Filmfare Middle East - April 2020

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MIDDLE EAST

WHAT’S ON YOUR MOVIE LIST? FILMFARE ME CURATES A FEW FILMS FOR YOU!

WINNERS ALL Meet the dazzlers of the 65th Filmfare Awards 2020

TV TIME

YOUR FAVOURITE TELLY STARS SPEAK TO US

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MIDDLE EAST

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

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

Ramadan Kareem

A

s the world faces it biggest lockdown and we start working indoors, there is more to do than ever before. As the print edition takes a break for a couple of months, the digital space of Filmfare ME, be it the website, the Filmfare Middle East FB page as well as the FilmfareME on Instagram are flooded with content. As we cross the 200,000 mark, a huge thanks to all our readers and viewers across the world and my fabulous team that refuses to let the situation of the pandemic affect their work and productivity.

This edition is about the last Filmfare awards that happened in Assam much before the lockdown and as you revel in the times when crowds and gatherings was normal, we also bring to you interviews of some of the rising stars of the web space who have also made a mark in the world of Bollywood cinema. Sayani Gupta spoke to us about how she has never in her life seen Mumbai this quiet and how the lockdown has brought the world closer and gives her time to practise her music, dance, indulge in cooking as well as catch up with family members she hasn’t been in touch with for a long time. Vijay Varma tells us how he has learnt some cooking and cleaning. The actor who has won hearts worldwide, was also part of some of the opening scenes of some major films - be it Super 30 or Gully Boy, lives alone and is coping up by trying to be active. His instagram posts reveal what he has been up to since the lockdown.

A browse through instagram and you will know how many actors are on instalive and chatting up with each other. One of the most hilarious ones was between Boman Irani and Johnny Lever and who but Ranveer Singh joins in the chat to make it livelier. As for my own chats with the stars, we have had a great variety of people we spoke to - right from singers Tulsi Kumar, the Meet Bros, Shilpa Rao and the very talented Armaan Mallik, funnyman Maniesh Paul, actors Tusshar Kapoor, Aparshakti Khurana, Celina Jaitley, cancer warrior and writer/film-maker Tahira Kashyap Khurrana. More coming up, so keep updated with our pages.

We also started the Filmfare ME FB live concerts with local talent Shobana Chandramohan who conducted and online mehfil where she sung songs of Rekhaji, Rajesh Khanna, Shreya Ghoshal and Helenji. The well known Talat Aziz has tied up with the Filmfare ME FB live page to conduct his online concert every Friday called Up, Close and Personal with Talat Aziz at 5:30pm UAE and 7pm India.

As for the fun loving amongst you all, we are successfully running the third week of the Akele Hum Akele Tum Online Contest. And we had celebrities to judge the process that included Maniesh Paul, Esha Deol and Aparshakti Khurana. As we move towards Ramadan, which will be largely indoors this season, keep a close watch to to our contests on Instagram that will be judged by celebs too!

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In the meantime, do check out my interview with Esha Deol on her book Amma Mia and my review of Seasons’ Greetings directed by Ram Kamal Mukherjee, who also wrote Hema Malini’s autobiograpy and directed the film Cakewalk.

all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors within.

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As the UAE and its able administration fights the pandemic, we urge all our dear readers to stay home, stay safe and keep reading and commenting on the content we put out! My team works relentlessly to ensure that your screen time is justified.

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WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY RAMADAN SEASON!

Manju Ramanan

Editor-in-Chief Filmfare Middle East

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

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

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 3

Volume 25 # April 1, 2020

PHOTOGRAPH: TARAS TARAPORVALA

exclusive

32 masala fix

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FILMFARE AWARDS THE 65TH AMAZON FILMFARE AWARDS 2020 HELD IN GUWAHATI, WAS A SCINTILLATING EVENT.

Show report

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FLY ON THE WALL A ACCOUNT OF THE CURTAIN-RAISER OF THE 65TH AMAZON FILMFARE AWARDS 4 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

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SALMAN KHAN DONATES TO INDUSTRY WORKERS BEFORE PM FUND

winners

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PRESENTING THE WINNERS OF THE 65TH AMAZON FILMFARE AWARDS

36 40 44 48

NUSHRAT BHARUCHA IS GAME FOR ROMANTIC FILMS “THIS VIRUS HAS UNITED ALL OF US”, SAYS SAYANI GUPTA MEET THE RISING STAR VIJAY VARMA MY WIFE IS EXTREMELY STRICT… TELUGU SUPERSTAR ALLU ARJUN REVEALS HE’S A FAMILY MAN TV TIME! FILMFARE ME BRINGS YOU A LIST OF TALENTED STARS RARING TO GO !

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MOVIE MARATHON FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST PREPARED FOR OUR READERS A LIST OF MOVIES TO WATCH

F&B local

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RAMADAN BUYS

62 - 67 party buzz Celebrating Womenhood!

Southern Spice

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

Amruta Subhash, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt pose with the Best Film trophy for Gully Boy

AWESOME ASSAM The 65th Amazon Filmfare Awards 2020 @awesome assam, held in Guwahati, was a scintillating event.

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 5

LETTERS

IN THE MAIL

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Thanks a lot for inviting me. I enjoyed the celebration of Women’s day at Ritz-Carlton DIFC and looking forward for attending the coming events.

- Amira Mohammad.

It was great to see all of you. I had a great time - Sheikh Yousef A beautiful afternoon spent with like-minded female entrepreneurs from all walks of life, coming together, to celebrate Women’s Day in style. The event was brough to us by Filmfare Middle East magazine in conjuction with Luxury with Lara. The event was fun filled and achieved the desired result of allowing us to network and gain leverage in the business world with our female colleagues.

BEST INSTA MOMENTS

Check out what your favourites are upto on instagram......

- Naushine Mahomed Aboo What a fabulous High Tea event hosted by Filmfare Middle East on the eve of international women’s day. I enjoyed indulging in the flavors of mouthwatering Indian snacks, pastries, premium beverages accompanied by exciting Bollywood games organized by the much enthusiastic Filmfare Middle East team. I would like to thank entire team once again to keep all of us entertained and happy on women’s day.

- Nidhi Sharma

Post your reviews to 6 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

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

FilmfareME

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FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST WENT LIVE WITH TALENT FROM BOLLYWOOD. HERE’S A RUN DOWN...

2ND APRIL

7TH APRIL

LIVE

LIVE

LIVE

MANIESH PAUL

TULSI KUMAR

TAHIRA KASHYAP KHURRANA

1ST APRIL

WITH

14TH APRIL

WITH

14TH APRIL

LIVE

LIVE

SHILPA RAO

APARSHAKTI

WITH

16TH APRIL

WITH

25TH MARCH

WITH

14TH APRIL

LIVE WITH

CELINA JAITLEY

9TH APRIL

LIVE

LIVE

LIVE

ARMAAN MALIK

HIMANSH KOHLI

MEET BROS

WITH

WITH

WITH

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 7

CURTAIN RAISER

Manish Malhotra, Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan are all smiles

CURTAIN RAISER

THE 65TH AMAZON FILMFARE 2020 CURTAIN RAISER IN MUMBAI WAS A RIOT OF COLOUR AND BONHOMIE. DEVESH SHARMA RECALLS THE HIGHLIGHTS

8 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

Sonam Kapoor Ahuja greets Rajkummar Rao

Vidya Balan, Manish Malhotra and Kareena Kapoor Khan

In a departure from tradition, Filmfare winners in the technical categories and the Short Film Award winners were presented the Black Lady on the same evening the nominations of the 65 Amazon Filmfare Awards 2020 were announced at the J.W. Mariott, Juhu in Mumbai. There was much excitement around, as is the case when you tread on new territory. The event saw the spirit of fellowship in the industry emerge as the stars made sure to come and applaud the behindthe-scenes talents, who help them shine on screen.

There was much laughter, much energy and much camaraderie on a night brimming with winners and nominees. Presenting excerpts from the happenings of the emotion-filled event... th

Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Kashyap April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 9

CURTAIN RAISER

Pulkit Samrat and Kriti Kharbanda pose with R Madhavan

Manish Malhotra, Kareena down’ hubby Ranveer SinghKapoor Khan, Kartik Aaryan and Karan Johar converse together

Angad Bedi and Neha Dhupia pose together

Rhea Chakraborty, Rakul Preet Singh, Niharika Khan and Athiya Shetty with a friend

Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa enjoying the show

SONAM KAPOOR AHUJA SURPRISED EVERYONE BY CHOOSING A SAREE OVER HER STATEMENT GOWNS. SHE LOOKED AWESOME IN THE IVORY DRAPE. MARRIAGE SURELY SUITS HER

A

s said earlier, this year the technical awards were given out on the nomination night. Our winners in the technical category were the centre of attention and their earto-ear smiles were proof of that. Editor Shivkumar V Panicker, who won the award for Uri: The Surgical Strike, was excited beyond measure. He had a hard time standing still while posing for the photos.

He confided that had he known he was winning; he wouldn’t have been ‘four beers down’. High spirits indeed! Twins Divvya Gambhir and Niddhi Gambhir, who won the award for Best Costume for 10 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

Sonchiriya, shrieked like teenagers when their names were announced. They said it was a challenge to source authentic clothes for the period film. They felt rewarded as their hard work had paid off.

Sherry Bharda, who won the Best VFX Award for War, along with Vishal Anand panicked for a moment when she realised, she had left her phone and clutch on her seat before coming backstage.

Hearing this, Vishal, like a gentleman, rushed to retrieve her things before they got misplaced.

The People’s Choice Award For Best Short Film was given to Deshi.

The film’s producer Rajendrakumar More and

director Rohit Kamble came from Kolhapur to collect the award. The film sent out a powerful message against castebased discrimination in the field of education. They received the trophy at the hands of Sonam Kapoor Ahuja. The duo was smitten when the beautiful actor met them backstage.

They asked Sonam for a photo and she happily posed with them.

