With Dumdaar Salman Khan, it always feels like you are with family – Himesh Reshammiya

Que- How was your experience on the show with Salman khan?

Himesh- My experience was excellent. I am on the sets of Dus ka Dum for the second time. The first time when I came here, we had a lot of fun in that season too. Just being around Salman Khan who is so energetic and humorous at the same time is always entertaining. Guru also added to the amusement. With Dumdaar Salman, it always feels like you are with a family member.

Que- Did you notice any difference between the last season and this season? 

Himesh- I think this time the season is even more entertaining, because it has an emotional connect with the audience. In terms of the questions we see  are also very relatable. This is the reason when I was chatting and playing with Salman, it felt like I was talking to someone from the family. 

Que-How did you feel seeing Salman Khan back as a Dumdaar host? 

Himesh-I feel Salman Khan is not only a super star but the greatest human being. Because of the kind of charity he does, the kind of noble thoughts he has and the love and care he shows towards his close ones. I think that, this not only makes him a superstar in films, but a superstar in real life as well. He is a real hero. 

Que-Which Question did you find most amusing and what do you think about the janta’s anumaan? 

Himesh-I made a mistake while answering the last question by going along with the audience’s anumaan. I had almost decided to hit the bar of 90% to 100% and then I trusted the studio audience and locked a window of 60% to 70%. 

Que- What is that one question you would like to give out about yourself that will keep people guessing? 

Himesh-I want people to keep guessing if I am an intense human being or a jovial person. Because people have their own conclusions about me. It is fun when they keep trying to guess this.

I am getting a lot of appreciation and compliments: Gurpreet Singh

Actor Gurpreet Singh, who plays the role of Ambiraj in Siddharth Kumar Tewary’s show Porus, says the he loves being part of the show. The actor adds that the show has helped me in many ways. “I am getting the most warming replication. People recognise me and call me Ambhiraj. They take autographs and photographs with me. I am getting a lot of appreciation and compliments,” he says.

However, the actor adds that the role is quite challenging. “It is one of the toughest characters that I played till date. Specially because I had to learn different arts for this role,” he says, adding, “For a customary TV soap, I can improvise the role and I have a lot of freedom on how to portray the role. In a historical show, it is constrained and so much research and preparation are required.”

In fact, at times it is tough for him to get his character out of his head, once he has finished shooting. “I involve myself in the role so much that I keep thinking about it, even when I am not on set. It gives me exhilaration about the story. I keep relishing it and keep cerebrating to make it more authentic and enjoyable,” he says.

The actor has been bonding with everyone on the set. “Everyone on the set from actors to the camera team, the direction team and unit people, they are so positive. It took me no time to develop a good bond with them and they all are like a family to me. I miss them and when I am not shooting. Sometimes, I go on the set just to meet them. They are all so positive and doting. I am especially close to Rati Pandey and Aditya Redij,” he says.

Ask him what is the best compliment that he has got for his roles, and he says, "By God's grace, whoever I met, has always appreciated my work. For Sujal's role, I get a compliment from a friend that though I am very jolly  in life, on screen, I looked like I have become Sujal. Once Ekta Kapoor massaged me that I have improved so much as an actor and she also mentioned that she rarely gives a compliment to an actor. That was the best compliment for me. For King Ambiraj, Sidharth Kumar Tewary and Rahul Tewary appreciated my work. Many people gave me compliments that my appearance is that of an authentic warrior and additionally appreciated my acting."

Looking back at his struggle days, Gurpreet says that they taught him a lot. “It's been around 15 years and I am so happy to have reached this position today. I commenced with modelling i.e., print shoots and fashion shows. I have done theater in Delhi and in Bombay too and have many theater friends. I did theater to be more expressive for print shoots, Though, I never thought of acting after coming to Bombay, I got work. I am relishing acting as it gives me chance to play different roles,” he says.

Acting was challenging for him initially. “It's true that I have not done any acting course and in the start, it was quite arduous for me to express. But with the guidance and observation, I started giving required expressions. Fortunately, I learned Sanskrit in my school days and have a good recollection. So I could give verbalize long dialogues easily,” he says.

The actor says that he wants to try his hand at Bollywood as well. “I have done movies in Bollywood and Tollywood and in the future too, if get a good role, I will definitely do that. I am also on the lookout for other interesting roles on TV as well,” he says.

