Filmfare-ME-October-2023

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MIDDLE EAST OCTOBER 2023

Prince of Tides Kartik Aaryan THE LUXURY ISSUE

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t’s October aka Pinktober - internationally celebrated as the Breast Cancer Awareness month – to spread awareness, to go pink in support of the warriors fighting against breast cancer and take a moment to remind yourself to not take your health for granted and go for those checkups regularly.

Also stepping into the month of October and weather-wise finally there’s relief for Dubai with the drop in the temperature. Well, time to gear up for the cooler climes then! The city is also gearing up for Halloween and it’s interesting to see all those spooky themed decorations pop up at malls and restaurants prepping up for the trick or treat season. The horror-buffs can rejoice more as there’re quite a few new releases to watch out for and then there’s the perfect excuse to revisit some classics in the genre. So throw in some popcorn in the cauldrons and brew up some good times at the movies.

We assure you a good time flipping the pages of our October Luxury Issue too. On the cover this month is the young star Kartik Aaryan. Not just a hot bod, this Gen Now actor has been building up a great body of work consistently too with equally good numbers to bank at the Box Office. His most recent release – Satyaprem ki Katha with Kiara Advani - was quite a heartfelt one and Kartik as Sattu definitely won our hearts. So read up the exclusive interview with this Prince of Hearts!

Turn the pages to read interviews with two very strong actresses of our times. Vidya Balan and Sushmita Sen – both women I love - for their spunk, their unabashed forwardness and unfiltered honesty. More power to their tribe. Then there are interviews with the men of the moment on the OTT – Raj & DK as well as with the Jai Ho singing legend Sukhwinder Singh who we had met here.

We are proud to have partnered with Meta Film Fest 2023 as their media partners and we spoke to Leila Masinaei, the Founder, Manager and Festival Director of the international film festival about the exciting line-up of more than 91 films to choose from, red carpet premieres, workshops, masterclasses – all in all a treat for moviebuffs. I am honoured to be on their panel as a member of jury so see you at the movies soon!

The issue also spells all things uber-luxe so check out our pick of timeless watches and some dazzling irresistible jewellery. September was a month packed in with back to back concerts and events and we have some exclusively covered just for you. So sit, back, relax and happy reading!

Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd Copyright 2023 Starz Media Inc All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors within.

Printed and Published under license and permission from Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd

Aakanksha Naval-Shetye

Editor Filmfare Middle East

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Copyright 2023: Reproduction in any manner in any language in whole or part without prior written permission is prohibited Filmfare Middle East takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material | ALL PHOTOGRAPHS, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, ARE USED FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY

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Volume 67 |October 1, 2023

PHOTOGRAPHS: AJAY KADAM STYLIST: ESHA L AMIN MAKE-UP: VICKY SALVI HAIR: MILAN THAPA

dubai scope

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Pants: Massimo Dutti | Sweatshirt & jacket: Shantanu & Nikhil | Shoes: Heel & Buckle London | Rings: Timeless Jewelry by Shveta

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE MOST HAPPENING EVENTS IN THE CITY AND TAKE A LOOK AT ALL THE STARS WHO VISITED DUBAI RECENTLY

uber luxe

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CHECK OUT OUR PICK OF SOME EXQUISITE JEWELLERY YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO TAKE YOUR EYES AWAY FROM

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COVER STORY

COVER STAR KARTIK AARYAN IN A CONVERSATION WITH ANURADHA CHOUDHARY TALKS ABOUT EXPERIMENTING WITH DIFFERENT GENRES, HIS LIFE CHOICES AND LOVE

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MAKE A POWER STATEMENT WITH THESE TIMELESS WATCHES

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interviews

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VIDYA BALAN TALKS TO JITESH PILLAAI ABOUT PUSHING BOUNDARIES AS AN ACTOR WITH HER POWER-PACKED PERFORMANCES

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RAJ & DK CHAT UP WITH TANZIM PARDIWALLA ABOUT THE SECRET TO THEIR SUCCESS

SINGING LEGEND SUKHWINDER SINGH GETS CANDID WITH AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE ABOUT HIS MUSICAL JOURNEY SPANNING OVER 30 YEARS CELEBRITY CHEF RANVEER BRAR IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE TALKS ABOUT THE DUBAI FOOD SCENE AND REVEALS WHY FACING THE CAMERA IS JUST AS MUCH FUN AS BEING IN THE KITCHEN

events

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CHECK OUT THE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE GRAND LAUNCH OF OCEANZ BY DANUBE

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HERE’S OUR PICK OF THE BEST IN MOVIES AND OTT SHOWS THIS OCTOBER REVISIT THESE TIMELESS HORROR FLICKS TO ADD THE SPOOK TO THE HALLOWEEN FEST

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HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights

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

AKSHAY-RAVEENA TO ACT TOGETHER IN WELCOME SEQUEL

HAPPILY MARRIED COUPLE PARINEETI CHOPRA AND RAGHAV CHADHA

The first film instalment in the superhit comedy film franchise, Welcome, released on Christmas 2007 and featured Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif in lead roles alongside Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, Paresh Rawal, and Feroz Khan in pivotal roles. The film was directed by Aneez Bazmee and went on to become one of the highest-grossing films of the year. There have been reports that the next film in the series is being planned. Speculation is rife that the lead roles will mostly be played by Raveena Tandon and Akshay Kumar. Raveena Tandon and Akshay Kumar were engaged briefly in the 1990s, but the couple fell apart and went their separate ways.

SALMAN KHAN ADOPTS A BUZZ CUT FOR VISHNUVARDHAN’S NEXT It was recently announced that Salman Khan will star in a film directed by Vishnuvardhan and produced by Karan Johar. It will be an action-packed thriller, and according to a recent report, following the release of Tiger 3 this Diwali, Salman is expected to begin filming for this Vishnuvardhan film in November or December. We’ve also heard that, the actor will play a paramilitary officer in the film; filming has already begun, which is why he’s currently seen in a buzz cut. He will wear a specific look in the film and will even lose weight for the role. The film will be released during the Christmas weekend of 2024.

AKSHAY KUMAR REPORTEDLY DIDN’T CHARGE A FEE FOR OMG 2

Even in the face of strong competition from Rajinikanth’s Jailer and Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2, Akshay Kumar’s OMG 2 is delivering an impressive box office performance. Amid widespread speculation about the film’s high budget, which some claim exceeds Rs 150 crore, Ajit Andhare, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Viacom18 Studios, which co-produced the film with Cape of Good Films and Wakaoo Films, has dispelled these rumours. “The reports of the budget of OMG 2 are grossly exaggerated. On the contrary, Akshay didn’t charge a rupee in fees and, in fact, walked alongside us in both the financial and creative risks involved in such a courageous film,” Andhare said in an interview.

An Indian remake of the hit Hollywood musical Begin Again is in the works. Reportedly, Farhan Akhtar will play the lead role in the film directed by Nitya Mehra. Begin Again, which was released in 2013, featured Mark Ruffalo, Keira Knightley, and Adam Levine. The film follows a songwriter who captures the attention of a record label executive. The two get together and make music. It gained recognition for its hit songs, including Lost stars.

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Ameesha Patel is currently

headlines for her AMEESHA making role in Gadar 2. The sequel PATEL film saw her return as alongside Sunny REGRETS Sakeena Deol’s Tara Singh. In an REJECTING interview with a leading news portal, Ameesha Patel has TERE revealed that she regrets signing films with Shah NAAM AND not Rukh Khan, Salman Khan CHALTE and Sanjay Dutt. The actress that she had received CHALTE shared offers for Chalte Chalte,

Tere Naam and Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. Ameesha shared that she didn’t do the films because she had other work commitments. The female lead in Chalte Chalte was played

by Rani Mukerji, Tere Naam went to Bhumika Chawla and Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. had Gracy Singh as the female lead.

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RADHIKA MADAN BECOMES THE YOUNGEST MEMBER TO BE ON THE

INTERNATIONAL EMMY AWARDS JURY Radhika Madan is currently on cloud nine after being on the International Emmy Awards 2023 jury panel. Radhika took to Instagram to share her excitement with her fans. Radhika can be seen in the video enjoying her experience as a jury member at the International Emmys. She wore a formal white and black ensemble with a sleek hairstyle. Along with a video, she wrote, “So overwhelmed and grateful that I got to be a part of this year’s Jury for the International Emmy Awards. I always dreamt of being nominated but to be on the other side was even more fulfilling. Every day I get up and get to do what I love the most, a joy I wouldn’t trade for anything. Thank you universe.”

WAMIQA GABBI JOINS VARUN DHAWAN IN ATLEE’S NEXT PRODUCTION Wamiqa Gabbi, Gabbi known for her roles in Grahan, Grahan Mai, and the much-loved Jubilee, Jubilee has been cast in Jawan director Atlee’s highly anticipated next Hindi production. In the film, she will co-star with Varun Dhawan and Keerthy Suresh.

Wamiqa Gabbi, who rose to fame with her role in Jubilee, will join the VD18 dream cast, alongside Varun Dhawan in Atlee and Murad Khetani’s next. The movie will be released in 2024. Tamil director Kalees, Kalees known for his debut film Kee in 2019, is directing the film.

DEEPIKA PADUKONE TO PLAY AJAY DEVGN’S SISTER IN SINGHAM AGAIN? In recent years, Rohit Shetty’s cop universe has expanded with the inclusion of well-known actors such as Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Ranveer Singh. As he prepares to embark on the next phase, the director seems to have enlisted Deepika Padukone to join the team as the first female police officer. As per multiple media reports, Deepika Padukone will be portraying the role of Ajay Devgn’s character, Bajirao Singham’s sister, in Singham Again. She is already preparing for her role, and the director wants to portray the Singham family as the most patriotic.

There are also rumours that Tiger Shroff will make a cameo appearance and spend 15 days filming with Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, and Ajay Devgn.

expert advice DR. SANA SAJAN Director of American Aesthetic Medical Center

ACNE SCARS: A QUICK LOOK AT HOME REMEDIES AND MODERN-DAY TREATMENTS.

Acne is common among people of all ages, from teenagers and young adults to womens. While it can be distressing, the good news is that it is possible to manage acne scars effectively.

As far as home remedies are concerned, application of aloe vera gel extract, coconut oil, vitamin E, raw honey, shea butter, grapeseed extract, icepacks, lemon juice, etc., can effectively lighten the acne scars on the face.

However, in cases of severe acne, acne marks may require a more thorough treatment to make them less noticeable. A wide variety of acne scar removal treatments are available, but the right one depends on the type of acne, its severity and the extent of damage it has caused to the underlying skin. So, it is best to get expert advice from a dermatologist to choose the right and best acne scar treatment for you.

There are numerous treatments available to remove or lighten the scarred surface, reduce its size or improve its appearance. Here are a few most effective ones:

CHEMICAL PEELING:

This involves the use of strong chemicals (acids) to remove the outer layer of skin and reduce the appearance of scars. Various chemicals such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), glycolic acid can be used depending on the skin type, severity of acne and scarring caused by it. It is especially effective for deeper scars.

BOTOX INJECTIONS:

Botox injections are very effective for acne scars with puckered skin around them. This puckered area can be relaxed with an injection of botulinum toxin (Botox) to improve the appearance of skin.

PUNCH EXCISION:

This involves surgically removing an acne scar through a punch matching the size of the scar.

DERMABRASION:

Reserved for the most severe acne scarring, the procedure involves removal of the damaged top layer of skin with a rapidly rotating wire brush or wheel with a rough surface. The procedure deeply exfoliates the top layer of the skin to reduce the appearance of deeper scars.

MICRONEEDLING:

One of the most recent advances in pimple marks removal treatments, microneedling uses a small, handheld pen or needle-studded roller to puncture the skin on the surface of the scars. As the punctured skin heals, it makes collagen and reduces the visibility of acne scars by smoothing out the skin.

LASER RESURFACING:

Anil Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Shehnaaz Gill, Kusha Kapila, Dolly Singh and Shibani Bedi at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) for the world premiere of their movie Thank You For Coming

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Laser treatment for acne has recently gained a lot of noise for its superior and early results without using any chemicals or scrubs. The procedure involves the removal of the top layer of skin to reveal the underlying younger skin cells to reduce the appearance of scars. It creates a more even surface of the skin.

Ask for your consultation now!

FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 9 CallOctober us 2023 at 80085555

06/10/2023 8:45 AM

HIGHLIGHTS

DUBAI

THE WHAT, WHERE, WHO IN THE CITY

SCOPE

WHO:

RIZWAN SAJAN, SHASHI THAROOR,

RAJDEEP SARDESAI

WHAT: Mr Rizwan Sajan - Chairman and Founder of Danube Group - was honoured as one of the ‘Icons of UAE’ by former Minister of State for External Affairs and acclaimed author Dr Shashi Tharoor and veteran journalist Rajdeep Sardesai at a spectacular event held in the city. Also present were Anjana Om Kashyap, Mrs Sameera Sajan, Dr Bu Abdullah, Dr Dhananjay and Mrs Vandana Datar, amongst other dignitaries.

WHO: RASHMIKA MANDANNA

WHAT: Rashmika Mandanna - the Brand Ambassador for Kalyan Jewellers inaugurated their new showroom at Al Barsha in Dubai

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WHO:

NEEL SHUKLA, RAMESH SHUKLA, MEDHA NANDA, RONAN KEATING, AMAL AL REDHA, LORENZO QUINN, RAHUL BANSAL

WHAT:

ART BE A PART held its annual auction in the city Supported by Dubai Cares as part of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) - in partnership with UNICEF. The event kickstarted with Italian artist Lorenzo Quinn unveiling his sculpture ‘Give’ and the auction was a grand success as they raised over AED 600,000. these proceeds will help launch art-based education programme for children in india. The delightful evening also had global artist ronan keating regale guests with his chartbuster songs. The singer announced his upcoming concert in dubai and even auctioned off a Few tickets for the noble cause.