Ananth Narayan Mahadevan’s Village Of A Lesser God won the Best Short Film (Non-Fiction) Award. He sent Dr Jatin Valia, who runs the NGO featured in the film, to collect the award on his behalf. There are thousands of villages like Talasari in

Kiran Juneja with husband Ramesh Sippy Manisha Koirala Farhan Akhtar, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Vijay Varma rooting for Gully Boy

Radhika Madan and Abhimanyu Dassani

Rakul Preet Singh and Tusshar Kapoor

TEAM GULLY BOY SAT TOGETHER AND CHEERED FOR EVERYONE WITH GUSTO...

SIDDHANT CHATURVEDI EVEN DID AN IMPROMPTU DANCE ATOP HIS TABLE AT HOST NEHA DHUPIA’S BEHEST

Sanya Malhotra and Vidya Balan exchange notes

India, bereft of medical care centres.

The sensitive film is an eye-opener indeed. Director Shazia Iqbal, our winner for Best Short Film (Bebaak) and her heroine Sarah Hashmi, who won the Best Actor (Female) In A Short Film for the same, couldn’t handle the suspense. They kept asking us whether they were winning. Their astonishment, when their names were announced, was a sight to behold.

Rajesh Sharma, Our Best Actor in a Short Film (Tindey), could not be present to receive his award. Unfortunately, he had a family crisis and had to rush back to Kolkata.

Manish Malhotra has been creating one sartorial fantasy after another these past 30 years. To commemorate that Filmfare gave the

Malavika Mohanan and Shriya Saran

ace designer a special award for making our films and stars look so alluring. Models recreated his iconic looks in films like Kajol’s Anjali (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai), Kareena Kapoor’s Poo (Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham) and Geet (Jab We Met), Deepika Padukone’s Shanti (Om Shanti Om), Priyanka Chopra’s Desi Girl (Dostana) and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Saba (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil). It was a fitting lyrical tribute to the master of design. In his acceptance speech Manish said, “As a child, I loved movies so much that they love me back now.” Sweet.

Kareena Kapoor Khan gave a heartfelt speech about Manish before presenting him the trophy. Karan Johar too was happy for his friend and colleague Manish and congratulated him heartily. Like always, Karan was the heart of the event, what with everyone from Vidya Balan, Manisha Koirala, Kareena, Kartik Aaryan and Tusshar Kapoor reaching out to greet him.

Vidya, who shares screen space with Sanya Malhotra in the Shakuntala Devi biopic, was seen chatting with the younger actress.

Both are essaying powerful roles in the film. We can’t wait to watch the power girls April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 11

CURTAIN RAISER

Vidya Balan and Sophie Choudry

Marathi mulgis Amruta Subhash and Amruta Khanvilkar

Sonal Chauhan

Amyra Dastur

Parveen Dusanj, Kabir Bedi and Alaya F make for a happy family

Kabir Khan, Nushrat Bharucha and Vidya Balan look engrossed

Vardhan Puri, Namashi Chakraborty and Zaheer Iqbal with friends

Kartik Aaryan poses with his admirers

FARHAN AKHTAR WALKED IN WITH THE WOMAN IN HIS LIFE, GORGEOUS SINGER SHIBANI DANDEKAR... THE COUPLE CUT A BEAUTIFUL PICTURE Sanya Malhotra and Radhika Madan

on screen. Veteran Kabir Bedi, who still makes for a handsome man, was seen chatting with wife Parveen Dusanj and granddaughter Alaya Furniturewala.

The trio made for a happy family.

K

artik Aaryan is one popular star alright. His Ralph Lauren Bear Sweater was the talk of the town and created much curiosity amongst his fans and onlookers.

He created a miniriot of sorts and only after he consented to get clicked with them did his fans back off. He touched KJo’s feet as a mark of respect. Later, he touched host Neha Dhupia’s feet as well when he went on stage.

Neha, mesmerising in

12 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

a black gown, was at her wittiest best throughout the proceedings, taking digs at everyone – all in fun and jest of course. Neha, you were fab.

Farhan Akhtar walked in with the woman in his life, gorgeous singer Shibani Dandekar. They were joined later by Farhan’s business partner and friend Ritesh Sidhwani.

Farhan and Shibani have completed two years of togetherness. The couple cut a beautiful picture together. Team Gully Boy sat together and cheered for everyone with gusto. Best Debut and Best Supporting Actor nominee, Siddhant Chaturvedi, even did an impromptu dance atop his table at Neha’s behest.

Another couple we spotted was Kriti Kharbanda and Pulkit Samrat, who were seen chatting

with a dapper-looking R Madhavan. Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa were seen enjoying the event.

Being the stylista she is, Sonam Kapoor surprised everyone by choosing a saree over her statement gowns. She looked awesome in the ivory drape. Marriage surely suits her. The night saw many beauties in bold cuts and contours. But Nushrat Bharucha’s slit dress took the cake. It was literally held together by staples. Her confidence turned the tide in her favour. Slits seem to be the flavour of the season.

Ananya Panday, Rakul Preet Singh, Vaani Kapoor, Tara Sutaria et al dared to bare in different variations.

We caught a glimpse of Mithun Chakraborty’s son Namashi Chakraborty at the party. The youngster,

expert advice

Neeti Mohan and Nora Fatehi Sonia and Himesh Reshammiya

Lizelle D’Souza, Remo D’Souza and Gurmeet Chaudhary

ONE POPULAR STAR ALRIGHT HIS RALPH LAUREN BEAR SWEATER WAS THE TALK OF THE TOWN AND CREATED MUCH CURIOSITY AMONGST HIS FANS

Ranvir Shorey conversing with Farhan

Dr. Ateesh Borole Cosmetic plastic Surgeon American Aesthetic Medical Center

RHINOPLASTY + DEVIATED NASAL SEPTUM RHINOPLASTY AND A DEVIATED NASAL SEPTUM. Shazia Iqbal and Vipin Sharma touch base with Rasika Dugal

A nose job (Septoplasty) for deviated nasal septum is medically indicated if you have problems in breathing, recurrent sinus infections. The bonus that you can have from this procedure is you can get a cosmetic correction in the appearance of nose not just in alignment, but also augment or reduce the size overall as well as tip correction in the same sitting, which is technically known as septo-rhinoplasty.

WHAT IS DEVIATED NASAL SEPTUM? Manoj and Seema Pahwa

When the septum is misaligned, tilted to one side or results in one nasal passage wider than the other is known as a deviated septum.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF DEVIATED NASAL SEPTUM?

Some people are born with a deviated septum. Other people develop a deviated septum after injury or trauma to the nose.

ABOUT THE RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE Patralekhaa and Elli Avram

who looks much like his illustrious father, is making his debut in Rajkumar Santoshi’s Bad Boy. Incidentally, Vardhan Puri, the late Amrish Puri’s grandson, and Namashi were wearing similar blazers. The youngsters had a good laugh about it. All in all… it was an evening when the stars descended down to dazzle and delight… a kind of a curtain-raiser to the grand event that was to follow in Assam. The curtainraiser was telecast on Zoom TV. n

Shilpa Rao with mother R. Shyamala

Vishal Jethwa poses with Mrunal Thakur

Amaal Mallik and Vishal Mishra Tara Sutaria

During a nose job procedure, the crooked bone and cartilage is straightened making up the nasals septum using open or closed surgical approach at American Aesthetic Medical Center. The procedure helps improve sinus function, breathing and snoring due to air being blocked by your septum and not being able to pass through your nose properly.

It doesn’t matter how much u have earned...

What matter the legacy u leave behind and how many souls u have touched.

- Sana Sajan IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES REGARDING YOUR PLANNED SURGERY CONTACT US ON: +97143806518 April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 13

FEATURE

SALMAN KHAN DONATES TO INDUSTRY WORKERS BEFORE PM FUND Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has decided to extend help to 25,000 odd daily wage workers of the film industry whose lives have been affected by the ongoing national lockdown that has brought all filming activity in Bollywood to a grinding halt.

KARTIK AARYAN CONTRIBUTES RS 1 CRORE TOWARDS THE PM-CARES FUND Kartik Aaryan replied to the PM on Twitter today and pledged to donate Rs 1 crore for the cause. He states that he has reached this position because of the masses’ love and support. Now it’s his time to support the citizens, who have made him a star.

RITEISH DESHMUKH BEATS CORONAVIRUS ON TIKTOK 14 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

Akshay Kumar pledges to donate Rs 25 crore in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic to Indian PM Narendra Modi’s relief fund. Wife Twinkle says she is ‘proud’ of him

VICKY KAUSHAL IS THE LATEST BOLLYWOOD STAR TO MAKE A CONTRIBUTION TO THE PMCARES AND MAHARASHTRA CHIEF MINISTER RELIEF FUND

ACTOR AND COMEDIAN JOHNNY LEVER SHARES A MEANING MESSAGE OF HOW IMPORTANT IS TO STAY AT HOME

SONU NIGAM ENTHRALLS THE WORLD WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU WANT TO REACH OUT TO THE WORLD DURING THE CURRENT CORONA SCARE AND ARE NOT ALLOWED PUBLIC CONCERTS? SIMPLE. YOU GO DIGITAL. SONU NIGAM WHO IS CURRENTLY IN DUBAI THRILLED THE WORLD WITH A DIGITAL SHOW. FOR THOSE OF US INDOORS LOOKING FOR VARIOUS SOURCES OF ENTERTAINMENT, THIS WAS A TREAT!

ACTOR VARUN DHAWAN TOOK A “PLEDGE TO CONTRIBUTE 30 LAKHS TO THE PM CARE FUND”.

“We will overcome this.

Desh hai toh hum hain,” Varun added.

