Web is here to stay, but theatres are irreplaceable: Sharad Kelkar

Of late, there’s been a lot of discussion about the boom in the digital platforms for entertainment and the OTT overtaking the big screen. While the growth in the web space and consumption of content there has been immense, actors Sharad Kelkar believes that  theatres would never lose their popularity.

 

Making a bold statement, the Tanhaji actor says, “Theatres are irreplaceable. The experience that one has while watching something on a big screen cannot be replicated. There’s a lot of difference between watching a film on your phone, TV or laptop and watching it in a cinema hall. There’s no comparison,” says Kelkar.

 

Other than film, Sharad has also been part of several web projects, such as Rangbaaz Phir Se, Special Ops, The Family Man, Black Widows and web-released films such as Laxmii and Darbaan (both 2020). He enjoys being part of the web space, he feels that the theatre experience is something else. “Cinemas will remain because people will get bored of watching content on their phones, and obviously they would want to go to theatres. They would want to get the real big-screen experience.”

 

While both the mediums are very different, Kelkar feels that the audience as well as actors will continue to enjoy both the mediums. So they will coexist.

 

“Now, people have already started going back to cinemas. And perhaps big films like ’83 and Sooryavanshi will see the numbers go up, of course if the Covid-19 situation in the country gets better. But there is a parallel world called the OTT, which is here to stay here. There’sa lot is difference between web content and that in films. So both the mediums will survive and that will only lead to a great future of the entertainment industry,” says the actor. 

“Being a single mother is hard,” says Deepshikha Nagpal

Popular Bollywood and television actress, Deepshikha Nagpal, who is currently seen essaying the character of Nilambari in &TV’s Main Bhi Ardhangini has been shooting away from her Mumbai home in Jaipur for over 4 months. In an attempt to keep abreast with the lives of her two kids, she has been making constant trips to Mumbai to spend as much free time she can with her daughter and son who are currently at the age of 18 and 13 respectively. Be it birthdays or any special occasions of theirs, erratic shoot schedules have kept the actress heavily occupied with shoots. 

Speaking about the difficulties she faces being away from home, Deepshikha said, “As much as I love shooting for Main Bhi Ardhangini, it’s always a heart-breaking moment to leave my kids alone in Mumbai and come to Jaipur. It’s the first time I have been staying away from them for work and the distance is much more difficult that I thought it to be. Whenever I get time off, I take the first flight back to Mumbai so that I don’t lose even a minute to spend time with them. The constant early morning, 5:00 am flights and late-night returns to Jaipur has taken a toll over my health. At times I have travelled just for a day to Mumbai and returned the very same night, exhausted but content at seeing that my kids are doing great. While it can get extremely tiring and hectic, I don’t mind doing it for them because that’s the kind of mother I have been and that’s what has made them confide and share an extremely close bond with me.” 

Adding further, she said, “I have never faced any kind of struggles with work, but more emotional ones arising from motherhood. I used to be occupied with shoots even when they were young but despite that, I ensured to take out time to raise them well and never let them feel that I am away. Being a single mother is hard, especially when you cannot be a part of their growing years much and miss out on being there for so many activities of their lives. Perhaps seeing your kids grow itself is an emotional struggle that every mother faces.” 

On asking her what gets her through each day, the actress said, “I talk to my kids regularly, sometimes 5 times in a day and although I may be away, I am aware of all the ups and downs in their life. I believe the bond that I share with my son and daughter has become much stronger in the past few months and I believe it’s somewhere for their betterment too. I never stopped being a best friend to my kids, however occupied I got with work. We still plan exciting outings and vacations where we decide to enjoy our time together and cut ourselves off from the daily stress.  We all have certain commitments to make in life and my kids really understand and support me well in that. For a mother, that’s all that matters.” 

To make up for all the lost time with her kids, Deepshikha recently went on an extravagant trip to Austria with her son and daughter. While she continues to keep her optimism high, her character Nilambari is up to another evil plan to cause trouble in Madhav (Avinash Sachdev) and Vaidehi’s (Aditi Rawat) life. 

Keep watching Main Bhi Ardhangini every Monday to Friday at 9:00pm only on &TV

Ekta Kapoor Talks About Complex Relationships

TV czarina Ekta Kapoor, who recently became a mother to a baby boy spoke about complex relationships to Anupama Chopra, a prominent Indian author and journalist. Anupama spent a day with Ekta at her bungalow and office, where they chatted about her daily routine, how she manages her professional and personal life and the changes that she has brought about after becoming a mother. She also discovered what Ekta’s superpower is!

