Filmfare Middle East - August 2020

AED 10

AUGUST 2020

MIDDLE EAST www.filmfaremiddleeast.com

THE REGION’S FIRST VIRTUAL TALENT HUNT

BACK TO SCHOOL

• FILMI CLASSROOMS • UAE SCHOOL PREPARE TO WELCOME PUPILS

• PREP UP YOUR

SCHOOL BUYS

LIFE IS A MASQUER ADE SHRUTI HAASAN IN A TELL-ALL INTERVIEW

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MIDDLE EAST

EDITORIAL TEAM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Manju Ramanan manju.ramanan@starzmediainc.com

Back to the New Normal

Deputy Editor Aakanksha Naval-Shetye Aakanksha.Naval@starzmediainc.com

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FILMFARE (INDIA) Chief Executive Officer Deepak Lamba Chief Community Officer & Editor Jitesh Pillaai Executive Editor Anuradha Choudhary Brand Solutions Director Jyoti Verma PUBLISHED BY: Starz Media Inc P.O BOX: 18022 Dubai, United Arab Emirates REGIONAL PARTNER OF

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Copyright 2020: Reproduction in any manner in any language in whole or part without prior written permission is prohibited

A

s Dubai comes back to its feet, with traffic on roads and the masked janata going about their daily work, back home in India, some cities are better than the other in terms of mobility.

In a one-of-its kind cover, that represents the ebullient human spirit that refuses to cower down when faced with terse situations, like the current pandemic, Shruti Haasan braved it all for the shoot.

Shruti Haasan, shot the August cover at a Hyderabad studio. The place was first sanitized and cleaned up before the skeletal team that included the photographer, styling assistant, Shruti’s manager and Shruti shot for the cover. The outfits were flown in, the jewelry came locally packed and each and every one maintained physical distancing and went about doing what they do best.

Do log on to www.filmfaremiddleeast.com and our social media pages to watch the behind-the-scenes shots of this unusual shoot.

Shruti is the judge for our grand finale of the Oasis Lacnor presents Arab Asia Starz, the region’s newest digital talent hunt that is part of Filmfare ME. As entries pour in and talent across the region is showcased, our other judges Nushratt Bharuccha, Maniesh Paul, Sajjad Delafrooz and Rosemin have their hands full. The event is co-sponsored by Oasis Blu, Safa and Royal Bakers. Our TV partners are Zee Cinema and Zee Alwan, radio partners are 89.1 Radio 4 FM, our newspaper partner is Khaleej Times, our grooming partner is the Art of Shaving, our fashion partner is Splash and our support partner is Gold Collagen. Log on to www.arabasiastarz.com to check out all the action!

After a long hiatus, kids are finally going to school. While there is apprehension, the authorities have reassured that everything is safe and in place. Check out our pages on what’s the market buzz regarding Back to School. Do check out Aakanksha NavalShetye’s stories on classroom antics in Bollywood and how the screen has captured some truly memorable moments on celluloid. Esha Deol’s debut book ‘Amma Mia’ is creating waves because it addresses young mothers keen on cooking for their children. In her interview, she speaks of balancing family, motherhood, her dancing and her career as an actor.

With the changing scenario with films releasing on OTT and content evolving with demanding audiences, we have listed out the women-centric films to look forward to in the current year. Also read my interview with the biggest name out of Saudi Arabia, film-maker Haifaa al Mansour whose film The Perfect Candidate is releasing on OTT platforms. Her known film Wadjda was lauded widely for its sensitive treatment to an issue of a girl in Saudi Arabia coveting and owning a bicycle. This was before the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia was lifted. The Perfect Candidate is the story of a Saudi woman doctor wanting to stand for elections to level the road outside her hospital.

The eminent singer of the 90’s – Kumar Sanu spoke to us in a candid interview. Also check out the vegetarian recipe he gave me. Sanu won five consecutive Filmfare awards between 1991 to 1995 and is well lauded and respected always.

As much as I hate writing obituaries, which have been a regular feature for the last few months, this month has one too, sadly. We lost the legendary Jagdeep Saab – ace comedian, actor and the father of actors and hosts Javed Jaaferi and Naved Jafri and the grand dad of Meezaan Jaaferi. Check out my interviews with both Jaaved and Meezan Jaaferi on the FilmfareME IGTV where they have spoken very respectfully and lovingly about Jagdeep Saab.

Looking forward to Sara Ali Khan, Dhanush and Akshay Kumar share the screen for Atrangi Re. Thanks and regards,

Manju Ramanan Editor-in-Chief Filmfare Middle East

LOG ON TO WWW.FILMFAREMIDDLEEAST.COM FOR OUR DAILY UPDATES! Filmfare Middle East takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material | ALL PHOTOGRAPHS, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, ARE USED FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 3

Volume 29 # AUGUST 1, 2020

masala fix

05

GET WELL SOON THE WORLD PRAYS FOR THE BACHCHANS EARLY RECOVERY FROM COVID

COVER CREDITS : MANAGER- AKARSH AYAPPA | INSTAGRAM- MACHO_FEMINIST PHOTOGRAPHER- ESHAAN GIRI | INSTAGRAM: @ESHAANGIRRI HAIRSTYLIST- GEORGE CHALHOUB FROM DESSANGE | INSTAGRAM: @DESSANGEINDIA @GEORGES_CHALHOUB_BEAUTY? STYLIST- AMRITARAM | INSTAGRAM: AMRITA AMRITHA.RAM

62 36 38

rumours &more

08

SAVIOUR SONU IS ON A MISSION TO HELP DISPLACED INDIANS REACH THEIR HOMES. SHAHID REACHES OUT TO DANCERS AND ALSO CHECK OUT THE MASKED CYCLING CELEBS

PREP YOUR SCHOOL BUYS FILMI CLASSROOM AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE REVISITS SOME OF THE SCHOOL-BASED BOLLYWOOD FILMS

Lifestyle

58

42 VOICE IS CULTURE

Fashion

Exclusive

12

15

BUN AND CANDY ALL OVER THE HAIRDO THAT MAKES OUR LIVES EASIER. ALSO IT’S CANDY COLOR SEASON THIS SUMMER

24 30

ON THE COVER WITH THE SUNSHINE GIRL SHRUTI HAASAN ARE YOU OUR

FROM ONE MOM TO ANOTHER ESHA DEOL SPEAKS TO MANJU RAMANAN ON HER FRIST BOOK ‘AMMA MIA’

Feature

34 4 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

FAREWELL JAGDEEP SAAB

BACK TO CLASSROOM UAE SCHOOLS PREPARE TO WELCOME PUPILS

IT’S PROMO TIME GET SPECIAL OFFERS AT LE MERIDIEN DUBAI

F&B Local

44

EIDI TIME COOL GIFTS FOR YOUR LOVED ONES

Gulf Cinema

52

SMART, SASSY AND SAUDI HAIFAA AL MANSOUR SPEAKS TO MANJU RAMANAN ON HER NEXT FILM

Interview

56

THE HINGLISH MAN A DANCER, ACTOR, VOICE OVER ARTISTE, COMEDIAN, REALITY SHOW PIONEER JAVED JAAFERI SPEAKS TO MANJU RAMANAN

a bird’s-eye view of show town’s happenings

GET WELL SOON!

At the time of going to print, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Aaradhya Bachchan have been tested negative for Covid 19. Mr Amitabh Bachchan and son Abhishek Bachchan are still recovering.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 5

LETTERS

IN THE MAIL

READERS WRITE AND BITE BACK... WITH LOVE AND AFFECTION

BEST INSTA MOMENTS Check out what your favourites are upto on instagram......

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR It is great to know that the cricketer Irrfan Pathan who retired this year is now busy with his Tamil movie Cobra where he plays an Interpol officer.Thank you for this information FilmfareME - Naseem Zayed The Arab Asia Starz is a fantastic initiative from you all and I have asked my friends and family to join it.

- Kauser Suleman Khan You haven’t passed away. You are alive in our hearts Sushant Singh Rajput. We loved your review of Dil Bechara. @umaidumc We love you Kriti Sanon. Continue to keep up the good work and may God bless you and your family.

@air.d123 Looking forward to Sara Ali Khan’s film with Dhanush and Akshay Kumar in Atrangi Re. @Rajee75yay Yes, Karishma Tanna won Khatron ke Khiladi 10, but didn’t we all win Khatron ke Khiladi 2020?

Hiten Umrania What a great actor Vijay Varma is. I really liked your interview with the star. krinadesai We love Ashwin Kumar’s dances on the treadmill. I can’t walk properly on the stable floor and he is dancing on a treadmill. @allthingszoha Sonu Nigam’s interview we thoroughly enjoyed and shared. Well done!

Sanya Burnwala

Post your reviews to 6 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Send us your views, opinions and suggestions to: Email: manjuramanan@starzmediainc.com

FilmfareME

FilmfareMiddleEast

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RUMOURS AND MORE

Rumours&More

SAVIOUR SONU As we know, Sonu Sood is on a mission to help displaced Indians reach their homes during the lockdown. The actor has helped transport migrants via bus, train and air services. Sonu has also been distributing meals to underprivileged families across Mumbai. The actor recently launched his helpline number through which he can be contacted. Sonu has pledged to help until every single individual gets reunited with his loved ones. What started as an initiative of sending migrants to their homes,beginning from 200 people from Mumbai, has now turned into a nationwide initiative #GharBhejo.