DIFFERENT LANGUAGE - 1 MESSAGE ON BURJ KHALIFA April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 15

AWARDS

Best Actor In A Leading Role (Male)

RANVEER SINGH MOVIE: GULLY BOY Ranveer Singh gives his heart and soul to Gully Boy. His eyes convey the pain, the angst, as well as the elation felt by his character Murad at different points. He raps with intensity and wins you over with his earthy passion. He has played largerthan-life historical characters in films like Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat. But here Ranveer plays a backstreet boy, who aspires to break the glass ceiling. The actor shows his versatility playing the underdog, soaring beyond the suffocation of his circumstance.

Gully Boy

Madhuri Dixit Nene and Mr Manish Tiwary - VP, Amazon India hand over the award to Ranveer Singh

 Akshay Kumar (Kesari) Ayushmann Khurrana (Bala)  Hrithik Roshan (Super 30)  Ranveer Singh (Gully Boy)  Shahid Kapoor (Kabir Singh)  Vicky Kaushal (Uri: The Surgical Strike) 

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Best Actor In A Leading Role (Female)

ALIA BHATT MOVIE: GULLY BOY She plays the jealous lover to a T. As Safeena in Gully Boy, Alia Bhatt gets the nuances of her character bang on. Volatile yet vulnerable, amorous yet aggressive, you can’t take your eyes off this gully girl.

She’s as unpredictable as they come and is unapologetic about her belligerence. Her flaws, her foibles make her real. As a girl who’d kill for love, she comes out trumps.

Gully Boy

Varun Dhawan hands over the trophy to Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt (Gully Boy)  Kangana Ranaut (Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi)  Kareena Kapoor Khan (Good Newwz)  Priyanka Chopra (The Sky Is Pink)  Rani Mukerji (Mardaani 2)  Vidya Balan (Mission Mangal) 

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 17

AWARDS

Critics’ Award For Best Actor (Male)

AYUSHMANN KHURRANA MOVIE: ARTICLE 15 Breaking the stereotype, he doesn’t play a common man this time but a blunt IPS officer, who’s caught in a casteist culture. He realises he must go beyond the call of duty to fix the mess.

Ayushmann Khurrana’s gritty performance is a combination of naivete, angst and a burning determination to do the right thing whatever the cost. One can see the seething anger in his eyes as he realises that not only is the system corrupt but also that people have accepted it as ‘normal’.

Article 15

Ms Nina Elavia Jaipuria - Head Hindi Mass Entertainment and Kids TV Network, Viacom18 and Alia Bhatt present the trophy to Ayushmann Khurrana

Akshaye Khanna (Section 375) Ayushmann Khurrana (Article 15)  Nawazuddin Siddiqui (Photograph)  Rajkummar Rao (Judgementall Hai Kya)

 

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Critics’ Award For Best Actor (Female)

TAAPSEE PANNU AND BHUMI PEDNEKAR MOVIE: SAAND KI AANKH The two leads are the soul of the film.

Like the real-life revolver dadis, Chandro and Prakashi Tomar, Taapsee Pannu and Bhumi Pednekar are in tandem throughout the film, playing off each other, completing each other’s thoughts and words. The camaraderie displayed by their characters is palpable. Both are accomplished enough to put their eyes and body language to ample use. Together they strike a blow against societal patriarchy.

Saand Ki Aankh

Ranveer Singh and Mr Ravi Desai Director, Mass and Brand Marketing, Amazon India hand over the awards

Bhumi Pednekar (Sonchiriya)  Bhumi Pednekar (Saand Ki Aankh)  Kangana Ranaut (Judgementall Hai Kya)  Radhika Madan (Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota)  Sanya Malhotra (Photograph)  Taapsee Pannu (Saand Ki Aankh) 

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 19

AWARDS

Best Director

ZOYA AKHTAR MOVIE: GULLY BOY Hip hop and rap have become the war cry of artistes hailing from underprivileged backgrounds. The emotions contained in the words are raw and searing. They speak of a life of immense struggle. Zoya Akhtar captures vignettes from the life of performers belonging to the marginalised class and weaves them in a seamless narrative that ebbs and flows with real and riveting emotions.

Gully Boy

Shiamak Davar and Mouni Roy do the honours

Aditya Dhar (Uri: The Surgical Strike)  Jagan Shakti (Mission Mangal)  Nitesh Tiwari (Chhichhore)  Siddharth Anand (War)  Zoya Akhtar (Gully Boy) 

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Best Film

FARHAN AKHTAR AND RITESH SIDHWANI MOVIE: GULLY BOY Gully Boy takes us into a whole new world altogether where youth from the marginalised sections of society explore an art form, having its roots in the Black ghettos of America. This form of protest poetry has found resonance amongst people living in the Mumbai slums and has emerged as the fastest growing underground music scene in India.

The film introduced us to the trials and tribulations of these artistes and traced how their environment mirrors in their rap and rhymes.

Gully Boy

Vicky Kaushal hands over the trophy to team Gully Boy, who take it on behalf of the producers

Chhichhore Gully Boy  Mission Mangal  Uri: The Surgical Strike  War 



April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 21

AWARDS

Best Debut (Male)

ABHIMANYU DASSANI MOVIE: MARD KO DARD NAHI HOTA It’s brave to make your debut in a film that defies definition but Abhimanyu Dassani went ahead and did just that. The film was part black comedy, part action and part romance. He played a man, who’s born with congenital insensitivity to pain. The film revolves around how he copes with life saddled with this handicap. It called for projecting naïveté and vulnerability and also a belief in the goodness of life. Abhimanyu did all that and more.

Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota

Mrs Shweta Agarwal - Managing Director, Bikaji Foods International Ltd and Mr Akshay Daga - Sales Partner, Bikaji North East India and Bhagyashree present the award to Abhimanyu Dassani

 Abhimanyu Dassani (Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota)  Meezaan Jaffrey (Malaal)  Siddhant Chaturvedi (Gully Boy)  Vardhan Puri (Yeh Saali Aashiqui)  Vishal Jethwa (Mardaani 2)  Zaheer Iqbal (Notebook)

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Best Debut (Female)

ANANYA PANDAY MOVIE: STUDENT OF THE YEAR 2 AND PATI PATNI AUR WOH She’s spunky, sporty and sweet. Ananya Panday makes a confident debut in in SOTY 2 playing a spoilt rich girl, who falls in love with the hunky hero. Yet, she’s wise enough to understand it could just be a passing attraction. In Pati Patni Aur Woh, she plays a 20-plus today’s girl, who wants to be a successful entrepreneur. Though she gets caught in an emotional turmoil, she doesn’t allow it to drag her down. Young Ananya plays both the characters with élan.

Student Of The Year 2

Ms Pragya Prasun NGO Atijeevan, Ms Poulomi Roy - Chief Marketing Officer, Joy Personal Care and Mr Sunil Agarwal - Chairman, Joy

Personal Care honour Ananya Panday

 Ananya Panday (Student Of The Year 2)  Pranutan Bahl (Notebook)  Tara Sutaria (Student Of The Year 2)  Saiee Manjrekar (Dabangg 3)  Sharmin Segal (Malaal)  Shivaleeka Oberoi (Yeh Saali Aashiqui)

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AWARDS

Excellence In Cinema

GOVINDA He’s the original gully boy. The Virar ka chokra, as he was initially called, came out of nowhere to reign over the hearts of millions. Govinda learnt the ropes the hard way, making a name for himself initially as a dancing star with films like Ilzaam (1986) and Love 86 (1986). His USP was his amiable face, which brought alive the emotions contained in the songs. His big break came when director David Dhawan cast him in Taaqatwar (1989). Co-starring Sanjay Dutt, it was a successful actioner.

After that Dhawan and he went on to give a string of hits like Shola Aur Shabnam, Aankhen, Raja Babu, Coolie No 1 and more. He successfully added comedy to his repertoire and never looked back. His brand of earthy humour made him one of the most successful commercial stars of all time. Between ’80s -’90s, he was so busy that it was rumoured he lived on the sets, working three-four shifts a day. Decades later too, he enjoys popularity.

Honourable Tourism Minister of Assam, Shri Chandan Brahma presents the award to Govinda

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30 Years Of Outstanding Contribution To Bollywood Fashion

MANISH MALHOTRA Thirty years in this industry and he’s still ruling the roost. Manish Malhotra remains the most go-to designer for Bollywood’s fashionistas not only for their red carpet appearances but also when they want to sizzle on screen. His creations truly are the stuff of sartorial dreams. Be it casual or celebratory wear, his costumes and designs trigger fashion trends both in India and abroad. He won his first Filmfare Award for Best Costume for Rangeela (1995). Urmila Matondkar’s knotted crop tops and hot-shorts from the film found a mass following. He next took the Black Lady home for designing the futuristic costumes for Rajinikanth and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Enthiran (2011). This year we honoured him with being the torchbearer of Bollywood fashion for the past 30 years.

Karan Johar, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Mr Arun Sirdeshmukh Business Head, Amazon Fashion, India honour Manish Malhotra

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AWARDS

Best Actor In A Supporting Role (Male)

SIDDHANT CHATURVEDI MOVIE: GULLY BOY This was his debut film and going by his bravura performance, Siddhant Chatrurvedi is clearly an actor to watch out for in the future. To hold one’s own in front of Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt is no mean feat. He was natural as a seasoned rapper, teaching the rules of the game to a rookie, even though he had personal demons to deal with. Betraying an electric confidence, he seemed to belong to his milieu. MC Sher is a character that will be long remembered for sure.

Gully Boy

Mr Manoj Gaur - Managing Director, Gaurs Group & Chairman of Affordable Housing Committee CREDAI (National) and Mrs Manju Gaur - Director of Gaurs Group present the trophy

Diljit Dosanjh (Good Newwz)  Gulshan Devaiah (Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota)  Manoj Pahwa (Article 15)  Ranvir Shorey (Sonchiriya)  Siddhant Chaturvedi (Gully Boy)  Vijay Varma (Gully Boy) 

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Divine

Ankur Tewari

Best Lyrics

DIVINE AND ANKUR TEWARI SONG: APNA TIME AAYEGA MOVIE: GULLY BOY The informal song became so popular, it became the anthem of the youth in no time.

