Filmfare Middle East - July 2020

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MIDDLE EAST

JULY 2020

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MIDDLE EAST

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

Deputy Editor Aakanksha Naval-Shetye

Aim for the Stars!

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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

A

s the days get warmer, we, at Filmfare Middle East bring to you the biggest, zaniest and freshest digital talent hunt from the Arab world - The Arab Asia Starz! If you are between 18-30 years of age, live in the UAE, have a passion for fashion/beauty and love entertainment, this talent hunt is for you! Log on to www.arabasiastarz.com and follow the steps to enter! Our radio partner is 89.1 FM, and our TV partners are Zee Cinema, Zee Aflam and Zee Alwan.

Our celebrity judges are Nushratt Bharuccha, Rosemin Manji, Maniesh Paul and Sajjad Delafrooz.

As I write this editorial, another mighty name from the world of cinema has passed on. India’s ace choreographer Saroj Khan passed away at the age of 71. From the age of three Saroj Khan or Masterjee as she was called, has been part of Hindi cinema. First as a child artiste and then as an assistant choreographer before she became an independent choreographer in 1974. The songs that shot her to fame were Sridevi’s Hawa Hawai from Mr India and the memorable songs of Chandni, Nagina among many others till Ek Do Teen from Tezaab and Dhak Dhak from Beta picturised on Madhuri Dixit became raving hits followed by many memorable songs. She also choreographed Tabah Ho Gaye from the recent film Kalank and wrote a few films too. Sarojji was conferred the Filmfare award eight times and won the National award thrice. We will miss her terribly!

On cover this month, is the endearing and super talented Rajkummar Rao. In a photoshoot done by his girlfriend Patralekhaa, he talks about staying indoors during the lockdown, video calling his brothers and sisters, sharing nostalgic stories of childhood and staying positive.

The immensely talented singer Sonu Nigam is in Dubai and I had the chance to catch up with him for a long interview. Do check out his photoshoot at the Sajan Villa and the interview where he talks about total surrender to the altar of music, to create his magical melodies.

Hanan Yehia interview’s Emirati film-maker Amer Salmeen al Muri on how Arab films too will release on OTT including his forthcoming ones. Check out Harshit Vohra’s feature on comedians of Bollywood and Aakanksha Naval-Shetye’s interviews of Karan Tacker and Sophie Choudry. A few days ago we lost the endearing actor and comedian Jagdeep Saab too. Read about him in the next edition.

For more, log on to our newly revamped website www.filmfaremiddleeast.com and keep a close watch on our digital pages including FilmfareME on YouTube to catch a glimpse of latest web-film reviews, star interviews and more...

Keep safe. Keep healthy!

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Manju Ramanan Editor-in-Chief Filmfare Middle East

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July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 3

Volume 28 # JULY 1, 2020

masala fix

05

BEBO IS BACK GIVING PAPARAZZI A LITERAL RUN FOR FOR THEIR MONEY

rumours &more

08

SRK ON THE BIG SCREEN SOON SALMAN SHOOTS BIGG BOSS 14 PROMO AND MORE FROM RUMOURS MILL

F&B Local

60

44

GET EID READY FAREWELL A SPECIAL EID MASTERJEE COLLECTION

Fashion

Exclusive

12

15

INTERVIEW WITH STYLIST TANYA GHAVRI

22

4 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST June 2020

RAJKUMMAR RAO LADYLOVE SHOOTS COVER SONU NIGAM’S EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH MANJU RAMANAN

30

LOOKING FOR THE REGION’S FIRST

32

MEET OUR JUDGES FOR ARAB ASIA STARZ

GET EID READY A SPECIAL EID COLLECTION

Interview

46 49

SOPHIE’S CHOICE: SOPHIE CHOUDRY TALKS ABOUT HER JOURNEY AS A SINGER-ACTRESS-HOST DREAMCATCHER! TV STAR KARAN TACKER IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE

Gulf Cinema

56 68

BOLLYWOOD TO START SHOOTS AGAIN IN THE UAE

IT’S OTT TIME EMIRATI FILMMAKER AMER SALMEEN MURI SPEAKS TO HANAN YEHIA

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

BEBO’S BACK

Kareena Kapoor Khan has been the muse of the paparazzi – given her gym trips, red-carpet treks or even her downtime with baby Taimur Ali Khan. But due to the lockdown, her fans missed seeing the Queen Bee in her everyday glory. So when Unlock 1.0 unfolded, Bebo went for a jog in Bandra, giving the paparazzi a literal ‘run for their money’…

July 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 I am excited to read and watch the full interview of Sonu Nigam.

- Nilanjana Sen Thank you for all the information on my Bollywood stars. Lots of love to Team Filmfare Middle East - Sheerin Deen

Loved the interview of Aakanksha and Monali Thakur. Well done!

- justinthomasinsta Wow, what a talent Ashwin Kumar is! I can’t even walk properly on a regular floor and here he is dancing on the treadmill.

- allthingszoha I want to meet Rajkummar Rao and Rakul Preet.

Love the way you guys appreciate their talent.

- Salman Sayeed

Post your reviews to 6 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

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

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RUMOURS AND MORE

Rumours&More MALAIKA’S BUILDING SEALED Malaika Arora’s plush building in Bandra has been sealed after one of her neighbours tested positive for COVID-19. It’s now turned into a containment zone. Her building has been sterilised. But all the residents have been placed under mandatory quarantine. Earlier Rajkummar Rao and Vicky Kaushal’s buildings were marked as quarantine zones due to coronavirus cases as were Karan Johar and Janhvi Kapoor’s homes.

ARJUN’S MAD ABOUT MATRIX

SRK’S BIG SCREEN RETURN Shah Rukh Khan’s fans can rejoice. Sources suggest that SRK is all set to return to the big screen. He reportedly has special roles in R. Madhavan’s directorial debut Rocketry: The Nambi Effect and Ayan Mukerji’s fantasy adventure Brahmastra, which stars Amitabh Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. In Rocketry, SRK reportedly plays a journalist, who interviews scientist Nambi Narayanan and takes us through the protagonist’s journey. Rocketry is based on the life of Padma Bhushan recipient ISRO scientist and aerospace engineer Nambi Narayanan. Recently, the superstar produced the espionage drama Bard Of Blood and the horror series Betaal for the OTT platform.

MEANWHILE...

In an old interview, Shah Rukh Khan reportedly had said his son AbRam Khan and Aaradhya Bachchan could replicate his iconic pairing with Kajol in future. When asked about it recently, Amitabh Bachchan, happy with the idea reportedly reacted saying, “Unke mooh mein ghee shakkar aur doodh malai...”

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While Arjun Kapoor is mad about ladylove Malaika Arora, he’s as crazy about the American science fiction action series Matrix. Now that Matrix 4 has been announced, he’s super excited about it. The film, which will see Keanu Reeves reprise his iconic role as Neo, is set to release on May 21, 2021.

Taking to his Instagram story, Arjun Kapoor wrote, “This one is going to be a cracker.” He also added #ArjunReccommends on the side of the picture. We get you Arjun.

Akshay to begin shooting As the government has granted permission to start shooting, Akshay Kumar will resume filming his two biggies, Prithviraj and Bell Bottom. The sets of YRF’s ambitious Prithviraj were dismantled during the lockdown. Now a similar set will be built indoors. They hope to wrap up the film by July. Akshay plans to begin filming Nikkhil Advani’s Bell Bottom in August in London.

They’re awaiting a clearance on the travel.

Bell Bottom is inspired by true events and is touted to be an espionage thriller

A SPECIAL DANCE NUMBER FOR SAIF ALI KHAN-RANI MUKERJI STARRER, BUNTY AUR BABLI 2, WILL BE SHOT IN THE YRF PREMISES WITH MINIMAL CREW. THE FILM’S DIRECTED BY VARUN. V. SHARMA

PROTECTIVE DAD SHAKTI He may have played a cold-blooded villain on screen. But in real-life Shakti Kapoor’s a soft-hearted and caring dad. He’s particular about adhering to the lockdown rules and not stepping out for work. He won’t allow his star daughter, Shraddha Kapoor, to do so either. Shakti was

quoted saying, “I will not go out for work, nor will I allow Shraddha to resume work. The threat hasn’t gone. The worst is yet to come…

It’s better to wait than pay hospital bills.” Shraddha was last seen in Baaghi 3, co-starring Tiger Shroff.

She will now reportedly star with Ranbir Kapoor in Luv Ranjan’s upcoming film.

Mahesh Babu teams up with Kiara Mahesh Babu’s next project, the Parasuram directorial film, Sarakaru Vaari Paata, may see him with Kiara Advani. The actress had made her Telugu debut opposite Mahesh Babu in the political drama Bharat Ane Nenu in 2018. Given Kiara’s pan-India appeal, the makers believe this is a good choice. Sarakaru Vaari Paata is expected to go on the floors as soon as the lockdown is lifted. This film is an action drama and revolves around a banking scam.

SINGER MONALI THAKUR RECENTLY REVEALED THAT SHE HAD TIED THE KNOT WITH SWISS RESTAURATEUR MAIK RICHTER THREE YEARS BACK. SHE MANAGED TO KEEP IT A SECRET FOR A LONG TIME. A COUPLE OF TIMES WHEN HER RING WAS VISIBLE IN HER INSTAGRAM PHOTOS, FANS AND FRIENDS HAD ASKED WHETHER IT WAS HER WEDDING RING. NOW THEY KNOW…

SALMAN GEARS UP FOR BIGG BOSS 14 Sources reveal that just as Amitabh Bachchan shot a video for KBC’s upcoming season from home, Salman Khan might shoot the Bigg Boss 14 (BB14) announcement from his Panvel farmhouse. Apparently, Bigg Boss 14 will premiere in October. Sources add that Salman has asked the makers to add ‘social distancing’ as a key feature of this season.

Zaan Khan of Hamari Bahu Silk, Shubhangi Atre of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain and Tujhse Hai Raabta and actor Shagun Pandey have reportedly been approached for this season.

ALIA’S SWEET GESTURE In an admirable act of affection, Alia Bhatt and her sister Shaheen Bhatt, surprised their house help, Rashida, with a birthday celebration during the lockdown. Rashida shared a video on Instagram in which the actress was seen cutting the cake with her and called it her ‘dream birthday’. Alia desisted from having a piece as she was on a ‘diet’. But the sweetness she spread by her thoughtful gesture is immense.

expert advice Dr. Juan Carlos Barrera Rojas

Specialist – Plastic Surgeon American Aesthetic Medical Center

SUMMER CONFIDENCE HERE’S THE TRUTH BEHIND A TUMMY TUCK Summer has begun! And so have the days by the beach and swimming pool.

To conceal unwanted fat and the tummy bulge, tummy tuck is a surgery performed in the hospital but does allow you to go home the very same day.

WHERE ARE THE SCARS VISIBLE AFTER THE TUMMY TUCK? The scars for this surgery are very low and are always concealed in bathing suits and underwear. The incision is made from hip to hip and an incision inside the belly button. All stitching for this surgery are done underneath the skin. There are no visible sutures on the outside of the skin.

WHAT IS A DIASTASIS RECTUS? This is a separation of the abdominal muscle.These muscles can separate during pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss or aging. These muscles do not come back together unless they are surgically brought back together.