8 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

KAT’S BEAUTIFUL HEART Katrina Kaif has pledged support for daily wage workers through her brand - Kay Beauty. She wrote on Instagram, “We have lent our support to the daily-wage earning families living in the villages around the Bhandara district in Maharashtra, with food and basic sanitary materials.” She even urged her fans to contribute towards the cause. She mentioned that she has been inspired by colleague Salman Khan, who does exhaustive social work.

expert advice

SHAHID REACHES OUT TO DANCERS

Rana Issa Ebrahim Laser & Skin Care Specialist American Aesthetic Medical Center

TAKING CARE OF YOUR SKIN DURING COVID-19 In keeping with the spirit of compassion amidst the lockdown, around 20 dancers from choreographer Ahmed Khan’s team and 20 dancers from choreographer Bosco’s team are being helped by Shahid Kapoor. The actor has transferred money to the bank accounts of the dancers with whom he’s worked in the past. For the uninitiated, Shahid was part of Shiamak Davar’s dance group before he joined films. He also featured as a background dancer in Subhash Ghai’s Taal.

CAN SPENDING TIME INDOORS DURING TO PANDEMIC MAKE YOUR SKIN MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO SUN DAMAGE DUE TO THE REDUCED EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT? It’s important to highlight that sunlight is not the only source of radiation that our skin faces every day. For e.g., the light emitted from computer screens and mobile devices, can affect the skin and eyes, contributing to skin damage, eyestrain and possibly even cataracts. During the COVID-19 pandemic we are spending more time facing screens than ever, so it’s good to be mindful of this and take protective measures.

SHOULD PEOPLE APPLY SUNSCREEN MORE FREQUENTLY IF THEY’VE BEEN SPENDING LESS TIME IN THE SUN? With more time spent indoors and all the mask wearing during the pandemic, people have been experiencing more sensitive skin, breakouts and clogged pores. So it may be more helpful to substitute our regular high SPF sunscreens for a lighter moisturizer with some SPF in the mornings.

WHAT IS MASKNE AND HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED? No one likes to have acne, even acne under a mask. This is a frustrating problem, especially in individuals who have to wear a mask for prolonged periods of time.

Keeping the skin clean, keeping the mask clean and changing the mask frequently are all things that can help prevent acne.

RAKUL TRAVELS IN PPE GEAR

Actor Rakul Preet Singh took a flight to Delhi wearing the full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) gear. The De De Pyaar De actor took to Instagram and shared pictures of herself from the airport wearing masks, gloves and shoe cover as a precautionary measure against COVID-19.

The actor posted another video from the flight, wearing a face shield and said she felt like she was ‘going to space’.

Rakul’s upcoming movies include Attack, co-starring John Abraham and Jacqueline Fernandez and a family dramedy with Arjun Kapoor.

WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE CONTACT A SKINCARE SPECIALIST? Any time you are not managing acne or skin care issue well over the counter, feel free to call. We at American Aesthetic Medical Center are always concerned that there is a group of people out there who think their skincare especially acne is too mild to come and see a specialist. Skincare issues are never too mild to come see a skincare specialist.

When people take care of their skin carefully, they become their best friend!

- Dr. Sana Sajan

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 9

RUMOURS AND MORE

TIGER WISHES LADYLOVE Disha Patani turned a year older in June. While there were wishes galore from fans and friends, the one that grabbed attention was the post shared by Disha’s rumoured boyfriend Tiger Shroff.

Tiger shared a throwback video and wished his ‘rockstar’. Disha can be seen flaunting her moves to the music being played in the background. “3 waffles and 3 pancakes later… happy birthday rockstar @dishapatani,” wrote Tiger. His mother Ayesha Shroff also took to her social media handle to wish ‘Deeeeeshu!’

Disha shares a close bond with Tiger’s sister Krishna Shroff too.

She’s reportedly staying with Tiger and his family during the lockdown. Disha will next be seen in Ek Villain 2 with John Abraham.

NAOMI MISTAKEN FOR DEEPIKA

Naomi Scott, who played the role of Princess Jasmine in Disney’s 2019 film Aladdin, was in the news recently. In her interview to a channel she shared that a member of her film’s crew once thought that she’d starred in the Ram-Leela song Nagada sang dhol baje, which features Deepika Padukone.

Naomi loves the track and was playing it on the set. Naomi said she was flattered to be mistaken with someone as ‘beautiful’ as Deepika. In fact, the vibe of Aladdin, she shared, was inspired by the flavours of Bollywood.

TAAPSEE’S POIGNANT POEM Taapsee Pannu has always been socially aware and vocal about issues that plague the underprivileged. The Thappad actor recently narrated a heart-wrenching poem on migrants, titled ‘Pravasi’ (migrants), on social media. The poem begins and ends with the same question: ‘Hum to bas pravaasi hain, kya iss desh ke vaasi hain?’ It was accompanied by a series of images - visuals of migrant workers walking, cycling… for thousands of kilometres. She added that the images would ‘never leave our minds’. In April, Taapsee had also featured in a morale-boosting video titled Muskurayega India, which encouraged people to support each other during the coronavirus crisis.

10 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

CYCLING CELEBS

Ranbir Kapoor and Sonal Chauhan set out cycling in masks in Mumbai.

ask the expert KAUSAR SULEMAN KHAN HUMANITARIAN, NATUROPATH & OWNER OF QUEENS KSENSES LADIES SALON & SPA

HEAL YOURSELF WITH GRATITUDE!

Heal yourself through enhancing your virtues. The first virtue that not only heals your aura, but also enhances a personality and reflects in your overall behavior is gratitude.Being grateful is not a very natural emotion. It has to be embedded during your growing up days!The early learning of gratitude in one’s heart is like a treasure that helps children grow in love and luck! A very strong exercise that I’ve shared with many which fills our heart with gratitude will show you a beautiful change in life!

Create a note to post on your refrigerator or inside your main door or even at your office desk! Every movement of your opening of these doors will help you grow more grateful and eventually introduce you to a new and stronger you!

THE ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

The world survives because of givers, providers, healers, supporters, feeders and protectors.Being grateful pulls you on to a similar platform. It is important to reiterate these words..

I am forever grateful to the souls who brought me to this world I’m grateful for each sunrise and sunset that I am blessed with.

I will nurture at least one plant or tree in my lifetime as a daily commitment.

Reaching out to the birds with little food and water on a daily basis will heal my aura!

I’m grateful for every door that will open to lead me to a better tomorrow And I’ll be grateful to every door that closed because only God knows it was the betterment of my tomorrow!

I will feed at least one hungry stomach minimum once a week because I have food on my plate!

My feeling of gratitude will be shown in words and actions to the People I live with!

People I work with!

People I cross paths with!

People I don’t agree with!

My duties are my gratitude!

My words, my good deeds for every little blessing, will make me grow - only if I am grateful!

Gratitude brings respect!

Gratitude brings honor!

Gratitude attracts success!

God blesses those who are grateful! AMEEN! Kindly read this note daily!

Kindly post me the changes that you manifest and the changes that you experience!sleepy heart!

Queries on Instagram

@QueenKausarSuleman (KAUSAR SULEMAN KHAN Entrepreneur, mother, traveler, blogger, motivational speaker natural beauty consultant.)

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 11

FASHION & BEAUTY

Versace

They are hot, they are cool.

Meet our trend makers and breakers

BUN AND ALL Here’s to the hairdo that makes our lives easier

ANANYA PANDAY

ALIA BHATT

Isabel Marant

Ashley Williams

Gucci

MALAIKA ARORA SHRADDHA KAPOOR

BUN BLAST KIARA ADVANI

You don’t have to be a pro to pull off this hairstyle. It’s a saviour for not only bad hair days but for also the times you just can’t seem to tidy up your unruly tresses. The runway bun is a hairdo for laidback girls but is now getting a trendy makeover for formal occasions. Accessorised, braided and even half-knotted, this top bun is a rage from the bedroom to the boardroom. You can carry this hairdo with ethnic wear or Western picks – so universal is its vibe.

Dolce & Gabbana

Jennifer Behr

Ashley Williams MRUNAL THAKUR

12 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

"Invest in your hair. It's the crown you'll never take off."

NUSHRATT BHARUCCHA

BHUMI PEDNEKAR

CANDY SHOP!

SONAKSHI SINHA

DEEPIKA PADUKONE

Candy floss colours are creating a riot everywhere

SAIEE MANJREKAR

Designers seem to have developed a sweet tooth for candy colours this season. They’re just about everywhere. Dominated by Barbie pink, pastels ranging from unicorn blue and purple to millennial green have been making recurring appearances in our divas’ wardrobes. Summery and easy on the eyes, these shades were once restricted to casual wear but are now seen on the red carpet and even in Indian couture.

Gentle Monster

KRITI SANON

DEEPIKA PADUKONE

Simone Rocha

Sophia Webster Olivia Rubin ALIA BHATT

PASTEL PARTY

Balenciaga

Maison Margiela

KIARA ADVANI

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 13

FASHION & BEAUTY

GLAMOUR

GALORE

Kabir Khan is all about drama on screen but his style screams sophistication.