Ask him who his favourite Bollywood actors are, and he says, “I like Dilip Kumar, Anju Mahendroo, Saira Banu, Sanjeev Kumar, Salman Khan and many more for their craft in acting.”

producer Rahul Kumar Tewary unplugged

Swastik Productions' ​Producer​ Rahul Kumar Tewary talks about his new show Porus, plans for his production house and the kind of content he wants to produce along with his brother Siddharth Kumar Tewary.

Swastik's  last offering Karamphaldata  Shani is a success story. What do you think worked in its favour?

​The common Perception of ​Shani ​is very different to our story. For us, Shani is a very promising​ and positive​ God​​ - It's all about Karma and... its True. What we do is what we get and it all happens in this lifetime - who knows about the next life. We are thankful that it has been accepted by audience and we ensure that​ With the growing up of Shani,

​audience will be hooked on to the show. 

How do you see the trend of web series?  will Swastik produce one in near future? 

​T​he digital platform ​is a very interesting space and ​will be a significant industry in the near future. We already have seen Amazon , Netflix, alt and others and many more will be setting base in India shortly. It provides an opportunity for content makers to create variety of content different from the GEC. 

W​e are in discussion and in process - soon you will find swastik creating premiere web series

​Actors like Shaheer Shaikh, Sourabh Raaj Jain,  Ratan Rajput​, Shikha Singh​ to name few came in limelight for Swastik's show. How do you see their growth in the industry? 

> I think every individual in the 

world ​has to work for their success. It is completely their hard work which has taken them places.​ If​ we have been the one to present them ​ through our content​,  it is their hard work ​ and talent​​ which has got them noticed and made them successful.

So each one of us needs to be appreciated for their own space and work. ​We share a great relationship with our Actors and i thank and wish all the actors who have been part of Swastik family  more success and power !

The Tewary brothers are a powerful name in the TV industry. Every actor wants to work with Swastik Productions. Comment

​I don't believe in such statements - we are in the business of creation and we do that to the best of our capability. A lot of people associate with us like  technicians / actors / creative / production etc and we together make a good product - It's our team which helps us deliver - We are always on the look out for the right people  and that is the main objective for us. 

Of late we have only seen big mythological& historical​ shows coming up from Swastik, why are you not going into the regular daily soap zone?

​​I think we have found a niche in this segment and​ enjoy to narrate such stories which have meaning, relevance and learning for the society. It is challenging to do so and thats what we enjoy about it. The opportunity it gives us to re-create the events, visuals and to transport our viewers to a different world is the best learning curve for us. At the same time we are also producing comedy show and working on few other daily concepts. 

What changes do you find in the TV industry over the years? What are the current trends according to you? 

> Television is the reflection of our own society.​As ​The society​ evolves, the subjects / shows evolve accordingly​ ​and it will always be like that​. Today all broadcasters are trying out different content, catering to different sections of the society. ​ ​​There is always an audience for different subjects - whether it is kitchen politics to aspirational stories to historical or mythological shows - there is a place for all kind of content.​ 

The mythological shows or the content are accepted more by the audience compared to the previous times. 

> I think every broadcaster has realised that there is a major population in India which easily relates to mythological or historical content. After the success of Mahabharata  people have realised that there is a definite​  audience for such subjects. ​Even in the past there has been various Mythological / historical shows which have been very successful.PORUS is one of the most ambitious  projects of Swastik. Comment.

> Yes, especially because this is the first time​ in India​ ​a producer has licensed the content to broadcaster. I think it is the first step towards building a strong relationship between the producers and the broadcasters.  ​A relationship where the risk is shared by the producer. It is a Win / Win situation for both. Similar operational model is prevalent and runs successfully in the western world.

​Every show has its own uniqueness and Porus definitely is a subject we are very proud to tell. The story gives us the opportunity to showcase 2 separate worlds ( India / Macedonia )which are completely different to each other. The major challenge was to justify the tale of both countries while we maintain the importance of our History.  w​e have been shooting for last 6 months across Thailand and India.​ ​Each one of the members of Team Swastik has ​worked tirelessly to ensure ​ t​hat ​we are proud of what we create. Siddharth is very clear in his approach and everyone has rallied behind the vision to create Porus. 

Why do you choose to be low-profile? 