HOW LONG DOES A TUMMY TUCK TAKE IN THE OPERATING ROOM? A tummy tuck can take anywhere from 2-3 hours and sometimes less. This variance in times depends on the patient and their body type.

WHAT DOES RECOVERY LOOK LIKE AFTER A TUMMY TUCK? Patients typically need approximately 2-3 weeks to recover following a tummy tuck. A compression garment is worn for approximately 6 weeks following surgery to decrease the amount of swelling after a tummy tuck.

LET US AT AMERICAN AESTHETIC MEDICAL CENTER ADD TO YOUR CONFIDENCE TO FLAUNT YOUR FAVORITE BEACHWEAR THIS SUMMER! Next time you think of beautiful people and thing around, don’t forget to count yourself in too.

- Dr. Sana Sajan

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 9

RUMOURS AND MORE

Ajay Devgn’s Bhuj on OTT

RANVEER’S A ’90S KID

Ranveer Singh says he’s a kid of the ’90s. And that he’s been shaped by the movies, music, pop culture and fashion of that era.

While kids played outdoors, he was stuck to the ‘idiot box’ watching shows like Zabaan Sambhalke, Dekh Bhai Dekh and Chhaya Geet and re-runs of Ramayan and Mahabharat. Ranveer’s awaiting the release of his film 83. The sports drama narrates the story of India’s first-ever cricket World Cup victory in 1983. Directed by Kabir Khan, the film has him essaying ex-Indian captain Kapil Dev.

AFTER KABIR SINGH AND THE UPCOMING FILM JERSEY, SHAHID KAPOOR MAY DO THE HINDI REMAKE OF SOORARAI POTTRU, A TAMIL FILM. TO BE PRODUCED BY GUNEET MONGA, IT’S ABOUT THE PIONEER OF LOW-COST AVIATION IN INDIA, GR GOPINATH.

Priyanka’s bedroom secret Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Nick Jonas, are making the most of their together time during the lockdown in Los Angeles. Recently, Priyanka revealed a bedroom secret.

She said that hubby Nick enjoys looking at her face after she has just woken up. When she says she’ll freshen up and apply some mascara and moisturiser he doesn’t allow her to do that. He simply loves her sleepy face.

Well, sweet dreams are made of this.

10 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

Given the lockdown and the theatres being shut, many filmmakers are opting to release their films on the digital platform. But Ajay Devgn’s fans believe his much-awaited film, Bhuj: The Pride Of India, should release on the big screen. They made the slogan ‘Boycott Bhuj on OTT’ trend on Twitter. Given the patriotic theme, they even want it to be tax-free. However, the film has been reportedly sold for a digital release for a whopping 180 crores. Abhishek Dudhaiya’s film based on the 1971 Indo-Pak war, also features Sanjay Dutt, Nora Fatehi and Sonakshi Sinha.

COVID – 19 IN COOLIE NO 1?

Will Varun Dhawan’s Coolie No 1 talk about the COVID-19 pandemic? The question started doing the rounds when the actor shared a poster of his forthcoming movie, where he could be seen wearing a mask. It’s not clear if he used the poster to spread awareness or the comedy will be tweaked to include a reference to the pandemic. Directed by David Dhawan, Coolie No 1, is a remake of the Govinda-Karisma Kapoor 1995 original. In the remake, Varun and Sara Ali Khan reprise the lead roles. The film was slated to hit the theatres on May 1 but the lockdown staggered the plan.

MEANWHILE...

Varun Dhawan took to social media to share a glimpse of mother Karuna (Lali) Dhawan’s midnight birthday celebrations at their home amidst the lockdown. In the video, dad David Dhawan and mom Karuna can be seen cutting the cake. “Happy birthday ma.

Praying for happiness for all,” Varun captioned the video.

What gives Janhvi ‘khushi’ Janhvi Kapoor recently revealed what gives her ‘khushi’ during lockdown. While she enjoys making sugar-free Nutella, sister Khushi Kapoor disapproves of the desserts she prepares. However, annoying Khushi, is the ultimate joy these days for Janhvi. The doting sister also revealed that their fun skirmishes aside, she ‘worships’ her younger sibling. Janhvi will now be seen in the biopic titled Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl. To be released on the OTT platform, it’s the story of the first woman Indian Air Force officer to enter the war zone. Gunjan Saxena flew a Cheetah helicopter in the Kargil war and helped rescue several soldiers.

RANBIR-SANJAY TO SHOOT SHAMSHERA Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt have teamed up for Yash Raj Films’ Shamshera. The film also stars Vaani Kapoor. The shooting of the film is mostly complete. Director Karan Malhotra and his team utilised the stay-at-home period by beginning the post-production work.

Producer Aditya Chopra and Karan have decided to film the remaining portions at YRF Studios with limited crew, keeping the safety precautions in mind.

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

OF COLOURS AND LIGHT

As we step into the realm of meditation, this is a good visualistion to try out for 10-15 minutes daily.!

STEP 1

Visualise a corner in your heart, that has a beautiful lit lamp! A lamp that ignites the engine of your soul.

This is to care for those who made you, to nurture who stood by you, to value those who guide you, to treasure those who strengthen you.

This inner lamp also helps you harness the lessons that enhance you and helps you hold on to those who didn’t let you down and harvest a life filled with gratitude.

Gratitude is one of the finest emotions you can either have or can generate. If you are grateful for the things you are blessed with, it nurtures your growth, fulfills your dreams, creates a better you and decomposes all your flaws to enhance your growth.

STEP 2

Sit in a comfortable corner of your home, silently for 10 to 15 minutes and keep images or objects in front of you that have individual colors like green ,red, yellow, pink and white.

After 2 or 3 minutes of closing your eyes, open your eyes and look at these objects for a few seconds.

Then close your eyes again for 2 minutes to relax and breathe slowly during these silent sittings.

Again open your eyes slowly and look at the color that attracts you.

Each color will have an individualistic result on your thoughts and mental strength. As per colour therapy, WHITE structures peace into your heart! Reduces anger, and the feeling of pain and failure!

GREEN enhances hope and positivity! It washes away doubts and opens your visionary path !

RED solidifies personal strength and goals! It fills positive power in your own abilities and fires up a sleepy heart!

SUSHMITA SEN AND MODEL BOYFRIEND, ROHMAN SHAWL, OWE THEIR LOVE STORY TO SOCIAL MEDIA. THE EX-BEAUTY QUEEN RECENTLY REVEALED THAT THEY CONNECTED ON INSTAGRAM DMS WHEN SHE ACCIDENTALLY HAPPENED TO OPEN HIS CHAT. THOUGH AGE IS IRRELEVANT IN LOVE, THE TWO HAVE A 15-YEAR AGE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THEM. SUSHMITA IS 44 TO HIS 29.

PINK nurtures love! You will soon notice positive changes of fulfilling adoration and blossoms of real attractions towards your loved ones!

YELLOW washes away negativity and brightens your aura! This color works like an antiseptic on your soul that needs healing! Looking at this color clears your future thought processes and enhances your ability to take positive decisions in life!

Send me Your Feedback and I would love to hear from you!

Queries on Instagram

@QueenKausarSuleman (KAUSAR SULEMAN KHAN Entrepreneur, traveler, blogger, singer, natural beauty consultant.)

FASHION & BEAUTY

They are hot, they are cool.

Meet our trend makers and breakers

Alaya Furniturewala

Ananya Panday

DRAPE DIVA Stylist Tanya Ghavri

“Understand your body type first. Educate yourself on that first and foremost. If you have an hour-glass body, enjoy your curves and own them. If you’re someone with a small waist always accentuate that. Be proud of the tiny waist and the curvy top and bottom. I love an hour-glass body. Look at Marilyn Monroe for some style inspiration, if you will.”

Tanya Ghavri on how style is as much about trends as about self-love…

Katrina Kaif

Sonam Kapoor Ahuja

Malaika Arora

8 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

Kareena Kapoor Khan

Daughter of former Indian cricketer, Karsan Ghavri, Tanya Ghavri’s scoring in another field – style and glamour.

After a stint at the Parsons School of Design in New York in 2003, she began her on-the-job training, assisting stylist Pernia Qureshi in the hi-glam film Aisha (2009). Even as she continues styling for films, she’s a personal stylist for several celebrities including Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Freida Pinto. To their stunning silhouettes, Tanya adds her style. To their beauty, she lends soul. The co-founder of The Dhoom Dhaam Weddings, a fashion event company, for Tanya creating drama out of drapes is a 24-hour job… Excerpts

When did you realise you wanted to get into the fashion business?

I went to study at Parsons School of Design in New York when I was 17. A year into the course, I realised that the fashion industry is where I belong. I was passionate about learning more about it and working in this industry.

How has it been so far?

It’s been an exciting, enriching and a huge learning curve for me. I’ve met amazing teachers and people along the way. I’ve travelled the world intensely, thanks to my work. I’m glad I’ve found my calling so early in life. I’m excited about what I want to accomplish in the future, personally and professionally.

How different is editorial styling from red carpet and party attire?

It’s as different as a gown from a short dress.

Editorial styling has a completely different language,location and concept when compared to styling for red carpets and promotions. You can create a story and a specific mood in editorial styling. It’s like a dream or a makebelieve world. What you are creating is imaginary.

But for red carpets and promotions, you have to stay true to the celebrity you’re styling for.

Which outrageous runway look would you like to incorporate in everyday

5

Shraddha Kapoor

Kareena Kapoor Khan Katrina Kaif

ALL-SEASON WARDROBE

ESSENTIALS  Nude shoes  A great LBD 

A pair of Spanx  Boyfriend jeans  Black or tan blazer

‘‘You can create a story and a specific mood in editorial styling. It’s like a dream or a make-believe world. What you are creating is imaginary. But for red carpets and promotions, you have to stay true to the celebrity’’

wear?

Runway styling is always outrageous in terms of accessories - be it headgears, shoes, collars, bags and jewellery. But I’d love the idea of using outrageous collars in an everyday look.

Maybe, I’d keep the rest of the look simple and let the collar do all the talking. It would be the statement piece in my look.

Share some style hacks to flatter different body types…

Understand your body type

first. Educate yourself on that first and foremost. If you have an hourglass enjoy your curves and own them. If you’re someone with a small waist always accentuate that. Be proud of the tiny waist and the curvy top and bottom.

I love an hourglass body.

Look body at Marilyn Monroe for some style inspiration, if you will. A pear-shaped body is one that is big at the bottom, which is like a lot of Indian women. So accentuate, the

Malaika Arora

Janhvi Kapoor

Ananya Panday July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 9

FASHION & BEAUTY

STYLE HACKS PICKED UP ON THE JOB

‘‘I’d love the idea of using outrageous collars in an everyday look. Maybe, I’d keep the rest of the look simple and let the collar do all the talking. It would be the statement piece in my look’’

 Silicon stickies or stick on bras are lifesaviours. It can help you wear anything you want.  Heel support cushions can get you through any party or shoot.  A white shirt can be worn in innumerable

Parineeti Chopra

A celebrity easiest to work with…

Kareena Kapoor Khan.

The most experimental celebrity…

Sonam Kapoor.

Trends you love to work with

As a stylist, I’m always dabbling in trends but one that I truly love is the androgynous.

Trends you don’t like…

Dungarees. I’ll always avoid them no matter what.

How often do you use your personal style while putting together a look for someone?

It’s always part of all my looks in some way or the other.