PIC CREDIT: YASIR ARAFAT

Neel Shukla, curator and art consultant

Ronan Keating performing

Acclaimed artists Lorenzo Quinn with Maryam Sharaf

Art be a Part founder Medha Nanda with Rahul Bansal, Head of Private Sector Partnerships & Fundraising, UNICEF India.

Neel Shukla, Ronan Keating and Sylvia Shukla

(R) Ramesh Shukla with guest Master of ceremony Tom Urquhart presided over a lively auction.

Amal Al Redha, Director of Donor Relations and Partnerships at Dubai Cares

Aakanksha Naval-Shetye with Ronan Keating

Namrata Shroff with a guest October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 11

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COVER STORY

Prince of Tides Kartik Aaryan

K artik A aryan is the current heartthrob of the nation.

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doesn’t take himself too seriously. He’s like one of the children visiting Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory – he doesn’t care why he has got the golden ticket and can’t decide on which goodies to munch first. He doesn’t want the illusion to end, despite knowing that it’s an illusion. What’s more, he’s invited us all into his private world to enjoy it with him and the magic circle is ever expanding. We’ve met a dozen times and I still can’t get enough of his toothy grin.

Somehow, whatever mood I’m in, he’s always elevated it by his mere presence. You can’t help but smile back at him. He doesn’t have any starry airs despite giving numerous hits back to back. He’s a true hero of the masses. Someone who can be truly called the ‘family pack hero’. The entire family likes him for their own reasons.

Everybody loves him, and just like Raymond he doesn’t know why but he’s glad all the same. By his own admission, he doesn’t want to limit himself to just one genre. Films like Dhamaka, where he played an investigative journalist who has no qualms bending rules or Freddy, where he plays a dentist-turned serial killer, are proof of that. In Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, he successfully segued into the Akshay Kumar territory and emerged triumphed. Rumour has it that he’s already been offered Hera Pheri 3. Clearly, his star is shining bright right now and blazing high in the sky. He’s in a happy space for sure and shares in the warm vibes in our engagement. Excerpts:

You’ve been playing against type in quite a few films like Dhamaka, Freddy, Shehzada, etc. What went into the decision to experiment?

As an actor, experimenting with every film is my goal and intention. That’s the best part about being an actor: getting diverse scripts and doing diverse roles. Hence, whether it is as serious as Dhamaka, as eccentric as Freddy, or as fun and actionoriented as Shehzada, every role is different. And that’s the beauty of it. I love the fact that filmmakers are seeing me in a different light. When they come up to me with something interesting and quirky, there is no chance I can say no. I accept the challenge and give it my all in order to succeed. I want to create a legacy with my own films. You could name any genre of film and you would find it in my repertoire.

South remakes are guaranteed money makers...Do you agree?

See, what I have learnt from my experiences is that there is no written formula or fixed recipe for success. In fact, once you buy remake rights or decide to make a sequel to a successful film, you have an added responsibility to surpass the original. You have to work extra hard to make sure that you are able to make the audience happy.

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COVER STORY at pan-Indian films these days. What are your thoughts on it?

It’s good that today we have the concept of pan-India being recognised. The Indian film industry is vast, and there is so much content and so many talented and skilled people in it. Ten years ago, watching a South film in Mumbai was not easy. Only selected cinemas had subtitles, and there were very few shows. But today, everything is coming under one umbrella, and it’s obviously good news for the entire Indian cinema. It amounts to more viewers for the artistes and more content in the pool to entertain the audience. you becAme a producer with Shehzada. What prompted that?

(Laughs) I became a producer on Shehzada by accident. There was a troublesome situation while we were making this film, and I stepped in to do my bit to sort it out. I don’t want to get into more details, but that’s when the producers of Shehzada, Bhushan (Kumar) ji, Allu Arvind Sir, and Aman (Gill), who have made this film, came forward and honoured me with the title of producer.

Yes, at some point in my life, I had planned to get into this space but it happened a little early and suddenly. But I have no complaints.

I’m happy and fortunate to have such big names on the producers’ list along with my name. I’m looking forward to going on this exciting ride.

What was your process for preparing for an action role?

A lot of planning... and I mean a lot of planning.

Shehzada was my first all-out action entertainer.

I had to make sure that I left no stone unturned, and Rohit (Dhawan) had such amazing action sequences and moments 14 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST October 2023

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that I was sure from day one that khoon pasina ek karna hai.

There were many training sessions before shooting the action scenes and it was intense and fun at the same time to prepare and shoot for them. I had a blast.

You’ve had films perform at the box office at a time when not many films worked. How validating was that?

It’s a fantastic feeling, of course. A successful film at the box office benefits the entire team and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’s success put me on cloud nine.

The film brought the audience back to the cinema, and that was a surreal feeling. The industry as a whole was celebrating our success; people were watching the film

The pressure is to do good work. I want to keep entertaining audiences and surprising my fans with something new and that’s my goal.

So I just want to keep doing better and better work so that it keeps everyone happy, the masses and the producers. So this pressure is good. It motivates me to keep pushing myself and doing good work.

Are there high expectations on you now? Does that put pressure on you?

As I said, this kind of pressure motivates me to do good work. I have my blinkers on and the aim is good content and delivering my best performances each time... and for that, I am doing everything I can.

What’s your equation

I love the fact that filmmakers are seeing me in a different light. When they come up to me with something interesting and quirky, there is no chance I can say no. I accept the challenge and give it my all in order to succeed

Jacket & Shirt : Falguni Shane Peacock | Denims: Versace Rings: Inox, Bling Sutra

more than once in theatres, and I was being showered with terms like “Savior of Bollywood”. All of that felt so great as an actor. I don’t think “validation” is the right term, but it was a proud moment for all of us in the team to have won the audience’s hearts and lifted up the mood in the industry when things looked dull.

Do you feel the pressure of delivering hits now?

with Luv Ranjan? Will we see you teaming up with him again?

Luv sir is like a big brother and family to me. We have always been there for each other, and we will always look out for each other. I believe Luv sir will call me whenever he has a script for me.

He knows that it will always be a yes from me.

Luv Ranjan’s movies put you on the Bollywood map. What kind of roles

would you want to explore with the director, if at all?

Anything. I trust him, he trusts me, and that’s the bond a directoractor should have.

What he will do for me is the type of role I will play for him. He is a brilliant writer who knows how to read the pulse of the audience. I would be happy to work with him anytime, whatever the role may be.

We hear you were paid a whopping amount for 10 days of work in Dhamaka…

(Laughs) There are so many more special things to talk about with Dhamaka than my fees. I got my first Best Actor nomination at the Filmfare OTT Awards for Dhamaka. I got to work with Ram (Madhvani) sir and completed the film in a recordbreaking time, that also during the pandemic. It was my first intense thriller. These are the things to discuss and remember.

Paise ka kya hai, vo to ghatata-badhta rehta hai (money comes and goes).

Raveena Tandon recently picked you as her favourite superstar... You think this is an indication that you’ve become an insider now?

That was so sweet of her. I even personally thanked her. These are the superstars who made us fall in love with movies, and today, getting such compliments from them is a big thing for me. I’m not sure how or when

someone is perceived to be an “insider,” or what the criteria are for an outsider to become an insider.

But I can just say that I am very proud to be a part of the Indian film industry.

You recently spotted your hoarding in London, and it made news. People thought it was cute that you have retained your wide-eyed innocence…

How do you do that?

I come from a small town, Gwalior, and I actually had zero connections to the industry, and today, when I experience such surreal moments, it genuinely leaves me moved. There is no bigger feeling than seeing your accomplishments noticed by fans and the masses, which makes you realise how far you’ve come.

I was so happy to spot my hoarding in London. The child in me, the dreamer in me, had an adrenaline rush, and it was a moment I wouldn’t have shied away from sharing with my fans.

What keeps you sane when everyone wants a piece of you right now?

The audience’s love.

To be honest, I have lived for this moment, where the masses know me and want to see more of me on and off screen.

Touchwood, I’ve gotten ten times what I expected from my fans.The immense love and support that they give to me is so sweet. And that keeps me grounded. Also my family. My family has been supportive of my decisions but at the same time, they have made sure that once I am home, I am their Koki and not any actor or star. So

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COVER STORY

yes, the love from my family and my “other family,” called fans, keeps me very much sane.

What’s your equation with Karan Johar now?

Have you sorted out your issues?

He shared the trailer of Shehzada, which he loved. See, I’m here to work. I don’t have personal issues or grudges against anyone in the industry. My focus is only my work.

No one can take Akshay Kumar’s pl ace. Period. I am just doing films and franchises that producers are offering me, where the stories are different and I am pl aying a new character. So there is never a question of repl acement Pants & Jacket: Falguni Shane Peacock Turtle neck: Zara Rings: Drip project Necklace: Inox

You are being seen as a replacement for Akshay Kumar. Your thoughts on it...

No one can take Akshay Kumar’s place.

Period. I am just doing films and franchises that producers are offering me, where the stories are different and I am playing a new character. So there is never a question of replacement. Akshay Sir has always been an inspiration to me. He is a legend. He has ruled for decades and will continue to rule for decades to come; no one can even imagine replacing him.

What’s your thought on the “commercial superstar” tag that you’ve got?

It feels fantastic... and it’s a huge accomplishment for an actor who started with no industry contacts and knew no one in Mumbai. And now to have that tag means that the industry is now looking up to you.

I consider these tags like medals given by the people who love you because of what you do. Having said that, I also believe that at the end of the day, your work is what will keep you ahead. So the tag can be anything; one can attach “commercial” or any other term before or after “superstar.”

But the bottom line 16 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST October 2023

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remains: one has to keep working, keep doing better, and keep entertaining the audience.

From Sara Ali Khan to Ananya Pandey, your name has been linked with all of them...You’re quite the ladies’ man, aren’t you?

The audience and netizens have always kind of loved my chemistry with my co-stars, whether it is in a film or at events; I guess the masses have loved my pair-ups at the movies. It’s like a bonus from fans—an extra dose of love for your pairings. It’s like passing with distinction for an actor if the masses give you full marks on your chemistry exams. Feels good.

The nation wants to know who Kartik Aaryan is dating.

(Laughs) I am single.

Right now, I’m committed to my films only. I don’t have time for dating. If you look at my calendar, every day I am either shooting, promoting, or working for a brand. There is no luxury for a break.

But I’ve no complaints.

I’m feeling blessed and fortunate to be pursuing and living my dreams.

How do you look back on your journey?

I look back with gratitude. The journey has been a tough one.

Auditions, running around in trains, getting rejected multiple times.

But the good part is that I made my debut on my own. After that, I struggled even more to make sure I became a household name. That only happened after the success of my Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety. And then movies happened.

But things also got difficult in between...

But my focus was always work. And I didn’t pay attention to anything else. I still have a long way to go

I am single. Right now, I’m committed to my films only. I don’t have time for dating. If you look at my calendar, every day I am either shooting, promoting, or working for a brand.

Pants & shirt : Falguni Shane Peacock Shoes: Heel & buckle Necklace: Inox | Rings: Bling Sutra

from where I am now. But I look back with gratitude and love.

You’ve done a bit of everything on screen. What do your aspirations look like at the moment?

I feel like my journey has just started. My aspiration is to do more work... I aspire to earn the No. 1 spot. One has to excel in their work no matter what the job is. It could be a 9-to-5 job, and one

still should do an excellent job to feel better and move ahead. My aim is the same; I want to get to the No. 1 spot, and right now I am working hard for it. Fingers crossed, it will happen soon. n October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 17

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FINAL OCT Enchanteur FilmFare Mag A4 September copy.pdf

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03/10/2023

8:57 AM

FINAL OCT Vishal Mishra -

Filmfare Final.pdf

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LIFESTYLE

fashion, fitness, food,

beauty & travel

OUR HOT PICKS

Making waves This season we are going under the sea

This season, we’re not just heading to the beach. We’re going under the sea thanks to the mermaidcore trend. Mermaidcore, which was once simply a niche subculture of fashion, is all about dressing and looking like the fabled sea creatures. Mermaidcore is becoming more popular, especially now, because of pop culture. The Little Mermaid live-action adaptation, starring Halle Bailey, was one of the big proponents. Dua Lipa also portrays Mermaid Barbie in the Barbie movie, complete with wavy blue hair. The obvious way to ace this trend are the classic mermaidshape gowns. This aesthetic has trickled from the internet to the red carpet, with our favourite celebs such as Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra Jonas shelling out major style goals.

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FOREIGN AFFAIRS Internationally acclaimed designer Gaurav Gupta talks about his philosophy and more with Tanisha Bhattacharya Gaurav Gupta is one courtier who requires no introduction. The fashion connoisseur has had an expansive legacy over the years that has traversed home ground and international territories. His clientele have been known to sport his silhouettes at prestigious events like the Oscars, Festival de Cannes, the Emmy Awards, and the Tony Awards. Futuristic in its approach but rooted in Indian aesthetics and traditions, these are the brand aesthetics he wants to showcase to the world. Over the years, he has designed for not only

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Bollywood superstars such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Deepika Padukone, but his career also boasts some of the biggest International stars he has designed for, with names such as Cardi B, Jennifer Hudson, Lizzo, and Megan The Stallion, to name a few. The ace designer speaks about the inspiration for creating this world, making India proud far and wide on global levels and what makes stars make a beeline for his brand and to grace his events.

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Ashley Park Miles Chamley Watson

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Fan Bingbing

Maluma

Kat Graham October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 21

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LIFESTYLE

with Kareena Kapoor Khan

I think there is this brown movement happening across the globe. The world is finally standing up and noticing that India is not just about colourful embroidery, elephants, and the Taj Mahal with Janhvi Kapoor

The Oscars, Emmys, Cannes, Tonys, Grammys—there’s no coveted International platform where a Gaurav Gupta design hasn’t been showcased— do you recall the initial phase of gaining this momentum?