> It is by choice. I don't enjoy too much attention​ ​:)​​ ​I like to be in my own world. That is the kind of person I am.​ ​Each Project parts with a certain learning and it just keeps me going to the next one. I am just

happy​ producing quality ​content of such scale and grandeur.What are your future plans for Swastik?

​Television is and will be the core business for us .... we will be investing into IP's and create content across all platforms.

When you can make such​ huge shows like Porus, why do you not enter the film world?

Porus is the first step for us towards a new operating model in television. We are working on our existing commitments and want to be focussed already committed for further such creations on TV. However, we are working towards Films us a very different business​

I have successfully completed my 5 years in Mumbai: Arun Mandola

Actor Arun Mandola, who is known for the role of Lakshman in Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanumaan, talks about what the character meant to him, his experience of being part of Luvkush Ramleela and the challenges he faced in Mumbai.

Your character of Laxman has stayed with the fans. What led to you saying yes to the role? 

> When I got a call for Lakshman from Zanet Casting Hub, I had permanently shifted back to my hometown. It was difficult to come back. But when Contilo Production finalised me for this role, I did not ask them about character brief or budget because I knew that I had to play this epic role. I knew that these character will make me immortal.

You have spoken extensively about the struggle you had to go through before bagging the role.  Has that struggle changed you as a person at all? 

> When I came to Mumbai, I thought I had seen a lot of struggle in my childhood. But Mumbai taught what real struggle meant. With no friends, no family, no support, you are just alone here. I have learnt so much and have grown as person.

What kind of roles are you now looking forward to? 

> I'm looking forward to playing an innocent momma's boy kind of role.

Do you feel that starting a career with the mythological role, which has been praised too much, can typecast you? 

> It depends on person to person and your work strategy.  I know very well how to change my image and how to avoid been typecast.

You are a Delhi boy. How did Mumbai treat you when you went there for the first time to work? 

 > See there are two things, first how Mumbaikars treated me and second, the work I got. Mumbai is an amazing city, there are hardworking people, transportation is good but getting work is tough. There are 500 candidates and one audition. Mumbai city won't accept everyone but by the God's grace, I have successfully completed my 5 years in Mumbai.Are there any special Delhi memories, which you can remember forever? 

> I was born and brought up in Delhi. I often miss those days when I used to go my theatre classes in winters. I also miss the winters there.You were also part of Delhi's Ram Leela. Is it difficult to hold the attention of thousands of people? 

> It was amazing to share the stage with Bollywood celebrities. There are thousands of people watching the worlds’ biggest Luvkush Ramleela, so you cannot let them down. For the first time, I spoke in Avadhi. I was not able to sleep, not because I was so nervous and it was extremely challenging. But after practicing and my determination to succeed, I realised that I have potential to impress a thousand people.

Do you feel that making it big in acting can get difficult for someone who is not from Mumbai? 

> It can get to you. The new atmosphere, new culture, people from other states with a different mentality, competition with those people, who have already made a name for themselves, can get overwhelming. It's a very small part of the struggle.

We have a lot of actors in the showbiz, who have played the same mythological character multiple times in different shows. Do you feel that it is okay to do that? 

> I am keen on taking on different roles. I can’t see the same #ArunMandola every time. Therefore I will always refrain taking on the same role again.

How much of a fitness freak are you? 

> I always wanted to be an actor, so I always knew the importance of being fit. The first priority for a successful actor is fitness, that’s why I make sure to work out everyday.

What kind of diet do you follow? 

> I don’t follow any diet chart but I drink 15 to 20 glasses of water. I don't eat outside food.

Is the television industry a friendly place to work in? 

> If you are working then yes, it’s friendly place to work.

Have you made good, helpful friends in the industry? 

> My father told me, “100 Nalayak Doston se, ek Dost Achha”. So I follow what he said.

Arjun Singh who plays Suryadev in Siddharth Kumar Tewary's Mahakaali Anth Hi Arambh Hai opens up!

A blast from the past- tell us how you got into the television world? 

> I always wanted to do acting despite of being in the family of wrestlers and I am also used to being a wrestler. So, at the peak of my student's life, I decided to come to Mumbai and try my luck and with the grace of God, my parents were also in supportive of my decision. And entered the world of acting.  I have never studied at any acting institutions.  I directly started giving audition for serials and other daily soaps. Fortunately, I got one, that is Draupadi and from then I am into the world of television. 

