathas.

Tarla Dalal Noted Indian food writer, chef, best-selling cookbook author, Padma Shri awardee and host of cooking shows like “Tarla Dalal Show” and “Cook It Up With Tarla Dalal”. She has written over 170 titles, several of which have been translated into various languages and sold around the world.

www.visionasia.com.au | July 2016 47

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