I think it all started five years ago with Saweetie.

And then Megan Thee Stallion wore us for The Oscars and from then on it started like wildfire. Cardi B then wore us for the first time for her music video No Love, Jennifer Hudson wore us for Producers Guild, and then we started gaining momentum, one after the other, after we

Shahid Kapoor

started working with Maison Bose.

Your brand is both futuristic and also deeply Indian at its core…

It’s been over 18 years that I have carved the world of Gaurav Gupta, which is Indian at its core and boundless in its form.

We have mastered the art of merging indigenous Indian construction and embellishing techniques with our idea of the future.

Whether it’s the traditional textiles, or ancient Indian embroideries like zardozi, aari work, nakshi, dabka,

etc., we have used all that to invent and reinvent our future primitive aesthetic.

Not only International stars but your client list has Indian stars who have worn your design at International events. Tell us how you inculcate your Indian roots when designing for them.

It is always a collaboration when you design such icons. And inculcating our Indian roots is something that the brand already has in its DNA. Your designs signify sculptural silhouettes merging a poetic and

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theatrical language.

This distinctive aesthetic has evolved over the years through a combination of my personal experiences, creative influences and a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of fashion. I am grateful for my experience at Central Saint Martins, where I learnt how to truly express myself through art.

You’ve had a showcase at London’s Animal Ball 2019, hosted by The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. Tell us about that royal experience.

I am glad to be part of The Elephant Family and support them in their efforts towards animal welfare and

protection. It was a wonderful experience to see what the organisation does to help save our hurting ecosystem. I particularly remember meeting Dame Vivian Westwood. I spent three hours talking to her about climate change and initiatives to combat it.

after the tough times the world had faced during COVID 19.

and runways?

I think there is this brown movement happening across the globe. The world is finally standing up and noticing that India is not just about colourful embroidery, elephants, and the Taj Mahal.

I think this adds a lens to how the world perceives us and there’s something for everyone to take away—from designers to artists, students, entrepreneurs, etc. Global expansion and recognition are major takeaways from such events as the fact that we are now retailing at Neiman Marcus and Moda Operandi, dressing global culturists across the world, etc.

Do you recall your first big showcase in the West?

We made our debut at Paris Couture Week in January this year.

The experience has been exhilarating. It’s truly been magical. We Tell us the inspiration for choosing the showcased our springtheme of Birth of Venus for Aishwarya summer 2023 couture Rai Bachchan’s outfit at Cannes this collection called year.

Shunya. We wanted The gown was our to make it a sustained interpretation of Sandro activity and continue Botticelli’s famous the magic. painting Birth of Venus, We then showcased our with the shell-like autumn-winter couture structure behind the 2024 collection called shoulder symbolising Hiranyagarbha and I Venus’s rise from the feel we are just getting scalloped shell. It took started.

20 days and over 100 craftspeople to create What are your takeaways on the what came to be a symbol benefits of having an Indian brand of hope, birth and beauty showcased at international events

We have mastered the art of merging indigenous Indian construction and embellishing techniques with our idea of the future

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Lizzo

Jr NTR

Vijay Varma

Gaurav Gupta’s Trending Looks

Cardi B

Gaurav Gupta has conquered Indian and International territories in equal measures with his trademark designs. The couturier has curated a flourishing brand that has become a cult favourite for celebrities worldwide. Some of his most-loved looks include Lizzo making a bold statement in an intergalactic Gaurav Gupta creation at the Governors Ball 2023 in NYC. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s The Venus Sculpture-inspired look was talked about for days while Cardi B’s electric Blue gown at the Grammy was a classic serve featuring the sculpted silhouette. Ranveer Singh, Vijay Varma, Jr NTR donned classy looks in crisp black and white suits that can never go wrong. Needless to say, the ace designer has made heads turn with his signature style ruling across the globe.

Ranveer Singh

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EVENTS

The Launch of

Danube Properties Unveils Oceanz: A paradigm of Luxury and Elegance; Tower-1 Sold Out at Launch Danube Properties announced its latest project, Oceanz, at a grand launch event on September 15th. The event, hosted by the charismatic Maniesh Paul, was a night to remember with electrifying and soul-stirring Firdaus Orchestra mentored by maestro AR Rahman and a stunning dance performance by Bollywood celebrity Mouni Roy. The opulent launch event featured 360-degree projections showcasing the breathtaking views Oceanz has to offer.

Situated in the heart of Dubai Maritime City, Oceanz promises a lifestyle of unparalleled sophistication and comfort.

Interior spaces will be adorned with luxurious furnishings curated by Tonino Lamborghini Casa, ensuring a blend of contemporary design and timeless elegance.

Project Unveiling by Mr. Rizwan Sajan

Oceanz by Danube Properties is set to redefine luxury living in Dubai, offering residents a unique experience that combines architectural magnificence with the finest in interior design.

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360 degree panoramic ocean views in Oceanz by Danube

Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim, Director of Sales and Property Management - Dubai Maritime City, Mr. Abdulla Al Hashmi - COO Of DP World’s Parks & Zones, Mr. Rizwan Sajan - Founder and Chariman - Danube Group, Mr. Abdulla Belhoul - CEO of the Department of Planning and Development – Trakhees, Mr. Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman - Danube Group, and celebrity host Maniesh Paul.

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EVENTS

Mouni Roy setting the stage on fire

Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Abdulla Al Hashmi - Chief Operating Officer of DP World’s Parks & Zones in the UAE

Dr. Sana Sajan, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Ms. Sameera Sajan

Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Duccio Overi - Executive Director - Formitalia Luxury Group (Exclusive licensee of Tonino Lamborghini Casa, Italy)

(L to R)- Mr. Sahil Sajan, Mr. Sameera Sajan, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Mr. Anis Sajan,Ms. Rubina Sajan, Ms.Shabnam Kassam, Dr. Sana Sajan

Firdaus Orchestra by AR Rahman

Danube Properties China team

Danube marketing team

Danya Mohammed (Netflix Dubai Bling star), Ms.Sameera Sajan

Ania J mesmerising the crowd with her performance

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DUBAI CALLING BOLLYWOOD! CHECK OUT THE CELEBS WHO DROPPED

BY AT THE DANUBE PROPERTIES OFFICE IN DUBAI

Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, Mr. Rizwan Sajan and Mrs Sameeera Sajan with Pulkit Samrat, Richa Chadha, Pankaj Tripathi and Manjot Singh

Mr. Rizwan Sajan with Rajpal Yadav and (right) with Rohit Roy PHOTOGRAPHY - OSAMA AMAN

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She rises INTERVIEW

to

conquer

SHE CAN DO COMMERCIAL FILMS; SHE CAN DO CULT FILMS. VIDYA BALAN IS SOMEONE WHO HAS GONE BEYOND LABELS AND SOBRIQUETS, SAYS JITESH PILLAAI Sometimes working with actors can be stressful. You have to second-guess their moods and walk on eggshells trying to make things okay. She’s that rare breed that gives you back the respect they demand. She automatically earns your trust and respect.

Perhaps it comes from a place of love. It’s so easy to love VB. Shorn of any artifice, what you see is what you get. She will listen intently while you talk and be interested in knowing more than superficial things.

She’s genuinely interested in the process of communication and engagement. And therein also lies her ability as an actor. She’s reached a stage where she’s surefooted about it. No dithering; no number games to worry about.

She practises her craft diligently, and it shows up time and again.

She can be the hunter and the hunted with a wounded soul, like she was in The Dirty Picture, without any scope for redemption.

Or she can offer solace and hope, like she did in Tumhari Sulu. Vidya preys on your worst fears, yet she assuages your soul in Kahani.

She can play sexual politics and slay the men in Ishqiya. In her heartbreaks, we see our frailties; in her joys, we seek solace like we did in Paa. She doesn’t get the character; she is the character.

She probably doesn’t even know how much hope and love she ignites in the turbulent darkness of the theatre. Her triumph is the triumph of the common woman, your next-door girl who made good. Vidya is the underdog story time and again. And that’s why it hits you in the gut. Excerpts from a wonderful conversation:

PHOTOGRAPHS: AJAY KADAM STYLING: PRANAY JAITLY AND SHOUNAK AMONKAR HAIR: SHALAKA BHOSLE MAKE-UP: HARSHAL JARIWALA Outfit: Huemn | Jewellery: Vandals

WHAT WOULD A 44-YEAROLD VIDYA TELL A 24-YEAROLD VIDYA TODAY? (Laughs) I love you. I love you for being you. That sums it all up. At 24, I just got the opportunity to do Parineeta.

I landed it when I was 25, and it was released when I was 26. I think there was a burning desire; there was a fire in the belly. Today, when I think of it, I’m like, “What confidence ya?” That is for a girl who comes from a non-film family.

I didn’t even grow up watching movies.

So for a girl like me, from a middle-class, I’d say not conservative but traditional family, to have gotten to a stage where it seemed like I might get an opportunity because Chakram had already happened in Malayalam.

CHAKRAM GOT SHELVED…

Yes. Chakram was with Mohan Lal, Dilip and Kamal (Haasan) Sir in Malayalam. We shot for 15 days, and then Kamal Sir and Mohanlal had a rift. So they called off the film.

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HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE PRESSURE OF MAINTAINING A CERTAIN BODY TYPE? HOW DO YOU HOLD ON TO BODY POSITIVITY?

It happened over time. I was called sexy after I did The Dirty Picture. And the huge commercial success got me so much love. It even got me a National Award. I was being called the female hero and all that. Basically, I was not being Vidya. I was Silk.

I was playing a character, and I was okay with it. I am far more comfortable being a character than being myself in public. When I am promoting the film, I have fun because I am promoting a character. The moment you make it about me, it makes

me a little uncomfortable.

So I had just done it without thinking. That translated to me being sexy. And I hadn’t been called sexy until then. Suddenly, there was a new me. I had also met Siddharth at that time. He made me feel great. I started accepting my body because of a combination of factors.

But the journey had its ups and downs. What happens is that when acceptance comes and you are new to it, you get scared that you will be found out. It’s a kind of imposter syndrome. I’ve gotten over that, and I’m slowly accepting myself the way I am.

DID THIS FEAR MAKE YOU REJECT YOUR FEMININITY? It led me to reject my body

and reject my femininity. I have always wanted to be better than the boys. I used to pump heavy weights with the boys in the gym in 2005. I used to pump crazy amounts of weight because I wanted to prove I could do it as well as the boys.

of my body is still a work in progress. But I have come a long way. I don’t react anymore to comments pertaining to my body. I don’t think it’s anyone’s right to comment on someone’s body. It used to upset me and rile me up. But I am in a much better place now.

WHAT EFFECT DID IT HAVE?

REJECTIONS, BAD REVIEWS... DID THEY PUT YOU BACK IN THE SHELL?

It harmed me. It led to hormonal issues. It is now through healing that I have learned what it has taught me.

WHAT HAVE YOUR 12 YEARS OF SELFHEALING TAUGHT YOU?

In retrospect, one can say,I shouldn’t have done that.

But that’s okay. That is what growing up is all about, right?

This love and acceptance

I have always been in a shell.

But now I’ve started shedding it. My journey as an actor has helped me. This journey where I have gotten to play someone else has let me do things I wouldn’t do as Vidya. I think all these things have just freed me up. It has allowed me to become more like myself, more authentic and more comfortable.

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INTERVIEW

AT 24, I JUST GOT THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO PARINEETA. I LANDED IT WHEN I WAS 25, AND IT WAS RELEASED WHEN I WAS 26. I THINK THERE WAS A BURNING DESIRE; THERE WAS A FIRE IN THE BELLY. TODAY, WHEN I THINK OF IT, I’M LIKE, “WHAT CONFIDENCE YA”

that time, I was offered Ishqiya.

Then someone told me, “But Naseer Saab is so much older than you are; are you going to play opposite him?” and I said, “But this is calling out to me.

I have been waiting for such a role. I am hungry for it.” Ishqiya went to every possible actress in the country before it came to me. I grabbed it with both hands, and I loved it. I love being a seductress, a femme fatale. It’s just unusual for me, but also the language of films that were emerging at that time with these kinds of films, Vishal Bhardwaj kind of films, was new. I just said yes to it. I am so glad I paid heed to my gut. I feel that was a rebirth for me as an actor. This is what I am here to do; everything else will follow. I was not a teenager. I don’t think I was a teenager even when I was one.

My mother would always say, “You were never a bud; you were already a rose.” Ishqiya was a turning point for me. Sometimes I feel that when you feel stuck, all you have to do is take a turn.

”

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE ON SOCIAL MEDIA?

I have a social media team that posts whatever has to be posted. I do not check anyone’s posts. And I can’t read texts at all; I need my glasses. I get impatient with reading. I like seeing pictures.

That is why I enjoy Instagram, and then I like comic reels. Other than that, I am not really on social media. I believe a lot of people get affected by social media, and I feel sad about it.

HAVE YOU EVER FELT REGRET AFTER REJECTING A FILM?

AT ONE POINT, YOU WERE TOLD TO DO COMMERCIAL FILMS LIKE YOUR CONTEMPORARIES. WERE YOU TRYING TO FIT IN?

YOU MANAGED TO SET THE COURSE STRAIGHT.

I realised I should not do films where I was not fully myself. Bhool Bhulaiyaa was a commercial film, but I was fully into it. I remember someone telling me that you have to do younger roles so that your longevity increases because the shelf life of an actress is very short. I felt pressured. Around Outfit: RSR by Riti Rahul Shah | Jewellery: Khanna Jewellers Shoes: Doux Amour India 32 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST October 2023

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”

I used to think I could sleepwalk through commercial films. I had that arrogance because I had been appreciated as an actor, and I thought commercial films with a few songs and scenes were no big deal. It was humbling. It was a leveller because you realise that you can’t take anything for granted in this business. The camera catches everything. So it caught me taking a nap in Heyy Babyy and Kismat Konnection, and I have not watched those films since.