Gracing the Filmfare Awards event, in classic black pants, black vest and a night grey jacket, Kabir was one of the best dressed that night. Attending his first red carpet, Meezaan Jaaferi made an impression in backstreet casuals by Arjun Khanna. Full-on gangsta’ vibes from the newcomer. The only plaid we spotted that night was worn by macho Sharad Kelkar. He made his look work with the pop of red tie and pocket square on a grey suit. Sunny Kaushal donned a contrasting ensemble of black pants with a night blue sheen jacket. This tuxedo by NM Studios was a savvy choice. Taking a break from jackets, Angad Bedi opted for a white shirt, pants and a stylish Shantanu and Nikhil jacket. A special mention of his moustache that marked the machismo.

 Kabir Khan

 Angad Bedi

 Sharad Kelkar

 Meezaan Jaaferi

14 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

 Sunny Kaushal

i t u r h S

HAASAN August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 15

INTERVIEW

16 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

S Girl

unshine

This is one girl who is very easy to love. She is talented, vivacious, chatty,

beautiful, vocal, glamourous and brilliant, apart from being a huge star in

South Indian cinema, who has made a mark in Bollywood! Our cover girl Shruti Haasan shot these pictures in a Hyderabad studio following prescribed physical distancing norms during the current Covid 19 situation. The studio was sanitized before the shoot and the number of people in the shoot minimized. Manju Ramanan speaks to Shruti Haasan who tried wearing yellow for the very first time besides chatting up on her recently released Tigmanshu Dhulia film Yaara, her cinema, her growing up years and the abundance and love she shares with everyone. And she is the main judge for the grand finale of the Arab Asia Starz, the digital talent hunt brought to you by Filmfare ME.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 17

INTERVIEW

Honestly there was a lot of pressure too – people said I looked manly and that I looked strong and not feminine.

and I wanted the shoot to be really special. We got a giant box of clothes from Papa Don’t Preach and jewelry from Suhani that I could start a jewelry store. And most of all, as per the brief, my stylist gave me a colour that I was hesitant to try out – yellow. She always pushes me out of my comfort zone and I am glad to have worn yellow!

Your style is largely arty and bohemian?

Tell us about the shoot?

My stylist Amrita and I are very good friends and this shoot was particularly unusual because it was long-distance. The clothes had to be brought in from another city and we had to stitch a few too and given the lockdown and physical distancing norms, it was 18 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

challenging. I now realise the value of costume stylists and assistants. It was stressing to have lesser people attending to you but we managed. I did my hair and make-up on my own because I didn’t want anyone to touch my face.

Also, I have had a long association with Filmfare

Yes, it is largely carefree.

What I wear sums up my personality. Basically, what you wear should be you and there is nothing more confident than that.

Everyone has a style and when you dig into and find your style, you stand out and look different. When I do a film or promotion I’ll do what you want but when I do an experimental photo shoot I will do what looks good on me. I love black, army green and grey but here I have

worked yellow.

Also, I am a 90s kid and love psychedelic neon colours like neon green and pink.

You struggled with self-image and how did you win over it?

There has been a lot of talk about it and it has to be understood with great sensitivity. I grew up feeling not very attractive and so developed my mind and creativity. Slowly I became appealing to people and I was like, oh, people like me. I was always a geek inside but I was happy to be different and I get that from both my parents. After my first movie, I broke my nose and I wasn’t happy.

Honestly there was a lot of pressure too – people said I looked manly and that I looked strong and

not feminine. So, I decided to use fillers and make my face rounder. I accept myself totally along with the changes I have done to myself. I don’t promote or encourage it but accept yourself. It is like colouring your hair. No one can tell you that you shouldn’t do it.

People in the industry often hide that they have done facelifts and surgeries. You chose to speak out?

Everybody you see in the limelight has done something or the other to themselves. And to each his or her own. I am very happy to have reached the place of self-acceptance today.

I am really comfortable with myself. I don’t need to

explain to anyone. I like explaining it to those who have got a wrong message about themselves. I am the girl who got the message wrong and I don’t want to give out that message.

Growing up as the legendary Kamal Haasan’s daughterwho were your influences from the guests who visited home?

As a child you don’t know the uncle and aunties who visit your home would influence you. But they do and I have many memories. For example, my father has been extremely close to Ilayaraja sir who is nothing short of being legendary. For him to have given me that little

5 minutes extra, is nothing short of a miracle.

One day, the doorbell rang and Ashaji (Asha Bhosale) was visiting. I welcomed her and asked her to wait while I rushed upstairs to call my mother. My mother asked her to join her upstairs and as I rushed back to her, I was stunned by what I saw. Ashaji, was in this beautiful white, silk saree standing in the middle of the room looking towards the garden and singing to herself. I will never forget the scene. Someday I want a young girl to look at me and remember me in the exact same way.

Sitting and sketching with M F Hussain is yet another memory I cherish, though, that time in childhood, I didn’t August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 19

INTERVIEW

know how big he was. Also, the Queen of England attended my father’s film premiere for Indian. And I have many such memories but all of this didn’t seem abnormal to me. The women I am truly inspired by are my god-mother Rukku aunty and Lakshmi aunty, my friend’s mother.

What inspired you about them?

Lakshmi aunty was a parent in my school and very different than my parents. Her background was different and I was 20 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

fascinated by her. She ran a business and a home with equal ease. Both my parents are mercurial people and I learnt temperance from her – to think before reacting, to step back before responding etc.

Rukku aunty is my god-mother and I learnt how to be a lady from her – how to set the table, plan the menu, treat your friend with love, etc. She is a fantastic interior designer and at 80 years of age today, lives on her own terms. I want everybody I know, to meet her.

What about your bond with your little sister Akshara?

Akshu and I are like a band of brothers and you can catch us discussing video games. I am super-protective of her and she has taught me unconditional love. We are as different as chalk and cheese and she is more social and friendlier than me. I didn’t give her much advice when she did her first film because she has been a successful assistant director. But during shoots when people say great things about her, my heart swells with pride.

You have espoused the cause of PCOs, anxiety and body image?

We as women are very resilient. When I was 26-27 years old, I had debilitating pain and many times I had to be hospitalized. I had endometriosis and the treatment was uncomfortable and very painful.

Today there is more awareness about it and one in every four women has PCOs. Your hormones play up, they alter your appearance and though you try various antidotes to quell the probe, it isn’t an easy journey. My gynecologist though told me to not complain about the pain but understand it as the way the body celebrates fertility. Actresses shoot rain sequences, dance and action sequences battling these issues. I have collapsed in the

We as women are

very

resilient.

When I was 26-27 years old, I had debilitating pain and many times I had to be hospitalized. I had endometriosis and and Kumar Sanu were the treatment was jee uncomfortable

and very

my gurus. I learnt their songs, would copy their songs. Today I am 46 years painful. old. Why can’t I find a guru in someone that is 36 years old? There is no ego.

Life should be met with a lot of grace and humility.

Your teachers are hiding in your face. You’ve got to acknowledge them. And people who are really filthy with me too have been my gurus for they have taught me what not to do.

Who was the first big singer you met?

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 21

INTERVIEW middle of my shoot and taken an hour to pump myself back to work. Also, for the last three years I have been sober and though I don’t take a moralistic stand on the issue I believe that any external substance can change the balance of your body. Today I can happily walk into a party and ask for my cranberry juice and have fun. Also, anxiety is an issue I have dealt with apart from body image.

Do you speak all South Indian languages?

I follow Malayalam a bit and though I have sung in Kannada I cannot speak that either. I find Telugu very tough and I speak Tamil that is my mother tongue. Each film industry of the South does its own thing and we are telling out stories in our own way. There is deep mutual respect among them.

How do you see cinema today?

I love the fact that a lot of cinema is going to the hinterlands.

Non-urban stories are wonderful to watch.

Tell us about Yaara and working with Tigmanshu Dhulia?

Yaara that is streaming on Zee5, is a unique passionate story spanned across years, and has the right amount of intensity.

I am the only woman in the narrative of four boys and my character plays a pivotal part in the plot twist. I actually shot it years ago. I had a wonderful time working with Tigmanshu Dhulia. He has also acted in films, and I feel that is a bonus for him as a director. Since he is such a fine actor, he understands both mediums really well and can put across his vision better. Acting according to those instructions has been challenging and fun.

Tell us about Kolaveri Di?

I was in the Kolaveri Di video because I was in the studio recording for Kannazhaga, one of the biggest hits of my career. Kolaveri was recorded in front of me. I was listening to it and thought it was very smart. It was in Tanglish – a mixture of Tamilized English and sounded very cool. It resonated so well and became a worldwide sensation dubbed in so many languages. It was great for Dhanush.

You have been into playback as well as lip synced to songs as an actor, how do you see the two?

I started by singing for another kid when I was 6 years old.

In my Telugu film, I loved that Shreya Ghoshal sang for me. Isn’t it such a unique film world we belong to – we are perhaps the only industry that has a playback as an important element to cinema. I was very excited lip-syncing to Elisa in Tamil with an animated face. It was insane. Also, Alvida from D Day, is such a fantastic memory. I already know Shankar Ehsan Loy and what a beautiful experience it was!

Your memories of Dubai?

I am obsessed with Dubai mall. Anyone over the phone can ask me directions to the stores and I can guide them. I simply love the food in Dubai. We shot Welcome Back in Dubai and it had many stars but I absolutely love Dimple Kapadia. I look up to her. She really gave me so much love and nurtured me. She is fantastic, fun and so honest. Anil Kapoor sir too was such good fun. And then there was Paresh Raval sir, Naseer saab, John Abraham, Nana Patekar sir – was amazing!.