The aspirations and hopes of a generation were set to verse – colloquial and relatable. The back-alley jargon boasted of angst poetry at its best. The art lay in its heart. The hook line, Apna time aayega, has become part of everyday slang.

So relevant are the words, that the song would have made a mark even out of the context of the film.

Gully Boy

Kartik Aaryan does the honours

Amitabh Bhattacharya - Kalank Nahi Ishq (Kalank)  Divine and Ankur Tewari - Apna Time Aayega (Gully Boy)  Irshad Kamil - Bekhayali (Kabir Singh)  Manoj Muntashir - Teri Mitti (Kesari)  Mithoon- Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage (Kabir Singh)  Tanishk Bagchi - Ve Maahi (Kesari) 

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AWARDS

Best Playback Singer (Male)

ARIJIT SINGH SONG: KALANK NAHI MOVIE: KALANK The song is all about the legitimacy of love beyond the ideas of right and wrong. About what it means to truly love someone. Of how lovers view it against how society perceives it. Arijit Singh brings out the paradox through his rendition, the poignancy heightened by his pitch-perfect flair. The lines hold gravitas and he catches it expertly.

Kalank

Kabir Bedi presents the award to Karan Johar, who receives it on behalf

Arijit Singh - Kalank Nahi (Kalank)  Arijit Singh - Ve Maahi (Kesari)  Nakash Aziz - Slow Motion (Bharat)  B Praak - Teri Mitti (Kesari)  Sachet Tandon - Bekhayali (Kabir Singh) 

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Best Playback Singer (Female)

SHILPA RAO SONG: GHUNGROO MOVIE: WAR The peppy romantic number, a spin on the classic Pankaj Udhas ghazal Ghungroo toot gaye, became an instant hit. The song belongs to the old world and the new in the sense that it reproduces the house sound admiringly and yet the lyrics are quintessentially Indian. Shilpa Rao is a trained classical singer and yet she adapts superbly to the new-age sound. Her voice contributes vastly towards making it the party album of the year.

War

Guneet Monga and Anuradha

Paudwal hand over the trophy to Shilpa Rao

Neha Bhasin - Chashni (Bharat)  Parampara Thakur - Mere Sohneya (Kabir Singh)  Shilpa Rao - Ghungroo (War)  Shreya Ghoshal - Yeh Aaina (Kabir Singh)  Shreya Ghoshal and Vaishali Mhade - Ghar More Pardesiya (Kalank)  Sona Mohapatra and Jyotica Tangri - Baby Gold (Saand Ki Aankh) 

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AWARDS

Best Choreography

REMO D’SOUZA SONG: GHAR MORE PARDESIYA MOVIE: KALANK

Remo D’Souza has been known for his unique take on Western dance forms. So, it must have been a challenge for him to choreograph a kathak-based song expressing emotions of intense love and longing. Remo proves his versatility with this period dance number.

Kalank

Kareena Kapoor Khan does the honours for Remo D'Souza

Basanti No Dance (Super 30) - Ganesh Acharya  Ghar More Pardesiya (Kalank) - Remo D'Souza  Jai Jai Shiv Shankar (War) Bosco - Caesar  Ghungroo (War) - Bosco - Caesar and Tushar Kalia  Tabah Ho Gaye (Kalank) - Saroj Khan and Remo D’Souza 

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Best Music Album

MITHOON, AMAAL MALLIK, VISHAL MISHRA, SACHET– PARAMPARA AND AKHIL SACHDEVA MOVIE: KABIR SINGH The album of Kabir Singh coasts on melody. Though it has various music directors, there is a thematic cohesiveness. The songs complement each other despite being conceived by different people. It helped that the songs were part of the narrative and not lip-synced by the lead.

Kabir Singh

Mukesh Bhatt hands over the trophy to Amaal Mallik's father, Daboo Mallik, Sachet-Parampara and Vishal Mishra

 Bharat - Vishal-Shekhar Gully Boy - Ankur Tewari and Zoya Akhtar  Kabir Singh - Mithoon, Amaal Mallik, Vishal Mishra, Sachet-Parampara and Akhil Sachdeva  Kalank -Pritam  Kesari - Tanishk Bagchi, Arko Pravo Mukherjee, Chirantan Bhatt, Jasbir Jassi, Gurmoh and Jasleen Royal 

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INTERVIEW

32 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

Follow your dreams

NUSHRAT BHARUCHA ON THE MEN AND MOVIES THAT MATTER IN HER CAREER. RAGHUVENDRA SINGH TAKES NOTES

N

ushrat Bharucha is the star of her own trek. One person she competes with is herself. She’s battled it all – rejection and ridicule – to emerge as a name intrinsic to saleable films. From a quiet debut with the mythological Jai Santoshi Maa over a decade ago, she won notice with Dibakar Banerjee’s erotic anthology Love Sex Aur Dhokha in 2010. Luv Ranjan’s hit comedy Pyaar Ka Punchnama (PKP) was her turnaround moment. The small film garnered big bucks. Going offbeat with Luv Ranjan’s dark romance Akaash Vani, Nushrat found herself at the crossroads when the critically-acclaimed film failed to garner substantial footfalls. But Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2 (PKP2) redeemed her once again followed by the blockbuster romcom Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (SKTKS) last year. That the outsider is no fluke has been reiterated by her track record. Her last outing Dream Girl has underlined the value she lends to a film.

Now, she’s looking forward to Hansal Mehta’s Chhalaang and Nikhil Nagesh Bhatt’s Hurdang, the girl known for her earthy vibe spills her trade secret. “I love being seen in a hot and sexy avatar…” In her own words…

BEING PASSIONATE

This seems to be the best phase in my life. Earlier, I was used to playing one character in a year. Now suddenly, I’m moving in and out of characters. I wonder what keeps me going. A while ago, I pulled a 40-hour shift. I shot till 4 am for Hurdang in Allahabad. Then I took a 6.30 am flight to reach a set in Mumbai. I shot a song from 1 pm to 11 pm. I then took a 6 am charter back to the set of Hurdang and shot with them till 8pm. I’m only surviving on passion, not black coffee.

BEING POSITIVE

When Raaj Shaandilya came to me with Dream Girl, I was

Despite success, my head will never be in the clouds. I’ll remain realistic and grounded. Earlier I was too ambitious. I only wanted to play lead roles. Today, I’ve reached a place where I have my own standing. I’m not part of any race

like wow. From being a bitch in PKP and Sweety in SKTKS, I was to be a dream girl.

But he corrected me saying, ‘‘You’re not the dream girl, it’s Ayushmann.’’

Thankfully, I didn’t play a bitch in Dream Girl. My character, Mahi, was positive.

She’s from Faridabad, a homely girl, who believes running a home is a job by itself. This is the first time I played someone good, not someone who turns out to be a villain after the interval. I’m glad I was seen in a hot and sexy avatar in the song Gat gat.

BEING EARTHY

I’m playing Nilu in Hansal Mehta’s Chhalaang. It’s a social drama based in Uttar Pradesh. It has a small-town flavour. I love Hansal sir’s cinema and I’m enjoying playing this earthy character. The upcoming film deals with a serious issue - the conflict April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 33

INTERVIEW between sports and studies that students face - in an entertaining way. It has Luv Ranjan’s touch because he’s the co-producer. If Pyaar Ka Punchanma 3 is ever made, I’d love to do it.

That’s my space as well.

BEING CRAZY

Nikhil Nagesh Bhatt’s Hurdang is a love story set in the Allahabad of the 1990s. I play Jhullan, a student. The movie, based on the Mandal commission, is about students taking to the streets and a beautiful love story blossoming in the middle of it. Jhallan’s the shocker of the film, unabashed, raw and crazy.

She abides by the law at home and becomes another person outside. Especially, jab woh Daddu (Sunny Kaushal) ke saath hoti hai.

When I choose a film, I see two things. First, the director and his conviction in the script. Second, whether it’s going to be presented with the sort of backing it needs.

NUSHRAT BHARUCHA ON HER CO-STARS Ayushmann Khurrana I reached the Dream Girl set from the Turram Khan set after driving all night from Haryana to Faridabad. When I reached there, everyone was partying because they had a break the next day.

I joined them and we partied till sunrise. This was my introduction to the team. I had the notion that Ayushmann would be someone quiet, an introvert. But his sense of humour and comic timing is something else. Woh dikhta kuch hai but hai kuch aur. We had a lot of fun on the set. As a person, he’s an absolute gentleman. He’s amazing as an actor too.

Rajkummar Rao

While we were shooting Chhalaang, I’d wonder whether Raj was in Haryana or not. Because as soon as pack-up would be announced, he’d fly back to Mumbai for work. He’d be back at 8 am the next day for the shoot. He’s so hardworking it seems unreal. He works like a machine. Raj is a bit moody too. Sometime he talks a lot and sometimes turns quiet. He’s got his in and out moments.

BEING HOPEFUL

Having come so far, I must say failure is not easy to handle. When Akaash Vani didn’t work it was heartbreaking. When you have done just one or two films, when there’s so much competition around, when you’ve invested two years of your life, your blood and sweat in the hope that the film will be a gamechanger and it flops badly… I was left wondering ab kya?

Luv sir, Kartik (Aaryan), Abhishek (Pathak, producer), the entire team… couldn’t get out of it for a whole year. We had assumed that after receiving so much love for PKP, we’d be appreciated once again. But we realised that it’s the film that matters.

That phase was difficult. If PKP 2 hadn’t done good business, I wouldn’t have got another chance. I had Dream Girl no plan B. I had just jumped into 34 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

Kartik Aaryan

I’m ecstatic for my Pyaar Ka Punchnama co-star.

He has a great line-up of films. We’ve had a long journey from PKP, Akaash Vani to SKTKS. When we started out, we were kids. I still remember the conversations we had about actors and kaun kya kar raha hai... To realise where we are today, seems surreal.

