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Turn Back Time!
The past month has been one of nostalgia and celebration for movie-lovers with ‘the season of rereleases’ in B-Town being all the buzz! Some underrated gems like Laila Majnu (2018) have now found more appreciation on their re-release than they had back when they first released, while some other celebrated movies like Jab We Met (2007), Rockstar (2011), Tumbbad (2018), are enjoying being re-introduced to newer generations. Considering how a majority of these Gen Zs and Gen Alphas have actually missed out on some crucial just-not-to-bemissed movie-culture classics, it would actually be a great idea to have them re-release in theatres as well, just like Sholay did. Mr India or a Chaalbaaz or a Masoom, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, Pushpak, Arth, Andaz Apna Apna, Chachi 420… anyone!
Meanwhile, UAE has been on a musical high with one epic concert after another. Most recently Enrique Iglesias, Shaan, Prateek Kuhad, Mohit Chauhan, Shreya Ghoshal enthralled the audience and the massive line-up ahead includes Bryan Adams, Coldplay, Diljit Dosanjh, Ricky Martin, TYGA, Wiz Khalifa, Vishal Mishra and many more artistes to come…
As for performances, our Digital Cover Star Zahrah S Khan was absolute fire on stage as she wowed the crowds with her captivating voice and sizzling hot moves at the Digital Cover launch event in Dubai. The stunning entertainer is all things, sweet and spice, naughty and nice as we caught up for a candid chat ahead of her performance. How the angelic and ethereal beauty transforms into this dynamic and electrifying performer on stage never ceases to amaze. The singer-actor recently created history too as she became the first Indian artiste to perform at the prestigious Mawazine Festival in Morocco. With an ever-increasing list of chartbusters and hits in her kitty, she is now ready to take South by storm as a warrior princess in the Mohanlal starrer Vrushabha. Read all about it in the pages ahead.
Rocking the issue with absolute panache is the suave Cover Star Vijay Varma. The actor known to seamlessly navigate his way through diverse genres and win acclaim with his unconventional screen outings is basking in the appreciation coming his way for the most recent OTT outing IC 814 where he plays Captain Devi Sharan. The realism, depth and authenticity that he brings to his characters – whether anti-hero or an everyday man - is what makes the actor a cut above the rest. Whether its Moeen from Gully Boy, Hamza from Darlings, Bharat and Shatrughan Tyagi in Mirzapur or Anand Swarnakar in Dahaad… the actor effortlessly nails each character with an equally nuanced finesse. “I don’t see myself as a traditional hero; I’m more interested in portraying characters that are flawed and multifaceted,” he tells me in our exclusive interview. Check out our Cover Story with the man-du-jour where he talks love, life and his journey so far.
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Turn the pages further to read our exclusives with three women who have been creating quite the waves on the circuit. The world’s her oyster for the power-lady of cinema Guneet Monga Kapoor who’s been making an impact internationally with her fearless cinematic choices. Then there’s Sharvari who’s packing in a punch with her successful hat-trick – Maharaj, Munjya and the acclaimed Vedaa – all projects that have earned her the stamp of approval from the mosthardened critics and the audiences alike. We would definitely vouch her to be the next big thing! The actress is currently shooting for Alpha with Alia Bhatt which is touted to be one of the mostexciting action-thrillers from the YRF spy-verse. We also spoke to the most-celebrated Bae in Town – Ananya Panday who has been slaying it right with her OTT avatar. We talked to the star about the uncanny similarities she shares with Bae and came away surprised.
Get the buzz from the most happening events about town in Dubaiscope. And get your dose of South glamour with the 69th Filmfare Awards South – 2024! Kudos to Jitesh Pillaai and Team for pulling off the most coveted awards mega-event of the South film industry so successfully and congratulations to all the winners. So, keep turning the pages to stay entertained and informed! Till the next power-packed issue, stay healthy and stay safe!
JANHVI KAPOOR –ISHAAN KHATTER TO REUNITE AFTER SIX YEARS
HERE’S WHO VICKY KAUSHAL CAN’T STOP PRAISING!
FAWAD KHAN PAIRS UP WITH VAANI KAPOOR FOR HIS NEXT BOLLYWOOD OUTING
RANVEER SINGH SET FOR ACTION OUTING IN ADITYA DHAR FILM
B-TOWN BEAUTIES REDEFINE FASHION IN BLAZERS
ACING THE WINGED ELEGANCE LIKE DIVAS
interviews
COVER STORY
POWER-HOUSE PERFORMER VIJAY VARMA TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT HIS JOURNEY TO THE TOP AS HE CONTINUES TO FORGE AHEAD STRONGER WITH EACH SCREEN OUTING!
PRINT COVER CREDITS
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHELDON SANTOS
STYLING: VRINDA NARANG
STYLING ASSISTANT: AMEY
OUTFIT: NAPPA DORI
DRESSMAN: IMRAN SHAIKH
MAKEUP: NISHA SINGH FROM THE REEL ARTIST CO
HAIR: PRASAD BHANDARY FROM BBLUNT INDIA
ARTIST REPUTATION MANAGEMENT: SPICE PR
18 19 22 27
GUNEET MONGA KAPOOR CHATS UP WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT MAKING AN IMPACT INTERNATIONALLY WITH HER FEARLESS CINEMATIC CHOICES
ANANYA PANDAY GETS CANDID WITH AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE ABOUT NAILING HER OTT DEBUT WITH A NATURAL FLAIR
SHARVARI TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE ABOUT BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS WITH HER KNOCK-OUT PERFORMANCES
JIMMY SHERGILL BELIEVES HIS BEST IS YET TO COME
DIGITAL COVER CREDITS
PHOTOGRAPHER: MILIND V MISAL
STYLIST: HITENDRA KAPOPARA
STYLING TEAM: NIDHI HARSORA
MAKEUP: SAFA SHAIKH
HAIR: KAVITA GOUR
HAIR ASSISTANT: RUTUJA LANDGE
DIGITAL COVER STAR ZAHRAH S KHAN TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE ABOUT WINNING HEARTS GLOBALLY
IT WAS ENTERTAINMENT, GLAMOUR AND A NIGHT OF DOUBLE CELEBRATION AT THE LAUNCH OF BAYZ 102 AND OASIZ BY DANUBE
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JANHVI KAPOOR AND ISHAAN KHATTER TO REUNITE AFTER SIX YEARS
Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter are set to reunite in a new lm, nearly six years after their debut in Dhadak Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar, this project is scheduled to start lming in October 2024. The lm, described as an ensemble drama, will also star Vishal Jethwa, known for his role in Mardaani 2 Ghaywan, acclaimed for his work in Masaan, is returning to feature lms after nine years and brings a fresh narrative that promises a compelling cinematic experience.
a bird’s-eye view of show town’s happenings
AMITABH BACHCHAN IS EXCITED ABOUT ABHISHEK’S ROLE IN KING
Amitabh Bachchan has exciting news for Bollywood enthusiasts: his son, Abhishek Bachchan, will take on the role of the antagonist opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming lm King. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, with Siddharth Anand overseeing the action sequences, the lm also stars Suhana Khan. Amitabh shared his excitement on his social media, praising Abhishek’s talent in negative roles, reminiscent of his performance in Raavan. He wrote, “All the best Abhishek… It is TIME!!!” This announcement has sparked anticipation among fans who eagerly await the clash between Abhishek and Shah Rukh on screen. Abhishek’s portrayal as the villain marks a notable shift from his recent roles, showcasing his versatility.
IRRFAN WAS THE ORIGINAL CHOICE FOR MAHARAJ’S TITULAR ROLE
During a recent press event, Siddharth P Malhotra disclosed that the late Irrfan was the intended choice for the signi cant role now portrayed by Jaideep Ahlawat in Maharaj. Malhotra explained, “When we envisioned this role, we immediately thought of Irrfan Khan. There was no one else who could have done justice to it like him.” However, following Irrfan’s passing in 2020, the director turned to Jaideep Ahlawat. Jaideep’s commitment to the role was remarkable. After completing the lming, Malhotra felt that Jaideep’s introductory scene needed to be re-shot. Despite having gained weight, Jaideep was determined to regain his tness. and re-shoot the sequence.
HERE’S WHY VICKY
KAUSHAL CAN’T STOP PRAISING KIARA ADVANI
Vicky Kaushal recently showered praise on Kiara Advani, his co-star from Lust Stories. Kiara has really made a strong impression on Vicky. “Kiara is one of my favourite people in the industry. I admire her both as a human being and as an actor,” Vicky said. Despite not frequently communicating or meeting, he cherished their collaborations in Lust Stories and Govinda Naam Mera. “When I work with her, there’s a unique sense of ease and comfort. It feels like we have each other’s backs,” Vicky continued. “There’s so much I could say about her; it’s quite emotional for me… She truly is a gem of a person.”
Shahid Kapoor’s upcoming lm Deva, slated to hit theatres on February 14, 2025. This high-octane action thriller, directed by acclaimed Malayalam lmmaker Rosshan Andrrews, promises a blend of thrill and drama. Shahid Kapoor portrays a brilliant yet rebellious police of cer in the lm, with Pooja Hegde starring opposite him as a journalist.
RANVEER SINGH SIGNS FOR ADITYA DHAR’S ACTION FILM
Get ready for Ranveer Singh’s return to the big screen! Recent reports indicate that the actor is set to commence shooting for Aditya Dhar’s upcoming lm focussing on Indian Intelligence Agencies. Sources reveal that the initial shoot will kick off in Thailand, with subsequent lming planned across various locations in India and the UAE. Though the of cial announcement is yet to come, the production aims to wrap up within six months and target a release in the latter half of 2025. The screenplay is said to draw inspiration from real life events, and the lm features a stellar cast including Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal in key roles alongside Ranveer.
TABU ON WHY SHE HASN’T WORKED WITH SRK
Tabu, recently discussed why she hasn’t collaborated with Shah Rukh Khan since their 2002 lm Saathiya. In a recent interview, she clari ed that she isn’t involved in script selection or lmmaking decisions, indicating she has no control over the projects SRK chooses. Despite fans’ hopes for a reunion, there are currently no plans for them to work together again. Tabu has garnered attention for her upcoming role in the Dune prequel series Prophecy, where she portrays Sister Francesca, delving into the origins of the powerful Bene SGesserit.
expert advice
WHAT IS A THREAD LIFT?