How did you feel facing the camera for the first time?

> I was excited than nervous because this is what I always wanted to do. 

What’s the one skill, wish you have developed earlier?

> Acrobatics and gymnastics. I want to be an action hero rather than just doing romantic stuff. I want to portray all the emotions that a human goes through on the screen. 

How did you cope up with the very tough and demanding schedule of television?

> It was not difficult for me to cope up with it because I belong to a disciplined family. So waking up early for an early morning shoot is easy for me. And to be honest, I only do the kind of work which doesn't affect my self-esteem.

How is to be constantly judged when you make an appearance?

> Neither do I judge anyone nor do I like to be judged. Because I wear my heart on my sleeves and say whatever I feel like. I don't spend too much time on my looks and appearance.

You are immensely popular among girls because of your good looks what do you have to say about that?

> I can just say I am very thankful to them for their love and appreciation. I Am really honoured by their gesture. I am nothing without them. I believe fans make us and not the other way around. 

What do you think they like about you? How conscious are you about your good looks?

> I am not conscious about my looks. I am a simple person and I dress up simply. I don't do anything special to look good. I believe beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. So those who see the beauty in me, are beautiful themselves. 

How important is it for an actor to look good on screen?

> It is really important for an actor to look good onscreen because an actor is the one who influences and becomes the trendsetter. People usually follow them, so it's very important to give your best no matter what. You have to be perfect on your path. 

How much importance do you give to your grooming?

> Grooming is important in every single field. Because every metal looks beautiful after the smith has given shape it to it. 

An actor has the power to influence the crowd, your comments?

> Yes, obviously an actor is someone who influences. He is judged by everyone. People follow them like a lot, be it there dressing sense,  there dialogue delivery,  there way of conversation or  there attitude.  An actor should be a powerful enough to influence so that people can be directed in the positive and right direction. 

The most interesting aspect of being an actor.

> We have to face hardships to meet any success in life. But my never- give- up attitude makes me feel even more energetic to face the problems. My parents' blessings are always with me. So no matter what, I know that one day I will achieve the height of success. I believe in one thing, hard times can snatch everything from me but not my destiny

How difficult or easy is it to manage your career and dreams?

> You can live every character. You can have knowledge of every field. If you are playing a role of an inspector you have to study everything about them and then only you can give the perfect shot. I love my job because I want to play every interesting and powerful character. 

What is the hardest thing you have ever done in your entire life?

> To stay away from my family for work after my father's death is the hardest thing I can ever think off. 

How has the glamour industry changed you as a person?

> Change with fashion is equally important like changing with time. For a successful person, it is really important to constantly change their looks, attires and characters. People should not get bored by them. A person should always go beyond their comfort zone. I believe change is the only constant thing which we have to carry forward. 

Fashion gives you an opportunity to be what you want to be. What’s

your take on it?

> Not only the big change but small changes also lead to a big difference in personality. I started working on my dressing sense, on appearance and on my vocabulary. I was an introvert person and now I have started mixing up with people which is the most difficult task as far I am I concerned. 

Anyone one message for your fans

> I just want to give all the love and blessings to my fans. I am very thankful to them because they have made me what I am today. No matter what I'll be honoured by them. Be like a fighter and rise like a warrior. Stay blessed and happy. Be A fighter

My childhood dream was to become an actor: Hitanshu Jinsi

Actor Hitanshu Jinsi, who plays the role of Vaayu Dev in Siddharth Kumar Tewary- Mahakaali – Anth hi Aarambh Hai, has been enjoying his stint in the show. The actor says that he always wanted to be seen on screen and is living his dream. “It was my childhood dream to become an actor. So I started doing theatre at an early age. I loved doing theatre and wanted to do it for life. But after doing it for six long years, I realised that I must make a living as well while following my dream and I shifted to Mumbai. I was supposed to stay at a friend’s house for one month but when I reached Bandra railway station, my friend switched off his mobile. The address he gave me was incorrect. I am fond of beaches, so I went to Juhu beach with my bags at 4 o.clock in the morning. This was my first test and I am glad that I passed it with a big smile. Somehow I managed to survive and started giving auditions for television. After continuous rejections, one day got a call from Swastik and I started my journey in the TV industry,” he says. 