Will you write your own film?

Who know, I might. I have been writing for a long time thanks to my dad. It takes a lot of courage to pour out your heart. My dad made me to take a course on screen writing.

I love dialogues. But I am more of a book person and I am currently reading ‘Claim Your Power: A 40-day journey to dissolve the hidden trauma that’s kept you stuck and finally thrive in your life’s unique purpose’. Besides this, I love graphic novels and comic books – my favourite characters being Casper and Batman.n 22 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Photo Credits: Manager- Akarsh Ayappa | Instagram- macho_feminist Photographer- Eshaan giri | Instagram: @eshaangirri Hairstylist- George Chalhoub from dessange | Instagram: @ dessangeindia @georges_chalhoub_beauty?

Stylist- Amritaram |Instagram: Amrita Amritha.ram

Shruti Haasan will judge the grand finale of the Arab Asia Starz virtual event!

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 23

24 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Are you Our Next

The region’s biggest virtual talent hunt Arab Asia Starz, is going strong with entries pouring in globally.

The talent talent hunt brought to you by Filmfare Middle East, has the Arab and the South Asian community compete on one platform.

The event is co-sponsored by Oasis Blu, Royal Bakers and Safa Dairy Arabia. Our radio partner is 89.1 Radio 4 FM, our TV partners are Zee Cinema, Zee Aflam and Zee Alwan, our newspaper partner is Khaleej Times,our grooming partner is Art of Shaving, our fashion partner is Splash and support partner is Gold Collagen.

If you are above 18 years of age, have a passion for fashion/beauty and love entertainment, this talent hunt is for you!

Arab Asia Starz virtual event, ends in September 2020 and is being promoted heavily through our media partners across Radio, Print, Newspaper and Television Log on to www.arabasiastarz.com and register now!

The winners will be announced in September and will be part of the second cover of the Filmfare ME magazine.

STEPS TO ENROLL Create a video of not more than a minute on what you are best at (fashion, beauty, mimicking your favorite celeb, or sheer love for entertainment) and upload it on the Arab Asia Starz website: www.arabasiastarz.com

Case Studies Fashion Fashion: Fashion ramp walk, TikTok fashion video, your best fashionable look, all in a span of 30 secs with change of clothes etc.

Beauty Make up tutorials, get the office and party look with minimal products‌Get creative.

Entertainment Express your love for Bollywood, Hollywood and Arabic Cinema and create TikTok videos. Get a friend to help you in remaking your favorite scene from any movie.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 25

MEET OUR CELEBRITY JUDGE

MANIESH l Pau TELEVISION HOST

CELEBRITY ANCHOR & ACTOR

Known for hosting high profile events on television such as Indian Idol, Sa Re Ga

“

Ma Lil Champs, India’s Got Talent, Nach Baliye, Dance India Dance and thousands of ground events including the high octane Dabangg The Tour Reloaded and many more, Maniesh Paul is a name to reckon with in the glitzy world of entertainment.

“

I started out as a singer and then turned to

acting/ hosting. Believe in your talent.

MEET OUR CELEBRITY JUDGE

NUSHRATT ccha BOLLYWOOD

FILM

ACTRESS

u r a Bh

“

A known face on TV and the modelling world, who went on to make her mark in the silver screen with movies like Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2, Dream

Girl and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Nushratt Bharuccha symbolizes ambition and perseverance in equal measure.

I am petite but my dreams have always been sky high

26 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

SAJJAD frooz ela

MEET OUR CELEBRITY JUDGE

D

ACTOR

MODEL

& FILM MAKER

Best known for playing the negative lead opposite Salman Khan in Tiger

“

Zinda Hai, Sajjad Delafrooz has been a model and actor in the UAE before he migrated to India. He was well appreciated in his recent web series

“

Special Ops

I learnt Hindi from

my Sharjah neighbors.

Where there is a will, there is a way

MEET OUR CELEBRITY JUDGE

ROSEMIN Founder of RR&CO, a Dubai-based luxury consulting firm, Rosemin is one of the top 50 most influential women in the Arab

ENTREPRENEUR PRESENTER

world. Some of the top brands she has worked with are Gucci,

INFLUENCER

Burberry and Sothebys, She has styled Queen Rania of Jordan,

& MODEL

“

Madonna, Kate Moss, Kate Winslett, Jemina Khan, among other celebrities in her role as Juicy Couture’s PR Director. Fashion brands have taken Rosemine as a source of inspiration and named products after her.

“

Believe in Yourself

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 27

MEET OUR MOST INFLUENTIAL JUDGE

MR. RIZWAN BUSINESS LEADER

ACHIEVER INSPIRER

INFLUENCER

n a j Sa

Rizwan Sajan, Chairman and Founder of the Danube group and franchise owner of Filmfare Middle East is our esteemed judge for Arab Asia Starz.

Apart from being an eminent businessman, influencer and a celebrity himself, he is passionate about Bollywood and encourages

“

“

genuine talent

Be ready

to own the

stage and be a star!

28 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Thank you for Supporting

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 29

INTERVIEW

Esha Deol speaks to Manju Ramanan on her first book Amma Mia. 30 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Outfit: BCBG; Hair: Akshata Honawar; Make up: Marianna Mukuchyan (Kevin Nunes)

The book is bereft of any glamour and is a book addressing the reader directly?

My book ‘Amma Mia’ is all me. It is my journey from being a young girl, to joining the film industry, getting married, having children – all in line keeping the backbone of the book intact. All these instances culminate in food. I felt a need to share my experiences as a young mother to other young mothers like me. It is essentially a book from one mom to another and is completely heart-felt.

Did you decide on the chatty tone of the book while writing it or it was pre-decided?

The tone of the book is easybreezy, light and information that is first-hand experience from my life.

The foreword is written by Jaya Bachchan. What are your memories of food with her?

Jayaji is someone I absolutely adore and respect. She was my co-star in my debut film Koi Mere Dil Se Poocho. We hit off very well during the shoot of the film that took over a year-and-a-half. The shoots were in Hyderabad and Rajasthan and I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with her over food.

She treated me like a kid and mothered me. We ate our meals together at the restaurant sometimes and I particularly remember her fondness for fruits. She enjoyed her bowl of fruits and encouraged me to eat fruits and said that they shouldn’t be consumed in the evenings after a certain time. She has impeccable table manners and I picked up so many things from her.

Working with her made a stronger bond with her across the years. I had her on mind while writing the book and she read the entire book and very graciously wrote the foreword. A wonderful woman, a wonderful mother to two, she raised such humble, well-mannered kids.

What did you learn from the strong and independent women you were surrounded with?

Right from my childhood, I have been surrounded by strong independent women

who mould you to be yourself. Your outlook towards the work is different and I think that is what has shaped me into the woman I am. Be it multi-tasking, working, being a mom at home, standing my ground when I wanted to be an actress, getting married, having a wonderful husband and we’ve created an identity – that we maintain all our lives. I am someone who doesn’t depend on anyone on anything – that is what I have learnt from my grand mom, mom and aunt.

They have all been these incredibly strong women – a one-woman army.

I have been surrounded by strong independent women who mould you to be yourself. Your outlook towards the work is different and I think that is what has shaped me into the woman I am. Be it multi-tasking, working, being a mom at home, standing my ground when I wanted to be an actress, getting married, having a wonderful husband and we’ve created an identity-that we maintain all our lives.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 31

INTERVIEW

It is not easy to be in tip top shape, give yourself the time to heal and your mind to acknowledge and accept the changes your body has gone through.

Turning non-vegetarian - how did you cope?

I grew up in a vegetarian household and we only had egg curry if you call that cheating. We used to visit Luv-Kush’s home (actor Shatrughan Sinha’s children) and Poonam aunty used to call us when they made anda curry that we used to eat with rotis or rice with great relish. We so looked forward to these 32 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

visits. (Laughs)

You have been a huge Sylvester Stallone fan and you copied his style of eating raw eggs too.

I have been a die-hard Sylvester Stallone fan. My room was filled with his posters and you couldn’t see the wall paint at all. His Rocky series is something that I have watched back to back. Somewhere I saw him eat raw eggs and since I was

very active in sports and athletics in school and had to report to sports training early in the morning by the beach, I would eat raw eggs.

I thought that it would make me strong.

Besides that, I love watching food videos and films based on food especially the ones where people cook different kinds of things in their vans.

I avoid watching these films when I am on a diet. As a

child I have tried making strawberries with whipped cream because they were there in the films I watched.

What would you cook for your mom today?

Recently I made my mom, a mango dessert with chia seeds and coconut milk. She is a healthy eater but she loves sweets, so I made her a healthy dessert that she enjoyed. My in laws are big

Cooking for kids is fun. Radhya loves pasta, so I make that for her. I have been baking a lot of cakes and making cute desserts.

foodies and when they were over, I cooked an elaborate buffet for them that included a mushroom risotto, vegetables to go with it, some Thai cuisine and baked a cake too.

Self-care after a baby how did you find time and indulge?

This is a very important question. It is not easy to be in tip top shape, give yourself the time to heal and your mind to acknowledge and accept the changes your body has gone through. After my first baby Radhya, I didn’t have time for anything.