I WAS CALLED SEXY AFTER I DID THE DIRTY PICTURE. AND THE HUGE COMMERCIAL SUCCESS GOT ME SO MUCH LOVE. IT EVEN GOT ME A NATIONAL AWARD

”

I have said no to a couple of films, and I think I have made good decisions. But in those films that did well, I felt like, “Oh, the other heroine has done it better than I could have, which is why it turned out to be better.”

I don’t think I ever regretted not doing a film. I have regretted doing some films for the reasons I did them. I never had long associations with anyone in the business. It is now happening.

I am working with directors for the second time. I remember when we were doing Bobby Jasoos, a couple of detective films starring male stars were also announced. It had gotten into my head that I was being called the fourth Khan. And I thought that before the guys did detective films, I should finish mine quickly. I feel somewhere we did the film injustice by doing that. I take accountability for wanting to do it because I wanted it to be released before the detective films starring male stars got released.

WHAT ATTRACTS YOU TO A FILM?

I always want to feel hope at the end of a film. I love films that make you feel happy and joyful.

They should have songs and dance and colours and drama,

06/10/2023 8:50 AM

”

It is beautiful. If you get the right person.Sometimes you adjust, sometimes he does; sometimes you compromise, sometimes he does. It is a give-and-take.

DO YOU SULK AFTER A TIFF? Yes, yes, of course.

ISHQIYA WENT TO EVERY POSSIBLE ACTRESS IN THE COUNTRY BEFORE IT CAME TO ME. I GRABBED IT WITH BOTH HANDS AND I

LOVED IT

”

WHO MAKES UP FIRST?

Outfit: Nirmooha By Prreeti Jaiin Nainutia Jewellery: Vandals Shoes: Charles & Keith

the Indian way. I am looking to do joyful stuff. I am done with intense stuff. OTT is full of it, and then the comic content is not funny on OTT. Dos and don’ts keep changing, but at this point, I want to do happy stuff. Things that I feel happy doing, living through, or telling, and people will be happy to watch. Naach gaana is also something I would love. I miss lip-sync. After a long time in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, I saw lipsyncing. I was so happy. It’s a proper Hindi film.

women, it is. Just as there is a difference when a female director is telling a male story.

It is not a lived experience; it is an imagined experience or an observed experience, and that makes a huge difference.

It’s how you see yourself, right?

perfect that he is a producer.

I react to everything; I am very expressive. So it balances the good there.

What I have learned from him is to take my time and consider possibilities before reacting. He just lets me be me, and that’s a blessing.

YOU’VE PLAYED ALL SORTS OF WONDERFUL CHARACTERS. HAVE THEY IMPACTED YOU IN ANY WAY?

WOULD YOU SAY YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR HUSBAND, SIDDHARTH ROY KAPOOR, IS LIKE A FLOWER?

I think I attracted Siddharth into my life because I was starting to accept who I was. But because I was going through a transition, I would just shoot off. I would say things, sometimes sensational, sometimes to shock, sometimes to have fun, sometimes just because I could. Today, the way I speak is very different from how I used to speak back then. We grow and evolve. That was a phase I was in at this time. I have reached a point today where I don’t even care about shocking people. I guess maybe when you reach 40—I am 44 now—you reach that stage. (Laughs) I still like dirty jokes. I can’t deny that.

DID YOU HAVE ANY APPREHENSIONS ABOUT ENTERING INTO A RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM BECAUSE HE HAD BEEN MARRIED TWICE BEFORE?

Every character impacts me.

I used to carry my work back home. But I don’t do that anymore. I liked shooting films outside Mumbai because then you are still in that zone, whereas in Mumbai, you come back home and you have to deal with stuff. Your cook is asking you what to cook; there’s an event you can’t refuse; things like that.

I still don’t go to most things because, when I am in the middle of a film, I am just incapable of multitasking. I need time to be with myself.

IS THERE A STARK DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE MALE AND FEMALE GAZE? It is. You know, for men, it is not a lived experience; for

AFTER 13 YEARS IN A RELATIONSHIP, WHAT HAS HE TAUGHT YOU AND CHANGED ABOUT YOU?

He doesn’t react at all, and I am the opposite. He is very calm, which is why I think it’s

I wanted to be with someone, but I never thought I’d get married, and then Siddharth happened to me in a natural progression. He popped the question and I just said yes. It took me some time to accept that I was married. I was fighting it. I wanted to hold on to my individuality, and I was sensitive to everything that everyone said. I felt marriage made a woman invisible. I had seen that happen to my friends. I was so scared. Having said that, I have seen women, for example, my sister, hold their own. They are equal partners. There were more examples, though, of women losing themselves.

So I was very scared—I’d be asked to adjust and compromise; I would be domesticated. I was like, “None of that is going to happen to me.” Marriage is a very individual thing.

Depends. I am more prone to fighting. I am more expressive. If something is bothering me, I have to get it out of my system.

He processes it; he’ll want to figure it out during his morning walk. I think fights are important.

HOW LONG DO YOUR FIGHTS LAST?

Sometimes for two days. I cannot keep quiet. That is my problem. I have to fight.

I’d rather fight than not talk.

I do sulk; it is tough for me to sulk for a long time. That is why I have to get it out of my system.

WHAT HAS HE TAUGHT YOU?

To enjoy life. He knows how to enjoy life; he knows how to live well. I didn’t know that at all. I was always a very disciplined South Indian girl. Being with him has taught me how to en joy life and how to relax. We love travelling together. I have begun to read again. I would be amazed at how he could spend an entire afternoon reading. I would be like, “Oh my god, I haven’t done anything.” But he could enjoy a meal. I can enjoy myself now. We both enjoy tennis, watching shows in London, and just walking around.

Neither of us is the shopping kind. It is about experiences.

It’s sometimes just that I love talking about everything. I love sharing everything with him. I am like that with my family, too. Then Siddharth came in, and with him, the intensity was greater.

I like taking him through everything that happened during the day—who I met, what happened, what I ate, what I saw—everything. I am a sharer; he’s a listener. That’s the most important thing I have learned. n October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 33

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PORTUGAL

RIGHT on TARGET

FILMMAKERS RAJ NIDIMORU AND KRISHNA DK, BETTER KNOWN AS RAJ AND DK, HAVE A HABIT OF HITTING THE BULLSEYE EVERYTIME. TANZIM PARDIWALLA TRIES TO GLEAN THEIR SECRET

With a filmography that includes breakthrough hits like Go Goa Gone, Stree, The Family Man, and Farzi, Raj and DK have a knack for tackling the wildest concepts. How else does one get Saif Ali Khan to play an unhinged zombie hunter or get Rajkummar Rao and Dulquer Salmaan to showcase their crazy sides in their most recent film Guns & Gulaabs? If you ask them, the grind is all about more writing and less moping. In this exclusive interview, the maverick duo opened up about their fascinating process, their equation with actors on set, and more. Excerpts:

What goes into balancing humour and violence in your work?

DK: This is something that we as filmmakers, after a couple of films, have slowly gotten the knack for. I first noticed this in Shor in the City.

I distinctly remember this because the film was playing in theatres and we were watching audiences from the doorway at Chandan Theatre. There is a scene where these characters are going around the city trying to find a place to drop a bomb. It’s hilarious and satirical.

Audiences were having a laugh at their expense.

Finally, they place the bomb, and it’s about to go

off. We see a bicycle tyre enter the frame, followed by a child. And you can see the entire theatre’s mood go from funny to “oh no”. So that’s the fastest turn-around.

It’s very effective as a tool. The more laughter, the greater the impact when something serious happens.

RAJ: Even in Stree, you’re scared for a second and laughing the next.

You’re getting the satire at the same time. There’s a theme and depth to it. I think you’ll find a good balance of these elements to put across something fresh. Of course, it has to be authentic; you can’t force a joke.

Did you look at any ’90s movie influences for Guns & Gulaabs?

RAJ: More than specific movies that influenced us to go back and do this, it was the charm of creating a story that deals with simplicity, innocence and a hopeful world where there were no smartphones. One little element of a mobile phone, when you take it out, opens up a whole new romantic world. We had the freedom to make it larger than life and cinematic as compared to, say, The Family Man, which was very gritty and realistic.

DK: You can sense the innocence of most of the characters in the show.

Guns & Gulaabs

GUNS & GULAABS IS MORE ABOUT THE CHARACTER DETAILS, QUIRKS, AND NUANCES THAN THE OVERALL PLOT. THE GANG WARS ONLY FORM THE BACKDROP October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 35

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INTERVIEW

Inherently, the 1990s were a simpler time.

It felt like it was the era the story should be set in. The start of it was the story, and everything else went from there, as opposed to us thinking, “Let’s make a retro film.”

What went into the casting of the series?

RAJ: This show is more about the character details, quirks and nuances than the overall plot. The gang wars only form the backdrop. So we needed the right actors to come and do this. Rajkummar Rao has a big range.

Here he plays a lover boy who turns into a dreaded gangster but hilariously, he’s not owing it. It’s so fun that he could play with those layers. For Dulquer Salmaan’s character, we needed that swag. We needed a guy who would come from outside this small town and start to own it. He might look like a simple guy—a romantic guy with a wife and kids who listens to music.

But there’s something more to him. Similarly, Adarsh Gourav had to play this complicated character who is pretty inconsequential in the opening. He is under the shadow of his father and then he starts coming out on his own. He only worked on the quirks because there was only so much he could do.

The scene where his assistant feeds him a samosa by hand was his idea. Gulshan Devaiah, of course, brings something edgy.

Even though you know you’re styling him as Khalnayak, you still need to like him.

DK: He’s also the only character from Mumbai, so you see that filmy influence.

He styles himself after Sanjay Dutt.

With so many talented actors at play, direction must have been a breeze?

RAJ: We focussed on smaller things, like Tippu’s run. He runs with his head held up. Just a run can make you laugh. It has to be built in. So it’s a small detail to tell your actor, but it builds character. That’s something refreshing.

DK: There’s a certain lack of swag or attitude in the run. He just wants to get there as fast as possible. Even Atmanram’s laugh, for example. He is this imposing villain, and looking at his personality, he would have a thundering laugh,

The Family Man

but the idea here was different. The script reads, “Atmaram giggles.” That’s the word. His laugh is a funny giggle. It’s quite out of place because a guy who is so dangerous has this silly trait.

Lots of actors have said that they had a blast on your sets…

RAJ: On set, we keep it very simple. We don’t push the actors for 20–30 takes.

It’s really about being in sync. We make it easier for them. Sometimes we shoot the whole scene in two takes and we’re done.

Instinctively, once you choose the right actors, it’s about giving them the right space to perform. Also, sitting around is really boring. Once you shoot a scene, you’re already thinking about the next shot. It’s like in cricket: if you’re only fielding all day and the ball comes to you only once in a while,

WE’RE NOT LOOKING AT CRISSCROSSING UNIVERSES AT THIS POINT. WE'RE FOCUSING ON CREATING NEW WORLDS. THEY’RE ALL DIFFERENT WORLDS THAT DON'T NEED TO BE INTER-CONNECTED it’s quite boring. I’d rather be batting.

DK: Another thing we do is have a very clear idea of the edit. We usually know where it’s all going. So as long as we get a good performance in one take, we know we can move on. That way, people don’t feel the pressure of shooting a lot. And we do shoot quite fast.

How different is your approach between something like The

Family Man and Citadel?

DK: Guns & Gulaabs and Citadel are poles apart.

Everything about it is different—the sets are different, the people are different and at the core of it, we’re the only ones who remain the same. Even the mood is different. We both get into sync about what we need to do. It takes a little bit of a loop to get everyone— from the DOP to the

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completely different from each other. Guns & Gulaabs is different from Farzi and so on. So while we still have the baggage of, say, The Family Man, perhaps you’re not comparing anymore.

The comparison goes away once you start watching and enjoying it. The idea is to enjoy it on its own.

Viewers feel you guys put Easter eggs in your projects, referencing both future and past works…

SO FAR, WE HAVEN'T HAD TO WORRY ABOUT HAVING A UNIQUE STORY. THE STORIES AND IDEAS WE HAVE ARE ENOUGH. I GUESS THE PRESSURE WILL MOUNT GOING FORWARD actors—in the same zone, but after some time, we’re clear. I don’t know if I can explain it all that well.

RAJ: We approach it differently. I think it’s so great that we have that opportunity to do something so contrasting instead of doing the same thing all over again. We’d rather just go from one energy and one idea to another. You get challenged and new

information flows.

Do you feel the pressure to always do something new and quirky?

RAJ: Earlier, we didn’t have that because it was easy. We did a film and we didn’t know which film was coming out next. Then, when people watched it, it was like, “Where did this come from?” For the last few years, viewers have been

expecting something special or unique. So far, we haven’t had to worry about having a unique story. The stories and ideas we have are enough.

I guess the pressure will mount going forward since the expectations are there from the last one.

And we don’t want to do the last one. We want to do something new.

DK: I think it also helps that our projects are

DK: Usually it’s just a tiny wink-wink moment, and there’s nothing more than that. There are so many films in our filmography where our protagonist is working for a software company and if you notice, the name of the company can be the same.

Just some trivia.

RAJ: We’re not looking at crisscrossing universes at this point. We’re focusing on creating new worlds.

They’re all different worlds that don’t need to be interconnected. But what we tend to do as filmmakers is throw in some Easter eggs for fun. So that anyone who follows our work will get a kick out of it.

What kind of movies would you recommend to fans of your work?

DK: We always like to go back to the first films or breakthrough films of the directors we admire today. Like the first film

by Christopher Nolan, David Fincher, and Quentin Tarantino. My recommendation would always be to make sure you’ve watched Kill Bill and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, but have you watched Reservoir Dogs? Go watch Swingers or Memento.

Doug Liman is one of our favourites.

RAJ: It’s all about the first, because that’s when their voice was fresh. You get inspired by it.