The actor adds, “It’s never easy to manage your career in today's cutthroat competitions. I sacrificed a government job, left my mother alone in Jammu, to achieve my dreams.” 

Ask him how it felt for being on camera and how things have changed now, and he says, “I was full of excitement, positive and little nervous as well. I am very dedicated towards my craft. I get lost at work and it's easy then to cope up. I hardly sleep for 5 hrs, when I am shooting. I enjoy this life.” 

Physical appearances are a big part of being an actor and Hitanshu agrees with this. “Looking good on screen is very important. If you look good, you are going to attract more people to watch you. But remember, along with the packing, the product must be good as well,” he says, adding, “Proper grooming and maintaining a professional appearance are important to gain not just a positive impression but also respect at the workplace. With trends rotating and fading in and out of fashion, the industry is ever-changing, and as a part of that industry, you need to be prepared for that constant change.” 

Hitanshu says that being on screen also leads to your fans trying to follow your every move. “The most interesting aspect of being an actor is you get infinite love from known as well as unknown people. With fame, comes responsibility as you are an idol for many people. You should lead your fans in the right direction,” he says.

Working in EK Deewana Tha is like an unforgettable experience: Sachin Parikh

There isn't much that can keep actor Sachin Parikh from doing what he loves; acting on screen. The actor is currently back on television with a pivotal role in Ek Deewana Tha, and is being loved by his fans. Thanks to its unusual storyline and ensemble cast, the show had created a great curiosity among viewers, much before it began, with its promos. Sachin plays the role of Ram Bisht, one of the significant roles in the show. His track has become the highlight of the show. 

The show also stars actor Amar Upadhyay, who Sachin is enjoying working alongside. "Working with Amar as well as other talented actors in EDT is like an unforgettable experience. I have also been told by several crew members that they are immensely liking the making of this show. My character and chemistry with other protagonists, especially Donal Bisht, who is playing my daughter Sharanya; and Vikram Singh Chauhan, who is playing my would-be son-in-law Vyom, is also amazing!” says Sachin. 

The actor adds that he is sure the show will go on to do exceedingly well in the future. "It is imperative for any show that the entire team works in tandem and with complete faith in the narrative. I believe that our producer Prateek, director Pratik Shah have succeeded in doing it. The results have impressed one and all. Thanks to the collective efforts, EDT has become a big show, and will continue to grow," he says. 

Meanwhile, the actor rose to fame with his lead role in Mehul Kumar’s Gujarati show, So Dahada Sasuna, where he played the role of Ravi. Talking about his struggle then, Sachin says, "It is sort of an unbeatable feat for a gujarati soap to run for more than 1,000 episodes at a stretch. I remember that people would go mad after me. For them, Ravi was their family member, a darling entertainer!”

Rohit Khurana unplugged

1. Playing the title role of a mythological show is a huge responsibility how you see that as an actor? Is there any extra pressure as Kartikey Malviya played it very convincingly and he is very popular too?

> Well for an actor every role is challenging. I have spent few years in this industry, done different kind of roles in movies and serial. So I think for an actor he needs to put his best efforts and let the audience be the judge of my work. Kartikey played is character beautifully and I would say he is very talented, considering he is young and the audience loved his work. 

2. We often say a term Shani Dasha do you believe in Shani's effects on humans?

> Of course I do, Shani is a planet of justice, fame and wealth. I am a very religious person, I worshipped him all throughout. Now, I am blessed to be playing the Lord himself. 

3. According to you which show or character was a landmark in your career explain.

> In serial, Uttaran was a cult. It gave me the exposure that brought me closer to my audience and I would it became a turning point in my career. 

4. Who is your idol/mentor in your life and why?

> My idol is my parents and then comes God. Because they brought me into this world and lord guided me to follow the path of righteousness. 

5. What has been your struggle as an actor please share?

> Every actor has gone through a lot of ups and downs. When I came to Mumbai, I literally had nothing expect few bucks. I did modelling, gave auditions to earn my living. Gradually with my hard work, I came this far. I come from an average business family, where we stayed in Kaithal Haryana. I was actually born there. Then my parents moved to Delhi and started their business. I always knew If I have to be successful, I have to find my own way. So I am sure you can understand, the journey is not as easy as it looks. But then again, your struggle makes you better. I am fortunate and consider myself lucky in many ways. 