I would be seen in a loose bun, pajamas and a loose T shirt. It was quite tough. Five months after Radhya

was born, I had to do a solo Odissi in Delhi and had to get moving quicker than normal.

I realised that when I started my work outs, that you can lose weight because the body has elasticity. After Miraya though, I took longer.

I eat healthy and stay away from junk food.

The second time you are in for other things because having two kids is quite a handful.

Fitness is tougher because it is difficult to find time for yourself.

You want to get back into shape and look like you did before. At this time, setting realistic goals help. Do not expect to get into a bikini the next day. A short walk around the block, deep breathing, some yoga and

meditation works very well.

Shooting, acting, writing a book, dancing, bringing up kids and being part of a big family - what are the things to watch out to never let the balance topple?

In the current lockdown, I have been cooking every second day. My husband is a big foodie and is handing me recipes he fancies and I try them out. Also, cooking for kids is fun.

Radhya loves pasta, so I make that for her. I have been baking a lot of cakes and making cute desserts. I have also reserved time for my work outs that is pretty intense. n

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 33

FEATURE

When the pandemic struck, the UAE,

Buses

like a whole lot of countries in the world

Temperature check-ups will be conducted in buses for students attending school. Physical distancing rules will be maintained.

shut its schools and all classes went digital. Now that it is Back to School

Drop Offs

are schools in Dubai’s doing to keep

Only one family member or a guardian is allowed to enter the school facility for drop off/pick up his/her child. People with compromised medical conditions, including the elderly, should not come for drop off and pick up.

things safe for students returning back to

Scanners and Disinfectant channels

classrooms? The one-size-fits-all solution each school depending on its area and

At the entrance of the schools, there will be disinfectant channels with manned staff that includes security and a care giver to ensure students are wearing masks and the requisites.

Thermal scans will be conducted to ensure temperatures of the pupils, teachers and staff are normal

space makes space for all that it can do.

Signages

However, schools have been conducting

Schools are putting up signage to help maintain social distancing, and other precautionary checks to keep children and staff stay safe on the campus. These signages will be placed near water coolers or sand pits, informing pupils if they come too close to one another.

time and campuses are reopening, what

will not be appropriate for all schools and

regular sanitization measures with safety protocols maintained including social distancing. Teachers, staff members and cleaning staff have also been trained to maintain the protocols. These are some of the precautions taken by schools from among the 118 guidelines specified by KHDA. 34 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Classrooms Depending on the size of the school, classrooms will maintain physical distancing of students. Stationery used by the children and the staff will be disinfected after use. So, will the classrooms, corridors and various parts of the school.

Sports Campuses will be more controlled and physical education classes would look different as contact sports cannot be played

HOTLINE NUMBER If a stable case of illness is detected amongst visitors or staff presenting COVID-19 symptoms such as fever (≥37.50 C), cough, body ache or fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose, diarrhea and nausea, headache, or loss of sense of smell or taste, DHA hotline number 800342 should be contacted by the school’s designated H&S officer.

According to “We have identified and tested the best technological solutions available in the market and are in the process of installing these across our network of schools.

We have also put in place a range of operational and administrative measures on the ground in order to ensure students return to an environment that meets the highest health and safety standards and all requirements set out by the relevant regulators. We are also in ongoing dialogue with parents so we can address their concerns and take on board their feedback.”

Paul Slater,

Vice President – Operations and Health, Safety and Environment, GEMS Education

Some of the measures that are being taken to provide a safe environment for children when they are back are: • Thermal camera screening for all students, staff and visitors • Travel declaration forms and health forms for students and staff • Increased sanitisation of all touchpoints and common areas such as

washrooms and pantries • Provision of COVID-19 E-Learning training for all staff and parents • Physical markers on the ground and in classrooms to show 1.5m social distancing • Hygiene posters across the school • Medical plans and isolation rooms in schools for suspected cases • Classroom set up with 1.5m spacing between each student • Temperature screening prior to boarding school buses • Sanitization of buses after each use • Appointment of a trained Health & Safety designate in each school • Staggered entry and exit

Mohammed Darwish,

CEO of Permits and Compliance Sector at KHDA

The protocols cover different areas of school operations, such as: • Entry, pick-up and school visit procedures • Screening and contact tracing • Physical distancing arrangements • School buses and transportatio “We’ll be working closely with school leaders over the summer to make sure that they have all the information and support they need as they adjust to new ways of operating. Keeping students, teachers and school staff safe when schools open again is the responsibility of all of us, and it’s important we continue working together to make sure that the experience is a safe and happy one for everyone involved,” Darwish added.

“80 percent of parents from his school have asked for premise education as against distance learning.”

“The protocols are in place to make sure there’s a consistent and effective approach to keeping everyone at school safe and healthy once schools reopen next academic year.

We understand that each school is different – the protocols give each school a starting point to think about what works best for their community and the context of their school.”

Kamal Kalwani

Owner Ambassador school “Since the size of our schools are large, we have used all classrooms with 1/3rd capacity.

The ratio of students in KG that was 1 room :28 kids is now 1:10 and in primary school, it is 1: 14. While kids from Class 1-8 will attend school in rotation, the senior students will attend regular class with physical distancing norms and lesser children per classroom. The school also have robots and UV lights in classrooms to disinfect the rooms after school is over in addition to trained cleaners and domestic staff. Stationery, crayons, tablets, etc. will be sent to two large rooms to be sanitized and sterilized for reuse. We are happy to welcome the Bureau Veritas certification body, that will visit our school and give us a certificate of safety, that will reassure parents and instill confidence in them,” he says.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 35

FASHION & BEAUTY

IT’S

BACK TO SCHOOL

HP LAPTOPS MARKS & SPENCER AED 140

STAEDLER PENS

KIDS ACCESSORIES

KIDS SMART WATCH

MARKS & SPENCER AED 140

BARBIE TROLLY BAG 36 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

LACNOR SMOOTHIE

COOL & COOL SENITIZER WIPE

MARKS & SPENCER AED 110

LACNOR CHOCOLATE & STRAWBERRY MILK

KIDS MASKS

MARKS & SPENCER AED 110

MARKS & SPENCER AED 125

DETTOL KIDS HAND SANITIZER

MARKS & SPENCER AED 225 CLARKS

SKECHERS

CLARKS

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 37

FEATURE

It’s uniform, new books and school-bag time once again, as students gear up for a new academic session ahead. And with schools ready to start, Aakanksha Naval-Shetye revisits some of the schoolbased Bollywood films that are not just entertaining, but also impart valuable life-lessons Time and again, Bollywood has found itself returning to schools and colleges as an inspiration for their screen stories.

The ‘hero-heroine meeting in college and the budding of young romance’ has been one of the most tried-and-tested formulae used in hundreds of films across decades. There’s no denying that schools and colleges have always provided an apt setting or lent an interesting backdrop for movies of all genres!

From discovering romance (Ishq Vishk, Student of the Year, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, 2 States…) to celebrating friendships (Jagruti, Secret Superstar, Chhichore, Rang De Basanti, 3 Idiots…) highlighting campus politics (Shiva, Yuva, Gulaal…) competing for championships (Hip Hip Hurray, Jo Jeeta Wohi

38 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Sikandar, Paathshaala, Yaariyan…) sweet coming-of-age dramas (Gippi, Rockford, Always Kabhi Kabhi...) to exploring the layers of human psyche and addressing teenage angst and issues (Udaan, Haraamkhor, Sixteen, Dil Dosti Etc…) Bollywood has done it all!

But among these movies there are some school-based films that have stood out for the inspirational and heart-warming messages they beautifully passed on to the audience and won our hearts. They not only motivate children to do better, but bring out the student in adults too by showing them a new perspective of life. Here’s taking a look at 10 such iconic films in recent times that are not just cinematically well-crafted and critically-acclaimed, but impart some amazing life-lessons too:

Taare Zameen Par (2007) India’s official entry for the Academy Awards Best Foreign Film (2009) the Aamir Khan-directed film is about eight-yearold Ishaan Awasthi (Darsheel Safary) and his daily struggles to cope up with his studies in school and stay out of trouble at home. Regularly belittled by family, classmates and teachers, he rebels in his own little ways to deal with the daily ridicule and gets labelled a trouble-maker. As a punishment of sorts, he is packed off to a boarding school to be disciplined. A naturally-gifted artist and an imaginative child, he withdraws into his shell and ultimately gives up his most-loved hobby - painting. Soon a new art teacher Ram Shankar Nikumbh (Aamir Khan) joins school and recognises Ishaan to be a dyslexic. He sets about helping Ishaan overcome his learning disabilities to improve his grades and instils in him a new confidence, while making his parents realise their mistakes.

The brilliantly-crafted film shows how every child is unique and that marks alone don’t dictate a child’s capabilities

Stanley Ka Dabba (2011) Amole Gupte’s heart-warming film takes you into Stanley’s (Partho Gupte) world. Stanley seems like any regular sprightly fourth-grader. A bright student and a darling of his classmates, he finds joy in impressing his favourite class-teacher Ms Rosy (Divya Dutta) and amusing friends with his sweet stories. Everything seems normal and happy in his life except that he never carries a ‘dabba’ from home and always has an excuse for it. This earns him the wrath of a tiffin-greedy phagomaniac teacher ‘Khadoos’ (Amole Gupte), who gives him the ultimatum of either bringing his tiffin to school or not coming at all. It is slowly revealed that Stanley is actually an orphan who works in his uncle’s small eatery and, all this while he keeps up the pretence of a loving home and happy family.