FAWAD KHAN TO PLAY A CHEF OPPOSITE VAANI KAPOOR
Recently, heartthrob Fawad Khan con rmed his involvement in multiple projects during a media interaction. In this much-anticipated lm directed by Aarti Bagdi, Fawad will play the role of a UK based chef opposite Vaani Kapoor. The movie is scheduled to be shot entirely in London and Dubai in a continuous schedule. Fans have eagerly awaited Fawad’s return to Indian cinema since his appearances in Kapoor & Sons and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil back in 2016.
A THREAD LIFT, ALSO CALLED A BARBED SUTURE LIFT, IS A COSMETIC PROCEDURE THAT AIMS TO LIFT AND SCULPT THE SHAPE OF YOUR FACE OR BREASTS. IT USES TEMPORARY, MEDICAL-GRADE SUTURE MATERIAL TO “STITCH-UP” YOUR SKIN SO THAT IT’S DRAWN TAUT. THE TYPICAL CANDIDATE FOR A THREAD LIFT IS IN THEIR LATE 30S TO EARLY 50S. THOSE WHO CAN’T HAVE A SURGICAL FACE LIFT BECAUSE OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS THAT MAKE GENERAL ANESTHESIA RISKY MAY CONSIDER A THREAD LIFT AS A SAFER ALTERNATIVE. THE PROCEDURE IS A MINIMALLY INVASIVE ALTERNATIVE TO FACELIFT SURGERY AND TIGHTENS YOUR SKIN BY INSERTING MEDICAL-GRADE THREAD MATERIAL INTO YOUR FACE AND THEN “PULLING” YOUR SKIN UP BY TIGHTENING THE THREAD.
SAFETY
Thread lifts are considered a low-risk procedure with minimal recovery time, but side effects of redness, bruising, and swelling do occur.
CONVENIENCE
This procedure can be performed in about 45 minutes, and, if you want to, you can go right back to work. Finding a trained, licensed provider is the key to a safe, effective thread lift.
COST
The average cost is between 250-1000 AED per thread depending on size and area
EFFICACY
The procedure isn’t dramatically effective as facelifts and last from 1 to 3 years. For best results, surgeons recommend combining a thread lift with other kinds of anti-aging procedures, such as ultherapy.
Vijay Varma Flying Hi H
PHOTOGRAPHY: AVIRAJ SINGH |STYLING: VRINDA NARANG | STYLING ASSISTANT: AMEY SHIRT: ABRAHAM & THAKORE | FOOTWEAR: RISHTA BY ARJUN SALUJA
Power-house
performer and the man-du-jour Vijay Varma talks to Aakanksha Naval-Shetye about his journey to the top as he continues to
forge ahead stronger with each screen outing and also try to decode his subtle art of being Vijay Varma!
Not your regular ‘textbook hero’, but even in his most unconventional roles, Vijay Varma has always layered his characters and brought them alive on screen with great authenticity and depth. Garnering much critical acclaim with each outing, his compelling performances whether playing antihero characters or realistic relatable men, make him a delight to watch!
Versatile and an actor par excellence, his filmography is a testimony of his fearlessness when it comes to his choice of roles that challenge the traditional storytelling formats, while his performances speak volumes of his expertise and dedication to his craft. Pink to Gully Boy, Mirzapur, Lust Stories 2, to Darlings, Jaane Jaan, Murder Mubarak, Dahaad and most recently IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, to name just a few, the powerhouse-performer has been navigating across genres seamlessly with utter ease and soaring higher with every outing. One of the most exciting actors of contemporary cinema, his sartorial fashion sense too makes heads turn and are quite the celebrating point amongst fashionistas! In an exclusive interview, we talk to the man-du-jour and our Cover Star about his journey to the top as he continues to forge ahead stronger with each step and also decode his subtle art of being Vijay Varma!
THE FEEDBACK FOR IC 814 HAS BEEN PHENOMENAL. PERSONALLY, PROFESSIONALLY YOU ARE ON A HIGH. WHAT’S THE HEADSPACE LIKE?
It’s surreal. The kind of love and appreciation pouring in for IC 814 has been overwhelming and humbling. The transition from being recognized as Bharat Singh to now being known as Captain Devi Sharan by audience has been an extraordinary journey. The team and I had put our hearts and souls into this project, and to see it resonate with so many people is a dream come true. While it’s a high, it also comes with the responsibility to keep pushing boundaries and striving for excellence.
WHAT’S BEEN THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM IC 814 FOR YOU?
The biggest takeaway from IC 814 has been the power of storytelling to illuminate important events. Many people were unfamiliar with the IC 814 incident before this project, and I’m grateful to have been a part of bringing that story to light. It’s fulfilling to know that through our work, we’ve helped educate and engage audiences about a significant moment in history, making it more accessible and impactful.
IS YOUR CURRENT JOURNEY ON THE LINES OF WHAT YOU HAD ENVISIONED YOUR TRAJECTORY TO BE LIKE WHEN YOU HAD STARTED AS AN ACTOR?
Honestly, I never had a detailed vision of where I wanted my career
Each character has contributed to my growth, and though my path wasn’t mapped out, the journey has far exceeded my expectations.
to go. My focus was always on acting and embracing every opportunity. Each role has significantly shaped my career and taught me something unique. Working on Monsoon Shootout was a pivotal learning experience, while Gully Boy was a breakthrough that expanded my reach. The recognition for my role as Hamza in Darlings was particularly rewarding. Now, playing Captain Devi Sharan in IC 814 has been another transformative moment, demonstrating how far I’ve come. Each character has contributed to my growth, and though my path wasn’t mapped out, the journey has far exceeded my expectations.
WHEN DID THE LOVE FOR CAMERA ACTUALLY START AND WHO DID YOU GROW UP IDOLIZING ON SCREEN?
I’ve always been drawn to the power of storytelling. From a young age, I was captivated by movies and television shows. Actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Irrfan Khan deeply inspired me. Amitabh Bachchan’s unparalleled greatness and his ability to command the screen with every role he takes on has set an incredible benchmark in acting and he is still doing it, actually acing it. Shah Rukh Khan’s charismatic screen presence and emotional range taught me how to connect with audiences
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHELDON SANTOS|STYLING: VRINDA NARANG | STYLING ASSISTANT: AMEY OUTFIT: NAPPA DORI | DRESSMAN: IMRAN SHAIKH | MAKEUP: NISHA SINGH FROM THE REEL ARTIST CO | HAIR: PRASAD BHANDARY FROM BBLUNT INDIA
on a personal level. Irrfan Khan’s talent for bringing subtlety and complexity to his characters showcased the beauty of nuanced storytelling. Learning from their off-screen professionalism and their transformative performances has profoundly influenced my approach to acting.
feel a profound sense of accomplishment. I remember times when I doubted whether I could extend my dreams further, feeling like they might have lost their way. However, the success of projects like Gully Boy, Darlings, and Mirzapur, and the continued appreciation from audiences, has reinforced my faith and confidence, much like recharging a battery.
I’ve never been concerned about being lost or typecast because I grew up admiring actors who didn’t let external opinions dictate their choices. I believed in my potential, even when I wasn’t fully aware of it myself. Now, there is more stability, and the restlessness has lessened, but I remain driven to push boundaries and keep evolving. My journey is ongoing, and I’m always striving for the next level.
WHAT’S THE ONE LESSON LEARNT ALONG THE JOURNEY?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying true to myself. It’s easy to get caught up in the expectations of others, but it’s essential to follow your own instincts and trust your gut.
I don’t see myself as a traditional hero I’m more
DO YOU EVER LOOK BACK AT HOW FAR YOU HAVE COME AND PAUSE TO PAT YOURSELF ON THE BACK?
Absolutely! There are moments when I look back and
interested in portraying characters that are flawed and multifaceted. Life itself is a mix of good and bad, and I want my work to reflect that. In roles, the appeal lies in the nuanced gray areas that mirror real life.
PHOTOGRAPHY: AVIRAJ SINGH |STYLING: VRINDA NARANG | STYLING ASSISTANT: AMEY SHIRT: ABRAHAM & THAKORE | FOOTWEAR: RISHTA BY ARJUN SALUJA
WHAT’VE BEEN THE GAMECHANGERS FOR YOU?
Transitioning from supporting roles to becoming a leading man, it’s been quite a unique journey. Each character I’ve portrayed has been a gamechanger in its own way. Monsoon Shootout was pivotal in establishing my presence, while Gully Boy showcased my versatility and expanded my reach. Pink, Gully Boy, Jaane Jaan, Kaalkoot, Dahaad, and Murder Mubarak each introduced new facets of my craft, offering fresh challenges and opportunities for growth. It’s not just about external recognition but about keeping that insatiable hunger for work. This drive to continually challenge myself and push boundaries is what truly keeps the journey exciting and fulfilling.
YOU CONTINUE TO RAISE THE BAR WITH BOTH YOUR CHOICE OF ROLES AND THE PERFORMANCES YOU DELIVER. HAS THE CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING ROLES CHANGED
in portraying characters that are flawed and multifaceted. Life itself is a mix of good and bad, and I want my work to reflect that.
In roles, the appeal lies in the nuanced gray areas that mirror real life. Subtle, layered writing creates a profound impact on viewers. I’ve been moved by great writing and performances myself, and I believe that when a role captures genuine truth, it resonates deeply with the audience, allowing them to relate and reflect on their own experiences.
ACTORS BRING CHARACTERS TO LIFE ON SCREEN, BUT CAN THOSE CHARACTERS INFLUENCE THE ACTOR’S PERSONALITY OFF-SCREEN? HAVE YOU FOUND ANY SIMILARITIES BETWEEN A CHARACTER AND THE REAL YOU? WHICH CHARACTER IS MOST LIKE YOU?
self-expression and exploration. I find inspiration in art and poetry, which often fuel my performances and provide me with new perspectives. I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences, whether it’s discovering new artistic works or exploring different cultures through food and travel.
ARE YOU VERY ROMANTIC, AND WHAT’S THE WAY TO WIN YOUR HEART?
OVER THE YEARS, AND WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR NOW?