6. How much time do you take to get into the look of Shani?

> It takes me close to an hour or so to get into the look of Shani. 

7. What do you think of Siddharth Tiwary and Rahul Tewary the pillars of Swastik?

> They are our producers, they are extremely professional and good in what they do. One can learn a lot from them. They currently have four shows, Shani, Kaali, Porus (coming soon) and Shankar Jai Kishan. 

8. You have worked in south films and one Punjabi film, what is your focus now as an actor?

> My focus is  KShani right now, I devote and dedicate my efforts on one thing at a time. Let's not forget, TV is stronger medium to reach your fans. Especially when the show is telecast every day. I am not sure if you are aware, I actually turned down a movie role, just to play Shani. 

9. What are your hobbies?

> My hobbies are sports, gymming, video games & listening to music

10. Any new thing which you want to learn now and why?

> In the era of technology, everything you see is new. I am a technology geek, so everything new I see, I am intrigued to know it.

Hasti is a multi-faceted character: Mohit Abrol

Actor Mohit Abrol, who is seen as Hasti in Siddharth Kumar Tewary's (Swastik Productions) Porus, says that his role is very special to him. The actor adds that his role has many variations which is what makes it so interesting. “The speciality about my role in Porus as Hasti is that I have a lot of layers, it’s a multi-faceted character. Working with Swastik has always been a pleasure. It’s homecoming for me as I have done Raziya Sultan before. Siddharth sir is an inspiration and I believe in his vision. That’s what prompted me to take this role,” he says.

He adds, “I really admire both Sidharath and Rahul sir. They make you really comfortable as an actor and take care of everything, as we are not shooting in Mumbai. They are more like family.”

Ask him how he prepares for the role, and he says, “There have been a lot of preparations, starting from the physical aspect of the character, for which I had to become muscular and lean, to training in martial arts, swimming, horse riding, sword fighting. As far as the mental aspect is concerned, I had to completely change my thought process and body language as it’s a period drama. It takes me around one and a half hours to get ready in my complete look.”

Much has been said about the grandness of the sets of Porus and Mohit agrees. “Working on such a grand set gives a lot of freedom to perform as you have more space. When you are on the set, it feels like you have gone in that era which makes my job much easier as a performer. I have been bonding really well with all the actors. It’s a really good team. I bond best with Hrishikesh Pandey,” he says.

Meanwhile, Mohit, who has been part of films as well as TV shows, says that he has always tried to choose diverse projects. “I started with a short film ‘Going Home’ which was directed by Vikas Behl starring Alia Bhat. After that, I did a lot of shows on TV starting with Balika Vadhu, MTV Fanah, Raziya Sultan, Meri Aashiqui Tumse Hi, to name a few. The industry has been really kind to me, I have always gotten to play a lot of different characters. So far my journey has been amazing,” he says.

As someone who has worked in both TV shows and films, Mohit says that both industry work differently. “I think the difference between the films and television is the canvas. Films have a huge canvas as compared to television. As an actor, your performance is enhanced in films but somewhere in television, it’s limited because television is a medium of close shots. But television has a far wider range than films,” he says.

As far as the TV industry is concerned, it has progressed, says Mohit. “I have been working in the industry for three years. Changes have been good in terms of content. There are so many good shows on television. For example, our show is really huge and has terrific content. Production value is constantly on an increase. Shows are getting bigger and bigger,” he says. 

The actor urges his fans to follow the show. “There are a lot of reasons to watch but the top two would be the visuals and performances. It’s going to take television to a different level, kudos to Siddharth sir!” he says.

Ankit Arora speaks on Badho Bahu!

How will you define your character of Balvinder?

> I like the way he presents himself with full attitude and charming guy. 

What prompted you to take the role?

> From last 3yrs I am doing costume drama so just for a change and of course the character Balwinder is nice. 

What response are you getting for the role?

> The team is very good. It's my second day today and I feel good being here. Specially prince and Arhaan Khan. 

How is it working with Dipti Kalwani, Sushant Kumar and Teenna Swayyam?

> I am getting a good response from the team here. Waiting for audience response now. Fingers crossed.