Unwilling to be sympathised for by his friends or letting them know the truth, he finally manages to bring to school a ‘dabba’ that he proudly offers to the glutton ‘Khadoos’!

Stanley steals your heart with his resilience and optimistic take on life, despite its harsh reality. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, he takes on every challenge with a smile, and there’s a great lesson to be learnt in that. One of the best in its genre, the endearing film celebrates childhood with all its innocence, school-life, friendship and finding great joy in simplest of things and also highlights the importance of kindness.

Nil Battey Sannata (2015) Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, the film won her the Filmfare Award for Best Debut Director and rightfully so. Beautifully directed, the film is a heartening story of a mother, who’s only dream in life is that her daughter completes higher studies and passes the civil services exams. A high-school drop-out, Chanda (Swara Bhaskar) does menial jobs to support her family and her daughter Apeksha’s (Ria Shukla) education. A student of standard 10th, Apu however, is uninterested in studying further. To encourage her, Chanda joins the school as a student and after several ups and downs ultimately inspires Apu to fulfil her dreams of becoming an IAS officer. While taking a look at the class divide, the film shows that no dream is impossible to achieve if you are determined enough.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 39

FEATURE

Rockford (1999) This coming-of-age drama directed by Nagesh Kukunoor revolves around 13-year-old Rajesh Naidu (Rohan Dey) who joins an all-boys boarding school.

Without the safety net of his family, Rajesh learns to fend for himself. He finds a guide and mentor in his PT teacher, Johnny Matthew (Kukunoor) who also teaches him many life lessons. The film is about Rajesh’s experiences and adventures - from making new friends to experiencing first love! The film transports you effortlessly into Rajesh’s teen world and it’s hard not to feel his disappointments and celebrate his joys.

Bumm Bumm Bole (2010) The Priyadarshan-directed film is an adaptation of Majid Majidi’s Oscar-nominated film Children of Heaven (1997).

This endearing film revolves around the brother-sister duo Pinu (Darsheel Safary) and RimZim (Ziyah Vastani). When Pinu loses his sister’s only pair of school sandals, they hide it from their parents who are too poor to buy a new pair. As a result, Pinu and Rimzim end up having to share his scruffy pair of worn-out sneakers when going to school. He feels despair looking at his sister having to wear the old pair of over-sized sneakers, but he finds a solution when his school announces a marathon that offers a pair of shoes as the third prize. Pinu now has a goal in life and he sets out to fulfil it.

The film set against the school backdrop highlights the strong emotional bond the brother-sister share.

Gippi (2013) The teen drama directed by Sonam Nair takes on several issues in its stride. Gippi (Riya Vij) is an archetypal adolescent, whose life takes a turn when she decides to campaign in her school elections for the post of head-girl. From body-shaming to prom nights, and from falling in love to dealing with heartbreaks, peer pressure and waxing woes, the film takes you on Gippi’s adventure ride as a teenager learning to cope with it all. Her equation with her mother (Divya Dutta) is adorable too. The film teaches you to celebrate yourself with all your imperfections and accept that you are beautiful just the way you are!

40 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Roughbook (2016) Directed by Ananth Narayan Mahadevan the thoughtprovoking film takes a hard look at the education system through the eyes of a teacher Santoshi Kumari (Tannishtha Chatterjee), wherein students are divided on basis of their marks and grades. Santoshi stands up for her students of division ‘D’ that is referred to as division ‘Duffer’ and together they rebel against the system that also encourages teacherpoaching. The film addresses some very contemporary issues in the education system!

Secret Superstar (2017) Advait Chandan’s Secret Superstar has Zaira Wasim play Insiya Malik, a school student who aspires to be a singer. However her strict father is against it and disapproves her involvement in any activity apart from her academics. Supported by her mother (Meher Vij) she secretly records her songs and uploads them on YouTube that become massive hits. Besides, her mother and brother, only her best friend, classmate Chintan (Tirth Sharma) knows about her secret and he helps her go to Mumbai to realise her dream and record a song for Bollywood’s ace music composer, but equally controversial Shakti Kumar (Aamir Khan). While she juggles her studies with her passion for music, this beautiful movie is all about standing up for your dreams and pursuing them.

Hindi Medium (2017) Winner of two Filmfare Awards (including Best Actor for late Irrfan Khan), the Saket Chaudhary directorial centres around the struggles of a rich businessman Raj Batra (Irrfan) and his wife Mita (Saba Qamar) to secure their daughter’s admission in a prestigious English-Medium school. The film shows the class divide and the unfair means that are adopted by desperate parents to ensure their ward gets into a private English school as it would secure their position in the high-society. However, by the end, the couple learn an invaluable lesson that the school or the medium of language doesn’t matter, what matters is the knowledge being imparted and that there is just as much talent to be found in under-privileged students studying in government schools as there is in students of rich private schools.

Hichki (2018) Rani Mukerji-starrer, this Sidharth P Malhotra-directed classroom drama is as much about the struggles of a class of under-privileged students trying to overcome the society divide to earn the same treatment as students from the higher society, as it is about their teacher Naina Mathur trying to overcome the Tourette’s Syndrome to pursue her dream of teaching. Both triumph in the end with the help of each other and give the inspiring message that where there’s a will, there’s a way!

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 41

LIFESTYLE

Its PromoTime at Bebemos Restaurant (Barcelonian cuisine) Offers on beverages at AED25 Opening hours: 12pm- 3am Smoking zone applicable indoor

Warehouse Restaurant

Casa Mia Restaurant (Italian cuisine) Offers on Pizza and Pasta starting from AED 40 Opening hours: Lunch from 12:30pm – 4pm Dinner from 7pm – 11:30pm

Pool Bar (By The Spa Pool)

The Dubliner’s (Irish pub) Friday brunch is Back, guests can enjoy unlimited food & house beverages Price: AED 199 Timing: 12:30pm – 4pm

42 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Special prices on all beverages Opening hours: 12pm – 3am

Complimentary entrance on Mondays for ladies Entrance fees: AED 120 for weekdays AED 150 weekends (Adults) Kids AED 80 for between the ages of 3 – 16 years Opening hours: 10am – 7pm

Season Greetings selected at

Celina Jaitly’s comeback movie to win the hearts of international audiences in Toronto.

After winning the prestigious Best Shorts Award at USA, now author-turned-filmmaker Ram Kamal Mukherjee’s film Season’s Greetings, a tribute to Rituparno Ghosh has been officially selected at the IFFSA Toronto International Film Festival 2020. This year the Festival will be virtual keeping in mind the security and safety of the delegates and jury members. Almost 250 films in 16 different language will be screened at the Festival.

Global cinema icons Manoj Bajpayee from India and Shahrbanoo Sadat from Afghanistan are an addition to its advisory board. The board also includes celebrated filmmakers Anup Singh from Switzerland and Mostofa Sarwar Farooki from Bangladesh.

This 47 minute Hindi feature film will be a part of this prestigious festival, which is termed as “Biggest South Asian Film Festival in North America,” by Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The film marks Celina Jaitly’s comeback to moviebiz after eight years of hiatus.

Speaking about the selection IFFSA Festival Director

Sunny Gill says, “Filmmaker Ram Kamal Mukherjee’s Season’s Greetings, a tribute to Rituparno Ghosh, is a poetic presentation of love and acceptance. This subject is handled with care, shot exquisitely, and accompanied by a brilliant soundtrack.

It also sees some powerful performances from the leads Lillette Dubey and Celina Jaitly Haag. The film deals with multiple issues that are pertinent to our society at large. Mukherjee reflects the sensitivity of late filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh in his homage. We are glad to screen this film as a part of our festival this year.”

The film opened at the prestigious Cardiff International Film Festival last year and travelled across globe garnering standing ovations and accolades from media and jury members.

The leading lady Celina Jaitly Haag in an exclusive statement from Austria says, “I am exhilarated at the news of Season’s Greetings getting selected at IFFSA Toronto, I am immensely grateful to our director Ram Kamal for making me Romita (her

character in the film) who resonates across all divisions of gender, race, religion and colour. Thank you Mr Gill and all eminent jury members, we are truly grateful.”

Produced by Aritra Das and Sshailendra Kkumar the film will be screened on August 13th in Toronto. “I

am grateful to Mr Gill and Mr Singh for accepting our film in a prestigious ceremony. I truly feel that Season’s Greetings is a global language cinema. It connects with human emotions which has been beautifully portrayed by Celina, Lillette ji, Azhar Khan and Shree Ghatak.

I am looking forward to hear from people in Toronto, as every feedback matters,” says director Ram Kamal Mukherjee, who already won Best Director award at Rajasthan International Film for Season’s Greetings early this year. n

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 43

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I am every FEATURE

woman!

A number of films have celebrated women who broke the glass ceiling and

emerged triumphant despite all odds, or lost their lives in the line of duty or broke the system and redefined their roles in society. So, as we have watched with great admiration films such as Zubeida, Bandit Queen, Manikarnika, Mary Kom, Neerja, Chhapak, Raazi, we look forward to these as well!