My primary criteria for choosing roles has always been the script, the role itself, and the director. Over the years, I’ve added one more criterion: I strive not to repeat myself. I want each role to offer something new and different from my previous work. This approach keeps my performances fresh and engaging. I’m grateful to have a platform and an audience that allows me to continually challenge myself. As long as I have the opportunity to connect with people through my work, I’m committed to delivering my best.
YOU HAVE PLAYED GRAY CHARACTERS AND VERY UNCONVENTIONAL ROLES AS A ‘HERO.’ WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE THIS FEARLESSNESS IN YOUR CHOICES TO?
I’ve always been drawn to unconventional roles because they offer a deeper exploration of human complexity. I don’t see myself as a traditional hero; I’m more interested
It’s true that playing different characters can influence you to some extent. I’ve found that elements of my characters can resonate with me in various ways. Right now, I’m particularly enjoying my recent portrayal of Captain Devi Sharan — he’s a character whose traits I really admire and connect with. However, I’m always conscious of who I am and make sure my characters don’t completely define me. Instead, I focus on drawing positive traits from each role while staying true to my own identity.
DO YOU EVER GET NERVOUS?
Of course! Everyone gets nervous from time to time. But I try to channel that nervousness into positive energy. I use it as motivation to give my best performance.
WHAT’S THE REAL VIJAY VARMA LIKE?
At my core, I’m deeply passionate about acting, art, and poetry. While I enjoy spending time with friends and family, my true joy comes from immersing myself in creative pursuits. Acting is not just a profession for me; it’s a form of
I am indeed a romantic at heart. I value the little things that make moments special and believe in the significance of thoughtful gestures and surprises. For me, it’s not just about grand displays of affection, but the sincere and genuine efforts that show care and consideration. I appreciate someone who takes the time to understand and connect on a deeper level, creating memorable experiences that reflect shared values and emotions.
YOU’VE MADE QUITE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR SARTORIAL FASHION CHOICES TOO. HAS THAT BEEN A SIDE EFFECT OF SHOWBIZ, OR DID YOU ALWAYS HAVE A STYLISH STREAK?
Fashion has always been a personal passion of mine. Even before I entered the spotlight, I enjoyed experimenting with different styles and expressing myself through clothing. My journey in showbiz has certainly amplified this aspect, offering me a broader platform to showcase my style. Being in the public eye has allowed me to explore various fashion trends, collaborate with talented designers, and refine my own unique look. It’s not just about following trends for me; it’s about using fashion as a means to express my personality and creativity.
I am indeed a romantic at heart. I value the little things that make moments special and believe in the significance of thoughtful gestures and surprises. For me, it’s not just about grand displays of affection, but the sincere and genuine efforts that show care and consideration.
Oversized blazers are the latest trend commanding attention on and off the silver screen. Leading actresses like Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Tara Sutaria, and others are redefining power dressing with their chic and glamorous take on this menswear-inspired staple. Whether draped over a sultry evening gown or paired with tailored trousers for a sophisticated look, these Bollywood beauties are proving that oversized blazers are not just a trend but a glamorous statement of empowerment and sophistication in Indian cinema.
OUR HOT PICKS
ANANYA PANDAY
ALIA BHATT
Emporio Armani
Nanushka
Comme Des Garcons
TARA SUTARIA
RAKUL PREET SINGH
PRIYANKA CHOPRA JONAS
WINGED ELEGANCE
Celebrities perfect the timeless trend
One trend that is soaring to new heights in the ever-evolving world of beauty is the classic winged eyeliner look, championed by leading actresses. From sleek and subtle to bold and dramatic, Bollywood divas like Rani Mukerji and Ananya Panday are mastering the art of the perfect wing. Whether gracing the silver screen or dazzling on the red carpet, these stars are showcasing their impeccable winged liner skills with finesse and flair. With tutorials flooding social media feeds and makeup enthusiasts gearing up to emulate their favourite celebrity looks, the winged eyeliner trend is proving to be a timeless beauty staple in Bollywood.
OUR HOT PICKS
Anastasia Beverly Hills
The bold winged eyeliner trend is reigning supreme in Bollywood
ANANYA PANDAY
RANI MUKERJI
ARIANA GRANDE
HALSEY
ADELE
LILY COLLINS
SELENA GOMEZ
& Mo ! Music, Movies Tang over
Zahrah S Khan
ACTOR-SINGER AND DIGITAL COVER STAR ZAHRAH S KHAN IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE TALKS ABOUT WINNING HEARTS WITH HER DYNAMIC SINGING, SETTING THE STAGE ON FIRE WITH HER DAZZLING MOVES, HER UPCOMING FILMS AND ALSO CREATING HISTORY INTERNATIONALLY!
Zahrah S Khan is a complete package. A vivacious singer and a versatile actor, she’s an entertainer-par-excellence and an absolute live-wire especially when it comes to her stage performances and concerts. We caught up with the gorgeous star at her hotel in Dubai a few minutes after her arrival. She’s been busy with back-to-back music tours and events, but there’s not a single tired frown on her face as she greets me warmly with a tight hug and settles down for a fun conversation with a mezze platter to munch on. I waste no time and plunge into our exclusive right away, asking about her secret to that non-stop vibrant energy and staying super-fit inspite of being a hard-core foodie!
“The secret is just loving, enjoying and being happy with whatever it is that you are doing. Whether it’s eating, performing, or living life! Do it all guilt-free,” reveals the multi-talented young star candidly. With the rich legacy of movies and music in her blood, after all she’s veteran singer-actor Salma Agha’s daughter, and Zahrah’s passion for both is quite evident too. In a free-wheeling tete-a-tete, we talk to the stunning beauty and our Digital Cover Star all about life, love, movies, music and more. Excerpts
I’m human, I make mistakes, I love food and over-eat (laughs), I get sad too and behind the glitz and glam I’m just like every person with dreams and hopes. But I’m never afraid to be myself and that’s something my mom taught me and I’m very grateful for it because it’s really helped me grow as a human being and always kept me grounded.
WAS BOLLYWOOD THE FIRST AND OBVIOUS CHOICE FOR YOU CONSIDERING YOUR RICH FILM AND MUSIC LINEAGE AND ALSO YOUR MOM HAS BEEN ONE OF THE CELEBRATED AND POPULAR HEROINES OF HER ERA?
Like they say, the apple never falls far from the tree, but having said that - I’m very passionate when it comes to that connection with the artiste within me. Yes, I’m definitely blessed that the rich heritage has been passed on to me since three generations, but I think to carry that art forward one needs to have the passion and love for it which I definitely have with all my heart. So, I would say it’s the love and talent for the art and my dedication towards it that made me turn it into a career.
BETWEEN ACTING, PLAYBACK SINGING, YOUR MUSIC VIDEOS AND PERFORMING LIVE AT CONCERTS, WHAT’S THE BIGGEST DRAW FOR YOU? DO YOU HAVE ANY PREFERENCES?
I think performing in front of a LIVE crowd is a different high altogether for sure because the public’s reaction to you as an artiste when you perform is so instant! I love that and of course, acting too has my heart.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE MORE CHALLENGING AMONGST THEM?
Definitely performing LIVE, because you are singing, dancing, entertaining all at the same time and there’s no second take, cut or actionit’s a one-take only journey (laughs)!
WHEN IT COMES TO MOVIES WHAT ARE THE KIND OF ROLES THAT WOULD INTEREST YOU?
More performance-oriented roles, especially playing characters that are nothing like me. To completely strip away from who you are and not keep even one per cent of yourself in a character
is what excites me as a performer! What’s the fun if you don’t challenge yourself as an artiste or push yourself completely out of the comfort zone and surprise even your own self. To portray a character that’s not you, but you bring it to life from a piece of paper onto the screen I think that’s the excitement, the thrill and the challenge.
THE CHEMISTRY BETWEEN YOU AND TIGER SHROFF IN YOUR SONG WAS MUCH SPOKEN ABOUT, SO ANY FILMS ON THE CARDS?
‘Love Stereo’ is a song I’ll always be very proud of! It was a project I worked on very hard and I’m so happy
everyone liked the chemistry Tiger and I shared on screen. We both had put in a lot of effort since we loved recreating the classic stereo love with Edward Maya. I do have a couple of films coming out next year, and I do hope Tiger and I can do one together soon.
WHO DO YOU THINK HAS DONE THE MOST JUSTICE TO YOUR VOICE ON SCREEN? AND ANY SPECIFIC ACTRESS YOU WANT TO SING FOR?
I think Nora Fatehi has danced beautifully to ‘Kusu Kusu’ and my second favourite is Katrina Kaif dancing to ‘Kinna Sona’ from PhoneBhoot. An actress I’m eagerly waiting to playback
for and I hope it happens very soon in the near future is Kareena Kapoor Khan as she’s my all-time favourite and I don’t think there will ever be a complete heroine like her in the industry because the way she lights up the screen till date is so magical and I’ll always be a fan girl of Bebo!
YOU RECENTLY CREATED HISTORY BY BECOMING THE FIRST INDIAN ARTISTE TO PERFORM AT THE PRESTIGIOUS MAWAZINE FESTIVAL IN MOROCCO, TELL US MORE ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE? It was such an amazing experience performing on a stage that had some of the biggest international artists
like Nicki Minaj and Calvin Harris to name a few. But the most cherished memory will be walking onto a stage and seeing over a hundred and fifty thousand people in the crowd and all of them were singing ‘Kusu Kusu’ out loud, and for a second my heart felt like it was going to just burst with excitement. I can’t ever forget that beautiful day!
WHAT’S THE REAL YOU LIKE?
I’m human, I make mistakes, I love food and over-eat (laughs), I get sad too and behind the glitz and glam I’m just like every person with dreams and hopes. But the one good thing I can say is that I’m never afraid to be myself and that’s something my mom taught me and I’m very grateful for it because it’s really helped me grow as a human being and always kept me grounded.
SO WHEN NOT FACING THE CAMERA, WE WOULD FIND YOU
In bed, binge-eating my favourite junk food and that list is long (laughs) and watching my favourite movies or shows while cuddling with my cats.
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE DATING FRONT?
Waiting for a Vegan Mr Right (laughs).
LOOKING BACK, WHAT’S BEEN THE BIGGEST LESSON FOR YOU SO FAR?
I think the biggest lesson learnt is to know that no success or failure is permanent in life, everything keeps changing. And you have to keep building yourself from scratch every step of the way.