DK: Later, they get into the Hollywood mould and start making bigger and bigger stuff. They’re still doing great stuff, but there’s a lot more to learn from what they did when they did not have Hollywood support behind them. n October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 37

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INTERVIEW

Applause and after SUSHMITA SEN HAS MADE HEADS TURN PLAYING A TRANSGENDER IN TAALI. SHE CHATS WITH TANISHA BHATTACHARYA ABOUT PUSHING THE ENVELOPE AS AN ACTOR

Sushmita Sen’s

journey as an actress, though peppered with commercial hits, didn’t reach the kind of high that was expected, yet she never faded from public memory. Her bohemian lifestyle was much written about and brands continued to adore her. She found fulfilment in motherhood, weaning herself away from the limelight after adopting her second daughter. Now that her adopted daughters Renee and Alisah have all grown up, she has come back to acting again with a bang. Her bravura act in the 2020 series Aarya was much lauded and her performance as a transgender in Taali (2023) has been the talk of the town. The actress talks about her transformation and more in a heart-to-heart interview.

You’ve been Miss Universe, do you think people are ready to accept you in such roles?

When the trailer came out, the comments were mindblowing.

Acceptance was through the roof. They loved it. They are looking forward to it, which is a huge conscious shift.

Because in my time alone, I think there are at least 50-60 trans community people who are thrilled that I am doing this film. So I think there has been a shift. You can’t please everyone and they have their point of view, I

respect that. This is about bringing the third gender and the trans community the acceptance of being human and somewhere we have forgotten that.

We have put them in different boxes and we have forgotten that they are humans.

How did your daughters react to Taali ?

They were elated. They have been seeing bits and pieces as the edits were coming in. They have been seeing it sporadically. But to see it in the teaser and kind of have a flow in it. My younger daughter had

goosebumps. My elder daughter is just like, “I knew it! Love it!”

Renee is my foremost cheerleader. And I am thinking, it is crazy right, everyone is focused on the teaser, and I am looking at how many seconds it is. It is a 47-second teaser and it is a number I hold very dear to me. I am also 47 years old. I was like wow look at that, it is exactly 47 seconds. It was very well received by everyone. In the family, the kids and of course people that love me.

The makers of Taali spoke

about how you need to know everything about everything.

Has your approach to your films always been that way?

I have always been like that. In my second innings, I have been a little more particular.

Because at the end of the day it is a collaboration.

People will have to come together and create something for that particular show. So both of the shows - Aarya and Taali, I have headlined and that’s how I have been.

It must have been difficult to shift from Aarya to Taali?

I would be bored if I was

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doing another kind of Aarya or anything in that zone. So Taali came to me at the right time.

Because in so many ways, it’s my tribute to the third gender. It is also my tribute to someone I deeply admire - Shreegauri Sawant. The fact that I was her first choice, seals the deal.

Like it is something that I have to deliver. And then this came right after Aarya. For me, it was like finishing Aarya, then a clean slate. Learn to unlearn and then get into the zone of Taali.

How emotionally draining was it for you?

It was extremely emotionally draining to perform in that headspace. When you are

dwell on it too much because this is a way of getting sucked into something and then get stuck there. So I usually calm down, feel what I am feeling and then get back into the world, to the people, to the set. I don’t like to think about it for too long.

I don’t like to stay away from the set for too long. There were some moments. And it wasn’t the emotion of the scene, it was the tragedy of the situation.

How do you snap out of it?

I do spend time alone but I also don’t like to

months

How did you undergo the physical transformation, you had suffered from a heart attack too some time ago.

I have had a restful four months since the heart

Taali

training in a workshop, you don’t have that environment, you’re not in costume, you don’t have people, you’re with co-actors, assistants, and teachers, It’s not the same. But when you get into that moment and perform with everyone there in real-time, it is cathartic. Because where you believed your emotions would reach a five, it peaked at an 11 and you didn’t see it coming. Because you are so in the moment. I had many moments like that in Taali when I would just break down.

I have had a restful four months since the heart attack. I’ve started basic stretching and yoga which I don’t consider training because I do training on gymnastic rings. I am not allowed to get on them for six

attack. I’ve started basic stretching and yoga which I don’t consider training because I do training on gymnastic rings. I am not allowed to get on them for six months. So two more months to go. For Gauri, yes I had to put on a lot of weight, then we lost it for playing Ganesh. His portions were thinner because I also play the man. It was exciting then through all of that, the physical transformation was fine. I think the emotional transformation was hard.

It comes as a great shock when we see stars having medical issues….

I have always known that I am very loved. I have

gratitude for that. Three decades, it’s not people who come on social media. They bring you up one day and bring you down the next.

Three generations that I have seen grow up, with me or thereafter.

These are real people.

I know they love me very much. Do they think I am invincible?

No, that is why they are concerned about me. But we are human beings, things happen. We can’t share everything on social media because it’s not a voice, it’s a lot of noise.

industry. I just have to work and get back to my life. That was me before and that is much more me now.

Do we get to see you in a Bengali film again?

I have done one Nirbaak (2015) which is a very art-noir sort of film. But again it has to click. Just to do a Bengali film I don’t want to do one. It has to be something that inspires me to say I’ll do whatever I can do.

I’ll learn this, I’ll do that. The fire to do it.

That’s when it happens.

Who are your closest confidantes in the film industry today?

I am open to everyone and accept feedback.

I just don’t call up anybody. I am close to Dia Mirza and have always been.

Salman Khan is a strong supporter and has always been, But I don’t hang out with anyone from the

How has your perception of beauty evolved?

I have always believed that beauty is God’s handwriting. It has got nothing to do with your height, weight, colour of your skin, your features - none of it. There has to be something that resonates long after you are gone. That’s beautiful. n October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 39

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INTERVIEW

Celebrating the art of Cinema!

FESTIVAL DIRECTOR AND MANAGER OF META FILM FEST 2023, LEILA MASINAEI SHARES HER INSIGHTS, VISION AND PASSION FOR CINEMA IN THIS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE

F

ounder, manager and festival director Leila Masinaei is back with her much-awaited Meta Film Fest 2023.

In its second year, the 4-day event is slated to be even bigger and better than its dazzling debut in 2022 and promises to be an absolute treat for cinema-lovers. With more than 90 films from across 33 countries, Masinaei has successfully pulled off a coup of sorts putting together an esteemed jury, panelists for workshops and renowned names for masterclasses. We caught up with the visionary cinema enthusiast to talk about the upcoming film festival. In this interview, she tells us about overcoming the challenges and all the excitement lined up in the days ahead.

Leila Masinaei

How did the idea of hosting this festival come about?

In 2018, my organization, Great Minds Event Management, launched the first ever regional cinema convention that was similar to the large cinema conventions that are held globally, but with the geographical market focus of Middle East, Turkey, Africa (META), a market dubbed by the cinema industry as the emerging cinema markets.

One of the key topics of discussion included content diversification, local content production, and the lack of an international film festival in Dubai that’s needed to create a wholesome film culture in the country. After many discussions, we agreed to step in as a collective and fill this gap, launching the first ever independent international film festival for the Arab world, and META Film Fest was born. Our partners VOX Cinemas, the largest cinema chain in the Arab world, have been instrumental force behind shaping this festival.

What were the challenges the first time around vis-a-vis this time?

Creating anything for the first time is fraught with challenges. But we have taken a lot of learnings from

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the first edition into the second edition, as we look to build, grow, and improve. Although we have the credibility and brand recognition of a successful edition under our belts, with that success comes a great responsibility to deliver an even bigger and better festival for the industry.

this year?

We are in the process of compiling the names and every day, we get another big name added that makes us smile.

A few I can share now include Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone’s Kennedy, Naseeruddin Shah’s Holy Conspiracy, Merve Dizdar, the Turkish Actress who just won As the Founder of the Meta Best actress at Cannes Film Fest 2023, what’s the Film Festival is coming vision for the second edition along with her film of the film festival?

Snow and the Bear, the With just one edition in Silver Bear winner actor, 2022, the film industry Reza Naji, coming along is aware of our festival. with his film, Winners, We have incredible which is UK’s Official films that have made Submission to the Oscars the festival circuits and 2023, the talented Sajal have chosen our festival Aly offering a talk on for their Middle East roadmap to success, and premieres. This is a huge the list goes on. This accomplishment with is a festival with the just one edition under best of the best talent our belt. represented.

The vision for the 2023 edition of the festival What makes MFF 2023 so is therefore partially unique as compared to the already materialized, other Festivals worldwide? which is curating a There are many unique spectacular line up of features about our theatrical experience for festival, but I would our audience alongwith like to highlight that workshops to hone we are focusing on the young talent. I’d hope to theme of sustainability make it the cornerstone at the festival, therefore of the film industry in every element around the UAE. The long-term the festival will be made vision would be the most from recycled material, to credible film festival in reduce the environmental the Middle East, and I footprint of the festival. think we are on the right We worked with a famous track to achieve that as sculpture to create the well. festival’s trophy, the Ghazal, and all of the What are the key highlights trophies will be made and what can the cinema from recycled cement lovers expect this year? from UAE construction Well, there are over 96 sites, keeping true to our films from 33 countries sustainable message. that will be played under various segments Tell us more about your own including 71 films in interest in cinema? competition and 25 I love art and literature, special screenings, I paint, am an advent 9 premieres and 6 reader, frequent visitor retrospectives. Apart of museums, art shows, from these, there are plays, theater, and to me, interactive Q&A sessions cinema is the blend of all with filmmakers, forms of art, and when 14 workshops, done right, it can create masterclasses, red carpet masterpieces. I grew up in events, A-list celebrity a household where art in appearances, and even all its forms was valued, after-parties with stars. and the motion pictures held an important place Which are the names that for our family nights, you are most excited about where we would watch

with Oscar Winning Andrez Vincent Gomez

with Mano Khalil

with Actress and Director Frances O Conner

all manner of movies prestigious film festival and hold debates and of the Arab world. With discussions. So, without the help of the industry realizing, I think I was professionals, the raised as a film critique, wonderful film community and my love affair with in UAE, a neutral and the cinema is in my DNA. very well versed selection My sister, who pursued committee, and the art professionally and is backdrop of our beautiful a professor at American city Dubai, this is a festival University in Dubai has that can achieve this. My signed her first feature film dream would be for this as a lead actress. So, like festival to one day be one I said, cinema is sort of in of Oscar qualifier festivals. our DNA. How do you see the Festival in Who’ve been your biggest this region and the scope for sources of motivation?

Arabic cinema evolving through I would say my daughters such endeavours? more than anyone else. I First of all, the festival have two brilliant and very provides a platform creative daughters, who for Arab filmmakers to I am certain will choose showcase their movies and studies and careers in the their talents. This year, out creative sector. I don’t of 71 films in competition, know, maybe I do secretly 34 are in Arabic. Arab hope for them to go into films selected in official the film industry, and competition and those who perhaps paving the way for further on go to win, gain them without knowing! visibility and recognition for their films among the Going ahead what’s the plan festival circuits. Also for MFF? Arab films get viewed and The plan is simple. We distribution contracts are want MFF to become signed at festivals such as the most reputable and this.

why you just can’t miss 3 REASONS Meta Film Fest 2023!

Watching over 91 award-winning films Exposure to world cinema with movies from Argentina to Japan.

Red carpet premieres, interacting with cast and crew of the films, workshops and masterclasses.

when where

9th – 12th November 2023 VOX Cinemas, Wafi City, Dubai October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 41

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INTERVIEW

thi

ripa T a k an Divy ya Dahi

ya

ahi D k e Viv

Two much Love !

PICS CREDIT: JAFAR VETTIYIL

POPULAR STARS AND POWER COUPLE DIVYANKA TRIPATHI DAHIYA AND VIVEK DAHIYA IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE TALK ABOUT ALL THINGS LOVE, LIFE, MARRIAGE AND SPILL THE SECRETS OF THEIR HAPPILY FOREVER

Divyanka Tripathi Dahiya and Vivek Dahiya are not only television’s one of the most-loved real-life couples but are also power brands when it comes to their screen standing! While Vivek has now stepped into Bollywood, Divyanka is ready to storm the OTT space. Both the actors spell credibility and success as actors on screen and off it, together they make for a dream couple. We caught up with the adorable duo who were in Dubai to receive their Golden Visa. Their compatibility, love and respect speaks volumes as we launch into a candid tete-a-tete and become privy to their cute banter. Each other’s best friends and best cheerleaders, they talk to us about what keeps the love going in marriage and also the duo make some interesting revelations about each other including telling us about who is the more romantic of the two.

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Congratulations on your Golden Visa! So now we will get to see more of you both in Dubai…

Vivek: Yes, Thank you! It feels good. We do visit here often because of everything that it has to offer. You know, the city is vibrant, its dynamic, and its modern and things change rapidly every few months.

Divyanka: Also, we have our friends staying here. So, it’s lovely staying around them, meeting them often. And yes, with the Golden Visa it feels good to hold that ID card in your hand!

What do you most love about Dubai? Shopping?

Vivek: Absolutely. In all these years that we’ve been coming here, we have identified that we always need extra luggage when going back. Aur kuch pata ho no ho Dubai mein, lekin humein ye pata hai ki luggage sabse acche kaha milte hain (laughs).

Divyanka: We arrive in a sedan, but return in an SUV!

Vivek you’ve stepped into Bollywood with Chal Zindagi, what’s the headspace like?

Vivek: Strangely it doesn’t feel any different because earlier also I was acting and here also I’m acting.

As an industry we have compartmentalised these platforms like TV, or OTT or films, but as an actor I’m doing the same thing. Of course, undeniably the big screen has its own charms.

Divyanka how excited are you about his debut?