Pick a look done by some other stylist, which you like...

God that’s such a tough one.

It would be the looks styled by Elizabeth Stewart over the years. So many iconic looks, especially those done on Cate Blanchett at the Oscars and the Cannes Film Festival.

Some favourite looks from your style files…

top half of your body with wide necks and beautiful blouses. Maybe, even with a plunging neckline. Don’t Kareena Kapoor experiment too much with Khan in Dev R Nil the bottom half. Do not wear light colours at the bottom. Always stick with darker tones. A straight body, which most teenage girls have, is one that has no curves. It’s more athletic or just rectangular. It’s then important to enjoy prints and stripes. They make you look fuller. So learn to experiment and don’t be afraid to try trends. Last but not the least is the appleshaped body. For them polo or high necks is a big no-no. Also, big prints on Katrina Kaif in

Jean Paul Gaultier

10 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

ways.  Match vintage jewels from your mother or grandmother’s collection with the trendiest look.

top will only make you look bigger.

It would be Kareena Kapoor Khan at a media event when I styled her in a Dev R Nil saree with a Christian Lacroix vintage jacket and Amrapali silver neckpiece.

Also, the two times I styled Freida Pinto for the Vanity Fair post-Oscar party. And Katrina Kaif in the Jean Paul Gaultier gown for Filmfare Glamour & Style Award, which she wore for an award function.

Tara Sutaria

A look that you regret doing…

A long time ago when I first styled Parineeti Chopra, I guess I didn’t do justice to her. I do regret that look.

If you were to style a global celebrity, dead or alive, who would it be?

Freida Pinto at Vanity Fair party

Jennifer Lawrence, Julia Roberts and Olivia Palermo and the late Audrey Hepburn. n

what’s on their mind?

BEAT THE CLOCK

“There are so many people out there, who’re staying alone. It can get pretty tough. I’m fortunate to have Patralekhaa. I can’t imagine staying alone but if I have to, I’d do it. I know it’s pretty hard. But you have to think about the future.

There’s nothing more important than your life. By sacrificing a couple of weeks or months, you can participate in making this world a better place.

That’s the only thing we can do… pray and hope that things get normal soon.”

Rajkummar Rao on love, lockdown and lessons...

PHOTOGRAPH: PATRALEKHAA

May 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 15

COVERSTORY

#LOCKDOWNSPECIAL

RAJKUMMAR RAO CHATS WITH RAHUL GANGWANI ABOUT STAYING POSITIVE AND LOOKING FOR THE SILVER LINING AMIDST THE LOCKDOWN PHOTOGRAPHS / STYLING / HAIR & MAKE-UP: PATRALEKHAA CREATIVE DIRECTION: MEETESH TANEJA

16 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

THERE’S NEVER A MOMENT WHERE WE FEEL THAT WE WANT OUR OWN SPACE. PATRALEKHAA AND I LOVE DOING THINGS TOGETHER. OF COURSE, WE’VE BEEN TOGETHER FOR NINE YEARS NOW. WE’VE ALSO BECOME BEST FRIENDS, WHICH I BELIEVE IS GREAT FOR ANY RELATIONSHIP. YOU DON’T NEED ANYONE ELSE

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 17

COVERSTORY

#LOCKDOWNSPECIAL

I REALISE HOW AMAZING IT IS TO SPEND TIME WITH LOVED ONES... I’VE BEEN VIDEO CALLING MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS. WE’VE BEEN TALKING ABOUT OUR CHILDHOOD DAYS. GETTING NOSTALGIC AND SHARING MEMORIES IS BEAUTIFUL

18 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

few days ago, Rajkummar Rao gave girlfriend and actor Patralekhaa a haircut, the video of which went viral. She returned the sweet favour by turning into a make-up and hair person cum stylist cum photographer, all rolled into one, for the Filmfare cover star. As they say, desperate times need desperate measures. Since we couldn’t do the shoot because of the lockdown, we thought it would be a good idea to have the star shoot himself and send us the pictures. Also it would be a strong message for social distancing. We must say, we’re rather impressed with the results. Patralekhaa sure did a fab job. If she ever gets bored of acting, she can try her hands at these alternative professions. During the ‘social distance’ interview done via video call, Rajkummar turned philosopher and talked about the future of mankind in the post-corona world. He ruminated on the nature of love and relationships in these troubled times and showed concern about the future of filmmaking. The actor chose to take a sabbatical for the first three months of the year. While that has been forcefully extended much further than he intended to, he doesn’t mind it much. He’s been reading a lot, binge-watching films, doing domestic chores and exploring his culinary skills as well. With Patralekhaa giving him company through these days, he doesn’t mind being cut off from the rest of the world. Excerpts from a freewheeling interview with the talented Mr Rao… In this first-of-its-kind Filmfare cover shoot, Patralekhaa was your hair and make-up artist/stylist/photographer.

Tell us more about that…

Given the lockdown, we didn’t have all the required hair and make-up products. But still Patralekhaa did a great job. She gave me a fine haircut and styled me for this Filmfare cover shoot with whatever was available.

It reminded me of our days in Amsterdam while shooting Queen. Patralekhaa used to style my hair there as there was limited crew. I’ve never bothered about my clothes. But Patralekhaa changed that. She urges me to be more creative about what I wear in my day to day life as well.

Since Patralekhaa has moved in with you during the lockdown, what have you both discovered about your relationship?

It’s amazing to realise I can spend so much time with her. There’s never a moment where we feel that we want our own space or we want to do our own thing.

Of course, we’ve been together for nine years now.

We love doing things together. We watch a whole lot of shows and films. Through time, we’ve also become best friends, which I believe is great for any relationship. You don’t need anyone else. You can spend all your time with your partner. You laugh together. You discuss your passion together. We both love films. We discuss cinema all the time. It’s fun to discuss what we liked and what we didn’t like about a film.

I’VE ALSO STARTED MEDITATION, WHICH IS A

What’s your routine like these days?

GREAT THING. I BELIEVE EVERYONE SHOULD

Patralekhaa and I wake up around 7:30 am. After freshening up, we sit in the balcony just to smell the fresh air and hear the birds chirp. We read as we have coffee. Later, we start our workouts. We work-out for almost one and a half to two hours every day. Then we cook and have lunch. Later, we watch a show or film together for a few hours. Then around 6:30 pm, when it’s a little cool, we sit in the balcony again. We may have some snacks or we play Ludo with our friends online. That’s also fun. Then Patralekhaa does her cardio because she works out twice a day. Meanwhile, I play my guitar and then do some meditation. We have dinner. Around 10 pm we hit our bed. We watch a film or a web series. Before midnight,we’re knocked out.

How are the duties split?

She cooks most of the time. I help her as well. (Smiles) I do all the stirring. I also whip up some dishes. Like

I KEEP MYSELF ENGAGED WITH READING.

DO IT… THERE WERE HARDLY JUST ONE OR TWO MOMENTS WHEN I WAS LOW AND FELT THE NEED TO GO OUT. BUT THEN WE’RE ALL STAYING AT HOME FOR A BIGGER CAUSE I prepared sabudana khichdi and some dals.

But I’m also missing being on a film set.

Did you always cook?

Any conscious change you’ve brought in your life in this period?

Never man! I didn’t know cooking. But it’s not bad… it’s not that difficult. I’m enjoying trying out stuff.

I’m working out regularly. I used to

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 19

COVERSTORY

work out earlier as well. But I did more of cardio. Now, I’m maintaining a balance of both cardio and muscle building.

Your dog Gaga must be extremely happy now that you’re home all the time.

Yes, she’s so happy. She’s thrilled because she’s getting to spend all the time with us.

I’m sure she must be wondering what’s happened to these people. Why aren’t they stepping out?

You mentioned you watch a lot of content. What has caught your fancy?

Right now, I’m about to finish the series, The Outsider. We follow a daily schedule in the afternoon and at night. We must watch something for around one and a half hour. We finish three episodes in a day.

For someone, who has been living out of suitcases all the time, how has this sudden change been?

After I finished the White Tiger in Delhi at the end of December last year, Patralekhaa and I went for our annual holiday. I made a conscious decision to start my next film in March. I decided to take a break during the first three months of 2020. Then the virus struck. Never did I imagine that those three months would be extended till God knows when. Since the past three years, I’ve been constantly working.

This is a break I could’ve never planned for myself.

GIVEN THE LOCKDOWN, WE DIDN’T HAVE THE REQUIRED HAIR AND MAKE-UP PRODUCTS. BUT STILL PATRALEKHAA DID A GREAT JOB. SHE GAVE ME A FINE HAIRCUT AND STYLED ME FOR THIS FILMFARE COVER SHOOT WITH WHATEVER WAS AVAILABLE films straight on the OTT platforms. We just have to wait and watch.

Are you in touch with your colleagues?

They’re waiting, like the rest of us, for the lockdown to end. I’ve done four films, which are ready for release.

White Tiger is a Netflix original, so it’ll go online.

But, apart from that, there’s Hardik Mehta’s Roohi Afzana, Anurag Basu’s Ludo and Hansal Mehta’s Chhalaang. I don’t know what’s going to happen as I don’t see theatres opening anytime soon. I came across some articles saying that producers are pondering upon the idea of releasing 20 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

Reports on social media and news channels can put you off. How does one stay positive amidst it all?

With Patralekhaa

I’m not on Twitter so much.

I watch a lot of stuff on the OTT platform.

I keep myself engaged with reading. I’ve also started meditation,

which is a great thing. I believe everyone should do it. I’ve started cooking as well. Patralekhaa has been preparing some awesome food. I help her out a little bit here and there. There were hardly just one or two moments when I was low and felt the need to go out.

But then we are all staying home for a bigger cause.

What is the best way to stay calm during these times?

That’s the only thing you can do. There’s no other option. Of course, there are so many people out there, who’re staying

WE WORK-OUT FOR ALMOST TWO HOURS EVERY DAY. THEN WE COOK AND HAVE LUNCH. LATER, WE WATCH A FILM TOGETHER FOR A FEW HOURS. AROUND 6:30 PM, WE SIT IN THE BALCONY AGAIN. WE HAVE SNACKS OR WE PLAY LUDO WITH OUR FRIENDS ONLINE… LATER, I PLAY MY GUITAR AND THEN DO SOME MEDITATION

Yeah... (Smiles) Now, we can hear birds chirping.

I feel nature is rebooting itself.

We were just taking it for granted for many decades.

I was talking to one of my producer friends last night.

He said he hoped people come out of this situation as better human beings. alone. It can get pretty tough. I’m fortunate to have Patralekhaa. I can’t imagine being alone but if I had to, I’d do it. I know it’s pretty hard. But you have to think about the future.

There’s nothing more important than your life.

By sacrificing a couple of weeks or months, you can participate in making this world a better place. That’s the only thing we can do… pray and hope that things

get normal soon.

How has this period changed you as a person?

I’m not going to take things for granted anymore. I realise how amazing it’s to spend time with your loved ones. I’m talking so often to my family right now.

I mustn’t have spoken to them so much in the past couple of years. I’ve been video calling my brothers and sisters. All this while,

I was occupied with work.

We’ve been talking about our childhood days. Getting nostalgic and sharing memories is beautiful. At the end, you need to live for your loved ones. Nothing matters more than them.

This race that we’re all in…

I don’t know why we’re running so hard. Eventually, nothing will matter.