WHAT’S THE ADVICE GIVEN TO YOU BY YOUR MOM, SALMAJI, THAT YOU HOLD MOST CLOSE?
One beautiful thing she taught me when I started my journey in the industry was - When you put your
To completely strip away from who you are and not keep even one per cent of yourself in a character is what excites me as a performer! What’s the fun if you don’t challenge yourself as an artiste or push yourself completely out of the comfort zone and surprise even your own self.
work shoes on make sure you leave your ego at home and never give anyone a tough time at work so they come back around and feel an ease to want to work with you again and again. I’ve always stuck by it.
WHAT’RE YOUR UPCOMING PROJECTS?
Well, I’m currently working on three new singles, finishing the shoot of my film Vrushabha with Mohanlal Sir and I recently signed a Bollywood film that I’ll be shooting for in December.
YOU HAVE PERFORMED ALL ACROSS THE WORLD, WHICH ONES HAVE BEEN
YOUR FAVOURITE CITIES? Dubai! The love is real! I’m literally in Dubai for shows like twice a month and the energy the crowds have in Dubai is so magical and beautiful specially because it’s a city that is so global and I’m able to perform for fans from all over the world.
FOR INTERNATIONALLY CELEBRATED PRODUCER GUNEET MONGA KAPOOR , THE WORLD IS HER OYSTER. IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE SHE TALKS ABOUT HER SUCCESS RUN ON THE OTT AND THE BOX-OFFICE, BRIDGING FILM INDUSTRIES GLOBALLY AND MAKING AN IMPACT WITH HER FEARLESS CINEMATIC CHOICES
Amuch-lauded producer in the Indian film industry, Guneet Monga Kapoor is also a highly acclaimed and celebrated name globally! As the producer of Academy Award winning Documentary Short Film The Elephant Whisperers (2022) and the Executive Producer on another Oscar winner, Period. End of Sentence (2019), Guneet’s production house Sikhya Entertainment has also produced festival favourites like Masaan, The Lunchbox, Gangs of Wasseypur, Peddlers, amongst several other commercially acclaimed films. Most recently, the power producer has been having success run with back-to-back hits including Kill and the OTT sci-fi thriller on ZEE5 Global Gyaarah Gyaarah starring Rahgav Juyal, Kritika Kamra and Dhairya Karwa that has been garnering much praise. We caught up with Guneet for an exclusive interview and in a candid chat the award-winning filmmaker talked about her bridging the film industries globally, fearlessly backing Indie and mainstream cinema, and also spoke about basking in marital bliss and living up her happily ever after!
GuneetKapMonga r Power Lady of Cinema! The
First Kill, and now Gyaarah Gyaarah on ZEE5 Global, it’s been a great run this year!
Yes, it’s been incredible. The show is in the top three this year on the platform, so you know, it’s a big feat.
Your choice of projects has been one of the most interesting aspects of your journey. What’s been the thought process behind that?
It’s largely instinctive. When we choose a theatrical film, the idea is to give a wholesome theatrical experience to the viewers! That’s what Dharma and we really wanted to do with Kill – give the audience the thrills, the edge-of-the-seat moments. And with Gyaarah Gyaarah, I think I was fascinated that this was a police procedural. They have been long running on Indian television - seen in series and shows and daily soaps. So there’s a lot of long running legacy of the format. But we really wanted to add the tadka of sci-fi, the mysticism, elevate the genre to make it for a global OTT audience, audiences that are consuming
global content of global quality and scale. That’s why I was very fascinated by Gyaarah Gyaarah, because at the core it’s a police procedural but when you see it, it’s packaged with sci-fi, with a broken walkie-talkie that connects two police cops across the timelines and they both start solving cold cases which leads to a butterfly effect, which leads to time and past and present evolving and changing - anything that impacts the pasts, impacting the present, anything that changes in the present, impacts the past. These two cops across two decades are trying to solve cases with all good intentions. That, for me was very captivating and exciting. So, choosing projects is deeply instinctive, be it The Elephant Whisperers (Academy Award winning Documentary Short Film, 2022), be it The Lunchbox, it’s deeply instinctive. And instincts vary all the time. You hear so much, you consume so much, but deeply I wanted to be able to create an experience for the medium and this series is an attempt to create experiences for people staying at home watching OTT platforms particularly the ZEE5 Global audiences.
Your name has come to be synonymous with being a strong connect, whether it is bringing Indian movies to international cinema, or tapping two separate narratives and sensibilities of filmmakers who came from extremely different
ends of the spectrum - like Anurag Kashyap and Karan Johar, or connecting Indie cinema with mainstream cinema… You are in middle of all the action and holding it together like Spiderman!
Thank you! That’s really well-put (laughs). So,
I DON’T THINK THE OSCARS HAD THAT KIND OF ‘LET’S PAUSE AND REFLECT’ MOMENT THAT MARRIAGE HAD IN MY LIFE. I ALWAYS REALLY WANTED TO GET MARRIED.
I worked with Anurag Kashyap for almost six years and for me it was going to school. So definitely that is in my DNA. And promoting Lunchbox with Dharma, putting the film out there with Karan in 2013, 10-11 years ago, it was seeing the magic of mainstream, larger footprints and I definitely want to be able to achieve that for our
pieces of content and that’s also the reason to partner with ZEE5 Global here. So, you’ve actually hit the nail. I do believe and aspire to be a combination of best of both the worlds. Something that can travel, something that can elevate, something that can make you think, celebrate and be celebrated
There’s gender equality and gender equity as well that you advocate through your work globally… Yes I mean it’s in our DNA right? We don’t leave our politics at home and come to work. We are, who we are. We are our thoughts, we are a product of our choices.
So definitely, in every piece of conversation that you’re trying to have, you’re like how do I expand the conversation. Currently I’m very inspired with what Stree 2 has done, especially having the gender politics at the right place and also having a large footprint. There are incredible filmmakers out there doing incredible work.
Do you ever pause and give yourself a pat on the back, considering the kind of illustrious journey you’ve had, right from putting Indian cinema out on a larger scale globally to bringing home the Oscars… and all on your own terms!
I don’t think the Oscars had that kind of ‘let’s pause and reflect’ moment that marriage had in my life. I always really wanted to get married. And I am in my Delhi home now. This is the new life. so I feel marriage definitely put that emotional stability where like after two decades of work, I can pause for a bit, enjoy the new world that I am entering, new set of parents, the family. And marriage definitely brought a lot of emotional stability, so that’s a moment to reflect. And then what is it that I want to do with my time now. So that emotional stability came with my wedding. And I do pause to appreciate and celebrate this aspect.
Have you ever thought of wanting to turn director?
I super-enjoy being a producer! I can work with 10 directors at one time. For me, this means having a superpower. So I love being
a producer. Otherwise I’ll have to do just one thing for like a couple of years. Right now I do 10 things and my brain is now wired like that. I love dipping into stories. I’ve been on pitches since morning today, hearing scripts and I’m just like ‘I like this, I like this, let’s do this.’ You know, it involves all my senses. Direction, I don’t know. but as of now I’m enjoying the producing.
In Gyaarah Gyaarah, there is this one walkietalkie that connects you to different timelines. If you had the choice, who would you want to reach out to from another timeline?
I would connect with my parents when they were here. I think I’d relive the 90s with them and hopefully rewrite the journey after.
If I was to get into your head, what would I find the most?
My lists. Ye bhi khatam karna hai, vo bhi khatam karna hai. My to-dos across to-dos.
What on-screen content impressed you most recently?
Definitely Stree 2, I enjoyed it a lot. Also Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba was a great watch. Banda on ZEE5 Global and Gulmohar!
Manoj Bajpayee is clearly a favourite... Yes, absolutely.
What are your upcoming projects after Gyaarah Gyaarah?
We have a film coming again with Dharma that is with Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan. That is in production right now. So that will be next year, we don’t have a title to the film yet.
I SUPER-ENJOY BEING A PRODUCER! I CAN WORK WITH 10 DIRECTORS AT ONE TIME. FOR ME, THIS MEANS HAVING A SUPER-POWER. SO I LOVE BEING A PRODUCER.
This Bae Does Slay
Ananya Panday
BOLLYWOOD’S STUNNING YOUNG STAR ANANYA PANDAY TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT NAILING HER OTT DEBUT CALL ME BAE WITH A NATURAL FLAIR AND REVEALS IF BAE’S JOURNEY OF FINDING ACCEPTANCE RESONATES WITH HER OWN
CALL ME BAE
ON PRIME VIDEO HAS BEEN ONE OF THE MOST DELIGHTFUL AND BINGE-WORTHY WATCHES IN RECENT TIMES AND IT HAS LARGELY TO DO WITH THE LEAD STAR ANANYA PANDAY WHO MAKES HER OTT DEBUT WITH THIS COMEDYDRAMA. THE YOUNG ACTRESS HAS SURPRISED VIEWERS PLEASANTLY WITH HER IMPRESSIVE COMIC-TIMING PEPPERED LAVISHLY WITH MOMENTS THAT SHOWCASE BOTH - HER VULNERABILITY AND COURAGE. AFTER PRAISEWORTHY PERFORMANCES IN GEHRAIYAAN AND KHO GAYE HUM KAHAN, ANANYA’S ROLE AS BAE SPEAKS MUCH ABOUT HER VERSATILITY IN COMEDY TOO. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE ACTRESS FOR AN EXCLUSIVE TETE-A-TETE AND IN A CANDID CHAT WE TALK ABOUT HER FINDING HER GROOVE, POWERING ON THROUGH ALL THE TROLLING IN THE PAST, AND GARNERING LOVE, ACCLAIM AND APPRECIATION AS BAE!
YOUR OTT DEBUT CALL ME BAE ON PRIME VIDEO IS BEING VERY WELL-RECEIVED AND WE AGREE IT’S TOTALLY BINGE-WORTHY. WHAT’D MADE YOU SAY A YES TO THIS ONE? There was no reason not to say a yes honestly. It was just like an ‘entire package’, starting from the script, then there were elements of comedy and drama and romance and there’s a little bit of a thriller element to it as well. So it had everything. And at the end of the day even though it’s a very light and comedic show, it stands for something and there’s a strong message at the end of the show as well. Also working with Colin (director Colin D’Cunha), an ensemble cast plus as an actor getting to show a wider range of emotions, to try comedy for the first time because I’ve never done comedy and also to make a character that’s so easily judged, where people have pre-conceived notions about her, to make her more humane and vulnerable, I found that very interesting. So yeah it was, like you said that you couldn’t stop watching, I couldn’t stop reading the first time I got those eight episodes.