Sunny Kaushal

I share a great friendship with Sunny, my Hurdang co-star. I saw him for the first time at a party. When he left, I asked about him. When I got to know he’s Vicky Kaushal’s brother, I was like, ‘Oh I didn’t know Vicky has a brother.’ Later I told Sunny about it. We have shot for 35 days. We workshopped for two months before that. To have that faith in him, where I can tell him anything, is special. Otherwise, I don’t give my opinions easily. We love to sing and dance to the ’90s numbers.

the well blindfolded.

BEING REALISTIC

I’ve come across rude comments in my early days. Someone once remarked, “How could you ever think of becoming a heroine. You’re only fit to play a friend’s or sister’s role.” Then someone referred to me as a junior artiste. I was like, bhaad mein jao, main ja rahi hoon. I don’t want to be in your film.’ That’s why I’ll never refuse to work with new directors. They also want actors to trust them.

They want producers to trust them to make a film.

Everyone comes here with a creative mind and if the vibe is correct, I’ll surely work with them. Despite success, my head will never be in the clouds. I’ve always been realistic and grounded. Earlier I was too ambitious. I only wanted to play lead roles. Today, I’ve reached a place where I have my own standing. I’m not part of any race. n

Failure’s not easy to handle. When Akaash Vani didn’t work it was heartbreaking.

When you have invested two years of your life, your blood and sweat in the hope that the film will be a gamechanger and it flops… I was left wondering ab kya?

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INTERVIEW

This Virus Has United all Of Us, says

Sayani Gupta

SAYANI GUPTA ACTRESS OF ARTICLE 15, HUNGRY, MARGARITA WITH A STRAW, JAGGA JASOOS, BAAR BAAR DEKHO, ETC, IS GEARING UP FOR SEASON 2 OF ‘FOUR MORE SHOTS PLEASE,’ ON AMAZON PRIME. IN THIS EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW, SHE TALKS ABOUT WHAT SHE IS DOING DURING THE SELF-ISOLATION TIME, UPCOMING PROJECTS AND MUCH MORE. MANJU RAMANAN

How are you coping up indoors during the corona scare?

This is not normal at all for me. But since I hardly get a break and am constantly working on several projects at one time, I am really loving this time. I don’t get this space with myself and there is no deadline etc, so I am loving it. Soon the promotions for Four More Shots Please will start but this time due to the corona crisis, we will be largely online. I love music and like to dance and after a long time I have the time to work on myself and nurture my other interests. I have started painting and sketching too and I do my riyaaz everyday as well as meditation. Right 36 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

know life itself has become a big pause button for each of us to restore ourselves.

It feels like a tip of an iceberg and that we will soon face an apocalypse.

As for crowds in Mumbai, I live on the main road and it is bizarre to see the streets empty. Even after 26/11, Mumbai’s local trains didn’t shut. For a city that never sleeps, it, coming to a standstill is unusual. I am also taking this time to catch up with friends and family across the world.

Do you cook?

Yes I do. Most things I love cooking are Bengali dishes – fish, mutton and prawns but I am trying to be vegetarian for some time.

Sayani Gupta, Kirti Kulhari, Bani J, and Maanvi Gagroo

THE WEB SERIES PLATFORMS HAVE CHANGED THE HIERARCHY THAT A SHOW CAN BE LED ONLY BY STARS.

Four More Shots Please had a fabulous first season. How do you see Season 2?

Bigger and better for sure.

The scale is bigger this time. We have also shot at two outdoor locations that I cannot mention now. The last season’s feedback was that the show was surface level, this season we are going deeper. There is a lot of focus on interpersonal relationships. The characters had a fall out last season, but that is normal to any friendship. This season they are pepping each other up. There’s more drama for sure and my character Damini is anyway very dramatic. She gets a lot of attention and she does things not out of malice but out of constant turmoil.

Did you girls bond offscreen?

Initially we did have our ups and downs since we have constantly been on each other’s faces over the years but it is three years now and we have grown to respect and understand one another. We have hit the balance and come full circle. It is a beautiful emotion. I can say this on behalf of all four of us- we have a nicer equilibrium now. Also, the crew is all women including the producer and director. Our sound recordist is a man and so is the production designer and some light men– most others are women. The decibel levels are high and our sound recordist keeps telling us to lower our pitch ( laughs).

Do you see OTT platforms as a great showcase of talent across genres?

Yes, the web series platforms have changed the hierarchy that a show can be led only by stars.

It is true of not just actors but technicians as well. If you are a good film-maker but don’t have a huge body of work to show, you can be recognized through this platform. You might not be a star but you can be a lead in the show and your face can go up on hoardings and people will recognize April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 37

INTERVIEW your talent. It is also a good opportunity for writers to make their mark. Right now Amazon has 14 major shows and some of the makers are but a film old.

Are you getting meatier roles in films after your web serials?

I’ve done over 25 films but people remember my web series than the films because the content is consumed at home largely and your character becomes a household name. In Sri Lanka people called me Kaushiki ( Kaushiki on Viu), in Georgia and Nepal, they called me Rohini (Inside Edge-Amazon Prime). There is a recognition factor in terms of audiences. In terms of work, the bigger players know me since my shows have been successful. Work has always come by but I am very choosy. I find it easier to say no than say yes. I am concerned about what the character is doing. I said not to Kabir Singh and couldn’t watch Arjun Reddy because it doesn’t bode with my sensibility. I like the British series The Good Karma Hospital that is a six episode series where I play an acid attack warrior. I want to explore and I want to be challenged. I don’t want to sleep walk into a film because the money is good.

When I did Article 15, I told Anubhav sir that I will come and assist you. I just wanted to be part of the film. Then he told me he wanted me to play Gaura.

Article 15

38 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

IN TERMS OF WORK, THE BIGGER PLAYERS KNOW ME SINCE MY SHOWS HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL. WORK HAS ALWAYS COME BY BUT I AM VERY CHOOSY. I FIND IT EASIER TO SAY NO THAN SAY YES. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT WHAT THE CHARACTER IS DOING. What are your forthcoming projects?

I am looking forward to Axone, a bittersweet satire that follows immigrants in Delhi who are attempting to organise a wedding party, but soon everything goes wrong. I play a 23-year-old Nepali girl from Manipur.

The film is written and directed by Nicholas Kharkongor, I have also coproduced ‘Where the Wind Blows’, directed by Karma Takapa, whose films Ralang Road and Mor Mann Ke Bharam have travelled to various festivals. And there are two more that I cannot discuss now.

Has web series content led the way to up content in Bollywood cinema too?

No one works in isolation today. Even if you do not make a conscious comparison, it is true that the content on films are better. In today’s times, Ayushmann started this thing about content based films with his wealth of poems. literature etc and a sound, understanding of good text. So yes, Bollywood films are taking a cue from the OTT platforms because basic stuff wont work anymore but original and novel stories will.

How do you analyse the process of film-making today?

A decent script with a decent film maker would mean that 60 percent of what he puts on paper will reflect on screen and that is good. I am averse to the ‘Ho jayega, bana denge” types.

I am particular about the gaze of the film maker and I don’t take narrations but read the script. I have to be completely convinced about what the writer is writing.

When I read, the film has to appear before me. n

Tell us about your costars?

What impressed you about them?

I have learnt from each co star of mine.

Zeeshan, Rajkummar, Rasika, Shweta, Vicky – all of them!

Kalki Koechlin

She is amazing and has such a unique body of work.

She’s able to manage theatre, podcast, films, writing etc. I sincerely appreciate people who have a constant hunger to be a better artiste.

Naseer saab

He is simply incredible. A teacher.

Ayushmann Khurrana Brilliant and multi talented.

Ranbir Kapoor

Such a good actor.

Someone I would love to work with – he is so talented.

All the girls in Four More Shots Please

It gives me great joy to see everyone doing so well.

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 39

INTERVIEW

RISING

STAR A

CTOR VIJAY VARMA WHOSE WORK HAS GARNERED ATTENTION, PRAISE AND SOME FABULOUS ROLE IN HINDI CINEMA AND IN THE WEB SERIES SPACE SPEAKS TO MANJU RAMANAN. HE’S INTERESTINGLY ALSO BEEN PART OF THE OPENING SCENES OF SOME BIG FILMS – AS THE MOEEN OF GULLY BOY AND FUGGA KUMAR OF SUPER 30. ALL THE CHARACTERS HE HAS PLAYED TILL DATE, BE IT DARK, GREY OR TROUBLED, HAVE WARMED OUR HEARTS. HIS CHARACTER SASYA FROM SHE, THE IMITIAZ ALI DIRECTED WEB SERIES, THAT RELEASED RECENTLY ON NETFLIX HAS BEEN WIDELY LAUDED AND LOVED TOO. 40 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

How are you coping up with self-isolation?

I live alone but I am not losing my mind. I just tell myself to not be in the couch always and I have been indulging in some heavy cleaning around the house by myself. I am setting up the kitchen though I don’t know how to cook. I have learnt a few things though I have no love for cooking. As they say, with great desperation comes great inspiration. I made rice and then curd rice!

You started your career in 2012 and were choosy about your roles. Did you refuse more roles than accept them?

Yes, I have said no to many roles and have my reasons to say so. If you are talented and have the appetite for working hard, you don’t have to succumb to anyone.

You can stand your ground in all humility and use your talent in the right places.

How was it going back to the Hyderabadi accent in She?

I am a Marwari raised in Hyderabad so, I am familiar with the accent. But during Gully Boy, I learnt the Bambaiya lingo. To prep for She, I had to unlearn that and get into the Hyderabadi zone. Though both are Hindi derivatives, they are starkly different than each other. I had to be mindful and isolate myself to get into the Hyderabadi lingo.

Did you background of FTII influence your choice in film roles?

It does because you are exposed to some truly great cinema and film makers.

You realise what doesn’t bode with you and what works for you. We all have our idea of self-worth and self-analysis and what you are good at. If I cannot connect to a script I cannot do that role. If I do, I do it.

Simple.