They were also accompanied by the veteran actor Ronit Roy and the effervescent Mona Singh who is creating quite a stir with ALTBalaji's current successful running series Kehne Ko Humsafar Hain 2. While the first season caught the pulse of its viewers, the second season gives a riveting take on love and life beyond. Ekta was seen speaking about how millions of women have resonated with the characters and have downloaded the app to watch the series. Talking about the inspiration of developing this drama, Ekta shared that loving an emancipated woman is easy but marrying one is entirely different and this what the show captures. This season will be about how the heart has got what it wanted but will it really be happy?  The series intricately weaves the complexities of mature relationships. 

Talking about her experience, Anupama Chopra took to her social media where she posted a picture writing “@ektaravikapoorcurrently has 8 soaps on television, 4 films in production, 30 shows on the @altbalajiApp & 170 shows in development!! She’s also a mom. I spent the day trying to discover what her superpower is! And we also got her actors from #kehnekohumsafarhain to join us - @monajsingh & @ronitboseroy! I had a great time. #comingsoon #entertainment #digital”

SUREKHA SIKRI: BADHAAI HO IS MY COMEBACK FILM

Surekha Sikri, who plays mother-in-law to Neena Gupta in the fi lm, hopes it will open up avenues for actors her age

Surekha Sikri, Kalyani Devi aka Dadisa of the longrunning telly soap Balika Vadhu, is returning to mainstream cinema with Junglee Pictures’ Badhaai Ho. Directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma, the slice-of-life comedy revolves around a Delhi boy, Ayushmann Khurrana, who suddenly discovers that his mother, played by Neena Gupta, is pregnant again and he’s going to have a second sibling. The veteran actress plays Neena’s mother-in-law and says she was instantly drawn to this “interesting and sweet character”.

“It’s a great time to be in films as so many good scripts are being written,” says the two-time National Award-winning actress, adding that she kept telling Neena and Gajraj Rao, who plays her son, that they are the second lead, after Ayushmann and Sanya Malhotra.

She adds that while she hasn’t faced a similar situation in her immediate family, she has uncles and aunts who are younger than her. “It’s quite common in smaller towns, but in cities, people worry ki log kya kahenge, more so when your older son is of marriageable age, maybe even has a child of his own. This awkwardness is the fun part of the story,” Surekha chuckles.

She informs that she had read in the papers that a couple in Bihar committed suicide after they learnt that the woman was pregnant again. “Though she was only 39, she had grown-up children with kids of their own and the shame was too much to bear. I was shocked to read this because there’s nothing wrong in romancing your wife, no matter what your age,” she asserts.

The actress was last seen on the big screen in Amole Gupte’s kiddie adventure, Sniff, last year, a film that not many saw. Why don’t we see her more often in films? “I need good scripts. This one came out of the blue. Badhaai Ho is my comeback film in the real sense. I did a couple of movies years ago, then, got busy with TV. I hope this will open up more avenues for actors of my age,” she says optimistically.

And what are the chances of Balika Vadhu returning? “Nothing is impossible. It was an iconic show, and everybody put their best in it, making sure we didn’t compromise on the quality. I wouldn’t mind if it came back,” she signs off.

Freida Pinto and Ali Fazal to spearhead a talk in Melbourne on Indian Actors making it big in Hollywood!

The two pioneering young names from India excelling in the west, Ali Fazal and Freida Pinto are now coming together! The duo who will soon fly to the land down under are the key guests at the upcoming Indian Film Festival Of Melbourne 2018. These two names who have in their own way been making a unique space for themselves in the west will be delivering a talk to Australian audiences about the topic of Indian actors making it big in Hollywood! This cross cultural topic will have them expressing their views and opinions on the challenges and the need to overcome the stereotypes associated with being a non American actor working in the West. Freida who’s flying in from Los Angeles, her current home will also be attending the Australian premiere of her film, Love Sonia and Ali has been elected as the Jury member for the Short Film Awards category at the festival.

Ali Fazal said, "It’s always interesting to talk to people of different countries and background. It gives you great perspective. This in fact is my first time to Australia and to get a chance to interact with film lovers and film students on a topic about crossing over is exciting and there’s so much to speak about. I remember during the promotions and post release of Victoria And Abdul, when I spoke to people such varied background, everyone had such interesting ideas of cinema and it’s role. So I’m looking forward to do this talk and discussion alongside someone talented like Freida."