People say the world deserved this break…

Once the lockdown is lifted, what are you looking forward to doing?

I’m going to meet my team, the people who’ve been with me for so many years. My hairstylist, my make-up man, my personal assistant… everyone from my management team.

I’m going to meet them and enquire about their wellbeing and whether things are fine with them.

After that I just can’t wait to go on a film set. n July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 21

INTERVIEW

m a g i N u n o S

siwvewith u l c Ex ervie Int

22 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

“Tun Tun jee was the first artiste I met,” Says Sonu Nigam in an exclusive interview with Manju Ramanan in Dubai.

As I go through my questions for Sonu Nigam, waiting to shoot with him at the Sajan villa in Dubai, I contemplate the first question – do I start with my favourite song, his Filmfare award winning song, him being the voice of SRK, his impersonation of various artistes, his Vlogs, his versatility, his recent Instagram posts or his recent song ‘Do ka Chaar’ in the web-series Chaman Bahaar? This is my first interaction with the man whose songs have touched me as much as so many millions of his fans – what is that he has not been asked that I will ask today? As I put my pen in my small notepad, he has already arrived and greets me with a warm hug. What follows is a fluid conversation, starting from his childhood to making Dubai his second home – each stage of his nearly five decades in music, peppered with songs, instances, reverence, mischief and a lot of love. Meanwhile, he has been to the Mall of the Emirates the previous day to shop for the shoot that follows my interview. Read on...

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 23

INTERVIEW

You started very early, at the age of four?

I think it is karmic. My father who was and is a good singer singing Rafi saab’s ‘O Duniya Ke Rakhwale’ is my memory, but when I insisted to be on stage was when he sang ‘Kya Hua Tera Vaada’. My 24 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

mother was a good singer too, but more than that, she had great musicality about her. Nevaan and I sang on stage together, we don’t anymore.

The family had a special affinity towards Rafi saab?

Yes, we did. One should

aim high and my parents introduced us to the best music they knew. Their sense of music was highly refined. We used to hear songs from Rafi saab, Kishore da, Shamshad Begum, Geeta Dutta, KL Saigal and more. I grew up in a two-bedroom lower

middle-class home and were part of our parents lives and philosophies from childhood. We had a small harmonium in the house that I used to play and I loved percussion, but we didn’t have any other instruments. My fingers would drum on tables,

We had a small harmonium in the house that I used to play and I loved percussion but we didn’t have any other instruments. My fingers would drum on tables, chairs and sofas – the means aren’t important, the zeal is. You don’t need material things to fuel your passion.

gurus for they have taught me what not to do.

Who was the first big singer you met?

I used to meet Sachin Pilgaonkar who is an actor and a good singer. But if you ask me for a singer then it was Tun Tun jee. She used to come to Delhi often and I am so glad you asked me.

Also, Biswajeet jee, I used to meet him in Delhi. Then, when I was 14-and-a-half years old I met Annu Mallik who told me to meet him when I grew older. So, when I went to Mumbai in 1991, I first met Sachin jee and then Annu Mallik.

Your first mainstream song was picturized on Anupam Kher?

chairs and sofas – the means aren’t important, the zeal is. You don’t need material things to fuel your passion.

Reverence towards the masters has been unique to your personality?

There is no other way I can be. I am not constituted in

any other way. I was 18 years old when I came to Mumbai to be a singer.

At that time people the 36-37-year-old singers like Suresh Wadkar jee and Kumar Sanu were my gurus. I learnt their songs, would copy their songs.

Today I am 46 years 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

Yes, though I had sung for Kishen Kumar in T series films, in Papa Kehte Hain, I sang for Anupam Kher jee while Udit Narayan jee and Kumar Sanu sang for Jugal Hansraj who is a few days older to me. I say this in good humour.

Again, ‘Sandese Aate Hain’ from Border was

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 25

INTERVIEW

I do everything with a lot of dedication.

It is like an act of surrender. I will convert my persona to flow into the body of the song. You become that shape – water or air.

picturized on people of different age groups. But it was ‘Dil Deewana’ the song picturized on Shahrukh Khan that became my mainstream debut with a leading star.

How do you lyrically own every song you sing?

TThere is no strategy. There 26 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

is a devotee sitting inside me. When I sing a song, I put in it a lot of my virtues.

I put myself in it. In my interviews too, I do my best.

I do everything with a lot of dedication. It is like an act of surrender. I will convert my persona to flow into the body of the song. You become that shape – water

or air.

A playback singer is an actor in front of the microphone? Does it still hold true?

If you do justice with the style of the compostion and the lyrics, you are almost there. And then if you take the personality of the character onscreen, it creates

another kind of magic.

Rafi saab in ‘Sar jo tera chakraye’ was also singing ‘Yeh Zindagi ke Mele’ and ‘Tu Ganga ki Mauj mai Yamuna ka Dhaara’ in the same era. While he excels in all the songs, in ‘Sar jo tera chakraye’, he had to say the ‘Tel Maalish’ in the way the actor Johnny Walker opened his mouth.

That is a great artiste.

Which is why today, if you get a song sung by six other singers, you don’t recognize the uniqueness in each voice – they are filled with air and then they all fly off like gas balloons.

Shivkumar Sharma, Zakir Hussain, Pt Hariparasad Chaurasia. I was like a kid in the candy store. I met Mehendi Hassan in London and he couldn’t bend down and I fixed his shoes. I took this as an opportunity to touch his feet and he said, “Yeh bachcha bahot accha hai”. I had the rare opportunity of Ghulam Ali saab making me learn a sargam. I still remember

I met Mehendi Hassan in London and he couldn’t bend down and I fixed his shoes.

I took this as an opportunity to touch his feet and he said, “Yeh bachcha bahot accha hai”.

You have met and interacted with the best of the best?

I am the luckiest guy in the world. There is no one I haven’t met. Fame doesn’t decide success.

My television show that I hosted had all the legends of the Hindi film industry come to my show. Be it Naushad saab, Ghulam Ali saab, Pankaj Udhas, Khayyam saab, Pt

Catch Sonu Nigam’s exclusive interview with Manju Ramanan on the FilmfareME YouTube.

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 27

INTERVIEW

it. I was singing for Anil Biswas, Salil Chaudhry and Laxmikant Pyarelal.

What is so unique to your most requested song ‘Abhi Mujhme kahin’?

It represents collective destinies – from the composers Ajay Atul to Amitabh Bhattacharya, director Karan Malhotra, Hrithik Roshan and me, the song was well timed. My mother was about to pass away and this was her parting gift to me. I remember it was around January- February with all awards happening and she was cancer struck, but still very happy that I had 28 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

won awards. This song has a personal impact on me. I believe in vibrations – my personal vibrations of the song are present in it due to what was happening around me.

Do you feel that artistes convert pain into art?

Not all artistes do that.

Some surely do. Sometimes, we are not in the right state of mind but the song happens and you sing it.

No one knows how you did it, but you know. When I recorded ‘Di Dooba dil dooba’ with Ram Sampath, I was in a horrible state of mind. But it doesn’t

touch the song. Pain does become art. But a sensible man should learn to not let anything affect you or your art.

many songs including many picturized on SRK?

No credits to me, I am a lucky man. Good songs came to me and will come to me always.

But the mafia changed the game. My recent song ‘Do Ka Have you refused songs if the char’ will not be part of most lyrics are bad? radio stations because it is Yes, I have but as a young from a web-serial. If a song is singer I have sung songs promoted on TV, people go like ‘Mera Paau bhari ho and buy CDs and cassettes. gaya’, as well. That time I Today, most people depend was too insignificant to take responsibility of my songs. I on the radio and someone else is deciding your playlist wasn’t revered then. Today, yes, after a certain point, you not yourself. That someone else will not allow people have to be a little careful about the kind of content you outside his circle to hear a song he hasn’t created. But are coming up with. the digital world is changing all of that. n You have a repertoire of so

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rofile P s e Judg

MANIESH PAUL Television Host, Celebrity Anchor and 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.

32 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

The Scent of Humour An average conversation with Maniesh Paul will certainly make you smile, laugh and then laugh some more. Endowed with a whacky sense of humor that he picks up from instances around, he is a true entertainer - never offensive, but filled with good-hearted mischief and wit. Here’s Maniesh in a candid conversation with Manju Ramanan

My films haven’t done good

So, what? I have to keep going. I make jokes out of them too. One of my recent films had two tickets sold for the show, we went to check and I insisted to stay because we would add up numbers too (laughs). I have heard things like tera kuch nahi hoga bhai – but you have to take it in your stride. I will keep trying always. People will demean you or uplift you and you have to keep your ground.

You have to fall and rise. I feel happy and blessed that I have my wife and family around me. She has played her part and kept me sane.

Lockdown Deets

I am the kind who cannot be sitting for things to happen to me. It is a blessing when the internet is doing well and we should thank God. I like singing and my friend Raghav Sachar and I decided to record a song together. I recorded it on phone and he mixed it and I shot the video too. My daughter learns the piano and I started learning too.

Then the film came up as an idea because I saw so many Instalives that I was inspired to create something on those lines. I am writing a lot of poetry and have written 50-60 poems. I write in Hindi and generally

gather my thoughts and put them up on my Instagram.

Also, I love reading – Al Pacino’s blog, Mario Puzo’s The Family, Illusions by Richard Bach.

Daddy Roles

My wife and I handle both our kids during the lockdown by keeping them engaged at home. We play board games such as Ludo and Scrabble so that they remember that there is life beyond technology. Not everything is an app. We have kept our kids in a regular space – the celeb life is a bubble and we like to keep it normal. I don’t let them feel that I work in the film industry. My wife is happy to travel by economy and these are simple small things that we want to teach our kids.

Shoe Fetish

I collect shoes and I own 250 pairs of them. I started buying only when I could afford them. I shop from the US about 18-20 pairs in every colour. I own a pink leather pair that is pretty unusual and pink leather shoes as well.

Life’s a Song too

Vishal Dadlani keeps prodding me to sing. I won a scholarship for singing in college. Since I was

never interested in studies, I struck a deal with my principal that I will win prizes for the college and he in turn could waive off my poor attendance in Travel and Tourism. My dad is a Chartered Accountant and he wanted me to graduate.

I graduated only because I wanted to marry Sanjukta.

I would study only for the last 8-10 days and I would buy notes from the topper, photocopy them.

One register would cost Rs 50, so it was Rs 150 for three registers. Since I am an auditory learner, my wife Sanjukta would read it out to me and I would remember them. In the same way my dialogues are read out to me and I just pick up points. I don’t need a teleprompter at all. My daughter is like that too.

If I hummed a tune while passing by her, as a baby she would be humming the same tune. My son

remembers landmarks while we are out travelling.

Humour saves the day

For me humour is around us always and has saved me. And I am not supersensitive. If I get hurt, I move on and don’t keep grudges. At one point, some actors would be hesitant to share the stage with me and today those actors are my friends. Work so hard that they can’t ignore you. Also, I prefer to choose happiness over hurt. If I am angry, I go into my room, cool down and calm my anger down.

My family leaves me alone if I am angry. I have noticed that if you are angry, you tend to speak a lot and then kamaan se nikla teer wapas nahi jata. What you say in anger will always be remembered. The hurt will always stay. Onstage too I am careful that I don’t say anything that will make the guest’s families feel bad. I July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 33

leave it on a high always and never hurt below the belt.