Tell us about Monsoon Shootout?

Shootout was my first feature film. I was new and I had a certain idealism April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 41

INTERVIEW

I HAVE SAID NO TO MANY ROLES AND HAVE MY REASONS TO SAY SO. IF YOU ARE TALENTED AND HAVE THE APPETITE FOR WORKING HARD, YOU DON’T HAVE TO SUCCUMB TO ANYONE. Monsoon Shootout

about me naturally that synced with the character of the rookie cop I was playing in the film. He is a new recruit and is idealistic about the way he will tackle crime. It fit perfectly because here was an actor who didn’t look like a cop. I was lean, lanky and tall and had to play a tough role opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The film has three endings, that were shot parallel to each other and it was a marathon for me to keep repeating scenes and innovate.

You have worked with some huge names in the industry. Tell us about them?

During Monsoon Shootout, I spoke to him over the phone and later I met him at Prithvi. I was so thrilled that I getting to work with this incredible actor. He is iconic and so good. He brings so much freshness to his craft and does his work with so much ease. There’s nothing an actor working opposite him has to worry about, he makes you that comfortable.

I had the chance to work with Mr Amitabh Bachchan in Pink. A legend I have loved and admired from my childhood, I took a picture with Mr Bachchan and my family finally thought I was doing something good. I

had done films before but that picture validated many things. I love Irrfan Khan 42 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

FIVE OF YOUR MOST FAVOURITE ROLES THE JAIL SCENE IN GULLY BOY

While shooting it seemed like a regular scene but when Ranveer and I we watched it, it reeked of a genuine connection. We felt the pain that our characters had for each other.

THE SCOOTER SCENE IN PINK

It was an interesting scene to do. I had to threaten this senior actor on the road and throw him off his scooter. It was a tough scene to do.

THE RANGREZZ SCENE

Where I am hit by a steel rod.

THE INTERROGATION SCENES IN SHE.

They were at a subliminal level. and what a body of work he has. I love him. I want a career like his.

Your characters with shades of grey are still endearing? How do you manage to infuse that?

I have had instances in my character say problematic things but I try and say it with compassion to make it relatable. People today won’t believe in Mogambo today but I feel, today, a Satya is relatable. Sasya’s character is a hero in his head. He likes to tell stories and thinks he is ahead of everyone else in the game. Also, most Hyderabadi characters are caricatured in films and create a comic effect. I took it upon myself personally to bring my vision to the character.

What about your future roles?

My next film Bamfaad is with Aditya Raval (Paresh Raval’s son) who will make his big screen debut.

It is also director Ranjan Chandel’s debut and the leading lady is Shalini Pandey, known for her performance in the Telugu hit Arjun Reddy.Mine is an authoritative role and a love triangle. It is a study of power and I have finished shooting and waiting for the release. In Hurdung that is set up in the 90’s during the Mandal commission, I play a university leader. n

THE FINAL SCENE OF CHITTAGONG

Here fiction and reality are fused together. I am walking with a bunch of people.

It is a powerful scene.

Filmfare ME Pick CHEERS: FRIENDS REUNION GOA

There is a scene in the film where Vijay’s character is challenged to do a scene that another actor cannot get right. Watch it!

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 43

INTERVIEW

MY WIFE IS EXTREMELY STRICT… TELUGU SUPERSTAR ALLU ARJUN REVEALS HE'S A FAMILY MAN IN AN EXCLUSIVE CHAT WITH RAGHUVENDRA SINGH

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is recent screen outing after two years, Trivkram Srinivas’ Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, had fans thronging to the theatres. Garnering around 200 crores, it’s said to be Allu Arjun’s biggest hit so far. Unencumbered by the hysteria, the ‘Stylish Star’ is busy working on Sukumar’s tentatively titled Seshachalam based on the sandalwood mafia in Chittoor and Venu Sriram’s Icon, a romantic entertainer. Icon he truly is. Born in a film family, Arjun’s interface with the camera began as a baby in Chiranjeevi’s Vijetha. Meandering briefly towards animation as a youngster, he eventually returned home… to films, debuting with K. Raghavendra Rao’s Gangotri (2003). Since then the Bunny’s been unstoppable. Thanks to satellite and social media, his films and fame have reached the remotest corners of the world including the sandy ridges of the Middle East. His swagger and sexappeal having a universal idiom . Grandson of actor Allu Rama Lingaiah, son of filmmaker Allu Aravind, nephew to Chiranjeevi and actor/filmmaker Pawan Kalyan, cousin of Ram Charan and older brother of Allu Sirish… Allu Arjun may belong to a film clan, but his charisma is his own.

You just have to follow your gut feeling. Sometimes you’re wrong, sometimes you’re right. Generally, when you follow your heart, you end up being right.

Does it entail pressure to do better each time?

Absolutely. I make efforts to make every film, every performance better than the previous one. I push myself to the maximum limit. What is viewed as pressure is also a kind of pleasure. At the end of the day it’s only about enhancing yourself as an actor.

With wife Sneha Reddy

Given the success ratio of your films, you seem to have cracked the secret of a blockbuster…

No one in the world knows the secret to a blockbuster.

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Coming from a film family, did you always want to be an actor?

Initially, I wanted to be an animator. But soon my interest fizzled out.. When you’re born in a film family, you’re influenced by the environment. Wherever you go, you’re bound to return to

films. This place has some kind of gravity.

Do you have a sense of competition vis-à-vis your star relatives?

Not at all. It’s your own journey regardless of the competition. From the outside it seems, everyone is part of the race, running together. But from the inside, you’re running with your own self, in keeping with your capacity.

You’ve a fan following in the Hindi heartland. Any plans to debut in Hindi films?

Hindi films are on my wishlist for sure. Especially, when you have so much appreciation coming your way. Cinema is a universal language even though culture differs from region to region.

Eventually, the content has to touch the heart. Also, Hindi satellite is a huge source of revenue for us. But

to step into Hindi films, I need the right filmmaker and the right script. Some offers did come along but nothing exceptional as such. Maybe, it’s time for me to move things and work around it.

How has Telugu cinema evolved down the years?

Every industry has two strands - commercial and parallel. These streams are interdependent and draw from each other in terms of actors and technicians.

In the last decade, parallel cinema in Telugu films has grown. The best example would be Mahanati (based on legendary actress Savithri). It’s not a typical commercial film. But it won three National awards.

Baahubali, a commercial film, had great content.

These two films are classic examples of the blend.

Your fans go berserk to catch

I DON’T BELIEVE MY FEMALE FANS WOULD WANT TO DISTURB MY MARITAL LIFE. THEY KNOW I’M MARRIED… MY WIFE (SNEHA) SAYS THEY SHOULD LIVE WITH ME TO KNOW HOW I AM ACTUALLY. SHE’S SURE THEY’D NO LONGER REMAIN MY FANS

April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 45

INTERVIEW

a glimpse of you. How does it feel?

I’ve been around for 15 years and have experienced this madness often. It’s something we actors work day and night for. All the sacrifices we make is to witness this madness.

So when it happens, we embrace it and live every moment of it. For you it may appear as ‘madness’.

But for me it’s pure love.

A crazy fan moment…

Recently, my crew informed me that some fans from the Middle East had come to Hyderabad just to see me. They had been waiting 46 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

WE ACTORS MAKE SACRIFICES TO WITNESS THIS ‘MADNESS’ FROM OUR FANS. SO WHEN IT HAPPENS, WE EMBRACE IT AND LIVE EVERY MOMENT OF IT. FOR YOU IT MAY APPEAR AS ‘MADNESS’. BUT FOR ME IT’S PURE LOVE for almost two days in the hope of catching a glimpse of me. I invited them in and offered them tea. They shared that they had a collection of my pictures and videos back home.

They watched my films even though they didn’t understand the language. It

was a humbling experience.

Do you maintain a connect with your fans?

Yes. In the South, we remain closely connected with our fans. We feel a sense of responsibility towards them.

Even if they misbehave, we feel responsible. I even

apologise on their behalf.

I ask them to exercise restraint. But I always stand up for them. I’m grateful to my fans for making me who I am.

How do you handle all the female attention around you?

(Laughs) My wife (Sneha

Reddy) is extremely strict.

Also, I don’t believe my female fans would want to disturb my marital life.

They know I’m married and have kids (son Ayaan and daughter Arha). My wife says they should live with me to know how I am actually. She’s sure they’d no longer remain my fans.

Are you a romantic?

Yes, I am. My wife will vouch for that. For instance, recently, we had planned a holiday. But I was caught up with work, My wife and kids had to carry on without me. But somehow, my work got postponed.

don’t videograph and share every moment of my life. I like sharing some moments on social media. It’s better the kids get used to this.

So that they don’t lose their balance later. They won’t be taken in by the euphoria.

Do you keep your children in mind when you sign a film?

I feel responsible not only towards my kids but towards society at large.

What I do has a huge impact not just on my kids but on youngsters. What I do on screen may appear fun.

But it isn’t when I do it.

Generally, I do share the day’s happenings with my

addict.

You have won five Filmfare Awards. How much do awards mean to you?

Honestly, the first time I won a Filmfare Award for Parugu, I was pleasantly surprised. Later, I got it for Vedam. Race Gurram was one film for which I truly wanted the Black Lady. I appreciate awards.

I feel happier when it’s given to the right person. I was so happy when Vijay Deverakonda won the award for for Arjun Reddy. I’d also liked Jr NTR’s performance in Jai Lava Kusa. (Smiles) I’m extremely glad when I’m honoured with a Filmfare

IT’S YOUR OWN JOURNEY REGARDLESS OF THE COMPETITION. FROM THE OUTSIDE IT SEEMS EVERYONE IS PART OF THE RACE, RUNNING TOGETHER. BUT FROM THE INSIDE, YOU’RE RUNNING WITH YOUR OWN SELF

Allu Sirish?