DID YOU AT ANY POINT FEEL THAT BAE’S JOURNEY OF ACCEPTANCE IS AN EXTENSION OF THE REAL YOU, ESPECIALLY SINCE YOU HAVE DEALT WITH PEOPLE HAVING PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS ABOUT YOU TOO?
You know honestly, there are elements that are similar, but there are elements that are different. With Bae… you know the way her parents are with her, that’s completely different from the way my life has been, but I think in terms of her attitude, as you said there are similarities with her. I think she is just kind of happy being herself, just does her work, doesn’t really care much about her judgement and the more people get to know her… the more people realise that maybe they were wrong about her in the start, yes maybe that part
could be similar to my journey.
DID IT FEEL LIKE IT WAS A DIFFERENT SPACE CONSIDERING THIS IS YOUR OTT DEBUT?
Honestly I didn’t think about that as much. It didn’t feel like ‘oh I’ve been doing films and now I’m going to be doing a series’. It felt like the natural step. It felt like something that I wanted to do and I wanted to explore because with the series you get so much more time to showcase a character, take a new journey and you really get to take the audience with you on that journey. I, myself am a big series binger, so as an audience too I would love to have watched the show.
THE SHOW FELT LIKE IT’S AT PAR WITH INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS. DID YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE FOUND A COMFORT ZONE IN THIS GENRE AND DID THE CHARACTER COME EASY TO YOU?
I think 95 per cent of everything was in the script so it was really lovely to have that as your starting points. Also sometimes we didn’t really need to do much, the dialogues are just so funny. A lot of comedy with Bae is also in her body language because it’s a completely new world for her. Her punches are just in her reacting and her observing things. There’s a lot of comedy in her physicality of it as well. And I think every character comes with its challenges, as did this one.
BAE’S SPIRIT ANIMAL IS AN OWL, WHAT’S YOURS?
My spirit animal would definitely be a snake. It’s been my favourite, I don’t know why, since I was a kid. I’m just obsessed with snakes. I find them beautiful and really powerful.
ONE ADVISE YOU WISH YOU WOULD NOT HAVE AGREED TO THROUGH THE CAREER?
Just generally listening to too many people is
not the way that I work. I respect all the opinions and I’m very grateful to have those voices but as an actor if I don’t feel convinced enough about something then I can’t do it. Also, you know people who kind of tell you to follow someone else’s path ‘oh this one did this at this of her career’. No journey is the same between two actors, you can’t imitate or copy anyone else. I don’t think that’s right, you know comparing two people.
YOU’VE POWERED THROUGH A LOT OF TROLLING, A LOT OF PEOPLE TALKING, YOUR OWN CHALLENGES AS AN ACTOR, TRYING TO GET THE GRAPH RIGHT. SO WHAT’S BEEN YOUR STRENGTH THROUGH IT ALL?
I think my strength is just seeing a change. I really like when you can actually see a change happen around you as a direct impact of your work, whether it makes people feel seen or represented or even if it just makes them happy on a sad day. I love seeing the impact and the magic.
IN THE SERIES BAE’S MOM TELLS HER, ‘DON’T BE A FAKE, BE A BIRKIN’. WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO MANTRA IN LIFE?
‘You do you’. Like do whatever makes you happy and not to be judgemental of people if you’re not in their shoes.
WITH TIME YOU REALISE WHAT ACTUALLY MATTERS AND YOU TUNE OUT UNNECESSARY HATE. OBVIOUSLY, I’M VERY OPEN TO FEEDBACK AND I’M CONSTANTLY LEARNING AND CHANGING AND EVOLVING. BUT IF IT’S UNNECESSARY HATE AND ITS AGENDA BASED, I’VE KIND OF GROWN OUT OF IT.”
DO YOU FACE THAT DILEMMA LIKE BAE DOES OF HAVING TO POST A HAPPY FACE ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA EVEN IF YOU’RE FEELING OTHERWISE?
I think more than putting up a happy face, or hiding my emotions, if I have a work commitment, I’ll follow through that. But with social media, I actually just try to stay as honest as possible. If I’m not happy, if I’m not feeling my best, I think I’m pretty obvious on social media. People will see it with some sentimental quote or some song that I’ve put, they’ll definitely realise that I’m not in the best mood. And then when I’m happy, I’m happy and people can see that.
HAVE YOU BECOME MORE IMMUNE TO THE TROLLING?
Yeah. With time you realise what actually matters and you tune out unnecessary hate. Obviously, I’m very open to feedback and I’m constantly learning and changing and evolving. But if it’s unnecessary hate and its agenda based, I’ve kind of grown out of it.
WHAT KIND OF A SCRIPT OR CHARACTER GRAPH WOULD INTEREST YOU NOW, POST CALL ME BAE?
Yeah I think with Call me Bae, I’ve sort of tasted humour and I’m really grateful and really
satisfied as an actor, but I want to do more. So definitely, yeah just interesting parts, also something that I’ve not tried before like horror would be fun or maybe doing a biopic on someone because I’ve not explored, I’ve not really explored anything, like a period based thing yet. There’s so much left to do.
GIVEN A CHANCE, WHO DO YOU WANT TO PLAY ON SCREEN?
I don’t want to name anyone specific because then people say all sorts of things. But for me the actresses from like the 60s and the 70s have always been
JUST GENERALLY LISTENING TO TOO MANY PEOPLE IS NOT THE WAY THAT I WORK. I RESPECT ALL THE OPINIONS AND I’M VERY GRATEFUL TO HAVE THOSE VOICES BUT AS AN ACTOR IF I DON’T FEEL CONVINCED ENOUGH ABOUT SOMETHING THEN I CAN’T DO IT.”
fascinating. I mean even if not act, I would want to watch something like that for sure.
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS?
I would say sensitive, funny, maybe candid more than funny, and sincere.
WHAT’S THE WAY TO WINNING ANANYA’S HEART?
Through my stomach. I’m a big foodie!
AND WHAT WOULD BE A PERFECT DATE FOR YOU?
Something revolving around food and I think just like sitting at home and watching a movie and just being able to be yourself. I wouldn’t say going out because when you’re out, there’s so many other people layers and you’re trying to impress one another. But I think when you’re home, when you’re just yourself, and there’s no farce, I think that’s the best time.
WHAT NEXT CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO?
I have Control with Vikramaditya Motwane Sir which is coming on Netflix next month. It’s a cyber thriller. Then I have another theatrical release and I’m about to start shooting something earlier next year.
Silicon Central
Dubai's Eco-Sustainable Shopping and Lifestyle Destination
Located in the heart of Dubai Silicon Oasis, Silicon Central is the newest addition to Dubai's vibrant retail landscape. Just 12 km from the city center and 15 km from Dubai Airport, this innovative lifestyle destination combines modern technology with eco-friendly design, creating a unique shopping experience for both residents and tourists. As one of Dubai’s most accessible retail hubs, it is conveniently situated near Dubai Al Ain Road, which sees over 350,000 vehicles daily, making it a prime spot for the surrounding community of 400,000 residents and the student population from nearby Academic City.
A Retailer’s Paradise
Silicon Central’s diverse selection of retail outlets is set to become a haven for shoppers who value variety and convenience. Key anchor tenants include Lulu Hypermarket, offering everyday essentials, and major retail brands like Landmark Retail, Sharaf Retail Group, and Alshaya Group, which present an array of fashion, home, and F&B options.
Fashion lovers will appreciate the first-ever Zudio store in the UAE, a fashion brand from Tata Trent Ltd. Liwa Trading Enterprises brings other popular brands such as OVS and La Senza, while Splash and Max offer the latest high-street trends. An exciting addition to the lineup is everyone's favorite, Adidas, which will be opening soon. The mall also features Cotton On, Forever 21, Reo, Brands for Less, and Home Box, providing everything from chic clothing to affordable home furnishings.
www.siliconcentral.ae
For those seeking the finest in jewelry, Silicon Central houses renowned brands such as Malabar Gold, JoyAlukkas, Jawhara, and Tanishq, ensuring shoppers have access to an exquisite range of designs that blend tradition with modernity.
Indian ethnic wear enthusiasts will find much to admire at Silicon Central. Shree and Manyavar bring the richness of Indian tradition to Dubai, offering an extensive collection of elegant ethnic wear.
Culinary Delights for Every Palate
Silicon Central’s food and beverage offerings are as diverse as its retail mix, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee at Starbucks or Illy Café, or a full meal at Bosporus or Barbeque Nation, the mall has something for everyone. The F&B lineup also includes familiar names like McDonald's, Jollibee, Raju Omelet, Pizza Sabbioni, and Khau Galli, as well as unique options like Friends Avenue Café, Asli Beirut, and Clove Tree, among others. Fine dining restaurants Gazebo and Kamat Vegetarian Restaurant are also set to open soon.
Beyond Shopping: Entertainment and Leisure
Silicon Central isn’t just about shopping—it’s a comprehensive lifestyle destination. The mall features a sprawling 7,800m² Lulu department store, a 12-screen cinema, and a 6,800m² Fabyland Family Entertainment Centre, set to open by Q4 2024. Additionally, Total Ninja, a next-generation entertainment center covering 2,000m², will offer activities for both children and adults, ensuring there’s something for everyone. For fitness enthusiasts, the 2,500m² UFC gym is a top-notch facility that promises to keep the community in shape.
Architectural Brilliance and Design
Silicon Central’s architectural design is both unique and captivating, combining contemporary elements with a vibrant mall facade that stands out in Dubai’s retail scene. The centerpiece of the mall is its spacious, open-air atrium, which features a soaring glass roof that floods the space with natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Inside, the mall’s design emphasizes modern aesthetics, with sleek finishes and ample seating areas, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjo yable experience.