Reliability is key

Somehow, people feel that I will walk through the star’s entourage and handle it. That I will be funny.

I am glad that I helped create this. But I have been incredibly blessed.

In 2013, I was hosting an award nights and Salman Khan suddenly got up in the middle and said “C’mon Manish”. On his way back, at the red carpet, he mentioned that I am the best host in the universe.

After that I hiked my fees!

(Laughs). He then invited me to his Eid party and met me very nicely. He then later told me, “Aap bhi Chalo Dabbang tour par”. It was a huge opportunity. I had mentioned to him about an earlier award ceremony that I was hosting and had asked the organizers to give me 34 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

a good entry and they had declined. And now, Salman Khan was telling me that I would enter with 45 dancers onstage. “Apna show hai na,” he said. He gave that space and he also told me to dance with him during his performance. He respects me and I reciprocate with love and respect.

blessing me, “Aap apna haath iske sir par rakhna,” she said. And he said, “Hum toh inse seekhte hain.” After he left, my mother tells me, “Dekha mai bolti thi, he copies you.” (Laughs). Such an innocent line from my mom.

Brush with Big B

Akshay Kumar is a huge prankster and a big one at that. During Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, I blushed in front of Madhuri Dixit and when I had to dance with her, kept dancing far away from her. She hugged me though I was so shy. Jacqueline and I are the mad team in Dabbang tour – we go mad onstage. Katrina Kaif, during the tour, challenged me that you will not come onstage when I am dancing and when ‘Afghan jalebi’ played, I joined her. We had a great time.

I am a die-hard fan of Bachchan saab. I have a poster of him in my room and even have a 786 ka billa. At one awards night, I called him from the stage saying, “Gale lagna toh banta hai.” He gave me a still look and then I walked up to him to hug him and he hugged me back warmly.

After that, I asked him “Kaisa laga mujhe gale lagaake?” When he was hosting KBC, my parents were visiting me and I took my mom to meet him. She told him to always keep

Stars and I

Faux Pas

As a host and presenter, there are many instances where your presence of mind saves your day.

That I can work without a teleprompter being the foremost. Once during the Mumbai police show, every star comes for 1520 minutes and when my name was announced, a big star arrived, On the spot, I made sure that I welcomed the star and saved the day.

Once the teleprompter wasn’t there and I had to improvise the show. The entire show

Future roles

Though I am in a lighthearted space, I am ready for intense roles and I want to experiment now. I have shared an OTT film poster that has been offered to me.

I now want to explore.

le

rofi P s e g

Jud

NUSHRATT BHARUCCHA Bollywood film Actress 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.

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 35

“Power Puff Girl” Nushratt Bharuccha The petite, beautiful actor has won hearts through a number of roles – be it that of the spunky, golddigger girlfriend in Sonu ke Titu ki Sweety or the supportive, demure girl standing up to her boy-friend’s unique choice of profession in Dream Girl, Nushratt Bharuccha has made it on her own in Bollywood. This self-made actor treated every audition as a stepping stone to improve her skills, and vehemently refused to give up. She will next be seen in Chhalaang with Rajkummar Rao and Hurdang with Sunny Kaushal

With no background in the film industry, was your journey tough?

I made good use of all my auditions, even if I wasn’t sure I wanted to do that role. They all helped me train better. I would carry the knowledge I gathered in my auditions to the roles I was handed out on TV or cinema. I learnt on the job.

These days, the issue of body-shaming is finally being addressed.

Yes, I am glad it is being addressed through cinema.

36 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

Like several actresses, I too have been body-shamed.

People would look at me and ask me if I was a child looking for a role and I had to convince them that I was older. As for my height, I am petite. I have danced in uncomfortable six-inch heels because the heroes were taller and if I was going to be in the same frame as them, I had to look right. I got used to being all day in heels and fit into the frame. It was painful initially but I got used to it. When you walk

in heels it is different but you have to master dancing in heels. I always feel that I dance with more vigor and abandon without heels, but hey, no complaints!

Which were the tall hero short heroine films that gave you hope?

I loved all of them. Over the years, there are many actors and actresses who have been paired like that.

When I watched Abhishek Bachchan and Rani Mukerji in Bunty aur Babli and Yuva, it gave me a lot of

hope. Shraddha Kapoor, who is petite has been very encouraging. She and Aditya Roy Kapoor in Aashiqui 2 have a difference in height but it hardly shows. She is supersupportive and full of love and positivity. I am glad that a certain mould of the heroine has changed over the years and petite girls are being cast like any other actress. There is acceptance on both sides.

Do your roles resonate with your real-life persona?

My roles have been hatke and I don’t personally resonate with them. I am edgy in real life and quite a handful.

I am eccentric at times and well balanced too.

Sometimes I am mad and sometimes moody.

But I am responsible and don’t let my emotions get the better of me.

What difference do you see in yourself over the years in terms of craft?

While preparing for my role in my film Akaash Vani where I play a rape victim, I left home and lived alone. I went through workshops, rehearsals and confined myself to a solitary space. My food would arrive from home, otherwise I was totally on my own. Today I have evolved to a space where I can disconnect from everybody to get into character wherever I am, and I don’t have to leave home.

What about acting in a web-series? Today big films are releasing on these platforms I love the web-space and I feel it is very accessible and the freedom to make cinema – of your kind.

It is not restricted by big budgets and there is some fabulous talent out there to explore. I am an avid binger and look out for what is new on all OTT platforms. I have signed Chhori adapted from the Marathi horror film Lapachhapi.

A Bollywood dancing star you follow?

I was amazed to see Shradha and Varun perform in Street Dancer. Tiger Shroff, Hrithik sir, Ranveer Singh – the list is endless. I am far behind.

On co-stars Rajkummar Rao “While we were shooting Chhalaang, I’d wonder whether Raj was in Haryana or not. Because as soon as packup would be announced, he’d fly back to Mumbai for work. He’d be back at 8 am the next day for the shoot.

He’s so hardworking it seems unreal. He works like a machine. Raj is a bit moody too. Sometime he talks a lot and sometimes turns quiet. He’s got his in and out moments.”

Ayushmann Khurrana “I reached the Dream Girl set from the Turram Khan set after driving all night from Haryana to Faridabad.

When I reached there, everyone was partying because they had a break the next day. I joined them and we partied till sunrise. This was my introduction to the team. I had the notion that Ayushmann would be someone quiet, an introvert. But his sense of humour and comic timing is something else.”

Kaartik Aaryan “We’ve had a long journey from Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Akaash Vani to SKTKS. When we started out, we were kids. I still remember the conversations we had about actors and kaun kya kar raha hai... To realise where we are today, seems surreal.”

Sunny Kaushal “I share a great friendship with Sunny, my Hurdang co-star. I saw him for the first time at a party. When I got to know he’s Vicky Kaushal’s brother, I was like, ‘Oh I didn’t know Vicky has a brother.’ To have that faith in him, where I can tell him anything, is special.

Otherwise, I don’t give my opinions easily. We love to sing and dance to the ’90s numbers.”

Any celebrity you stalk?

I stalk Kareena Kapoor Khan madam. Her pictures, looks, her clothes, I fully stalk her.

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 37

rofile P s e Judg

SAJJAD DELAFROOZ Actor, Model & Filmmaker of Iranian origin 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

38 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

‘I learnt Hindi from my Sharjah neighbours!’

Says Sajjad Delafrooz, who played the super-calm bad man, the cold-hearted terrorist Abu Usman in Kabir Khan’s Tiger Zinda Hai. Sajjad shares living the character of Abu Usman for a few months to get the role right! A Sharjah resident, this Iranian actor/writer/director nursed an ambition of being part of the Hindi film industry right since childhood. Manju Ramanan speaks to the actor who grew up watching the legendary Mr Amitabh Bachchan!

You made your web-series debut with Special OPS that also happens to be Neeraj Pandey’s digital debut, who you started your career with in 2015?

Yes, I am grateful to be working with him again.

In Baby, I played a doctor who just had to put a tape on Akshay Kumar’s belly.

Even for such a small part, I had to grow my beard so that I don’t look young. I lost several commercials because of that (laughs).

This time, Neeraj Pandey called me to his office and told me that he was doing a web show. He asked me to audition for it and said there was no script at that point. So, he asked me to write a script in any language and audition with that. That’s how I landed it. We trained with Cyril Raffaelli for it a day before the shoot. He was also the action director for Baby.

You have played a terrorist yet again?

I wish to do different roles.

But even in similar roles, I try not to be same at all.

I want to live my dream, which is Bollywood. That’s my main goal. People remember the character.

And more important is working with big names.

When I met Neeraj Sir, I didn’t know anything about my role, how big or small it was. I just wanted to work with him. That’s all.

It’s a blessing that I got an important role.

Tell us about your early days in Sharjah and your interest in Indian cinema?

I was born in Iran and then my family moved to Sharjah. I come from a family that is not too much into cinema. I lived in Old Sharjah, which has a sizeable Indian community.

That is how I learnt the

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 39

calm just like Abu Usman (laughs).

How did your family react to the film?

My family is from the countryside. They knew more about the success of the film than the film itself. So, they are happy.

The people from my family who saw the film believed that the character wasn’t me. Half of my family is in Iran and the other half is in Dubai. I love the kids in my family – my nieces and nephews. In fact, one of the most challenging scenes in the film for me was to work on the scenes that involved the kid I am about to kill. It wasn’t easy for me.

You are one of those rare people who enjoy cooking?

Hindi I know. But my passion for Bollywood cinema begins from there. I watched Sholay in Iran and it was a massive hit there.

Then I got hooked on to all of Mr Amitabh Bachchan’s movies. I watched Coolie, Shahehshah and Khuda Gawah. In fact, Khuda Gawah is my favourite film.

Did you train to be an actor?

I have done quite a few odd jobs. I have worked as a waiter in restaurants, have done jobs without any titles, I have been a watch salesman, have been part of the marketing department of a construction company and finally became a public relations manager of a company at the age of 26. I was doing well but I wasn’t happy. My heart was in acting. And then I did my first short film Orphanage directed by Mohammed al Utaiba of Image Nation Abu Dhabi. It was a horror film but it gave me several 40 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

opportunities. I did quite a few television series – Kuwaiti and Emirati. But I couldn’t find myself in them and returned back to films. I can speak five languages that include various dialects of Arabic, Farsi, Turkish, English and Hindi.

How did Mumbai happen?

After my experiences with the other industries, my resolve to work in Bollywood was further strengthened. In 2014 I left for Mumbai to try my luck but couldn’t get anything.

But later the same year, I got Baby. It strengthened my resolve that it is possible for me to work in Bollywood. In 2015, I got busy with various projects in Dubai with English/ Turkish films. In 2016, all films were disappointing and I resolved to work harder. I kept watching Hindi films I also started writing/directing my own

film Dreamer. While I was in post- production, I got the call – the magic call!

You might have been euphoric?

No, I was numbed to silence.

The call came from Shannu Sharma of Yashraj. She told me that they were looking for a specific actor and that she had liked the audition tape I had sent her. I told myself – this is my role and no one can take it from me. In my head, I had no choice. I stopped everything and worked on my look and lines. I knew that I didn’t have that look but I slipped into character. The casting took two-and-a-half months and I had to reach that level of calmness that Abu Usman expresses. He is a good listener and speaks little, but is a cold-blooded killer. When the phone call came, I sat on the sofa with no reaction. This was the time to work and sow. I had to show that I was the best choice. I was very very

I believe I cook well. I love cooking for my family and friends and love large gatherings of people.