Oh, I keep giving tips all the time. Like how to speak, how to avoid certain things, the easiest way to do something... He advises me too. We’re always bouncing off ideas to each other. It was his idea that I reach out to the nationwide media to promote Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo. He pushed me to do it.

An actor whom you consider your role model...

Stardom is difficult to achieve. It’s an individual journey. I draw inspiration from Mr Amitabh Bachchan.

At 70-plus, I’d like to be like him. It would be great to wake up each morning and have work to look forward to. It would be fun to work with young people even at that age. It’s a rare privilege for any actor. n

ALLU ARJUN’S FILMFARE AWARDS Best Actor

PARUGU (2008)

Best Actor

VEDAM (2010) Ala Vaikuntapurramuloo I surprised them with an unplanned visit. They were so glad.

Your daughter Arha’s video doing the dosa step in the Ramuloo ramulaa song (Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo) became a rage. Are you okay with children coming under the media glare?

Whether they share a video or not, my children will come under the media glare. They’re children in a special situation. Media glare does have an impact on them. They have to adapt to that and deal with it with humility. Having said that, I

children. I tell them about the film, the location, the song… anything that could be of interest to them.

You’re a superstar on social media as well. What are your views about social media?

It all depends on how you use the platform. It’s a fantastic opportunity for good things. If used wrongly it can have an undesirable effect. I’m a positive person. I don’t step into any controversy. Of late, I’m drawn to Instagram and Pinterest. I’m not much of a Tiktok person. I like pictures. I’m an Instagram

because I know I’m the most deserving. That’s as honest as I can be.

You’ve worked with Hindi actresses like Rakul Preet Singh and Pooja Hegde. What makes them special?

Everyone has their strengths. South Indian girls can pull off rustic characters well. B-town girls ace glamorous roles. They have a ‘cosmo’ vibe. They’ve been born and brought up in that kind of ethos. They reflect that on screen.

What tips do you give to your younger brother, actor

Best Actor

RACE GURRAM (2014)

Best Supporting Actor

RUDHRAMADEVI (2015)

Critics’ Award for Best Actor

SARRAINODU (2016) April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 47

FEATURE

TV TIME!

A GROWING NUMBER OF TALENT FROM TELEVISION IS MAKING ITS WAY TO CINEMA AND THE WEB SERIES SPACE. FILMFARE ME BRINGS YOU A LIST OF TALENTED STARS RARING TO GO ! COMPILED BY HARSHIT VOHRA

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SNEAK PREVIEW

NEHHA PENDSE BAYAS Nehha Pendse Bayas is a film and television actress. She has acted in Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Hindi films. She is well known for her role of Sanjana in Life OK’s “May I Come in Madam”. She was a contestant on the reality show Big Boss 12 in 2018.

FILMS Pyaar Koi Khel Nahin Daag: The Fire Devdaas Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji Tumse Accha Kanu Hai Where are you from and when did you realize you love acting?

I am born and raised in Mumbai. As a child I was extremely introverted but my mind and emotions use to fly in every possible direction and acting gave it the correct outlet. I realized I need acting and fell in love with the craft later.

When did you start your TV career?

When I was around 12 years old.

After doing TV, when did you realize that you now want to be part of Bollywood?

When I realized films have an archival value, I was hooked.

Who’s your idol?

Many to be honest, but I keep coming back to Sridevi.

What is the difference between TV & the Bollywood industry?

There is no similarity. They are two different creative processes in terms of canvas, working methods, and different target audiences.

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FEATURE

SAUMYA TANDON Saumya Tandon is well known as the lead Anita Vibhuti Narayan Mishra in the comedy series” Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hai,”opposite Aasif Sheikh on &TV. She is also a popular host of Dance India Dance, Bournvita Quiz Contest, Entertainment Ki Raat (Season-2) on Colors TV. FILM – Jab We Met Where are you from and when did you realize you love acting?

I was born in Bhopal and did my schooling in Ujjain and college in Delhi.

When did you start your TV career?

Since childhood I was on stage and loved performing arts. There was not a single competition I was not a part of, right from debate to poetry recitation to singing. I remember hosting every single school function too. My love for acting started when I participated in a children’s theatre festival in “Kalidas Samharoh” and played the legendary Shakuntala in the play by Kalidas ‘Abhigyaan Shakuntalam’. After college I participated in Femina cover girl contest where I was 1st runners up, after which I started my modelling career in Delhi.

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SNEAK PREVIEW

YUVIKA CHAUDHARY Yuvika Chaudhary shot to fame with MTV Spiltsvilla 10 and Aastha in Astitva Ek Prem Kahaani on Zee

TV and she appeared as a contestant in Zee TV’s India’s Best Cinestar Ki Khoj. In 2015, she was a contestant in Colors TV’s reality show Big Boss 9.

FILMS Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani Om Shanti Om Veere Ki Wedding Toh Baat Pakki Maleyali Jotheyali Where are you from and when did you realize you love acting?

I was raised in Northern India - UP and I love acting since childhood.

How did you start your TV career?

It started out as a fun exercise. I didn’t know I would end up doing it actually Who are your idols?

My parents.

What is difference between TV & the Bollywood industry?

Nowadays, there is no difference in TV & films.

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FEATURE

ARJUN BIJLANI Arjun Bijlani’s debut on television was with Balaji Telefilms’ Kartika on Hungama TV. He then appeared in other well-known shows including “Left Right Left”, “Miley Jab Hum Tum”, “Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi”, “Naagin”, “Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil” and “Ishq Mein Marjawan”. In 2016, he participated in the dance reality show Jhalak Dikhla Jaa 9 . In 2018 he hosted the dance reality show Dance Diwaane on Colors TV. FILM Direct Ishq, Full Phukre (Short Film), I Guess (Short Film), Caught In The Web (Short Film), State of Siege: 26/11(Web Series – Zee5) Where are you from and when did you realize you love acting?

I am from Mumbai and in college I took part in fashion shows and plays. My dad wanted me to do a MBA & then business instead of pursuing an acting career.

Unfortunately I lost my dad when I was 19 years old and decided to follow my heart. I struggled a lot but eventually succeeded.

When did you start your TV career?

After struggling in acting I signed my first show called “Left Right Left “which is became a hit amongst youth followed by Naagin, Mile Jab Hum Tum, Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi, Ishq Main Mar Jaanwa. I hosted Dance Diwaane, Jhalak Dikhla Jaa etc.

When did you realize that you now want to be part of Bollywood?

I never decided to be a part of Bollywood, every actor wants to do good movies and work with great scripts. I landed my first film in 2016 and am waiting for my big break in Bollywood.

Who’s your idol?

Shah Rukh Khan sir. He brings a lot of positivity even in his interviews like he does onscreen. He inspired me to never give up on my dreams.

I admire Irrfan Khan, Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan sir. Mr Amitabh Bachchan is my favourite star. I wish I have an opportunity to work with him and receive that letter which he sends actors when he likes their performance.

What is difference in between TV & the Bollywood industry?

The TV and film industry are both different mediums. TV is very big in the Indian audience canvas, both in the country and outside. Even in Dubai I know lot of my shows have been No 1. People abroad think that TV stars too are part of Bollywood and don’t differentiate between them. They treat you like a star. In India people now are growing to respect TV actors immensely.

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SNEAK PREVIEW

DALJIET KAUR Dalljiet Kaur is primarily known for her characters - Niyati in “Kul Vaddhu”, Anjali in “Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?” and Manjiri in “Kaala Teeka”. She won the coveted Nach Baliye with Shaleen Bhanot in 2019 and participated in Big Boss 13.

FILM San 1984 - Justice Where are you from and when did you realize you love acting?

I am from Punjab, Sangrur. I realized my love for acting after I started shooting my second show called Mansha. When I realized I was good at it and seniors encouraged me, I realised this was the field for me.

When did you start your TV career and when did you realize that you now want to be part of Bollywood?

I started my career in 2004. Everyone wants to take a step ahead and venture out. Even I am excited to explore my craft in various platforms.

Who’s your idol?

My idols are all those who are known for their discipline and hard work. Recently I was shooting for Big Boss finale and I saw Salman sir standing on the stage non-stop for hours without complaining. It is inspiring to see our seniors show us the path of success by being a role model who themselves follow the path of discipline.

What is difference in between TV & the Bollywood industry?

TV is constant and has no pre-determined course of a story if it runs for long. As and when the show prolongs the course of story and other things are decided on the way. Film is about story telling with every boundary pre-defined. So when someone signs a film, they know exactly what they are stepping into.

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FEATURE

ZOYA AFROZ Zoya Afroz was the winner of Pond’s Femina Miss India, Indore 2013. She was later crowned as Pond’s Femina Miss India International 2013 at the 50th edition of Pond’s Femina Miss India 2013 that was held in Yash Raj Studio, Mumbai on 24 March 2013. She is well known as child artist in Star Plus TV show “Kora Kagaz”, “Son Pari” and “Jai Mata Ki”. She has worked in numerous films like “Hum Saath Saath Hai”, “Kuch Naa Kaho” and “From Tia with Love”.

Where are you from and when did you realize you love acting?

I am based out of Mumbai. I realised my love for acting at a very young age as I was a child artiste. Before I had the sense to understand the world, I was already on the sets and working with supremely experienced people. I loved every bit of it. It was a whole new world that not many people get the chance to experience and I loved being in that world.

When did you start your TV career?

I started at the age of 3 with films like “Hum Saath Saath Hain” “Mann” etc. I did TV for a bit with the popular kids show “Son Pari” and it was so much fun to be on a set with so many kids. It hardly felt like work.

After doing TV, when did you realize that you now want to be part of Bollywood?

I never thought of TV or movie in that sense. I always wanted to be on the set playing any role with an infectious sense of fun. I relished being an actor and that’s what mattered to me. I auditioned for my film and landed the part and I was very eager to play it.

Who’s your idol?

I don’t have one idol but like to take inspiration from many. I feel that everyone you cross paths with in life, can teach you and inspire you if you keep your eyes open.

My mother is one person who inspires me every day. Career wise I revere the work of Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan.