Setting New Standards in Retail and Lifestyle
Silicon Central is more than just a shopping mall—it’s a beacon of innovation and sustainability in Dubai’s retail sector. By integrating cutting-edge technology, eco-friendly practices, and a customer-centric approach, Silicon Central is redefining the shopping and lifestyle experience in Dubai, offering a superior experience to all who visit. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or unwind, Silicon Central promises to be the ultimate destination.
www.siliconcentral.ae
Soaring High
Danube Properties has unveiled two groundbreaking projects—BAYZ 102 and Oasiz—reinforcing its leadership in both luxury and affordable living. BAYZ 102, located in Business Bay, follows the success of BAYZ 101 and offers premium residences for discerning investors. Oasiz, nestled in Dubai Silicon Oasis, features 900 fully furnished units, blending style with affordability. The glamorous launch event dazzled attendees, with performances by Bollywood sensation and Filmfare Middle East Digital Cover Star Zahrah S Khan, as well as Carolina Karam, setting the stage for these exceptional developments. As Danube’s 31st real estate venture, BAYZ 102 and Oasiz highlight the company’s dedication to delivering unmatched luxury and enticing investment opportunities. With over 25.5 million square feet of ongoing construction, Danube Properties continues to redefine Dubai’s real estate landscape.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Founder & Chairman – Danube Group
Mr. Anis Sajan - Vice Chairman,Danube Group, Mr. Rizwan Sajan and Mr. Adel Sajan - Managing Director, Danube Group
Mr. Abdul Wahab Al-Halabi and Mr. Adel Sajan
Mr. Abdullah Belhoul and Mr. Rizwan Sajan
Mr. Adel Sajan - Managing Director, Danube Group
Mr. Syed Husain - General Manager - Sales, Danube Properties
Mr. Satbir, Mr. Adel Sajan, Mr. Rizwan Sajan and Mr. Jasbir
Mr. Rizwan Sajan and Zahrah S Khan
Mr. Azhar Sajan, Mr. Adel Sajan, Mrs. Rubina Sajan, Mr. Anis Sajan and Mr. Sahil Sajan
Mr. Azhar Sajan, Director - Casa Milano, Mr. Adel Sajan, and Mr. Sahil Sajan, Director - Milano
Mr Adel Sajan, and Mrs. Sameera Sajan
Mr. Nawaf Mubarak Al Khater - Principal Advisor, Planning & Design and Mr. Ghayyour AhmadGM - Projects & Development
Mr. Nawaf Mubarak Al Khater, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Sanjeev Juneja and Abdullah Belhoul, CEO of Trakhees
Zahrah S Khan lights up the stage with the dazzling performance
Mr. Madhusudan Rao - CEO, Danube Group, Kavya D’Souza, and Javeed Ebrahim with team Danube Properties
Mr. Sher, Mr. Noman, Mr. Kashif, Mr. Adel Sajan, Mr. Saad Husain, Mr. Emad and Mr. Zubair Patani
Aadharika
The Sajan Family
(L-R) Shruti Nigam, Mrs Sameera Sajan, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Zahrah S Khan, Aakanksha Naval-Shetye and Mrs. Rubina Sajan
Mr. Anis Sajan and Nitin Mirani
Mr. Adel Sajan and Zahrah S Khan
Performance by Carolina Karam
Mr. Adel Sajan, Mr. Salem Mohammed Alsadi, Mr. Anis Sajan, Mr. Rizwan Sajan and Mr. Hesham El Saied Morsy Abdelhafez
Mr. Arsalan Rehman, CEO and Founder, Vibe FM, Ms. Shaeena, Mr. Rizwan Sajan
Team Danube Properties
Mr. Adel Sajan, Ms. Shabnam Kassam, Mr. Rizwan Sajan, Mrs. Sameera Sajan, Mr. Anis Sajan
THE WHAT, WHERE, WHO IN THE CITY
DUBAI SCOPE
DR SANA SAJAN, LARA TABET
DR SANA SAJAN AND SEVERAL ESTEEMED WOMEN ACHIEVERS AND PANELISTS WERE HONOURED AT THE CELEBRATIONS OF THE EMIRATI WOMEN’S DAY ON AUGUST 28TH, 2024
SUKHWINDER SINGH, NOORAN SISTERS, MAME KHAN
SINGING LEGEND SUKHWINDER SINGH AND THE NOORAN SISTERS ALONG WITH MAME KHAN MESMERIZED MUSIC LOVERS IN DUBAI AT AN ENTHRALLING CONCERT THAT CELEBRATED THE SPIRIT OF INDEPENDENCE DAY. ALSO SEEN ATTENDING THE EVENT WAS VIVEK OBEROI.
Dr. Sana Sajan - Director, American Aesthetic Medical Centre, TEDx speaker, and Artist
CHAUHAN
Mohit Chauhan in conversation with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye
PRATEEK KUHAD
Breaker! Mold
Sharvari
Packing in a solid punch with back-to-back successes, the gorgeous young star Sharvari talks to Aakanksha Naval-Shetye about breaking down barriers with her knock-out performances
With three consecutive back-to-back successes in 2024 –Maharaj, Munjya and the game-changer Vedaa – Sharvari is easily the belle du jour! With YRF’s Alfa also on the cards, she is touted to be the next big thing to watch out for. Showcasing her versatility, she proved her acting mettle nailing a challenging role like Vedaa with aplomb and also essaying a light-hearted character like in Munjya with equal flair. SO while she wowed fans with the sizzling track ‘Taras’, she also won critics with her fierce, intense and power-packed performance in the titular role of Vedaa. Her emotionally gripping bravadoladen scenes had your heart right from the start as she delivered a shockingly solid knock-out punch with her performance! As we catch up with the power-house performer, the actress talks about the challenges of the intense role, resonating with Vedaa’s fierce spirit, and her own journey of finding her footing in the industry
Maharaj, Munjya, and then Vedaa!
Three back-toback, successes this year, what’s the headspace like?
I’m feeling quite grateful. It’s been an incredible year for me, especially like you said with the three releases, with Munjya doing what it did at the box-office, doing a 100+ crore; Maharaj becoming such a global hit on a streaming platform. Even with Vedaa, I’m just so glad and grateful that everyone is saying such great things about it. It’s very humbling and I think it’s quite motivating for an actor like me to see this kind of love and this kind of appreciation, so it’s quite overwhelming too.
When Vedaa was first offered to you, could you envision yourself playing that character considering it is nothing like the real you? Or did you have any apprehensions as an actor?
No, I actually imagined myself as
Vedaa from the very first narration! It’s the kind of story, the kind of a script which as an actor I was dying to be a part of. I have this huge hunger and greed for such challenging characters and bringing to life a completely unknown person. I was very excited when I heard it also because I really feel that it’s a story that needed to be told. It’s a very brave story and I think the film has its heart in the right place. So, yes I was very excited to be Vedaa! I knew that it was going to be a long journey transforming into her and becoming her because, I had to get into the psyche of a girl whose world I’m not familiar with. I’m not Rajasthani, I come from a different, a very urban background, the culture, like a completely different world from where Vedaa comes from. So it was certainly a big challenge, but I was excited about that.
Some of your scenes of emotional outbursts in the film were very intense, so where did you channelise so much of angst from? I think the story in itself is such that if anybody would hear it, as a woman or just any human, that reaction is bound to come naturally. That angst on hearing what a woman went through is natural. It’s just so unfortunate that these things still happen. So, I think such injustice towards any other person will make you feel enraged!
Physically too the role seemed demanding,
I THINK THE SIMILARITY BETWEEN ME AND VEDAA WOULD BE THAT I REALLY RESONATED WITH THE FACT THAT WE’RE UNDERDOGS. I REALLY RESONATED WITH THE FACT THAT NOBODY EXPECTED HER TO FIND HER FOOTING AND I FEEL LIKEWISE. SO I LIKE THE UNDERDOG QUALITY OF WHAT VEDAA HAD AND WHAT SHE STOOD FOR; FOR HER OWN DREAM AND SHE HAD A LOT OF GRIT AND COURAGE THROUGH THAT.
how’d you prepare for that?
Sometimes the physical aspect is easier than the emotional aspect. Because you know for the physical part you still have a gym, you still have dieticians, you can still be dependent on a lot of experts that know
better than you. Since I had to play a student boxer, so my training was to learn boxing and that took me a fair share of time because I was not as physically fit even to be able to box for five minutes. So I had to hit the gym for two months only to build strength and endurance and
stamina. Then I worked on the sport. So it was a long journey of almost seven months and I trained for two hours every day from Monday to Saturday. But I enjoyed the process.
Which scene did you find the most challenging?
I think for me the most challenging was when the five boys, they kind of target her and tear the money from her hand and punch her. That scene was tough emotionally to balance the helplessness, and the anger, because symbolically it was about crushing her dream and trying to clip her wings. It’s not just about the physical aspect of that scene, it was more to do with the fact that they were trying to take away her dream. And I think that that really got to me because it’s a sorry state for anyone to be in! When somebody comes in your personal space, even if it is between an action and cut, it is a difficult scene to do. I felt very uncomfortable in that scene.
There are scenes in the movie where you as Vedaa are talking about your dreams and aspirations. As a child was becoming an actor your dream?
Yes! I’ve always wanted to be an actor even before I was a teen I think. I always felt like I wanted to be someone. I used to watch the movies and I used to love sitting in the theatre as an audience and it was such a magical experience and I wanted to be a part of it. Of course, because I don’t come from a film family, it was very difficult to imagine
a life like that and it’s very difficult to say that ‘oh that’s going to be my career’. It’s not an easy thought. So I think I only mustered up the courage to say things like these when I was in college. But I’ve always wanted to be an actor. I did think of having a bakery too but I know my heart belonged to the world of acting and the movies.
And you’re living your dream then?
The best one!
While you have done this intense movie, on the other hand you had a sizzler of a song like ‘Taras’ in Munjya. What comes easier to you - dancing or the action?
I don’t know. Action is like dancing only, it’s so much choreography! I don’t think anything comes easier, but I do really enjoy dancing and I think that’s why I’m just so happy with how Taras has been received. You know a playlist comes up and it has your song… it’s quite lovely.
All the roles you have essayed on screen have been very versatile and even the films you have chosen so far have all been very different from each other. And now your next Alpha which is YRF’s spy universe is again very unique. But what genre do you find yourself gravitating towards most organically? I’ve not explored so much yet so I think it’s tough to say which is the genre that I get pulled towards. A romcom or like a romantic film would attract me a lot because so far I haven’t done like an out-and-out romantic song and dance film. So I’m actually looking forward to that and chances are that I will just be pulled in by the prospect of doing a nice love story actually.