Divyanka: Very! I’ve always known and believed that Vivek is made for movies, though he’s very humble to admit it, but I know that he’s made for good scripts. He’s made for big challenges, for action, dancing, he’s like a good package, like he’s complete hero material… jaisa sikhaya tha maine bol diya hai (laughs). But on a serious note, good content will bring out the best in good actors!

returning her compliment here, but seriously she’s a very intelligent actor, a thinking actor. When she receives a script, and obviously there are times when writing wise it could be flawed or there are things that don’t really make sense, she suggests changes to the creative team and the director. So when an actor puts so much thought, hard work and efforts into the script and character, eventually it looks nicer. You never realize how is it that certain actor is able to deliver it better than others. And the formula is this, you have to be a thinking actor.

I know that you have refused a lot of roles from several big production houses, because you choose to portray the woman in the right sensibilities…

Divyanka: It’s just that I want to have faith in what I’m doing. Like the characters I play have to be believable and relatable. The storyline could have a thousand insane twists and turns but till the characters don’t convince, I won’t go ahead! I generally don’t even go for meetings or narrations, I just ask them to send me a screenplay or a script and that clarifies everything.

You are set for the OTT debut yourself with The Magic of Shiri?

Divyanka: Yes, the new release date will be announced soon. It’s a family oriented web-series and it’s something I immensely enjoyed.

Do you take each other’s advice for all your scripts and projects?

Vivek: I don’t do anything without asking her. I don’t pick up any project without checking with her once.

So he’s a perfect husband then…

Divyanka: Yes that he is! But it actually applies to us both.

Scripts are a huge part of our conversation.

I can see why you both Yes, like Divyanka’s name has are so loved and are such always been synonymous with an inspiration to so many good content! lot of couples out there…

Vivek: I think she makes any You are each other’s best content look good! I’m not cheerleaders!

WE’RE STILL DISCOVERING THESE SECRETS. I THINK THERE IS NO SECRET INGREDIENT. IT’S JUST ABOUT MAKING IT WORK WITH PATIENCE, LOVE, PASSION AND TRUST. THERE ARE PLACES WHERE VIVEK HAS MOLDED HIMSELF, THERE ARE PLACES WHERE I’M MOLDING MYSELF, SO THAT WE ALWAYS STAY THIS PERFECT FIT TOGETHER

- Divyanka and Vivek

Vivek: That we certainly are.

Divyanka: Yes, even during Khatron Ke Khiladi I remember, I had only two months to prepare. I had multiple injuries and I was not in shape, but Vivek motivated and pushed me to be the best version of me.

Inspite of all the hurdles, you emerged the runner-up!

Vivek: In a way she was the winner, she won everyone’s hearts!

Besides work, what are you both passionate about?

Vivek: We love to travel and just explore places. Foodwise, she’s a vegetarian, so there are certain limitations when we go to some

territories. Not in Dubai, that’s why Dubai ticks all the boxes.

Whether it’s being the shortest flight. Or the best foods, the high standards they’ve maintained through the years and the law and order, and safety wise this city is just amazing.

Divyanka: And the hospitality, the people here are just so warm and helpful. I also like Rajasthan a lot!

You both are like chips of the same block!

Vivek: Isn’t it true with most couples? It happens so often that she’ll think of something and I would say it at exactly the same moment.

Divyanka: This happens very often with us!

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INTERVIEW

Divyanka: We have a lot of discussions around cars. The colours, make… All that they say is boys talk, is normal conversation for us.

Have you always had such an adventurous streak in you or has it rubbed off from Vivek?

Vivek: Oh, she’s always been adventurous. People just don’t know because they assume her to be so lady-like and delicate!

Divyanka: I was actually quite a tomboy even as a child. Later too I was an NCC pass out, so my body language was really confident. It’s just that for my roles I had to play some coy characters so I had to change my entire body language and personality for that show. And people assumed that I am like that character. But thanks to KKK that people got to see this side of me and also with Vivek, I can be who I am.

What is it that Divyanka has brought out in you after marriage?

IN ALL THESE YEARS THAT WE’VE BEEN COMING HERE, WE HAVE IDENTIFIED THAT WE ALWAYS NEED EXTRA LUGGAGE WHEN GOING BACK. AUR KUCH PATA HO NO HO DUBAI MEIN, LEKIN HUMEIN YE PATA HAI KI LUGGAGE SABSE ACCHE KAHA MILTE HAIN (LAUGHS). WE ARRIVE IN A SEDAN, BUT HAVE TO RETURN IN AN SUV!

- Divyanka and Vivek

Vivek: It can be a little troublesome also sometimes.

Divyanka: Ki koi sundar si ladki samne se ja rahi ho aur main bol du - Sunder hain na? (Laughs)

Has it happened?

Divyanka: Yes, he’s never admitted it though.

When you have someone like Divyanka, can’t imagine you doing that!

Vivek: It must’ve been like a casual look and a cut right there. That’s it. Like a

picture, not like a video that I’ll imagine her with me. It’s never like that.

Divyanka: I must confess though that some girls are so stunning, you ought to look at them otherwise it’s a disrespect. Especially in Dubai, the women here are so beautiful. And I think it’s only respectful to give them a compliment and tell them how lovely they look.

Vivek: So travel and food apart, we both love cars too!

Vivek: Lots of things actually.

One, being more of a planner.

I was never a planner. I’m still not. But planning time, I’m still learning. She’s more disciplined, so that also keeps me going.

I think of myself as really efficient when I’m not. I think that I’ll achieve it in this time and then she’s right, I get the time wrong. So she really makes sure that I am on time.

You both share such amazing chemistry… I hope we get to see you together in a movie or a series!

Divyanka: We do want to work together, but not opposite each other!

Vivek: After many deliberations and contemplations we’ve figured out that we would love to be in the same film, but not paired opposite each other.

Like two characters who are not romantically involved.

Who’s more romantic of the two of you?

Vivek: I am!

Divyanka: Actually we both are, depends on our moods!

What’s the most romantic thing you’ve done for each other?

Vivek: I ironed her dress yesterday. And it was a very complicated dress. So, it was not about ironing any dress, but ironing a very complicated dress. It had a lot of frills…

Divyanka: He wins hands down. There’s nothing more romantic.

Vivek: No, she takes care of me, so I don’t lose my sanity.

What is the secret to a happy, loving married life?

Divyanka: We’re still discovering these secrets.

I think there is no secret ingredient. It’s just about making it work with patience, love, passion and trust. There are places where Vivek has molded himself, there are places where I’m moolding myself, so that we always stay this perfect fit together!

Vivek: Some people say that marriage comes with a lot of sacrifices and compromises.

I feel those are negative connotations attached to marriage. It’s just all about being considerate towards oneself, towards the other person. Communication is very important. Whatever you’re feeling, don’t bottle it up, just speak it and the other partner should receive it also. We have no qualms, no reservations, no egos, no nothing. I’m mean, isn’t that how it should be?

Divyanka: It’s like being with a friend.

Vivek: She’s my best roomie.

How do you both deal with the pressure of being under public scrutiny all the time?

Vivek: I think we’ve gotten used to it now. It’s been too many years and we’ve seen so many speculations in the past and initially for me it used to come as a surprise.

But I think that is just part and parcel of being in the limelight. One has to just take it with a pinch of salt and not worry too much.

Divyanka: My biggest concern when we were newly-weds were the rumours affecting our parents.

They are just rumours, like a pregnancy rumour. But the parent would call us and you have to pacify them they’re not true. But thankfully our parents from both sides are very self-evolving.

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BCC OCT .pdf

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03/10/2023

8:50 AM

INTERVIEW

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Jai Ho!

h g n i S r e d n Sukhwi NATIONAL AWARD WINNING SINGING LEGEND SUKHWINDER SINGH IN A CANDID CHAT WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE TALKS ABOUT HIS MUSICAL JOURNEY SPANNING OVER 30 YEARS THAT HAS SEEN HIM SING OVER THOUSANDS OF SONGS AND REVEALS WHY HE’LL ALWAYS CHOOSE TO BE SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS THAN BE LONELY AT THE TOP

ith a musical journey spanning 30 years and with thousands of songs including chartbuster and iconic songs like Jai Ho, Chaiyya Chaiyya, Chak De India, Gallan Goodiyan, Sultan, Hudd Hudd Dabangg, Bismil, Dhan te Nan, under his belt, Sukhwinder Singh is not only one of the most renowned singers of Bollywood, but is an acclaimed singer internationally. However, inspite of being the celebrated legend that he is in the industry, the singer has no airs about his achievements. Down-to-earth and endearlingly simple, he believes that art and its appreciation can never be weighed by money or awards, but recognition and love from his fans is something that he cherishes. We caught up with the National Award winning singer in Dubai and over cups of his special adrak chai, he poured his heart out in a candid chat. While there’s no denying his musical prowess, what he also excels in is sharing life’s lessons beautifully and I realized that there’s so much one can learn just by having a conversation with him. From his life’s philosophies to his passion for music, and from his zest for life to his love for learning, we talked about all this and more.

Excerpts

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DUBAI CALLING

I love coming to Dubai, performing here because it just feels like home! It feels like India. And the community of Asians, Indians especially, worldwide, when they come to attend my concerts and they sing along, it’s really very joyful and as an artiste you feel blessed to be showered with so much love. This is our real wealth!

SECRET MANTRA

There’s no secret to the longeveity or the connection that I form instantly with the listeners across all generations. But I do believe that when you are pious in your intention, you find this energy to keep going. This energy comes from a purity of thought. There are 3 elements to music – your satisfaction, entertainment and third raising the bar to a level of passion - jo khud diwana nahi vo dusro ko diwana kar bhi nahi sakta so you have to feel what you sing.

‘I’M NOT RUNNING ANY RACE!’

I don’t keep competition in mind, that’s not what I am here for. I’m not a contestant, nor am I running a race, jinko bhaagna hai, woh bhaagein! When we keep ourselves in this field like a contestant, toh usmein gaane ka mazaa nikal jaata hai. That purity, jo khushboo hoti hai music ki, vo nikal jaati hai, because every time we are on a high alert. Khush hoke gao, that’s it. This is how I live.

ALLERGIC TO ARROGANCE!

I never think about ‘what will happen to my future’, I dream about what to learn in music. That will never go away, because it is just like feeding myself, it’s nourishing my soul. For that I listen to various artistes. I listen to them, from folk, classical, from cinema. I listen to Lata Ji, Asha ji, Kishore Da, Rafi Saab, various artistes from West, and many unknown or lesser-known singers too! After listening to them, anyone can get rid of the virus named arrogance! I never forget that there are thousands of people better than me. And they gift me the lessons and tips of singing better than before. So I constantly adopt many good things from them, not to get better than them, but to be better than my own last song. So I never think that I’m one of the best or I’m the best. No, not at all. I’m not a contestant, I’m forever a student!

NO LOOKING BACK

I believe in living in the present.

Past can give us experience, so I respect the past, but main past ki god mein jaake main nahi baithta. That’s why I never speak about my past, my history, my struggles, the good, the bad, the ugly, the happy times and the bitter experiences.

I’d rather learn and grow in my present, adapt new things. The biggest advantage is that instead of resting on the past laurels, it motivates you to evolve. Ye nahi lagta ki jo humne kiya tha vahi best tha. I look forward to new talents, new singers, to see this garden grow bigger and that’s the beauty.

BEING SPECIAL

This world is known for special people, special places, because they are rare. Like there are so many magazines, but you are popular. There are so many awards in India, why do we mention that I have received 4 Filmfare Awards. There are thousands of awards in the world, why Oscar or Grammy? So, if you are special, you will shine and no one can take that away. But having said that, don’t stop at that. You have to keep learning, growing.

JAI HO!

I am happy that Jai Ho became such a bridge between the music world here and the West. This is my 5th visit for the Jai Ho tour and I am glad that now the world is finally discovering the original singer of Jai Ho. Post the song winning the Oscar, a lot of people told me that what happened was not fair, that I did not speak up, that I did not market myself enough like the others. They ask me if it didn’t hurt, how did it feel? But ab apnon se kya hurt hona! Keep AR Rahman on one side and the Oscar on the other. Who’s bigger?

Oscar har saal hota hai, Rahman ek baar hota hai. I made my peace. See, I’m not insecure, I sing because it keeps my soul happy. If I let such incidents rob me of my peace then what good will come from it. When I sing this song in other countries and I get a standing ovation for it that is what matters for me. That I made India proud. That makes me happy.

That’s enough for me.

LONELY ON TOP!

I am not looking at achieving greatness.

I like to be prepared as a singer, to perform with all my heart, sing and make my audience move along, and after performing I like to rest also, meet my friends too. So all aspects of my life are important for me. There’s a line in Atal Bihari Bajpayee ji’s book that reads: ‘Sabse Ooncha pahad sabse akela hota hai’. Mujhe nahi banna vo pahad. Mujhe dost chahiye.

COMMERCIALS VERSUS PASSION!

I don’t think about the commercial aspect of a song. If I like a song, the lyrics, the music, I sing it from my heart. Who is

A

wards are a validation of work, but not necessarily the right measure of your talent. They have more to do with destiny sometimes and being at the right place at the right time and with the right people!

the other singer on the album, why was I given this song and not that! In cheezon ke peeche rahoge to flirt kab karoge (laughs). There’s so much life has to offer, ek life hai, stay happy and enjoy. I like my songs to get attention, not create tension.

SONG SELECTION

My criteria while choosing a song has been only one – no vulgar lyrics!

And I don’t believe that songs have to have cheap words to sell. Gulzar Sahab, Anand Bakshi, Javed Akhtar, Sameer Ji, Irshaad Kamil… their songs are commercial but never cheap. In between I was singing more of title tracks, then a friend suggested that I should sing more romantic songs as they go with my personality, so I did that too.

FAVOURITE STARS!

Each one of them have a special place in my heart. Amit Ji, Salman Bhai, Shah Rukh Bhai… Ajay Devgn, it was his father who got me in the industry.