Though I hate to clean up after that. In Mumbai too, if I get a friend’s kitchen to cook, I usually do the cooking. I love Indian food and love to make kheema rolls. But I always add the Sajjad touch to the food I make. Also, I love cheese.

I can have cheese with anything.

Which are your favourite haunts in Dubai?

It has to be an area that is marked by its food. So, it is the entire Jumeriah area for me. Whenever I am in Dubai, I visit Jumeirah for its many restaurants and fabulous eating joints!

le

rofi P s e g

Jud

ROSEMIN MANJI Entrepreneur, Presenter, Influencer & Model Founder of RR&CO, a Dubai-based luxury consulting firm, Rosemin Manji is one of the top 50 most influential women in the Arab world. Some of the top brands she has worked with are Gucci, Burberry and Sothebys, She has styled Queen Rania of Jordan, 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.

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 41

Woman of Style and Substance!

One of the most influential personalities in the Middle East, Rosemin Manji is a popular presenter and host for live events, as well as TV and online platforms

A

fter graduating from London College of Fashion (University of the Arts) Rosemin Manji worked directly for Tom Ford starting as his assistant and moving up the corporate ladder. Her CV includes Gucci, Burberry, Sotheby’s and she made her mark at Juicy Couture. At Juicy Couture, she coveted the role of the European PR Director and was part of the core team to set up the first office outside of America when the brand was valued at a billion dollars in the early 2000’s. Working with department stores to streamline brand identity and open concessions in Selfridges, Harrods, and 42 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

Harvey Nichols, her role was to reposition the brand and ensure that celebrities and influencers were dressed in the product.

Some of these well-known faces included Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Queen Rania of Jordan, Kate Moss, Kate Winslet, Jemima Khan, Sienna Miller, Jude Law, Thandie Newton, Charlotte Casiraghi and Princess Beatrice. Rosemin also worked closely with leading high-end magazines that started to recognize the new era of Juicy Couture beyond tracksuits.

Rosemin has several aces to her credit. She was selected speaker of Women’s Day at House of Commons in London, UK in 2020, and

is also a Global Gift Foundation Recipient for “We Believe” in 2019. One of the most influential women in the Arab world as per several known magazines in the region, she has also won awards such as the YPO Award for Contribution to Fashion Industry in 2016 and many other local and international awards.

In 2007, Rosemin established RR & Co. Bespoke Luxury Management - the first boutique PR and Showroom in the Middle East specializing in the luxury sector. Most recently, the company focuses as an advisory office in the luxury space and as a Digital Influencer and Brand Ambassador for the world’s leading brands.

In Dubai, Rosemin was seen weekly for five consecutive seasons in her fashion segment ‘Fashion Thursdays’ on the hit lifestyle show Studio One, on Dubai One TV as their fashion expert. It syndicated throughout the Middle East and Africa where Rosemin shared her fashion, beauty, and styling tips. Each Thursday, her talk show has millions of viewers across the globe. In addition to these, she continues to host various events related to fashion/ beauty and moderates regular panels.

Brands have taken Rosemin as a source of inspiration, naming products after her. Christian Louboutin - The Rosemin Shoe Amanda Navai - The Rosemin Bag Bionda Castana - The Rosemin Sandals Loièl - The Rosemin Blouse March 11 - The Rosemin Dress Cacohon Couture - Rosemin Kaftan.

Rosemin is an active committee member in ‘Bras for a Cause’, a charitable organization creating awareness among young women about Breast Cancer, something which she is very open about, as her mother battled it over 30 years ago. In March 2013, she was appointed on the regional council for the Aga Khan Board for Arts and Culture portfolio for the Middle East working closely to promote the Aga Museum, the first Islamic museum in North America. She currently serves on the Abu Dhabi Dream committee raising funds and awareness for UNHCR and UNICEF in the Middle East.

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 43

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INTERVIEW

Bollywood found it hard to slot Sophie Choudry in any one image when she took her baby steps, first in the music industry as a singer, then the television industry as a VJ and gradually in the film industry as an actor.

Now almost two decades later, they are yet to do that.

Sophie in the meanwhile

s ’ e i h p o S ce! i o h C

46 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

chose to move ahead and has added a few more facets to her multi-talented personality, as a model, host and a performer!

In a candid chat with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, the actor-singer-host opens up about her struggles in the industry and talks about carving a niche inspite of them

The one thing that people close to Sophie Choudry swear by is her radiant, charming and warm personality and a positive attitude to match. And it looks like the lockdown has done nothing to change that, as she exudes the same warmth when we catch up with her over an InstaLIVE session. And while, Sophie accepts our compliment about her positivity towards life rather graciously, she points out that the last few weeks haven’t been easy. “The last few weeks have been very tough on everybody for various reasons... Just too many sad stories… sometimes negativity does over-ride. So yes, even somebody like me who tries to radiate positivity does get affected. But I always believe that at some point you have to look inside and try to find that light and try and get out of that space,” says Sophie, adding that a large credit for her positivity goes to her workout regimes.

“I’ve been working out since day one of the lockdown. I want to remain fit because I’m hoping that Work It Up Season 2 (the fitness show hosted by her) will happen as soon as this lockdown is over, so I need to be in shape if I’m doing my fitness show, but more importantly, it’s really just about my mental sanity. When you’re working out, you’re focussed on yourself, your goals... It’s like my ‘Me time’. So I really enjoy that and try to stay fit.”

However, it’s not just her work-out regime that’s keeping her busy. While at home, the performer has been hosting shows online, shooting for brands and even recording some covers that she’s been planning since a long time. Talking about her first love – music, we ask Sophie about her journey as a singer from London to her multi-faceted career in Mumbai. The performer, who’s trained in Western Classical music, reveals that while music was always a part of her life since her childhood, the VJing, Bollywood and hosting happened along the way.

“I’ve been singing ever since I was a little kid. I

was always the lead singer of our school choir, so I used to sing a lot of that, but also pop, and I loved Nazia Hassan and that kind of music and of course Bollywood music,” she says.

But her first taste of being a part of the music industry came at the age of 12, when she lent the back-up vocals for Biddu in the Alisha Chinai song Made In India.

In fact, the acclaimed music producer who also became her mentor told Sophie that she reminded him of Nazia Hassan. “Yes, when I first

went to meet him, I sang Boom Boom, which is one of my favourite songs and he said that you remind me of Nazia which was for me at that age a huge compliment. He said that one day I will launch you,” she shares. “You meet a lot of people who talk about ki hum aapko launch karenge, yeh karenge, woh karenge, but he really did. When I turned 18, he launched my girl-band Samsara. Mera safar waheen se shuru hua, toh yes, it’s been a long journey.”

But the real struggle began when Sophie and her mother moved from London to India. Sophie recalls that it was a big move and they just decided to see how it works out in one year. “I had a record deal, but when we arrived the record company gave me a lot of trouble. We used to be sitting in their office for six hours a day.

Here we were waiting to start our new life, with my mum leaving behind her business and home and we would just be sitting there July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 47

INTERVIEW

in the office, but nothing was happening.” It was during this time that she was offered to be an MTV VJ. “The music company kept saying no, that I shouldn’t over-expose myself as a VJ and finally I realised, they’ve just been making me run around. But that really made it difficult for me. I was young, new and not from here. So then I got out of my contract and became a VJ,” she says.

As for entering Bollywood, she says that acting was never on her cards. “I always dreamt of being a singer, a performer. Of course everyone loves films, but I never saw myself as a typical Hindi film heroine, because I wasn’t one. I was different! Back then the girls were different. Very filmy, very desi, and I was born ad brought up abroad.

I was always considered very confident, modern, glamorous… These were the words associated with me and once I became popular as a VJ, even more so.”

However, she did happen to meet a few people from the film industry just before she became a VJ. She adds, “I realised that I won’t be able to go around to people’s offices. I don’t feel safe, I don’t feel comfortable.

Everybody’s got many stories to tell, so I decided early on that I will never go and ask for work. Agar filmein honi hongi toh woh apne aap mujhe offer hongi and in an environment where I feel safe and comfortable.”

And things swung in her favour right after her two songs, Mera Babu Chhail Chabeela and Ek Pardesi became massive hits. “Soon, David Dhawan Sir who’s someone I respect a lot called me and said that he wants to launch me as an actress in Shaadi No1 (2005) I did not ask him about script, the role… nothing.

He was literally like I’m casting you opposite Zayed Khan, who had just done Main Hoon Naa. Aapka Sanjay Dutt ke saath gaana hai, hum France mein shoot karenge, Italy mein shoot karenge… I didn’t know that there are five more girls in the film, I didn’t ask 48 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

anything, I just said yes and that’s how my Bollywood career started,” she says adding that she didn’t have anyone to guide her back then. “It was just me and my mom here. So that was my first film, then there was Pyaar Ke Side Effects. After that I just kind of rolled onward and it didn’t make sense to go back to London.

And it’s been amazing,” she says.

However, Sophie points out that a decade ago, the industry was very different.

“They were not very welcoming of people who were multi-tasking. They did not like the fact that a VJ, as well as a popular pop singer, now wants to act too. And today I look at so many of my colleagues who are doing so much and it’s like wow, they are so multifaceted and talented and I’m like yeh pehle nahin hota tha,” she smiles and adds, “So I’m happy it’s happening now, because back then I think they tried to put me into a slot… they were like yeh to VJ hai, yeh toh singer bhi hai, toh yeh heroine toh ban nahin sakti, yeh aise roles toh nahin kar sakti, yeh waise toh nahin kar sakti… so they really made it difficult like that.”

But Sophie didn’t let any of this break her spirit. “I prefer to look at it positively. How many people can really say that they have come from a different country and started from scratch and have been able to carve an identity, be a part of some lovely movies, I get to perform all over the world, so that way I get to live my dreams. So, it’s been an amazing journey and I still feel that there’s so much more to do,” she adds with excitement.

Crediting her fans and their love and acceptance of her songs for her success, she says that she still has an identity because of those songs. “I have been blessed that I got a chance to act and sing in my own videos. And it’s amazing that even after so many years, I’m still loved for those two songs. It’s really special and I’m grateful for that,” adds Sophie.

As for what has been her

mantra for surviving in the industry, she says that the key word is to reinvent and adapt. She explains, “In today’s world we have realised that we have to be multi-faceted and be able to adapt and reinvent to stay relevant. See it’s not like I have a strong backing of a big name, but I have managed to stay relevant…

I’m an entertainer, so be it through my singing, my fitness, the way I carry myself on the red carpet or my hosting, performing in live shows that I absolutely love… I’m always adapting and reinventing.”

As for her relationship status, Sophie reveals that she’s single. “Yes, and it’s really so sad to be single in the lockdown,” she laughs.

A firm believer in love, she adds that love should be for keeps. “I believe in love completely and that’s what I think makes it harder. I think people have gotten to a point where relationships

have kind of lost their value and it’s just easy for people to like meet up and hook up and not really have deep relationships anymore.

I’m someone who’s never believed in going from one person to the next or one relationship to the next. So, yes, I’m someone who’d rather wait for that one good thing than keep dating lots of people. I’m a one person for life kind of a person.”