After your debut, you were missing from the screen for almost two years before the hat-trick this year! What was that waiting period like for you?
Honestly, it was definitely not the easiest of times because you know, after your debut film, you feel like everything is going to flow more smoothly. You know the most ideal scenario, you feel like everything is going to go upwards from there, but it took me some time to find my next film, and say yes to a film after Bunty Aur Babli 2. I was already shooting for Maharaj and after that I shot for Munjya. Again the films took some time for release. But you’re right, for audiences, I was not there. Even acquaintances, like just bumping into people and they would ask, ‘Arey when is your film coming?’ And I knew that for 2 years, I didn’t have an answer, so I really was like ‘I don’t know’ and it’s difficult, of course. But now when I look back at it, I feel that it was all worth it because this year has given me so much and nobody could have predicted their timing. So I have no regrets.
How was it working with John Abraham?
I’m a rookie in action, and I tried action for the first time in Vedaa, so when you have someone like John who’s an action superstar, I think life becomes easier on set. I got to learn a lot from his experiences. He is someone who likes to impart knowledge when someone has a doubt, especially in action. So for me it was a blessing that I got to do action with John and also he’s an incredible person. Like
A ROMCOM OR LIKE A ROMANTIC FILM WOULD ATTRACT ME A LOT BECAUSE SO FAR I HAVEN’T DONE LIKE AN OUT-ANDOUT ROMANTIC SONG AND DANCE FILM. SO I’M ACTUALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO THAT AND CHANCES ARE THAT I WILL JUST BE PULLED IN BY THE PROSPECT OF DOING A NICE LOVE STORY ACTUALLY.
he used to take care of everybody on set, including the technical crew. So it was a very sweet and very warm feeling to be able to work with him.
He was Vedaa’s go-to person in the movie. Who’s your go-to person?
My mom, always! She’s the first person I’d turn to if in a crisis.
The character showed a lot of mental strength, do you relate to Vedaa in that sense? Are you a similar kind of a person in real life?
I think I am. I think the similarity between me and Vedaa would be that I really resonated with the fact that we’re underdogs. I really resonated with the fact that nobody expected her to find her footing and I feel likewise. So I like the underdog quality of what Vedaa had and what she stood for; for her own dream and she had a lot of grit and courage through that. Vedaa’s story is literally just like it’s synonymous to any girl who has a dream and who wants to fight for it in whatever big or a small way.
So, what are you really like?
I’m just like a fun and a happy person. I go through my day quite happy. I love cracking jokes, I love cracking jokes on myself too, I think I’m a funny person!
What’s happening on the personal front? Are you a romantic kind of a person? I’ve grown up watching Bollywood films and loving them. One has to be a romantic at heart if you love Bollywood films.
And what’s the way to win your heart? Good humour.
SteppingUP
CHARMING YOUNG ACTOR
SHANTANU MAHESHWARI TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT LOVE, LIFE AND FINDING HIS GROOVE IN BOLLYWOOD
Shantanu Maheshwari is a vibe! That’s the best way to describe this talented young actor who has been basking in all the appreciation coming his way for his role in the Ajay Devgn - Tabu starrer Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha where he plays the young Ajay. He had earlier won hearts with his brief but impactful role in Gangubai Kathiawadi that also marked his debut in Bollywood. New to moviedom he may be, but the dancing star’s no novice when it comes to facing the cameras or enjoying popularity among young crowds especially the girls, thanks to his hit shows. We caught up with him recently and in a candid fun chat spoke to him about his balancing act between the two passions – movies and dance and also got him to spill some lesser known secrets about his love and life.
INTERVIEW
WITH AURON MEIN KAHAN DUM THA,YOU’VE MADE YOUR OWN MARK IN A MOVIE THAT STARRED TABU AND AJAY DEVGN – TWO OF THE MOST FANTASTIC ACTORS WE HAVE IN OUR INDUSTRY... I’m very happy and overwhelmed with the kind of response the film and my character has received, and there’s a lot of credibility there with Tabu Ma’am and Ajay Sir. But it’s all thanks to Neeraj Pandey Sir also because of brilliant writing and working on me and giving me an opportunity like this where I can play a full transition of a character. So it’s been possible only because he believed in me.
YOU HAVE A VERY INTERESTING EQUATION WITH AJAY. EARLIER TOO, YOU BOTH STARRED IN GANGUBAI KATHIAWADI BUT DID NOT SHARE THE SCREEN SPACE AND NOW IN THIS AGAIN IT’S THE SAME!
I didn’t think much about it but I know he has always been in my universe, be it Khatron Ke Khiladi 8, be it Gangubai and now this one. I mean I’m happy as far as such a great personality is there in my universe (laughs) and hopefully we will share screen space too.
THERE MUST’VE BEEN QUITE A LOT OF PRESSURE TOO GETTING HIS MANNERISMS AND BODY LANGUAGE RIGHT. WHAT WERE THE THINGS YOU KEPT IN MIND WHEN PLAYING THE YOUNGER AJAY?
Mannerism is something that Neeraj Sir was very clear about and he
told me to only try and adapt them when he asked me to. So, it was not like he made me watch his movies. He wanted me to be true to the character with a few nuances that Neeraj Sir directed. The idea was not to overdo. Even while I was prepping up, Sir kept saying that it’s all in the eyes, so just try to be in the
I’m not on any of the dating apps, I don’t believe in that kind of approach to love I just feel if you meet someone, connect, that’s the way to take it forward. I can’t connect with someone through the app or anything. Yeh humse na ho payega.
moment, perform with your eyes because that’s Ajay Sir’s forte, I mean you just see Ajay sir and it’s like he’s emoting so much and so many layers with just a look. So I think that was the only thing that was there in my mind. Nothing like the dialogues need to be in a certain rhythm or any of that sort. So they did not let that turn into a pressure for me.
YOUR FEMALE FANFOLLOWING TOO SEEMS TO HAVE EVOLVED AND GROWN WITH YOUR ROLES AND PROJECTS… I think the characters that I’ve done, I feel they have been really very romantic, and maybe girls aspire those
traits in their better half, at least I treat it in that manner. So, I would have to give credit to the projects that I’ve done and the characters that I’ve played that has really helped me connect with female audience and given boys a certain understanding of what is expected out of men. So I think that’s the reason.
WHAT’S YOUR DATING SCENE LIKE? WOULD WE FIND YOU ON ANY OF THE DATING APPS?
I’m not on any of those apps, I don’t believe in that kind of approach to love. I just feel if you
meet someone, connect, that’s the way to take it forward. I can’t connect with someone through the app or anything. Yeh humse na ho payega (laughs).
SO MORE LIKE OLD SCHOOL ROMANCE … Yeah, totally old school romance. I understand that better. But I don’t think I’m very romantic. I can take care of someone, but in my own way. So, it’s not something like ‘oh! wow, so romantic!’
YOUR TRANSITION FROM A DANCING STAR TO NOW A ROMANTIC ACTOR HAS BEEN VERY INTERESTING. WAS THAT ALWAYS THE IDEA,
OR HAS THE JOURNEY BEEN MORE ORGANIC? To begin with, I had never even imagined to be in front of the camera. I always wanted to be a choreographer, so that was the plan. I got introduced to the industry through a dancebased show, so people connected with me through my dance, and eventually I moved more onto the acting bits. But I would not call it a transition. I still try to balance both dancing and acting and I’ve maintained that. If you’re good at something, if you’re equally passionate about something, take it along man.
YOU’VE DONE ACTION IN AMKTD. DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU COULD PULL OFF ALL THOSE ACTION SEQUENCES?
Yes, it was super fun too! And yes I knew I would be able to pull off those scenes, because I do believe in myself and that confidence comes largely from the fact that I come from a dancing background, so essentially it’s movement. Maybe intensitywise, there was levelling it up, but in terms of fighting, in terms of the movement bit… it’s just a lot of intense and rougher movement without music! There’s a reason it’s called action choreography, like the dance choreography.
GOING FORWARD, DO YOU SEE A CHANGE IN YOUR APPROACH TO PROJECTS POST THIS MOVIE, ESPECIALLY SINCE NOW THE RANGE OF OFFERS MUST HAVE WIDENED TOO?
Yes the offers are more versatile now, but my approach is still the same! First – good stories, then, interesting character. I can wish anything, but it would finally depend on the opportunities coming my way and I can only choose from what’s available! Sometimes, you have to find ways on how to put in things for the character… like can we try comedy, but only if the character allows. I mean I don’t want to sit at home and think, ‘my next
also has to be action now, or a comedy…’ I’m an artiste, I need to work, go out, practice my art and keep exploring and this is just my second film, so I would say, my journey has just started and I’m ready to learn, explore, grow and be better with each outing!
WHAT IS THE REAL SHANTANU LIKE?
I’m an artiste, I need to work, go out, practice my art and keep exploring and this is just my second film , so I would say, my journey has just started and I’m ready to learn, explore, grow and be better with each outing!
Exactly how you see me, just like this! I enjoy chilling, dancing, irritating someone… just apne mein mast!
UPCOMING PROJECTS?
There are two films which we have already announced which I’m part of, it’s Love in Vietnam and Crossfire. And there’s a series that we have started filming for. It’s a dance-based series and there are others in the pipeline waiting to be announced!
HILLS CLIMB... MORE TO
Since making his debut in 1996 with Gulzar’s Maachis, Jimmy Shergill has carved out a distinctive niche in the Indian film industry, transitioning from his early “chocolate boy” image to taking on more diverse and challenging roles. His career, spanning over two decades, is marked by significant milestones such as his performance in Munnabhai MBBS, which he considers a turning point. Despite his extensive filmography, including memorable roles in both mainstream and supporting capacities, Shergill believes his peak is yet to come, demonstrating his persistent ambition and commitment to growth. Embracing new opportunities in web series like Choona and Ranneeti: Balakot & Beyond, Shergill continues to evolve, bringing depth and experience to each character he portrays. His journey reflects a blend of instinctive choices and calculated risks, driven by a passion for storytelling and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of cinema.