They used to say that there’s no action hero like Ajay and I had told them that there’s no romantic hero like Ajay either. And our romantic songs from Deewane became massive hits. Then for Ranbir Kapoor’s Shamshera and Sanju, Ranveer Singh… So all of them are dear. Ab meri Shah Rukh ke bete pe nazar hai (laughs). You don’t sing for them to be honest, you sing for the characters they play.

So once I recorded a song that has been shot on an actress. Ab uske mann ki awaz hai, uska dil gar aha hai, and who says that can only be a female voice!

BHAICHARA NIGHT

When I was discussing the list of songs to be sung at Amit Majithia’s Bhaichara Night here in Dubai they told me that people come to clubs to dance, we are calling them only to hear you sing! But that club show became like a concert, there was so much love and excitement.

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EVENTS

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The

outhern tarry Night

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anube Properties Presents SIIMA 2023 DUBAI saw stars from the South film industries grace the red carpet and attend the glittering event.

Check out all the dazzlers and stunners from the event

Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, Mr Rizwan Sajan with Trisha Krishnan

Mr Rizwan Sajan with Keerthy Suresh and Khushboo Sundar

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Mr Rizwan Sajan, Darshana Rajendran and Khushboo Sundar

Mr Rizwan Sajan, Kalyani Priyadarshan and Mani Ratnam

Mr Kamal Haasan

Rishab Shetty and wife Pragathi Shetty

Rana Daggubat

Mrs Sameera Sajan with Mr Rizwan Sajan

PIC CREDIT: YASIR ARAFAT | JAFAR VETTIYIL | SUVIN KUMAR

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Shruti Haasan

Mr Rizwan Sajan with R Madhavan and Trisha Krishnan

Vishnu Induri, Jr NTR and Brinda Prasad

Kunchacko Boban

Jonita Gandhi

Dr Sana Sajan

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Mrunal Thakur

Pranita Subhash

Shriya Saran

(L – R) GV Prakash, Brinda Prasad, Sreeleela, Pranita Subhash, Rana Daggubati, Lakshmi Manchu, Mr Shashank Srivastava and Dr Sana Sajan at the Press Conference October 2023 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 49

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EVENTS

Mrs Sameera Sajan and Mr Rizwan Sajan with Vishal Mahajan, Kanika Mahajan, Navneet Kaur and Gunjan Manchanda

Mridula Varier

Unni Mukundan

R Madhavan with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye

Mayur Panchal with Dr Bu Abdullah

Adivi Sesh

Diganth Manchale

Rakshit Shetty

Aditi Shankar

Yogi Babu

Sanju Samson

Sangitha Krish

Suhas

Sreenivas Bellamkonda

Mr and Mrs Venkatesan Sethuraman

Karnica Karda

Taran Adarsh

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Shubra Aiyappa

Mukesh Chhabra

Ranjith Sajeev

Meenakshi Chaudhary

Prachika

Srinidhi Shetty

Akul Balaji

Krishna Sai Ankem

Galla Ashok

Karan Singh Chhabra

Hesham Abdul Wahab and Vineeth Sreenivasan

Ananya Nagalla

Ganesh Bellamkonda

Sudheer Babu

Vashistaa Mallidi and Yaramala Srinivasa Reddy

Rana Daggubati and Zenofar Fathima with Team Danube and Filmfare Middle East

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EVENTS

Anis Sajan Vice Chairman of Danube Group Mr Anis Sajan’s birthday was one spectacular celebration after another. From celebrating with friends and family to cutting the cake with the employees… Here’s wishing Mr Cricket UAE a Very Happy Birthday!

Mr Azhar Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group Mr Anis Sajan, Mr Sahil Sajan

The Sajan Family

Dr Sana Sajan

Mrs Rubina Sajan and Mrs Kavitha Rao

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Mrs Rubina and Mr Anis Sajan

Ms Shabnam Kassam with Mr Anis Sajan

Mrs Sameera Sajan and Mr Rizwan Sajan - Founder and Chairman of Danube Group – with Mr Anis Sajan

Mr Rizwan Sajan and Mr Anis Sajan with Team Filmfare Middle East

Winners of the contest

PIC CREDIT: YASIR ARAFAT

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INTERVIEW

A

Cut

Above

Rest

the

YOU WERE ONE OF THE FRONT-RUNNERS OF THE SOCIAL MEDIA PACK OF CONTENT CREATORS. WHAT MADE YOU THINK OF THIS WHEN YOU’D STARTED ALMOST 12 YEARS BACK? I’ve always been ambitious for as far back as I can remember. I was in my teens and doing an internship and as a part of that I was told to do a research project on bloggers. And the minute I started researching and I discovered this world, which frankly didn’t exist so much in India, in the East at all and I was just so enamoured. You know when you need to discover something that you really take to, that you really love so you just adopt it as a hobby, that’s exactly how it was.

om

a M wala a n i M

GLOBAL INFLUENCER AND ENTREPRENEUR MASOOM MINAWALA TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT KEEPING IT REAL AND AUTHENTIC IN THE VIRTUAL WORLD

From walking the runways for leading designers to gracing the red carpet at Cannes, working with some of the biggest lifestyle brands globally to turning entrepreneur, and from representing Indian fashion on the global stage to collaborating with upcoming fashion businesses to enable them to achieve substantial business growth, India’s first Luxury Fashion Influencer Masoom Minawala is all this and more. Spreading positivity with her content on women empowerment, gender equality, body positivity, and sharing tips as a young mother, the Dubai-based Indian content creator and social media star talks to us about how keeping it all real, authentic and relatable has been her key to sustainability!

YOU BRING RATHER WHOLESOME CONTENT TO THE TABLE WITH SO MUCH POSITIVITY...

Something that I’ve learnt through the years is that if this is something that I love and want to be in - because it’s my 12th year of content creation the only way to be a sustainable business is to be authentic, honest and genuine about it. If you’re not honest it’s not going to last because it automatically becomes a very exhausting process. So, for me all content has to come from the heart and have that sense of honesty; honesty gives us a lot of freedom.

That’s all I do and that has made me stick and has given me the community that I have today.

AS A YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR, AND SOMEONE WHO’S BEEN WORKING WITH UN TOO, THERE’S A BEAUTIFUL AMALGAMATION BETWEEN A SENSE OF PURPOSE, CREATIVITY AND YOUR PASSION FOR FASHION...

I think it just comes from personal experiences, from a place where when you’re connecting with your audience, and doing it from a sense of relatability.

It’s so easy to get swayed by the glamour, the glitz.

But I constantly remind myself of why I’m here, what I’m here to do, what my purpose is, and that goes beyond clothes. So, I love fashion. But I think my purpose is in being able to impact businesses through my work. And that’s where the fun is. The fun is not in people saying, ‘oh you look fabulous’.

The fun is in a brand saying, ‘you sold out my collection’ or ‘my website crashed because you posted’. So, you’ve really impacted a business, someone’s life and I think that’s where the fun lies for me. My job is fundamentally an amalgamation of creativity and business. Creativity is something that I’m blessed with. Business is something that I love and breathe like oxygen. So being an entrepreneur is just something that comes to me very naturally and it’s something I really enjoy doing.

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WHAT HAVE BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES THROUGH IT ALL? I think there have been so many obstacles along the way. Like when I started off, no one understood that this could be an industry. People used to be so shocked. That view has now changed.

So, it went quickly from ‘you think you’ll make a career out of taking photos’ to ‘oh now everybody’s an influencer’ and it’s still bad. But somewhere along the way I realized that the people’s job is to talk but it’s not my job to listen. Also it’s impossible to be liked by everybody. If that’s not possible in our personal lives, there’s no way it is possible on the internet.

We’re just expecting too much out of the world and people who don’t even owe you anything to know you.

HOW MUCH OF THE NUMBERS, AND FOLLOWERS MATTERED ALONG THE JOURNEY? It’s mattered for sure. I’ll be totally faking it if I say it didn’t matter. Because like I said, I’m a very business minded person and what my numbers are, dictate how much business I drive, what my monetization strategy looks like. So, it is important to keep a track of the numbers. I think what’s important is to not let the pressure of the numbers get to you. But it’s like any other job, right? You have to constantly be pushing.

HOW HAS MOTHERHOOD CHANGED YOUR WORK PATTERN AND LIFESTYLE? It’s given me a lot of new perspective, opinions and a bit of reshuffle in a way where I understand better the value of time. I understand the strength of multitasking. And I actually find myself to be far more efficient now that I’m a mother. And I think it’s that time when you finally realize that the world doesn’t revolve just around you (laughs).

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR WOMEN, AND SECOND, TO YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS? My advice to women in general would be - don’t let anyone tell you there’s a ceiling because there’s no

limit to how far, how hard we can go. And my advice to young entrepreneurs is - lesser planning more doing. I think we will all learn a lot more by executing first, rather than spending our time planning. Planning never taught anyone anything.

Doing it and failing or doing it and succeeding teaches you a lot of things. So lesser time on planning and more time executing.

AS AN INFLUENCER, HOW DO YOU DRAW THE LINE BETWEEN PUTTING YOUR LIFE OUT ON A DAILY BASIS, VERSUS PROTECTING YOUR PRIVACY? In fact, I’ve drawn that line too much. I’ve had every phase. I’ve had a phase when the camera was on too much. Now I’m in a phase where the camera is off too much.

I’m striking too much of a balance. Because my son is around me all the time, and I’m not really sharing him on my social media, so it’s tricky. But I’m in this for the long run. So, if you’re running a marathon, you’re not going to run all the way at full speed. There’s going to be ups and downs. The point is that you keep going and stay consistent.

So, I’m happy to just embrace the phase as it is.

other talents and help them with their monetization strategy, with their brand and creative strategies as well.

HOW HAS DUBAI BEEN A PART OF YOUR GROWTH ALONG THE WAY? I think it was the missing piece of the puzzle. So, it really feels great to be here finally. I am the bridge between India and the global fashion industry and Dubai serves as the best place to be able to do that from. It’s such a hub for the world right now.

And for India as well. So, I’m very happy to be here.

YOU REPRESENT INDIA ON SO MANY DIFFERENT PLATFORMS GLOBALLY. IS

THAT ALWAYS ON YOUR MIND WHEN YOU’RE CREATING CONTENT? Of course, there’s a sense of responsibility that comes with everything that I’m posting. I know when I’m passing an opinion, I’m no more at a state where I’m passing it for myself. If I’m representing India at global events with the kind of intensity that I have in the past, I know that my word holds weightage which means I have to be more responsible about it which means there has to be a sense of knowledge and awareness that I have to constantly work on and maintain to be able to do the work that I do.

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE TROLLS? So badly. I think the comments, they still get to me. But this is just what I tell myself to deal with it. I didn’t know how to respond to it, now I’ve changed my ways.

A LOT OF INFLUENCERS MOVE ONTO DOING BOLLYWOOD, OTT. WHAT’S YOUR PLAN? I’ve diversified. I recently launched a talent management agency.

It’s called Schbang MMaximize. Content creation is what fills my heart and the whole point of this business is to actually help other creators accelerate and build very sustainable, very profitable businesses out of their content creation. So, we represent

…SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY I REALIZED THAT THE PEOPLE’S JOB IS TO TALK, BUT IT’S NOT MY JOB TO LISTEN. ALSO IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO BE LIKED BY EVERYBODY. IF THAT’S NOT POSSIBLE IN OUR PERSONAL LIVES, THERE’S NO WAY IT IS POSSIBLE ON THE INTERNET.

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INTERVIEW

Cooking up a storm!

CELEBRITY CHEF RANVEER BRAR TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT TAKING ON THE DUBAI FOOD SCENE WITH A BANG WITH HIS NEWLY-OPENED RESTAURANT KASHKAN, AND ALSO REVEALS SOME LESSER-KNOWN INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT HIS CULINARY JOURNEY

O

ne of the youngest chefs, Ranveer Brar was already a celebrated name and an established chef by the age of 25. Today, the celebrity chef is a name to reckon with not just in the culinary world but he’s also proven his mettle on the small screen with his TV shows, and showed off his acting chops on the OTT with Modern Love Mumbai.

And while he’s ready to take on Bollywood with a Kareena Kapoor starrer, he’s also recently launched his first restaurant in the Middle East – KashKan. We caught up with the Chef at his newly-opened restaurant in Dubai where over a platter of delicious and lipsmacking food we talked about revivalism of Indian culture and foods, breaking into the Dubai food scene and we get him to reveal his inspiration and also his favourite comfort food of all time.

Congratulations on the successful opening of KashKan. After having so many restaurants worldwide, how excited are you to have your restaurant here in Dubai?

Very excited. I’m just grateful and overwhelmed with the response the restaurant has been getting.

For a restaurant to feed more than 1,200 guests in the first week of its opening, just shows how generous and warm and accepting Dubai is.

What do you think about the food scene of Dubai?

I’ve worked in many countries, I’ve eaten in more than 50 countries, I think the beauty of Dubai is, it’s truly an inclusive community.

When we talk about diversity and inclusiveness, somewhere there

Ranveer Brar

is a “let’s do it because we need to check the diversity box” thought.

In Dubai, diversity comes naturally.

For such a young society to have such strong belief in diversity and inclusivity, I really take that back every time I visit Dubai. And just that whole idea of how Dubai brings people together, I think it’s beautiful.

How do you intend to make KashKan clutter breaking on the food scene?

We are not trying to be clutterbreaking. I think it just creates a sense of too much pressure. I prefer it simple, we are trying to do good food every day. Accha khana khila dein hum, toh log apne aap aajayenge. The real victory is good food that makes you feel happy.