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SNEAK PREVIEW

5 REASON TO WATCH IRRFAN KHAN’S

ANGREZI MEDIUM

Angrezi Medium Cast

Irrfan Khan, Deepak Dobriyal, Radhika Madan, Kiku Sharda, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Dimple Kapadia and Pankaj Tripathi Director

Homi Adajania HERE ARE THE 5 REASONS TO WATCH THE MOVIE. 1. It is a treat to watch Irrfan on the big screen after almost two years.

2. It is an exciting ride as we laugh, cry and laugh again.

3. Irrfan Khan’s acting amazed us with his outstanding perfor-

mance. Portraying the difficulty that most of the fathers encounter when they have to give their daughters their own space to be independent.

4. It also has brilliant actors like Deepak Dobriyal, Radhika Madan, Kiku Sharda, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Dimple Kapadia and Pankaj Tripathi.

5. It’s largely known that Irrfan shot for Angrezi Medium while he was still undergoing treatment, but not for once you can make that out while watching him onscreen.

A GOOD WATCH! 3 STARS. REVIEW BY NEELAM PUNJABI FOR MORE BOLLYWOOD CONTENT AND REVIEWS, SUBSCRIBE FOR INDIA’S BIGGEST MAGAZINE IN UAE – FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST – LINK – HTTPS://FILMFAREMIDDLEEAST.COM/SUBSCRIPTION/ April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 55

SNEAK PREVIEW

5 REASON TO WATCH IRRFAN KHAN’S

ANGREZI MEDIUM

Angrezi Medium Cast

Irrfan Khan, Deepak Dobriyal, Radhika Madan, Kiku Sharda, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Dimple Kapadia and Pankaj Tripathi Director

Homi Adajania HERE ARE THE 5 REASONS TO WATCH THE MOVIE. 1. It is a treat to watch Irrfan on the big screen after almost two years.

2. It is an exciting ride as we laugh, cry and laugh again.

3. Irrfan Khan’s acting amazed us with his outstanding perfor-

mance. Portraying the difficulty that most of the fathers encounter when they have to give their daughters their own space to be independent.

4. It also has brilliant actors like Deepak Dobriyal, Radhika Madan, Kiku Sharda, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Dimple Kapadia and Pankaj Tripathi.

5. It’s largely known that Irrfan shot for Angrezi Medium while he was still undergoing treatment, but not for once you can make that out while watching him onscreen.

A GOOD WATCH! 3 STARS. REVIEW BY NEELAM PUNJABI FOR MORE BOLLYWOOD CONTENT AND REVIEWS, SUBSCRIBE FOR INDIA’S BIGGEST MAGAZINE IN UAE – FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST – LINK – HTTPS://FILMFAREMIDDLEEAST.COM/SUBSCRIPTION/ April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 55

DIGITAL PLATFORM

Movie Marathon A MOVIE A DAY, KEEPS CORONA AWAY. UNDER THE SITUATION THAT EARTH IS GOING THROUGH, AND ALL ADVICES GIVEN BY HEALTH AUTHORITIES TO STAY AT HOME. WE, FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST PREPARED FOR OUR READERS A LIST OF MOVIES TO WATCH AS A SUGGESTION FOR YOUR FREE TIME DURING THE CURRENT CIRCUMSTANCES. WHILE THIS COVID19 HAS AFFECTED EACH AND EVERY LIFE ASPECT, WE WISH THAT IT DISAPPEARS AS FAST AS IT HAS SPREAD. HANAN YAHIA MULAZEM

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BOLLYWOOD LOVE PER SQUARE FOOT IMDb: 7.2/10

Directed by: Anand Tiwari Produced by: Ronnie Screwvalaa Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Angira Dhar and Alankrita Sahai In the journey of finding the dream house, you might find your life partner. A light rom-com movie about two people who fake a marriage to win their dream house.

YEH BALLET IMDb: 7.6/10

Directed by: Sooni Taraporevala Produced by: Khushboo Ranka, Siddharth Roy Kapur Cast: Julian Sands, Manish Chauhan, Amiruddin Shah, Dan Husain and Achintya Bose A based on true events film. A film that tells us about the dream of two young men to be Ballet dancers, and all difficulties that they encounter whether from the society side, school or even family.

UPSTARTS IMDb: 6.6/10

CHOPSTICKS IMDb: 6.4/10

Directed by: Sachin Yardi Produced by: Ashvini Yardi Cast: Abhay Deol, Mithila Palker, Vijay Raaz A girl who lacks self-confidence and a stolen car. The man who helps her to get her car back makes sure to get her confidence back too.

Directed by: Udai Singh Pawar Produced by: Raja Krishna Menon Cast: Priyanshu Painyuli, Chandrachoor Rai, Shadab Kamal, Rajeev Siddhartha, Sheetal Thakur, Ninad Kamat, Swati Semwal and Eijaz Khan Three young men who recently graduated from college. They wish to do good while gaining millions from their own new project. But, while millions are being added to their bank accounts, their bond starts to vanish.

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DIGITAL PLATFORM

TUMBBAD

IMDb: 8.3/10

Directed by: Rahi Anil Barve and Anand Ghandhi Produced by: Sohum Shah, Mukesh Shah, Anand L. Rai and Amita Shah Cast: Sohum Shah, Mohammad Samad, Jyoti Malshe, Anita Date and Deepak Damle.

Tumbbad, a village with a castle that hides an immeasurable ancestral fortune. Which is guarded by an ancient monsters. The hero thinks that he can control them, but, greed is always first human’s enemy.

SONI

IMDb: 7.2/10

Directed by: Ivan Ayr Produced by: Kimsi Singh and Kartikeya Singh Cast: Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, Saloni Batra, Mohinder Gujral, Mohit Chauhan, Vikas Shukla, Gauri Chakraborty, Simrat Kaur and Dimple Kaur A female police officer, and her boss who together fight crimes and especially the ones against women. Both suffer from gender issues in their personal life.

HOLLYWOOD BIRD BOX

IMDb: 6.6/10

Directed by: Susanne Bier Produced by: Dylan Clark, Calyton Townsend and Chris Morgan Cast: Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes and John Malkovich An unseen ominous presence drives people to suicide. The last survivor tries to take her to children to a safe place after lasting this phenomenon for last years.

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MIRAGE

IMDb: 7.4/10 Directed by: Oriol Paulo Produced by: ColosĂŠ Producciones Cast: Adriana Ugarte, Chino Darin and Javier Gutierrez.

Two storms separated by 25 years. A storm that leads into many major changes. And while the heroine tries to safe the boy from the accident that happened 25 earlier, she lost her daughter.

TO THE BONE IMDb: 6.8/10

Directed by: Marti Noxon Produced by: Karina Miller, Bonnie Curtis and Julie Lynn Cast: Lily Collins, Alex Sharp and Keanu Reeves 20-year-old girl suffers from anorexia nervosa, and meets an unconventional doctor who changer the way she looks at life.

LOST GIRLS IMDb: 6.1/10

SPENSER CONFIDENTIAL IMDb: 6.2/10

Directed by: Peter Berg Produced by: Mark Wahlberg, Neal H. Moritz and Peter Berg Cast: Liza Shlesinger, Mark Wahlberg, Post Malone and Winston Duke Two Boston police officers got murdered which made the ex-cop Spenser take the responsibility to arrest the criminals. But, the one who teams up with is his mad roommate Hawk.

Directed by: Liz Garbus Produced by: Cast: Amy Ryan, Thomasin Mckenzie and Gabriel Byrne Based on true events.

A mother who is trying to find her lost daughter but, it the journey will also be the way to find other lost girls who no one knew about them.

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FASHION & BEAUTY

RAMADAN BUYS BUTTERFLIES OF HOPE COLLECTION KHEFFAH COLLECTION TED BAKER AED 1,570

TED BAKER AED 2,095 TED BAKER AED 1,205

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KHEFFAH COLLECTION BUTTERFLIES OF HOPE COLLECTION

KATE SPADE BRACELET GOLD AED 395

CHARLES & KEITH

ROSE OF LOVE COLLECTIONS

KATE SPADE AED 1,195

KATE SPADE AED 595

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LOCAL PARTY BUZZ

Guest with Lara Tabet, Gunay Hafiz and Ana Staisy

Celebrating Womenhood!

Priyanka Sarkar and Sandeep Arora

BEFORE THE LOCKDOWN, FILMFARE ME AND LUXURY WITH LARA CELEBRATED INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AT THE RITZ CARLTON, DIFC. THE EVENT WAS SUPPORTED BY CASA MILANO, KHADI NATURALS, BIORI, DANUBE HOME AND AMERICAN ASTHETIC MEDICAL CENTER.

Rola, Manal and Bridget Dean 62 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST April 2020

Lana Bawadkji And Sophia Haddad

Katrina, Leisa and Marsha

Igor Sergeev and Max Fardan

Yaqoob Alali And Edyta Skibinska

xxxxx

Ameerah Mohamed

Reenu Mathews April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 63

LOCAL PARTY BUZZ

Dollys Creation, Manju Ramanan, Lara Tabet, Yousaf Naeemat, Naushina and Stephanie

Zoghbi and Julia

Toshie and her friend Tanya Tharakan and Radhika Sagar

Yulia Kisel

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Shahd Eddin and Hanan Yahia Mulazem

Guest

Seba, Lara Tabet and Ornella

Katerina Telesh

Fareeda

Rania Nafa

Max Fardan

Filmfare ME Team: Malay Kumar, Vrushali Siriyan, Manju Ramanan, Maria Deang, Neelam Punjabi, Hanan Yahia Mulazem and Harshit Vohra April 2020 FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST 65

LOCAL PARTY BUZZ

Southern Spice NATCHATHIRA KALAI 2020 BY YES EVENTS CELEBRATED TALENT FROM THE SOUTH. THE EVENT WAS HELD AT RASHID HALL, INDIAN HIGH SCHOOL.

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