SHAKUNTALA DEVI

Directed and written by Anu Menon and produced by Sony Pictures Networks India and Vikram Malhotra under his banner Abundantia Entertainment, the film stars Vidya Balan as Shakuntala Devi, who was also known as the “human computer� along with Jisshu Sengupta, Sanya Malhotra and Amit Sadh.

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August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 49

FEATURE

Gunjan Saxena

Directed by Sharan Sharma and produced under Dharma Productions and Zee Studios, the film stars Janhvi Kapoor as Indian Air Force pilot Gunjan Saxena, the first Indian female airforce pilot in combat, alongside Pankaj Tripathi and Angad Bedi in supporting roles

Thalaivi

Directed by A. L. Vijay and produced

by Vishnu Vardhan Induri and Shailesh R Singh under their respective banners Vibri Media and Karma Media and Entertainment, the film follows the story of the life of J. Jayalalithaa, late politician and film actress who served six terms as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, with Kangana Ranaut playing the role of Jayalalithaa.

Gangubai Kathiawadi

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, written by Utkarshini Vashishtha and produced by Bhansali and Jayantilal Gada under their respective banners Bhansali Productions and Pen India Limited, the film stars Alia Bhatt in the title role, and is based on a chapter of Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai about Gangubai Kothewali, the madam of a brothel in Kamathipura.

50 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Saina Nehwal

Directed by Amole Gupte and produced by Bhushan Kumar under the banner of T-Series, the film is based on the life of badminton player Saina Nehwal and stars Parineeti Chopra as Saina Nehwal. Filmfare award-winning actor Manav Kaul will be reprising the role of ace badminton player Pullela Gopichand, who coached Saina Nehwal throughout the majority of her career.

Shabhash Mithu

Directed by Rahul Dholakia, Shabaash Mithu is set to become the first biopic of a female cricketer in Hindi cinema. The film is scheduled for release on 5 February 2021.

Shakeela

After Vidya Balan celebrated the life of southern beauty Silk Smitha in ‘The Dirty Picture’, Richa Chadda is all set to follow suit. The actress will play the biopic of another popular Indian adult star Shakeela. Away from the mainstream genres, she has been a known face in the South Indian adult film industry. The film is directed by Indrajit Lankesh,the brother of slain journalist Gauri Lankesh.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 51

GULF CINEMA

Smart, Sassy and Saudi Arabian film maker Haifaa Al Mansour speaks to Manju Ramanan on her next film ‘The Perfect Candidate,’ based on the life of a lady doctor in Saudi Arabia. The film is now available on the OSN Store

Is the story inspired by a real-life doctor?

In a way the film is inspired by my youngest sister, who is a doctor. A lot of the character’s personality comes from her, and a lot of Sara’s personality comes from one of my other sisters who is much more street smart. But for this film I really wanted to tell a story about a culturally conservative, traditional woman who provides a critical service to the community and just wants to do her job well. When she identifies an issue that is stopping her from performing her duties she decides to embrace the changes that are taking place and go out there and seize the moment to make her situation better. The reality of her journey is that it will be difficult, and lots of people will be critical of her choices, 52 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

i d u a S

it’s a whole new world for her.But it will ultimately open up while it is easy to justify a doctor needing to make her workplace function in the most efficient way possible, it is ultimately a journey that all women in the country need to go through to different degrees. I want to stress to the women of Saudi Arabia how important it is to go out there and take a chance, even if you don’t have any experience in doing so.It is still hard for Saudi women to put themselves out there, and they are nervous about doing things they haven’t done before.

How important is it for you to narrate the story from a woman’s point of view?

Well, most of my work focuses on female protagonists who want to work hard and do their job to the best of their abilities. And again, because of the changes so dramatically affecting women in the Kingdom at this time, I wanted to create a character that is very much representative of the mainstream mentality of Saudi women. She covers her face and follows the cultural norms of the society, but ends up pushing boundaries because she wants to do her job well. The restrictions that keep her from performing her work in the ways that would best benefit the society frustrate her and force her to think outside the box. She is not a rebel for the sake of rebellion, she is someone that knows that her work can make the country a better place and simply wants to remove the barriers that keep her from accomplishing her mission. I believe strongly that this is the way that true change comes to a society, through hard-working people who simply want to be able to reach their highest potential.

I want to stress to the women of Saudi Arabia how important it is to go out there and take a chance, even if you don’t have any experience in doing so.

It is still hard for Saudi women to put themselves out there, and they are nervous about doing things they haven’t done before.

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GULF CINEMA

How do male characters in the film contribute to woman’s success?

The male characters have their own journeys in the film, but by recognising that they are all going through similar challenges they end up contributing to each other’s successes together. Maryam’s journey is very much about understanding her father’s struggle as an artist. I feel very close to his character because I have so much respect for the musicians and artists who persevered throughout the long period, we lived through in which artists were vilified and prevented from performing in public. They didn’t have many opportunities to make a living off their art, they did it for the love of the medium. So, I think it is very important now that we celebrate the artists who kept our creative traditions alive and understand the sacrifices they made to contribute to our cultural progression.

Tell us about the importance of sisterhood and how it helps the main character achieve her goal?

Sisterhood is a very important theme of the story. The girls depend so much on each other, and their destinies are so crucially intertwined, that they have to learn to understand and support each other if they all want to succeed. The

54 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Sisterhood is a very important theme of the story. The girls depend so much on each other, and their destinies are so crucially intertwined, that they have to learn to understand and support each other if they all want to succeed.

actions of one affect the lives of all of them, whether they like it or not, so being open to the consequences of one of them stepping out of line is a tough decision to make.

Ambition in a woman is not considered a virtue by many. How does the film deal with it?

It’s true that ambition for women is not always regarded as positively as it is for men. But the ambitions of the characters in this film are representative more of the collective ambitions of the society, and the changes that all citizens need to embrace to move it forward. All of the recent breakthroughs that have come for women in Saudi Arabia are huge, seismic shifts for the region. That is why I chose to start the film with the main character driving a car. It is something that would have seemed impossible even a few years ago. But now it is up to women to accept these changes in their own lives and take the risks that come with trying something new. The pressure is no longer on progressive women, who have pushed for these changes, it is now on the middle-of-the-road people, who are reluctant to embrace change. I hope more women will start driving, and working in mixed environments with men, or travelling, or just doing the things that make them happy.

How was the film received by the Arab and the non- Arab audiences?

I was so proud that the film was selected into the main competition at Venice International Film Festival, which has

been a very important festival for my career. The film was also included in the main competitions of quite a few other festivals around the world, including Tornto, London, Busan and Sundance. So, it has been very well received around the world.

And just like my first film ‘Wadjda,’ I heard from a lot of foreign audiences that were surprised by how strong and sassy Saudi women actually are. There is this perception that we are weak and shy and afraid of the world, and that we are just victims resigned to the limited, restrictive circumstances of our culture. So many people are really surprised to see how full of life we are. Saudi women are so tough, feisty, funny and way savvier than most people realise. I hope this film further captures the fire and bravery of women from my country. Telling their stories is the honor and privilege of my life.

I am very excited to show the film exclusively on OSN, and hope it triggers a discussion about the best ways to promote change within a society. There are some who believe that radical, violent upheaval is the only way to bring about revolutionary changes to a culture. I believe that real change comes from small, incremental changes that build a foundation for art and cultural openings to emerge through hard work and dedication. As I see people digging into their positions becoming less tolerant of others all around the world, I think it is a very important discussion to have at this time. n

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 55

INTERVIEW

The Hinglish man!

A man who popularized the Hindi accented English we speak today and made it part of the visual medium, be it TV or films, for the past 30 years, Javed Jaaferi is an actor much ahead of his times. A dancer and actor, he has been a voice-over artiste, show host, a comedian, reality dance show pioneer, an ad-genius as well as a singer. Manju Ramanan caught up with him for an interview

Dad and I

I had a normal childhood and grew up in Mumbai. It is when I got a call from Sippy saab who was making Meri Jung with the then new director Subhash Ghai, dad told me to go meet him. He was never critical about my work or heaped me with praises. He would gently tell me how I could do better. He wasn’t well educated and studied till Class 3 in Datia MP. He had lost his father and his mother was a home maker and he started making a living at the age of 10 onwards. He was mentored by the stalwarts such as K Asif, Bimal Roy, Guru Dutt, etc. They never treated him as a young kid but like an adult. He was mature for his age and they would discuss things with him and never mollycoddle him. I have never seen an actor who can cry in ten seconds while in the middle of another scene where he has been laughing.

He had this rare quality.

Future film projects

In Akshay Kumar’s Sooryavanshi, I have a serious role as the head of ATS and then there 56 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

is Coolie Number 1 with David Dhawan. I might dance in Coolie Number 1.

Meezaan and Me?

Meezaan is more like me and a bit like his mother but my younger son is totally like me – he is into music. All of us sound similar and sometimes my wife gets confused. My daughter is more like my wife. A few directors have told me that Meezaan has a certain vulnerability about him that most successful mainstream actors possess and a good combination of height, charm, voice, looks and talent.

No surname

Look at most South Indian stars, they hardly keep their surnames – Kamala haasan, Rajnikanth, Mohanlal, Mammoty. Even stars such as Jeetendra, Dharmendra, Pran etc were known by their first names. And the name ‘Meezaan’ looks good as a single name. It looks balanced and right, so I suggested he use that name.