We have got a positive response for Black Coffee: Harshita Gaur

Actor Harshita Gaur, who plays the role of Hemal Shah in Yash Patnaik's (Beyond Dreams) web series called Black Coffee, says that she is loving the project. The actor has in fact taken on another web series as well as she loved the format. "This is my first web series, but I have also started shooting for another one, Mirzapur, right after this. When I heard the story of Black Coffee, I absolutely loved it. It was something new and fresh. It is about two people, who are poles apart and how they get onto one track," she says. 

Talking about her character, she says, "My character is Hemal Shah. I suggested the name and Mamta (Patnaik; co producer) agreed. It is very interesting. She is this Gujarathi girl who has a very mundane life. There are no external stimuli to get her excited. She has this boring schedule and a boyfriend who she is always irritated with. She is not ambitious and does not want to achieve something big. She only wants to stick to her job. She absolutely loves numbers and Maths. The interesting part of the story is when the novelist enters her life and her boring, mundane life becomes exciting." 

The actor says that she was blown away by the script, which is what got her in board. "It is my old production house and I trust them blindly. When Mamta Ma'am introduced me to the script, I loved it. So working with them is like working in safe hands," she says. 

Harshita and actor Param Singh have been seen together before and the actor says that she is happy to be paired with him again in Black Coffee. "Chemistry comes naturally when we are together because we have worked for such a long time with each other. I am very comfortable with him. We understand each others' frequencies. He is fun to work with. He is very hilarious, he keeps the atmosphere very energetic," she says. 

The actors is also enjoying working with Beyond Dreams. "It is like working with your family. It is very comfortable," she says. 

Ask her what she feels about the title of the show, and she says, "I love coffee and have only black coffee. Black coffee is something which gives you energy and keeps you fresh, especially when you wake up in the morning. The series will personify the same energy as well!" 

The series has been really appreciated by the viewers, says Harshita. "It has just been a week and we have already got seven hundred thousand views. People are enjoying it. I am getting positive comments on social media, So the response is great overall. My fingers are crossed for the upcoming episodes," she adds. 

In fact, Harshita has become a big fan of the web, as a platform to perform, now. "It is going big because nowadays people are watching everything on the web. They don't actually have time to sit in front of the television at a particular time slot. So the web is actually giving a creative platform to everyone, right from actors to directors. We are moving fiercely towards the web with such good concepts. And the most interesting factor is that people are not scared to put up content, they just want a response from the audience which is why there is scope for creativity on the digital platform," she says.

Siddarth Kumar Tewary felt I fit the role of Parvati and Mahakaali: Pooja Sharma

Actor Pooja Sharma, who is currently playing the role of Parvati and Maa Kali in the show Mahakali: Anth Hi Aarambh Hai produced by Siddharth Kumar Tewary and Rahul Kumar Tewary, has come a long way. The former Miss India finalist and TV host acted in Pavitra Rishta. But it was her riveting role as Draupadi in the mythological TV show Mahabharat which got her fame. 

Talking about how she came on board with Mahakaali, Pooja says, “Any substantial and challenging lead role fascinates me, be it a saas-bahu saga, a mythological show, a comedy or even a crime-thriller. I would say that this author-backed role of Parvati and Mahakaali was preordained for me. Secondly, since it was with the same production house again (Swastik Productions), it was in my comfort zone.  Siddharth Kumar Tewary felt I fit the role and the feedback has been amazing.” 

The show is doing exceedingly well and Pooja says she couldn’t be happier with the response. “My initial reaction was a mixed surreal feeling of numbness and ecstasy. I just couldn’t believe it was me, when I saw myself in the show. When a large number of people called up or messaged me to profusely compliment me, I was emotionally overwhelmed. Initially, I was sceptical whether I should take up this complex title role and wondered – why me? But it was producer Siddharth Tewary, who with his awesome vision, instilled total confidence in me and felt I was a perfect choice,” she says.

Of course, getting into the costume every day is time consuming. “It would take nearly four hours for the elaborate make-over and the body-paint process. Now that everyone is much more proficient, it takes around two and a half hours,” she says. 

The role is exactly what she was looking for, says Pooja. “Besides being challenging the roles are also ‘creatively satisfying’ for me. It’s basically the journey of how Parvati, who was a normal woman married to the revered Lord Shankar, transforms into Goddess Mahakali. The contrasting attributes of each character offer me a wide spectrum as an actor. While Parvati is super-soft and gentle, as she symbolizes mother nature, Kaali Maa is fiery and aggressive. Plus, there are action scenes – Kalaripayattu (martial arts of Kerala) and sword-fighting scenes, for which I have been trained,” adds Pooja. 