Whether you call it clutter breaking The name KashKan is very unique, did or call it sticking to the basics. At you come up with it? the end what matters to us is the joy No, I did not. The team came up that food gives. And that’s basically with the name. In fact, I got excited what KashKan is about. To abhi because of the name. It has a certain main usme kya clutter break karu? ‘kashish’ to it. Ek khichav hai and I think it’s a beautiful name and As a chef how much do you believe in embodies the spirit of the cuisines reintroducing people to the traditional from Kashmir to KanyaKumari that flavours versus the experimenting, we want to present. innovating and blending…

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Different strokes for different folks. As chefs, we go through different phases. An expression does not know boundaries, shouldn’t know boundaries. So, I think every way is the right way to do things. My language is to sort of draw from my experiences, to draw from the people I’ve met, to draw from real conversations, real people, real food, real experiences. That’s what I do. Most of the food is how you is expect it, there are some inspirations that are just sprinkled over, but purely as sprinklings, purely as a little bit of an accent as I like to call it. The accent of gold on the dal. The accent of the oman chips on dahi bhalle. I enjoy that sprinkling of certain playfulness, whether its food or life. Beyond that, connection is the primary driver.

What was your dream when you had first started as a youngster? Had you imagined having your own restaurants in Boston, in Dubai?

No dream. I’m a dreamless person. I have from the very beginning believed that don’t ask and don’t set goals because then we live in a world where nature has decided big things for us and we just refuse to soak in what has been decided for us and ask for small things and lead a small life. The biggest of the dreams are the smallest. We’re not even a blip in the universe.

So I’ve always believed that time and nature and destiny will guide us to where we have to get. As long as we believe in it and live with it.

Is that how you have gone beyond just the food scene – whether it’s on television or acting in an OTT series and now you’re doing a movie with Kareena Kapoor…

Yeh sab toh symptoms

hain. Yeh to sab hota rahega.

When I started I really enjoyed it all a lot and that’s all why I did it.

Because I absolutely loved what I did and till date I absolutely love what I do. If I don’t feel intense then there’s something wrong. I’ve always very intensely felt about food. I felt the same then, I feel the same now.

As for the movie, it’s going to premier at the British Film Festival. I think by 14th or 15th October. I’m very excited about it. I consider myself very blessed that I have so many choices. And I’m equally passionate about all of them.

it’s important to soak in everything from everybody but be yourself. That’s why I tell college kids as well don’t become Ranveer Brar.

You only see one side of Ranveer Brar. There are so many sides that you don’t see which you probably won’t even like. There are two things that will always make a difference. One, being yourself. And two, giving it a 100 percent and not holding back.

clarity aa rahi hai har season mein, contestants ke khane mein.

MasterChef is coming up…

Yes we are very excited yaar! We have our top 12.

It’s going on air from 16th October on Sony Liv. Bahut

What’s next for you?

After MasterChef, we are working towards a cooking academy, a culinary academy in Goa.

What inspires you on a dayto-day basis?

People. There’re so many stories in everybody. That’s always been the case.

People have been my catalyst, my inspiration.

Conversations that I have, people that I meet. That usually works for me.

What’s your go–to comfort food?

Khichdi. From the last 10 odd years it’s been khichdi. I think our palette is our window to the world, right? So it is just so hyperactive, and sometimes you have to shut it down. And I think for me khichdi does that. It resets my palette.

Is it easy for you to enjoy foods and experiences without overanalysing or overthinking as a chef? Can you dissociate?

You know we can’t help it. Especially in professional spaces.

Kisi ki mumma khana banake khila rahi hai, vaha par mahol alag hai, neeyat alag hai, intent is what matters.

But when you go to another restaurant, when you go to a professional space, on MasterChef, you can’t help it. Your thinking is always on.

A lot of aspiring chefs dream of becoming like you, or like Chef Vikas Khanna…

That’s a very small aspiration to chase the image of a Ranveer Brar or Vikas Khanna. You are bigger than that and believe it. That is why we always say that

Chef Recommends at Kashkan

Dal Kashkan

Double Masala Biryani

Paan Mousse

Omani Chips Dahi Bhalla Hibiscus Rasam

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FEATURE

Pioneering the Style Revolution

Ms Shabnam Nissar Kassam Founder of Alish Apparel and Director of the Danube Welfare Center

A

lish Apparel, a rising star in the fashion industry, has embarked on a remarkable journey that has left fashion enthusiasts across the globe in awe. With an unwavering commitment to style and innovation, Alish Apparel made waves at prestigious fashion events like TheAfraWorld, Funtastic Family Event, and I Catch Management. At these platforms, the brand showcased its exquisite collections, redefining fashion with every step. Alish Apparel’s triumphant success story is a testament to its passion for creativity, dedication to quality, and its relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of fashion.

With each event, Alish Apparel has solidified its position as a trendsetter in the industry. Its distinctive designs and attention to detail have garnered acclaim from fashion aficionados and critics alike. Alish Apparel’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practices has also set a commendable example for the fashion world, proving that style and conscience can go hand in hand.

Mr. Yaqoob Ali, Ms. Shabnam Kassam, Ms. Lara Tabet, Ms. Niti Gupta and Mr Maktoum Al Marzouqi

Ms. Sameera Sajan, Ms. Shabnam Kassam and Aliyah Kassam

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Event - The Afra World on 16 September 2023 Dubai

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On the Ramp

New Collection

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Waiting Wings!

INTERVIEW

in the

and groom myself to an extent where my shadows do the talking.

That was when I decided to give wings to my dreams and prepare myself for a new future ahead.

Fasiha Waseem

POPULAR ACTRESS-MODEL FASIHA WASEEM TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT FOLLOWING HER HEART AND CHASING HER DREAMS DID YOU ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A MODEL? Yes, modelling has been my dream since the beginning of my teenage days. Also I’ve always been fascinated with the existing, on-going and upcoming fashion trends that are put across to me with the ideology behind the creativity of individuals on how to represent themselves over a piece of cloth on regular grounds.

TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY INTO THE WORLD OF MODELLING? It was never easy as I’ve been through nonsupporting elements that have been creating limitations throughout.

But I’ve always been strong and confident enough to put myself into situations that demand my strength, caliber and potential and seen myself driving growth and fulfilment that define me as an individual.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY WAS THE TURNING POINT IN YOUR LIFE? Well, it was that moment when I realized that I’m not meant to settle for less when I have the privilege to touch the skies. It was way back in the year 2018 when I had participated in Femina Miss India that was hosted in Hyderabad and I made it to the list of top 10 finalists. Honestly, amidst that golden hour of my life backstage, I decided I will conquer the world of fashion and beyond

I always adore those moments which have taught me to never give up in life no matter what the situation you are exposed to or put into. I’m someone who doesn’t let go of things until the last moment and WHAT WOULD YOU keeps trying harder and SAY HAS BEEN pushing things to extreme YOUR USP AS A levels that don’t define PROFESSIONAL? regression of any kind.

Well, I believe in the fact that self-investment WHAT’S THAT ONE is the best investment.

ADVICE YOU ARE I say, to gear up onto GLAD YOU DID NOT professional levels, FOLLOW? one must elevate I always followed and their thought process held on to my inner voice on how they would and chose my instinct want themselves to be above all. Of course featured, recognized and there were questions and approached with their concerns raised by the presence in the modern ones who were never world irrespective of supportive of the life I what the societal aspects chose, especially coming have to reflect or portray. from an orthodox family.

I wouldn’t be living my IS ACTING ON life to the fullest if I had THE CARDS? agreed to the decisions ANY BOLLYWOOD that were to encounter PLANS? me to get married and Now this is a very settle down as a typical interesting question. household woman.

Acting has always been my first love and it’s a WHAT WOULD YOU never ending process SAY TO ASPIRING in my life. I’m in line MODELS? to master the art of There’s only one thing theatre. Bollywood has I’d like to tell all the always been my dream beautiful women out from the beginning, but there who want to see I want to mould and themselves successful shape myself onto the in all aspects of life demanding grounds irrespective of any sector to meet the criteria of or industry. Just believe being approached that in yourself, trust the involves no nepotism. process, give your best I would never present and leave the rest to the myself half-cooked to the destiny. What’s yours greatest platforms one will always be yours aspires to be a part of. and nobody can take it away from you. Always WHAT’S BEEN keep doing more of THAT ONE what keeps you happy LEARNING YOU because happiness is the HOLD CLOSE TO ultimatum above all. Go YOUR HEART? for it and never give up!

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FINAL OCTHatta Honey AD_ A4_7.9.23.pdf

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DUBAI WATCH LIST

DUBAI

WATCH LIST CHECK OUT SOME OF THE MOST-AWAITED MOVIES AND OTT SERIES TO HIT THE SCREENS THIS OCTOBER

MISSION RANIGANJ: THE GREAT BHARAT KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON RESCUE Director: Martin Scorsese Director: Tinu Suresh Desai Cast: Akshay Kumar, Parineeti Chopra

The survival thriller is based on the Raniganj coalfields collapse of 1989 in West Bengal. Akshay plays the brave, courageous and honest IIT Dhanbad mining engineer, Jaswant Singh Gill, who rescued 65 miners.

TEJAS

Cast: Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jesse Plemons, Lily Gladstone, Tantoo Cardinal

Based on David Grann’s best-selling book, the western crime saga is a story of love and betrayal. The discovery of oil brings fortune to the Osage Nation, making them rich overnight.

But the newly-acquired wealth of the Native Americans attracts the white interlopers, who manipulate, steal and ultimately kill for stealthier money.

THANK YOU FOR COMING Director: Karan Boolani Cast: Bhumi Pednekar, Shehnaaz Gill, Dolly Singh, Kusha Kapila, Shibani Bedi

Five girl besties, one quirky modern day fairytale with the 30 something protagonist Kanika in search for the ‘lover’ of her life! The light-hearted comedy offers an interesting take on love and happiness.

Director: Sarvesh Mewara Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Varun Mitra The inspiring movie tells the epic journey of an Air Force Pilot Tejas Gill played by Kangana.

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THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER Director: David Gordon Green Cast: Ellen Burstyn, Leslie Odom Jr., Ann Dowd, Jennifer Nettles, Norbert Leo Butz, Lidya Jewett, Olivia Marcum Victor Fielding has raised their daughter, Angela on his own since the death of his wife 12 years ago. All evil breaks loose when Angela and her friend Katherine disappear in the woods, only to return three days later with no memory of what happened to them. Desperate, he seeks out the only person alive who has witnessed anything like it before - Chris MacNeil.

SAW X Director: Kevin Greutert Cast: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, Synnøve Macody Lund, Steven Brand Set between SAW I and SAW II, John Kramer is sick and travels to Mexico for a risky and experimental medical procedure in hopes of a miracle cure for his cancer.

But he finds out that the entire process is a scam to defraud the most vulnerable individuals. Angry and armed with a newfound purpose, the infamous killer turns the tables on the con artists and sets the pace for a series of ingenious and terrifying new traps.

YAARIYAN 2 Director: Radhika Rao & Vinay Sapru Cast: Divya Khosla Kumar, Meezaan Jafri, Pearl V Puri The coming-of-age romantic drama is a remake of the Malayalam film Bangalore Days and revolves around the relationship between three cousins as they navigate through their difficulties in life.

TROLLS 3: BAND TOGETHER Director: Walt Dohrn Voice: Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, Camila Cabello, Eric André After two films of true friendship and love Poppy and Branch are finally a couple. But as they grow closer, Poppy discovers that Branch has a secret past and finds out that he was once part of her favorite boyband phenomenon, BroZone, with his four brothers: Floyd, John Dory, Spruce and Clay.

When Branch’s bro Floyd is kidnapped for his musical talents, Branch and Poppy set out on an emotional journey to reunite the other brothers and rescue Floyd.

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GANAPATH: A HERO IS BORN Director: Vikas Bahl Cast: Tiger Shroff, Kriti Sanon, Amitabh Bachchan, Elli AvrRam Touted to be India’s first dystopian film the action thriller follows a vigilante Ganapath who is relentless in his mission to fight the crime lords.

KHUFIYA Director: Vishal Bhardwaj Cast: Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi The espionage thriller is based on Amar Bhushan’s novel Escape to Nowhere. Krishna a RAW operative is assigned to track down a mole in their department, while she grapples with her dual identity as a spy and lover.

DEAR DAVID Director: John McPhail Cast: Justin Long, Andrea Bang, Rachel Wilson, Ethan Hwang Comic artist Adam Ellis experiences increasingly malevolent occurrences in his home that he starts chronicling in a series of tweets. He believes he is being haunted by the ghost of a dead child named David and continues the ‘Dear David’ thread with dire consequences

ALSO WATCH OUT FOR: BHAGAVANTH KESAR

SUKKAR

FREELANCE

FIVE NIGHT’S AT FREDDY’S

RATHTHAM

THE INSEPARABLES

HASSAN EL MASRY A VERY GOOD GIRL CHOONA DRAGON CASTLE ADVENTURE – PORORO MOVIE

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FEATURE

! t s e f k o Spo Revisit t hese scary tales to get your dose of spooky entertainment t his Halloween!

Trick ‘r Treat A Halloween anthology that weaves together several chilling tales, “Trick ‘r Treat” offers a unique blend of horror, humor, and suspense. Its nonlinear storytelling and the enigmatic character Sam make it a must-watch for those seeking a spooky cinematic experience.

Hocus Pocus A beloved family-friendly Halloween classic, “Hocus Pocus” combines comedy and fantasy as three witches are resurrected in modern-day Salem. The charismatic performances and whimsical plot make it an annual favorite for all ages during the spooky season.

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Goosebumps

Based on R.L. Stine’s famous book series, “Goosebumps” brings his creepy creations to life. With a mix of nostalgia and jump scares, it’s a fantastic choice for fans of supernatural mysteries.

The Witches Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of the Grand High Witch in this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic story is a standout. Her wickedly delightful performance, coupled with the film’s whimsical yet dark tone, makes it a captivating watch for both children and adults.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark This film brings to life the eerie tales from the iconic book series. With its unsettling visuals and suspenseful storytelling, it’s a must-watch for horror enthusiasts looking for a nostalgic thrill.

COMPILED BY DEEPALI TANNA

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