FROM 1996 TO NOW, WHICH PHASE WOULD YOU CALL THE PEAK AND THE LOWEST YET IN YOUR CAREER?
Honestly, I feel the peak is yet to come. Personally, every person goes through things; that’s life. But the peak is yet to come.
YOU’VE MENTIONED IN SEVERAL INTERVIEWS HOW YOU WANTED TO BREAK FROM THAT STEREOTYPE OF BEING A CHOCOLATE BOY ONSCREEN. HOW DID THAT JOURNEY GO?
I think there was one point where, everywhere I looked, it was just written “Chocolate Boy.” Every actor wants to do something different. I also just felt that I was getting typecast in the same kind of scenario. The same old song and dance and the easy-breezy
films. Though I love those films, I then consciously tried to make an effort to catch hold of films like Munnabhai MBBS, where I felt that there was a lot more to do as an actor. And that was the turning point. At that time, I felt insecure when people said, “Are you mad? You’re doing two hero projects; why are you getting into this supporting role scenario?” Then I would probably sometimes think about whether I was doing the correct thing. I would ask myself, ‘Are you sure that this is going to work out?’ But now, when I look back at it, I feel so glad that I made those decisions.It’s been a long journey, but a fulfilling one.
THERE WAS A TIME WHEN YOU DID MOHABBATEIN AND OUT-AND-OUT ROMANCE;
OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, YOU’VE DONE A FEW COMEDIES, AND NOW YOU’VE ENTERED THIS SERIOUS ZONE WITH CHOONA AND RANNEETI. We try to make every character different from what we’ve done before. It’s also the experience of so many years of doing things in a very different way. Picking up films with new directors because you see something in their script or you see something in that director, and you feel that this guy is going to become a very big director one day. There could be so many reasons, but yes, I
mean, today, when you approach a character, it does have 27 years of experience as an actor, and you know who you are. The power to imagine what level you can probably go to is far greater today because of your experience.
THERE WAS ALSO A SERIES OF FILMS WHERE WE MOSTLY SAW YOU AS THE SUPPORTING ACTOR. DID THE FEAR OF GETTING STEREOTYPED CREEP IN? It does happen because sometimes what’s happening is that in one-two years you are making so many films that are all
JIMMY SHERGILL LIVES FOR TODAY AND BELIEVES THAT HIS BEST IS YET TO COME, FINDS TANISHA BHATTACHARYA
looking great. So you do all those things, and suddenly, what happens is that, with some kind of bad timing or whatever, all those four-five releases are together, back-to-back. And then everyone starts to feel that this guy is only doing supporting roles. And till your other films come out, which could even take six months, where you’re like one of the main protagonists, that thinking prevails. But I look at it in a way that’s the fun of films there.
DID YOU HAVE A BACKUP PLAN IF THE ACTING CAREER DIDN’T WORK OUT?
No, I didn’t have backup plans as such. When I started off as an actor, it was a whole new world. It took a lot of time to adjust to these surroundings, and that insecurity was always there. What if nothing happens? What if it doesn’t work out? Where am I going to start? But I guess once I was here and I started doing my acting classes, I decided that if not into acting, I’d probably become an assistant director, get into direction, and get into production. But this is the industry where I want to be because I like it.
ARE THERE ANY FILMS IN YOUR CAREER THAT YOU REGRET MISSING OUT ON?
You do feel hurt at that point when you’ve signed something and something else is written in the script. Finally, when you go to shoot for that film, you see a whole lot of compromises happening in terms of production and a lot of other things. But then you see, my face is going to come in front of the screen, and people are going to say that this guy is looking disinterested, which I feel when I’m committed to a project
I’m not supposed to do. So let me just do it to the best of my ability, to be honest. Nobody is going to see what was happening in the back of your mind or how upset you were. It’s what is on screen that matters, so you have to be honest and sincere about what you’re doing, and that’s what I do, then I move on. Then I don’t think about it.
HOW HAVE YOU GOTTEN BETTER AT HANDLING SETBACKS IN SUCH A DEMANDING JOB?
I just believe in one thing, life is not easy. I just have these things in my head, and I just move on because it’s not the end of the world. You move on, no matter how big the loss is; you’ve got to move on. There’s no other way to go about it.
DID YOU EVER GET A MENTOR IN THE FILM INDUSTRY OVER THESE YEARS?
I wish I did. I didn’t have anybody to guide me at all at any point in my life. I think every decision I took was made by following my heart. So I have nobody to blame if things have gone wrong, it’s been my fault. If things have gone right, it’s to my credit.
HAS YOUR GUT INSTINCT ABOUT THE SCRIPTS YOU CHOOSE GOTTEN BETTER OVER THE YEARS?
It’s always been the same. When a script comes in, once I have read it, like the story, and felt that the story is new and interesting, or perhaps the character is one that I would want to do. Again, sometimes it’s the setup that you feel is nice, and you would want to be a part of it. There could be so many reasons, but the primary reason always remains the script and the story; that’s what’s worked for me.
WHAT EXCITED YOU THE MOST ABOUT RANNEETI: BALAKOT AND BEYOND?
With a script when it came to me, we all know about this series of events that happened then, and it’s fresh in our minds. We all only know whatever we see on the news channels and read in the newspapers. But with this, this script was an eye-opener as to what was happening behind the scenes when all this happened and these people who were and will always remain behind the scenes. They went to war for you and saved so many lives. They’re the unsung heroes, and nobody has ever seen their faces. Nobody knows their names. Just reading about all that and how it happened, I think that was an eye-opener, and it feels great to be a part of something so big.
WHAT’S THE MOST EXCITING FACTOR ABOUT
THIS PHASE AS AN ACTOR FOR YOU?
I’ve always been doing that, dabbling in multiple genres and experimenting as much as possible. So from that perspective, it’s been nice, but with OTT, the layering of the characters is much more, and whatever little I have done with OTT has truly piqued my interest and passion. n
I JUST BELIEVE IN ONE THING: LIFE IS NOT EASY. I JUST HAVE THESE THINGS IN MY HEAD, AND I JUST MOVE ON BECAUSE IT'S NOT THE END OF THE WORLD
Ranneeti: Balakot & Beyond
Southern Storm!
Action Prince Dhruva Sarja’s Martin is all set to storm domestic and international markets and create a new record as it plans a synced global release in 13 languages including Arabic, Spanish and Russian. The highly-anticipated action-thriller’s trailer was unveiled at a mega event in Mumbai making it the first film to have its launch with an international press conference. Making an uber-cool entry in an autorickshaw, the South star won hearts with his humble demeanor as he interacted with fans and media, while the impactful trailer won critics. Besides the film’s leading castDhruva Sarja, Vaibhavi Shandilya, Anveshi Jain - also present were director AP Arjun, producer Uday Mehta and the acclaimed technical crew consisting cinematographer Satya Hegde and celebrated music composer Ravi Basrur, amongst others. The iconic event was also graced by Kannada megastar Arjun Sarja. The film is touted to be an epic actioner that promises to be a milestone in Indian cinema’s global prominence and is set for a worldwide release on October 11
Dhruva Sarja, Vaibhavi Shandilya, and Anveshi Jain with AP Arjun, Uday Mehta and Arjun Sarja
Dhruva Sarja
Still from Martin
Arjun Sarja
Fhion The Fiesta with
Alish Apparel continues to captivate the fashion world with its new collection, brought to life by models showcasing an array of stylish, versatile outfits. The models, handpicked for their diverse appeal, showcased a range of Alish Apparel’s signature pieces. From intricately detailed dresses to minimalist, sophisticated office wear, the collection caters to a wide spectrum of customers. Every piece highlights the core philosophy of Alish Apparel: combining comfort with chic designs to create timeless fashion statements. This latest collection reinforces Alish Apparel’s position as a go-to brand for modern individuals seeking style, comfort, and confidence in their wardrobe. Ms Shabnam Nissar Kassam
FounderofAlishApparelandDirectorofthe Danube Welfare Center
SetReady Ready Get
Dubai Model Showcase
Glamour Talents
Meets
Catch Management, USA, a premier talent agency, announced the successful conclusion of its third Dubai Model Showcase - an electrifying event that brought together models from across the globe to convey the essence of fashion with the runway sparkling with diversity, glamour and charisma. From international collaborations to formal networking sessions, the event also saw an exhilarating fashion show, featuring stunning collections curated by Ms. Shabnam Kassam, Designer, Founder of Alish Apparel Fashion with a Cause and the Director of Danube Welfare Center. Kilame by Pamela Quinzi, show-stopper Miss Tasnuba Raisa wearing a beautiful Alish Apparel saree, Black by Adhil Ramnath were some of the highlights of the show. Also present were special guests, Managing Director of Danube Group Mr Adel Sajan and Mrs Sameera Sajan.
Mrs. Shubhra Goyal, Ms. Shabnam Kassam, Mr. Arshad Darbar
Mrs. Shubhra Goyal, Ms. Shabnam Kassam, Mr. Arshad Darbar
Mrs. Shubhra Goyal, Ms. Shilpa Perera
TRAILS GLORY of
THE RECENTLY HELD 69TH FILMFARE AWARDS SOUTH 2024 WITH KAMAR FILM FACTORY WERE A BLAST. DEVESH SHARMA CHARTS THEIR TRAJECTORY
Mammootty accepts his award as Vikram and Siddharth join him on stage
Jyotika
Kamar D, Co-founder Kamar Film Factory, Rukmini Vasanth, Sumeet Chunkhare, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer of SOBHA Limited, Jitesh Pillaai, Editor-in-Chief of Filmfare and Malavika Mohanan
Raashii Khanna
SIZZLER SUPREME
Raashii Khanna set the stage ablaze with her electrifying dance moves on hits like Bimbiliki from Prince, O antava from Pushpa, Ninnila and Vinave vinave from Tholi Prema, and Kiri kiri from Kaadaadi. Her performance was so captivating that the audience begged for an encore.
Aparna Balamurali
SHOWSTOPPER!
Aparna Balamurali brought down the house with her high-energy performances to fast-paced hits such as Kadharalaz from Indian 2, Whistle podu from GOAT, Antha kanna from Master, Naa ready from Leo, Hayyoda from Jawan, Celebration of Varisu, Ranjithame, and Jimmiki Ponnu from Varisu. The crowd was so enthralled that they couldn’t get enough and eagerly called for more.