The show also comes with a strong message. “It’s about woman empowerment. When I am faced with adverse situations, I approach my husband Lord Shiva (Sourabh Raaj Jain). He advises me that women should also learn to fight their own battles, because every woman has this potent divine ‘maha-shakti’ within her.  Off-screen, I identify with this ideology, that no woman should tolerate injustice,” she says.

My film Rabbi shows how society is God-fearing, whereas actually we should be God-loving - Bidita Bag

The commercial release of Rabbi is on the cards with the movie hitting screens across India on 15th September, 2017. For Bidita Bag, Rabbi comes as an almost immediate release after her recent hit, Babumoshai Bandookbaaz where she stars against the extremely talented Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Bidita’s talent is being recognized across the globe for her bold acting in Babumoshai Bandookbaaz. She has always had an inclination towards socio-political films and Rabbi is one such film addressing social beliefs. Excerpts from an interview with the actor... 

1.     How are you feeling after the recent success of Babumoshai Bandookbaaz? How was the experience of working with Nawazuddin Siddiqui?

Answer – It has been a couple of years since I started, and finally my work has been recognized by the wider audience with this movie. Nawaz is a very talented artiste and in some ways I relate to him and his struggle to make it into Bollywood. Of course, for me the entry came much sooner as compared to him. He is a very nice human being and is very grounded and humble which I think is the reason for his success. 

2.     Coming to Rabbi, what prompted you to choose this project?

Answer – From the moment I heard the story, I was in love with it. I believe the movie answers some important questions that are left unanswered in our day to day lives. Is Music forbidden in Islam was something that appealed to me... In our society people are made to be God-fearing, whereas actually we should be God-loving. I feel it is important to communicate this message. 

3.     Director Rahat Kazmi is known for being unconventional in his ways... how was your experience working with him?

Answer –Rahat is trying to encourage the film industry in his hometown Jammu and Kashmir. He ensures that there is local involvement in his films which brings more flavour to his works. He has a knack of recognizing a sensible script and atire is his forte. And when Rahat makes a film his entire family is involved in it from start to end. They see to it that the work setting is extremely friendly and comfortable. You almost feel that  you are on a trip to enjoy and the shooting just happens in between! Excellent experience working with him (smiles). 

4.     What are your expectations from Rabbi?

Answer – Is movie ka dil bada hai (This movie has a big heart). I’m sure the audience will enjoy it, the main reason being that the film looks at contemporary problems. Rabbi also addresses at terrorism. 

5.     Tell us about your role in the movie...

Answer – My character in this movie is called Afia, a typical Muslim girl, belonging to a conservative family, covered from head to toe. However, she is very liberal in her thoughts and outlook. She is Rabbi’s cousin, friend and support system. At the same time, she is also his biggest critic. She constantly inspires him to achieve more while keeping him grounded and giving him reality checks. 

6.     How was the crew and how did you fit in considering the diverse amounts of experience spread across?

Answer – I would happily say all the senior members loved me a lot and made me feel at home. Dolly ji, Virendra ji, Raghubir ji were all very supportive. In fact we gelled very well over music since both Raghubir ji and Virendra ji enjoy singing and I play the harmonium, we had our own musical sessions that I cherish even today. 

7.     Your future projects?

Answer – I have a few movies in the pipeline such as Daya Bai which is biopic on Daya Bai, T for Taj Mahal, a film on education among others. 

8.     The music forms an important part of this movie, which is your favourite song and why?

Answer – Yes, the music truly brings out the feel of the film. All the songs are really nice but my favourite is Amma Teri Lag Gayi, sung by Raghubir ji. For me, the song was relatable to an extent as when I was growing up my father also always hoped that I would get a Government job and I think this is a common story for every middle class youngster in our country. 

9.     Many youngsters are trying to follow similar footsteps as yours, to do more meaningful and mature cinema, what is your message to them?

Answer – Every Artist has a unique journey. Along with hard work, even luck plays a part in one’s fate. I would say this industry is uncertain from a career perspective. If you are to make a career in this industry, you need to be extremely patient and constantly work on improving your skills. You should give yourself enough time and failures should not stop you.