The actress points out that the lockdown has actually made people re-evaluate their own relationships as well. “In a way this whole period of life is deprived of that physical contact and you are actually forced to know people and have conversations, really get to know each other and that makes you re-evaluate relationships in your life,” she adds. As for her lockdown mantra: “Zindagi na milegi dobara so enjoy each day as it comes,” she smiles.

‘You’ve to be

n r o b b Stu reams’

ba out your d

One of the most popular TV stars, Karan Tacker is also easily one of the hottest actors on the small screen. Having shot to instant fame with his TV debut Love Ne Mila Di Jodi (2009-10), he soon cemented his stardom and popularity on the small screen with another hit show Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai (2011-13). Interestingly however, post this show and despite being much in demand, Karan steered clear from doing anymore television soaps and instead opted to participate and host several reality shows including the highly acclaimed The Remix, which was also India’s first reality show on an OTT platform. But this year saw the star return to acting with a bang in the web-series Special OPS! Playing Farooq Ali - a role very different from anything he’s done before - in the Neeraj Pandey spy thriller, Karan wowed the audience and industry alike.

Karan Tacker in a freewheeling candid chat with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye, spoke about several things close to his heart, basking in the compliments coming his way for his latest role, and also reveals why he hates being complimented for his good looks

July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 49

INTERVIEW

MOR E THA N BE ING P RA IS E D AS A GOOD-LOOK ING S TA R , I HOP E TO GET MY DUE A S A N ACTOR ! BA S MU JHE KOI Y E H BOL DE K I MA IN AC C HA ACTOR HOON. I’M HUNGRY F OR TH AT ! spy thrillers,” says Karan.

“There are some roles that define an actor and there’s always that one role you get that can change your life as an actor. I think all actors work towards that one role, because there’s so much riding on it. For me Farooq Ali was that role. When it was first narrated to me and right to my auditions, I was like this is a role that I just have to nail, because I was really looking forward to playing this fantastic character,” he adds.

TV versus web space!

Life in lockdown!

Karan admits that it’s not been the best of times and has made people value things that are so often taken for granted. As for how he has been keeping busy, “Ghar ka kaam kar raha hoon. Since I’m not used to doing the home chores toh bartan dhone mein ghante lagte hain,” he laughs. On a serious note he adds, “Well, it’s not the best feeling to be locked in, especially for a person like me who loves being on the go, but I’m trying to make the most of it like everyone else. So, I’m reading scripts, chilling, spending time with family, video chatting with friends.

I keep watching something constantly to better my craft as an actor.” He adds that he went through a phase of trying out many new things in the beginning of the 50 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

lockdown, “but I didn’t beat myself about it. Just being productive at the end of the day and doing whatever that keeps me happy, that’s been my plan of action really.”

Breaking new ground!

Neeraj Pandey’s hit webseries Special OPS that released early this year, not only had Karan return to acting after seven years, but it also had him play a character that’s a far cry from anything he’s done earlier. Ditching his romantic-hero image to play undercover agent Farooq Ali, the actor’s explored a new terrain, but he insists that it wasn’t a risk at all. “It was not at all a risk and there was no uncertainty because I knew I was in trusted hands of a seasoned filmmaker (Neeraj Pandey) who’s a master of

Karan shares that coming from the television background, it becomes all the more imperative for an actor to go out there and prove the fact that you have a certain sensibility of the craft of acting. “Even before people know them, TV actors are slotted into certain images. So, it’s a burden on them to break that image and prove their craft. And working with Neeraj on Special OPS gave me that opportunity,” he says. As for the show being on an OTT platform he says that it didn’t matter. “I’d been waiting for a long time to do a role like this. So, a good script, a good director, acting well and acting with good people who can help you better your craft is what matters, the platform doesn’t matter at all. I was just so excited about working with Neeraj Pandey that rest everything just took a backseat.”

Nailing the character!

A departure from his screen image, Karan reveals that his role of Farooq Ali did take people by surprise.

“I don’t think they ever imagined me do something like that at all. But that’s one of the many charms of life. That you are constantly growing and constantly evolving and that’s the idea

for me as an actor too - to surprise the audience.”

Talking about garnering much acclaim for his performance, Karan admits that he’s thrilled with the love and appreciation coming his way. “As artistes we try to move on to the next character and the next show, but the fans have been so amazing that I’m enjoying living the hangover of being Farooq Ali,” he smiles and adds that he’s now looking forward to the Season 2 of the show.

Auditions? Why not!

This is an industry where a star auditioning for roles is quite unheard of, so being one of the hottest TV stars, wasn’t he wary of that? “Not at all. Mujhe auditions se koi parhez nahin hai,” says Karan, sharing that he has no qualms in auditioning for roles that he is keen on doing. “I don’t think Neeraj cared about me being or not being the hottest actor on TV either and thankfully so. He is a rare breed of filmmakers.”

He adds, “I’ve never really understood why an actor would shy away from auditions, because I feel it is a pre-requisite of our job. I’m the kind of actor who’ll willingly go to filmmakers and say why don’t you let me audition, if you don’t like me we’ll go our separate ways, but why don’t you at least let me try. So, I’m very proauditions. In fact, you get a lot of chance to experiment and play around during the auditions that really help you grow as an actor.”

Good looking, no thank you!

Ever since Karan’s made his small screen debut, much has been said and written about his charming good looks and handsome personality.

speculating, but I’ve always said, speculation is sexy, confirmation is not! I’ve always refrained from talking about my personal life because it involves two people – one is me and the other is the person that I’m with, and there’s a certain responsibility to maintain the decorum of that person’s privacy.

She deserves that much dignity in a relationship, so I’ve always been very private about it. It’s as simple as that.”

Love bytes!

Ask him if his good looks have overshadowed the acknowledgement of his acting abilities and Karan laughs, “Well, I don’t know about good looks, but yes I could say that my looks have been a hindrance at times when it comes to being cast for the more intense or action-oriented roles.” He adds, “To be honest, the only way to describe the feeling when people tell me that I look good or look nice, it feels like people are abusing me…” Explaining further he says, “A lot of the times I’ve auditioned and I’ve gotten through. But then the casting guy comes and tells me that I auditioned well, but I can’t get the role because they think I’m too good-looking for the part!

So, I end up not getting those roles. In fact, there was a point in my life where I started to get annoyed with the compliment that I look good, because I knew it meant that I was not going to get the part. It’s been very hard to sort of breakthrough that ‘looks’ barrier and get

people to notice your acting instead and your craft as an actor. I’m more than just my looks.

More than being praised as a good-looking star, I hope to get my due as an actor! Bas mujhe koi yeh bol de ki main accha actor hoon. I’m hungry for that!” Point out that besides his own director Neeraj Pandey, several biggies from the industry including Hrithik Roshan and Shatrughan Sinha did praise his work in Special OPS, and he says, “Well, a validation of your acting from such established names is very encouraging and something I’ll forever cherish.”

Talking about love and his idea of romance, Karan shares that he loves the idea of romance, but doesn’t believe in the idea that romance needs to be very elaborate. “I feel that a great conversation could be the most romantic thing you’ve ever experienced in life and I’ve had a bunch of those.

I’m someone who loves talking, I enjoy intimacy, a certain amount of privacy even while you’re out there, I love the idea of getting to know someone. I love the idea

of companionship and I feel that the people who don’t cherish it are really missing out,” he says.

When the going gets tough…

Talking about the ups and downs in the industry and breaking into Bollywood, Karan agrees that it’s not easy out there. “But when the going gets tough, selfbelief is most imperative,” says the actor. “There’s one role of a hero, there are hundreds who want to do it, you have to crack auditions, there are industry kids who get the roles without you even getting an opportunity to try for them and it’s hard to break these barriers.

There are times when you lose the self-belief too.

But then that’s where your family comes in. They take a front-footing and help you push through ahead in your journey. I’m blessed with a family and friends who’ve always been supportive and inspiring, and have nudged me in the direction that I wanted to go in. But above all, you have to be stubborn about your dreams and for me Special OPS is a beginning to a bigger dream,” adds Karan. n

Speculation is sexy, confirmation is not!

While on a professional high, we ask Karan about his personal life and the speculations of him being in a serious relationship.

“I know people are curious about my personal life, and they’re constantly guessing and July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 51

INTERVIEW

Laughter

! y a D e h t es

sav

In times of gloom and times of celebration, laughter is an antidote that works magic and lightens up the day. Harshit Vohra spoke to a few comedians from the Hindi film industry about what keeps them motivated in these times.

A D R A H S KIKU From Palak to Baccha Yadav, all of your characters have become lovable and popular. How do you add Kiku to these characters?

Whatever character you do, your personality reflects automatically. I want to make my character as real as possible. When I become Baccha Yadav, people should believe that there is a man behind it.

What is your favorite lockdown joke?

Hahaha (Laughs)...There are many lockdown jokes I read during the lockdown. One joke I really like is that, “0ur Prime Minister always says ‘Saathiyo’ in the beginning of his speech. After three months of lockdown he will say, ‘Haathiyo’, because everyone would have put on so much weight”. I found this very funny.

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How’s the experience working with Kapil Sharma, Sunil Grover and late Irrfan Khan?

I will start with Sunil Grover. It was a pleasure working with him. He is such a fine talent. He did many projects after our show, and excelled in films like Pataakha, Bharat etc.

As for Kapil Sharma, I have been working with him for the last last 7 years now. He is a fire house. I understood my craft better after doing a show with him. I have learnt many things from him.

I am honored to have got a chance to work with Irrfan Khan in his last film. He was a true fighter. I never realised while working with him that he was in so much of pain. It is very sad that a man so full of talent is not with us. This is God’s grace of doing things. I used to be mesmerized watching his films such as Paan Singh Tomar, Life of Pi etc.

Tell us something about Dubai audiences?

I have performed in Dubai many times. I remember that the first time when I performed with Kapil Sharma, there were four thousand people waiting outside for tickets. Audiences are always caring. Every year, the crowds go larger. I remember there were people wearing T-shirts with Kapil Sharma’s daughter’s picture. That was so sweet. There are always new places to see, but I am always excited to visit Dubai.

Pic Courtesy:The Kapil Sharma Show

When did you perform in front of your dad for the first time?

I was in college and he knew that I am participating in acting and stand-up comedy shows. Also I had won many awards pursuing my dream. At a college event, the management asked me to invite my dad (Johnny Lever) as a judge, and he agreed to come. In 2009, it was the first time he saw me performing as a comedian.

Then, London was my destination for my studies. That is when he witnessed the audience receiving me well. I have had many performances in London too and that is where my journey began.

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INTERVIEW

But your dad didn’t train you?

Tell us about your first performance in Dubai?

You decided to make a mark on your own. Tell us about it?

Name films of your dad which make you laugh till this day?

My dad was always busy at work and though he used advise me every day, he didn’t have time to train me. My uncle (Jimmy Moses) is the one who took the mission, and started with me step by step. He literally taught me every single thing.

My dad also started on his own. There was no Godfather in the family to help us. When I shifted to London, my father asked me about my future plans, I answered him saying, “I want to be a stand-up comedian”. He was surprised because I was new to London, and had already started working on my dream.

Dubai audiences remind me of Mumbai audiences.

They are crazy and big hearted. They laugh much and spread happiness all around. I came here with my dad, and we got such a warm welcome. We always enjoy performing in Dubai.