And his name means the same too. He is much more intelligent than I was in his age. I wasn’t diplomatic and he is. He’s been signed for 4 films by SLB productions who will be managing him for 5 years though he can work outside. Sanjay Leela Bhansali tells me, he sees a star in this boy. I advise him to give his 100 percent.

The rest is destiny.

Reality show pioneer

I believe we created a template for a lot of things.

We got the formality out of things and made it chatty and fun. Now it is mass manufactured. I feel really nice about it. We were eight years before time and people didn’t understand that we could create that IP in India and let it travel the world. We were still looking at the West and wanting to replicate their shows.

Kid’s favourite

It happened with Takeshi’s castle. I watched the British

and American versions, they were slightly vulgar and I was told to make it fun. For a kid’s show double meaning dialogues wouldn’t work. So, I sat with an old family friend who was well versed in Urdu and we created content that drew laughter not just from children but their parents too. Words like “Shaitan mamu”, “Aadhunik gobar” worked!

Then I did Jajantram Mamantram and it was perhaps, given its time, the best executed film.

Also, the use of Hinglish has been my contribution.

Also, voiceovers for Mickey Mouse, Tailspin, Sherkhan etc. The Maggi ads for instance and I have been part of the brand for

a good 30 years plus. Words like “Lilly don’t be silly”, “Boss has gone for a toss,” were innovated upon with adman Prahalad Kakkar and team.

20 years of ‘Mumbhai’?

Yes, I can’t believe it was 20 years ago! Maybe we should come up with a Dubai version with its makers that include Ashutosh, Dhruv and Kiran!

The OTT platform

I like this space of an 8-12 episode series. It is longer than a film and has just enough time to stretch the characters, milk them, let people enjoy them, showcase their back stories etc. In the movies you cannot do that.n July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 57

INTERVIEW

s i e c Voi ! e r u t l u C 58 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

There are a million memories that are part of Bollywood and in those memories, is a sonorous voice of the 90’s that seeped right through the heart of audiences. Five times Filmfare awardee Kumar Sanu speaks to Manju Ramanan in a candid interview.

What’s more, he gave us a recipe too!

Childhood and Music

My family was a musical family. My dad was a musician and the whole family – my mom, brothers, sisters were all into music. From childhood there was a ‘mohoul’ of music in the house. I learnt a lot of things from that environment including the fact that it is important to be kaansen (rhymes with the legendary maestro of music Taansen.

Kaansen is someone who is well versed in listening to music) and I was one for a long time. I was good at the tabla while my dad used to sing the thumri and the khayal. You can say that my brain was wired to music and I learnt a lot since the age of six years. I remember

From childhood there was a ‘mohoul’ of music in the house. I learnt a lot of things from that environment including the fact that it is important to be kaansen (rhymes with the legendary maestro of music Taansen. Kaansen is someone who is well versed in listening to music) and I was one for a long time.

him humming one song or the other. Ma used to be good at the harmonium while dad used to teach songs. We were from the Bade Ghulam Ali Saab gharana. When I turned 16, I started playing the tabla with my dad.

Language skills

It is interesting that my Urdu is clear while singing but definitely not while speaking.

I have a Bengali accent while speaking all languages but while singing there is no trace of it. It is unusual. I have also sung in 26 languages and try and enunciate the language and its tonality and character.

It is important to track how a word walks. It is an immersive and meditative process. Words aren’t just words. They have their own genesis and their own families.

Self-styled cook

I enjoy cooking because as a child, I saw my mother cook for the entire family with meagre resources. The food was very tasty and since the lockdown I have been cooking daily. My Mumbai home has a small kitchen so I avoid staying in there for long, though, my home in the US has a large American style kitchen where you can spend all day. Here is a quick vegetarian recipe for you all.

Lauki in pyaaz Serves 2 Ingredients 1 bottle gourd or lauki 2 big onions 3 teaspoons of Paanch phodan masala used in Bengali cuisine A pinch of Hing or asafetida ½ tsp of turmeric ½ tsp of chilli powder 1 tbsp oil for the seasoning

Method

Peel and cut the bottle gourd to dices. Cut the onions in the same size. Keep aside.

Take three teaspoons of cooking oil and add the hing, paanch phodan masala and the salt and sauté the onions in it. Once they are brown, add the haldi powder, mirch powder and add the bottle gourd. Let it cook for 20 minutes with the lid closed and then 5 minutes with the lid open. Switch off the flame and serve with rotis or rice.

August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 59

INTERVIEW

A Musical Family

My daughters and my son live with my wife in the US and they are all into music.

In fact, my daughter and I recorded a song together called ‘It’s Magical’ where she sang in English and I sang in Hindi. My son Jaan Kumar Sanu has released a music album and was part of Season’s Greetings directed by Ram Kamal Mukherjee that starred Celina Jaitly and Lillete Dubey.

Melodies have changed

While I am happy that there is a huge progress in the technical aspects of music – be it in studios, arrangement and technology but we need to ensure that the values we carry as a culture should be embedded in the music.

Good singers are coming up and despite modernity I believe the sanskar needs to be respected. I enjoy Arijit Singh’s songs. He is a great singer. I really love ‘Muskurane ki wajah tum ho’ and the title track of Kalank. He is fantastic!

My daughter and I recorded a song together called ‘It’s Magical’ where she sang in English and I sang in Hindi. My son Jaan Kumar Sanu has released a music album and was part of Season’s Greetings directed by Ram Kamal Mukherjee that starred Celina Jaitley and Lillete Dubey.

Memories of Jagjit Singh

He brought me to the industry.

A straight forward man, who was extremely musical, large- hearted and had no airs about his fame or talent. Often classical musicians have a different tonality to their voices but Jagjit saab was so romantic in all his renderings. I am told I am a romantic song singer but there can and will be no one like him. He encouraged me hugely and I have sung many film songs composed by him though I do not have the opportunity to sing with him.

Converting pain to art

Only true artists can do that.

Jagjit Saab being that example and a huge inspiration. You can never mix your personal and 60 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

I lost my mom, my dad, my family but music was a constant in my life. When I entered the studio, I forget everything. You have to learn to switch on and off. A lot of people do it unknowingly but we as artistes do it knowingly. is nothing short of acting in front of the microphone.

Fame and Charity

I run three schools for street children and educate them till Class 5. There are two schools in Delhi and one in Kolkata. I run these schools with the money I earn from singing. Jagjit Singh saab and my dad inspire me for these things. They believed a lot in charity. I believe that all celebrities should indulge in charity.

Meeting Pancham da

I had the good fortune to be singing for him in 1942: A Love Story. This is one music director who will be relevant 100 to 200 years from today. He was that foresighted. He was large hearted, loved his artistes and was an excellent cook too. I have eaten many meals he cooked for us. n

professional life. If they become one, your career is over. I lost my mom, my dad, my family but music was a constant in my life. When I entered the studio, I forget everything. You have to learn to switch on and off. A lot of people do it unknowingly but we as artistes do it knowingly.

A Romantic Song Singer

No, I don’t derive my romantic song emotion from my personal life.

If you always dig things from your personal life and try to bring it to your art, sometimes it will work, sometimes it won’t. My song has to fit into the situation of the film. First, I visualize the song through the lyrics and think of myself in the situation of the hero of the song – is he angry, sad, depressed, separated from his love, longing for her or professing love to her and then emote accordingly. In short, I become the hero during the recording and then the hero on screen takes over. Playback singing August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 61

IN MEMORIAM

Farewell Jagdeep Saab!

20.03.1939 - 08.07.2020

I

n July, we lost another legendary actor from the Bollywood pantheon – Jagdeep Saab. Born as Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jaffrey and popular by

his stage name Jagdeep, he appeared in more than 400 films. Starting his film career as a child artist in B. R. Chopra’s Afsana, he went on to do Ab Dilli Door Nahin, K A Abbas’s Munna, Guru Dutt’s Aar Paar, Bimal Roy’s Do Bigha Zamin and AVM’s Hum Panchi Ek Dal Ke. Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru even gifted him his personal staff for his stellar performance in Hum Panchi Ek Daal Ke. He was then launched as a leading man by AVM in the films Bhabhi, Barkha and Bindaya, and went on to do a few more films as a leading man. He became a comedian from the movie Brahmachari. Some of his most significant roles were as Soorma Bhopali in Sholay (1975), Machchar in Purana Mandir (1984) and as Salman Khan’s dad in Andaz Apna Apna (1994). He is also known for his appearances in many horror movies, especially in projects of the Ramsay Brothers. He appeared in famous hits like Purana Mandir and 3D Saamri.

62 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST August 2020

Memorable Film Roles

AFSANA ( 1951)

DO BHIGA ZAMEEN (1953)

S

BHABHI ( 1957)

TEEN BAHURANIYAN ( 1968)

ome hit songs are picturised on him like ‘Paas baitho tabiyat bahal jayegi’ from Punarmilan, ‘In pyar ki rahon mein’ from

Purana Mandir (1984)

the same film, ‘Chal ud ja re Panchhi’

and ‘Chali Chali re Patang’, from the superhit movie Bhabhi, where he is paired opposite Nanda, and ‘Aa Gaye Yaaro Jeene Ke Din’ from Phir Wohi Raat.

Shahenshah (1988)

Andaz Apna Apna (1994)

Khilona (1970)

Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi

Muskurahat (1992)

SHOLAY (1975) Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye (200O)

Gali Gali Chor Hai (2012) August 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 63