There are many films which make me laugh.

Baazigar is close to my heart. The dialogues were not prepared, and my dad had improvised all the scenes as the character Babulal on the day of shoot. I liked Judaai and Andaaz Apna Apna too.

SUMONA I T R A V A R CHAK When did you start your journey as a comedian?

I am an actor and am currently part of a comedy show.

Comedy is a genre of acting. This is very different from being a stand-up comic. I have a body of work across almost 13 years .

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What is humor according to you?

Humor according to me is being able to laugh at yourself as freely as one can laugh at others in any given situation.

Humans tend to take themselves and their lives way too seriously. I love black comedy, witty stuff.

Pic Courtesy:The Kapil Sharma Show

Share with us a funny incident about your life which still makes you laugh?

People think that I am Kapil’s wife in real life.

(Laughs)

Name 5 women stand-up comics whom you admire the most?

The women stand-up comedians I like are Vasu Primlani, Prashasti Singh, Ali Wong, Ellen DeGeneres and Hannah Gadsby.

What is unique about Dubai audiences?

Dubai audiences make you feel at home. It is indeed a home away from home. They’re not really your own and yet the warmth with which they receive you is second to none. It is a truly cosmopolitan crowd. Also, they’re quite honest with their feedback - be it their uncontrollable laughter or the silence! Dubai has always been an honest audience.

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GULF CINEMA

DUtarBt AI

to s film shoots again!

After a brief lull in the wake of Covid-19, the glittering world of Bollywood productions will be back in action and that too in the UAE. Bollywood producer Gaurang Doshi of blockbusters Aankhen and Deewaar fame is bringing an ensemble of over 100 crew members for the filming of their star-studded magnum opus Hindi web-series ‘7th Sense’ and ‘Line of Fire’. The big budget web-series are being produced under the patronage of Suhail Mohd. Al Zarooni, an Emirati businessman, and has picturesque locales, gripping storylines, and larger-than-life intriguing mysteries.

7TH SENSE ‘7th Sense’ is a crime thriller/murder mystery that promises to keep viewers at the edge with its gripping plot and a well-executed screenplay. The series is being directed by Karan Darra and the story and screenplay are by Gibran Noorani.

The thriller features superstars R Madhavan, Ronit Roy, Chunky Pandey, Tanuj Virwani, Aashim Gulati, Sana Saeed, Ahsaas Channa, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Sajjad Delafrooz and 56 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST July 2020

Manuj Sharma among other popular Bollywood actors.

Shooting for Season 1 and 2 would be completed in about 140 days with most of the action happening in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

LINE OF FIRE The prep work for the espionage fast-paced action thriller, ‘Line of Fire’ would also begin simultaneously. The web series will comprise of two seasons and boasts of superstars like Prakash Raj, Jimmy Shergill, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Tanuj Virwani, Vijay Raaz, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Kabir Singh, Sana Saeed, Manu Rishi and Tanvi Azmi. The story for the web-series is written by Shayak Roy and Ankul Singh, Directed by Shayak Roy, the screenplay writers include Ankul Singh, Nikhil Mishra and Sanjay Kumar Chadwara. The beginning of the shooting for the web-series is a testament to the great strength, vision and path-breaking progress of UAE, which has shown to the world how one can conquer and come out a winner in the worst of the situations.

Both the web series will be completed by February 2021 and will be released on one of the popular OTT platforms, the names of the platforms are yet to be revealed. n

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GULF CINEMA

“It’s OTT Time” Do you expect that the films for the next Al Ain Film Festival would be the same level as last year?

No, I don’t think so. It has been and still is a difficult time for all people from different fields. We will not have the same chance to choose the best of the best.

Says the Emirati filmmaker Amer Salmeen Al Muri, who’s the founder and chairman of Al Ain Film Festival. In a zoom video interview, he tells Hanan Yehia Mulazem, why this is not the best time to release any film in the theaters. And that Al Ain Film Festival has an agreement with Cairo Higher Institute of Cinema, to adopt four young talents for a month and train them. Read more to know why he thinks that OTT platforms are today’s reality.

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How did you spend the lockdown period?

It was a difficult time, but thank God we followed and are still following all the safety instructions. We have learnt a new culture, I believe that people after Covid-19 pandemic won’t stay the same. Staying at home gave me the chance to relook the script of my upcoming film and to set my priorities again.

Tell us about your upcoming projects?

I have two projects. The first project is ‘The Ghost’ and it’s ready to be released.

It was supposed to be released on 26th of March, but I decided to postpone it is not the best time for any new releases.

Would you like to produce any series?

I don’t mind doing that, but it must be with certain features. With a cinematic touch and high-quality effects.

Did you watch any Ramdan series?

Not many, I have watched Al-Brens and Al Nihaya. However, the Arabic series started evolving when filmmakers took off the dress of the conventional dramatic theme. For instance, the Turkish and Syrian series were the best in their beginnings because they gave new content to the audiences. So, now the Middle Eastern series are bringing to the small screen, a new kind of content.

Do you think that the Arabic audience would accept to see Netflix series type of content on TV?

Absolutely, if not today, certainly tomorrow. Many young people watch Netflix series on their smart phones. When you have that much of people watching high-level content and directional work, they won’t accept to watch anything less.

Who’s your favorite Bollywood actor?

Amitabh Bachchan no doubt. He is a legend. I am his fan since 70’s. Till this date, filmmakers write scripts for him, approach him for leading roles. Everyone says that there is no one like him.

What about Hollywood?

Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, I learn from them.

What about the Middle Eastern industry?

Absolutely, if not today, certainly tomorrow. Many young people watch Netflix series on their smart phones. When you have that much of people watching high-level content and directional work, they won’t accept to watch anything less. n July 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 59

IN MEMORIAM

Farewell

! e e j r e t s a M

They say that you always know the dancer from the dance. In this case, it was easy to spot the dancer’s choreographer from her or his moves. We lost one of the brightest stars of Bollywood this month. Ace choreographer Saroj Khan passed away due to a cardiac arrest. Ironically, her last post was on the late Sushant Singh Rajput where she lamented his death and wished that he spoke to his elders. While Saroj ji choreographed thousands of songs, including Tu Mere Saamne (Darr, 1993), Khaike Paan Banaras Waala (Don, 2006), and Gun Gun Guna (Agneepath, 2012), Khan even gave actors not particularly known for their footwork some of their best terpsichorean moments on screen, such as Tirchi Topiwale (Tridev, 1989), featuring Naseeruddin Shah, and My Name Is Lakhan (Ram Lakhan, 1989) with Anil Kapoor, some of the noted ones are here.

‘I LOVE YOU’ (MR INDIA)

A

ccording to Saroj Khan, it was one of the most difficult songs to choreograph though ‘Hawa Hawai’ from the same film is a very popular song. “It was a sensuous song and you couldn’t rehearse the movements in a dance hall. I had to choreograph Sridevi’s dance on the spot. Only she could have done that song and made you feel her “invisible” lover was caressing her.

She’s a beautiful artist,” she says.

‘MERE HAATHON MAI NAU NAU CHOODIYAN’ (CHANDNI)

T

he song, filmed on Sridevi, is still regarded one of the most sensuous numbers in Bollywood. Saroj ji didn’t only treat it as a dance number, but made Sridevi use her body and eyes to express a gamut of emotions. Also, this was the song that first made the chiffon sari a work of pop sensuous art on the Bollywood screen.

‘EK DO TEEN’ (TEZAAB)

S

aroj Khan brought out the best in Madhuri Dixit. The song reportedly took 16 days to rehearse and was shot over a week. On the last day, they pulled in a 24-hour shift. As Madhuri Dixit recounts, “We were shooting a song for Tridev. There were three actresses including Sonam and me. Sonam was a bigger star and so, she was made to stand in the centre for half the song. But as soon as ‘Ek Do Teen’ became a hit, the producer changed our positions. I was in the centre,” said Dixit in an earlier interview. This song is a prime example of Dixit and Khan’s successful collaborations and they had a secret pact to never repeat any dance moves.

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‘DHAK DHAK’ (BETA)

T

S

‘HUMKO AAJ KAL HAI INTEZAAR’ (SAILAAB)

aroj Khan choregraphed this very sensous number picturised on Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit in the 1992 movie. The song was famous for its signature moves.

‘CHOLI KE PEECHE’ (KHALNAYAK)

T

his was one of Saroj Khan’s most iconic numbers with Madhuri Dixit. The actress elevated the song to an unforgettable zenith with her steps and it also became the talk of the town because of its catchy, though controversial lyrics. Both Madhuri and Neena Gupta’s steps in this 1993 blockbuster are unforgettable.

‘MERA PIYA GHAR AAYA’ (YARAANA)

his song again had a signature move that is always attributed to Saroj Khan and executed brilliantly

by Madhuri Dixit. The song is a mix of traditional dancing and contemporary Western dance moves, which reflects celebratory emotions.

T

he 1990 track went on to win a Filmfare award for the best-choreographed song where Madhuri is in a fisherwomen costume and gyrates to a dance derived from the Kolis. Madhuri’s costume, her nose-ring and her loose hair became a signature of this dance number that has been part of several reality dance shows.

‘NIMBOODA’ (HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM)

T

o watch Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the feisty number is s treat. From her expressions to her enthusiastic moves, there is a lot to love in this sprightly dance number in the romantic Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. The song was crucial to the narrative of this love triangle because it is here when Ajay Devgn’s character falls in love instantly with Nandini (Aishwarya) after watching her dance. Aishwarya gave Saroj Khan a befitting tribute in a recent post and called her ‘dance guru’.

‘YEH ISHQ HAI’ (JAB WE MET)

I

f you want a sweet dance number about the trials and triumphs of love, then be sure to check out Khan’s ‘Yeh Ishq Hai’. Kareena Kapoor Khan is a portrait of grace as she chirpily sings about how glorious being in love is. Her expressions are as arresting as the dance moves. This song earned Khan her third National award.

‘CHANE KE KHET MEIN’ (ANJAAM)

I

T

‘RADHA KAISE NA JALE’ (LAGAAN)

he song featuring Madhuri Dixit continues to be popular, mainly because of its suggestive lyrics and its hook step. Khan infused the number with energy and mischievous spunk through the steps, duly brought alive by Madhuri.

‘BHUMRO’ (MISSION KASHMIR)

‘DOLA RE’ (DEVDAS)

f Saroj Khan’s masterstroke included Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Madhuri Dixit dancing together to her choreography in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas (2002).

Both the actresses are trained dancers and what they brought to the screen under Saroj Khan’s choreography was sheer magic! She had said, “Aishwarya is a graceful dancer, and God has given her out-of-the-world beauty.

She is very obedient.”

S

aroj Khan used her dance moves to emote the rustic and an evocative melody of AR Rahman to create a visual masterpiece. The steps express the feeling of envy with perfection.

S

peaking about Hrithik Roshan, Saroj ji had said, “Hrithik Roshan is such a perfect dancer that even the choreographers take time to think about what to give him. But sometimes you wish he makes a mistake.

He’s too perfect a dancer.”

‘TABAAH HO GAYE’ (KALANK)

T

his dance number picturised on Madhuri Dixit from the 2019 movie, was the last one to have a dance number choreographed by Saroj Khan. The track was one of the main highlights of this movie that also featured Alia Bhatt. n

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