The panel discussion will also have director Tabrez Noorani, who’s film Love Sonia is also the opening night film of the fest. It’s all set to take place at Deakin Edge in Melbourne on 11th August where audiences from across Australia comprising of students and general audience will be in attendance..

Akash Singh Rajput gets candid

Actor Akash Singh Rajput is thrilled to be part of Siddharth Kumar Tewary’s Porus. The actor, who plays the role of Hephaestion in the show, says that he developed a love for history about school, which is why he loves being part of Porus as well. “To be honest, I use to sleep during my history classes in school because as a child you don't find any interest in history and I was only thinking about the future. I got interested in history after my schooling. We Indians have a super history like no other country. Slowly, I started reading up of civilizations and dynasties. It is very important to know about your history before you create your future,” he says.

Talking about his character, he says that his friendship with Alexander was what made him unique. “Hepahestion was a Macedonian nobleman and a general in the army, 1st in command after Alexander the Great. He had been brought up with Alexander from childhood and shared all his secrets. He was the only trusted and loyal friend of Alexander. Their friendship lasted throughout their lives and was compared to Achilles and Patroclus.(troy) He helped Alexander in commanding the cavalry and helping him encountering many tasks during Alexander's winning war. He was with him all his life and was known for his loyalty and loving friendship with Alexander. After Hephaestion death, Alexander celebrated his funeral for eight months and announced him as Divine Hero. Alexander died after eight months of his death,” he says.

Coincidentally, Akash shares a great bond with actor Rohit Purohit too, who plays the role of Alexander in the show. “Rohit Purohit is my big brother. A fabulous actor, brave heart and my Alexander for life. He has been working in this industry for long and has a lot of experience with him. It is really a pleasure working with him and watching him live in front of me. As a newcomer, you get to learn a lot from experienced actors like him, both on and off screen. He is very supportive and is constantly teaching me. To help develop our bond on screen, we often try to meet off-screen too, to get to know each other. He treats me like a younger brother and reminds me of my elder brother,” he says.

However, the actor adds that it’s challenging to play a historical character. “It's always difficult to play a historic character. I started learning horse riding, sword fighting and tried to develop many behavioral skills like that of the Romans.

The actor says that the production house, Swastik Productions have provided many facilities to make this an easy ride for the actors. “Swastik Productions has helped me a lot in providing classes and giving me support in Umbergaon, where we shoot and stay. Life in Umbergaon is wonderful and completely different from Mumbai. It’s away from the traffic and sound pollution. Here it’s very peaceful. Swastik Productions takes good care of all the actors. They take care of all the food, shelter and transport and provide us good facilities for daily living. You are quite relaxed as all your basic needs are fulfilled. I love Swastik Productions and this is my second project with them, after Karamphal Data Shani. I will try to work with them again and again.”

Akash is not one to shy away from challenges. He comes from a political background and had to fight his way to become an actor. “I have done my schooling from Scindia School Gwalior where Salmaan Khan and Anurag Kashyap have studied. I went on to do my graduation after that in Christ University Bangalore, the best in India for BBM (Bachelors in Business Management). After that I joined politics as a youth president and helped my dad in politics. My dad is a MLA from Sagar (M.P) and has been in politics since past 25 years, that means my whole life. Politics flows in my DNA,” he says, adding, “However, I always wanted to become an artist. After doing my post graduation (MBA), I started my struggle to achieve my dream. I had to fight my own battle to convince my dad to let me try my luck in acting. As many people in my family were opposed to acting and worried about my life in Mumbai. Finally, I had a serious talk with my dad and convinced him to send me Mumbai for one year...and the rest is history.”

Talking about the work that he has done so far, he says, “I started getting roles in episodics. I got work in Bazigar on Life Ok. I did a movie with Anupam Kher sir which is yet to release. I did a short film with 'Prakash Jha Sir called Nalsa. It was a dream come true for me when I got a movie 'Toilet Ek Prem Katha' in which I essayed the role of a reporter with Akshay Kumar sir. Then I got a chance to work with Swastik Productions as Raja Manu in Karamphal Data Shani. They liked me and signed me for Porus as Hepaestion. I am also doing a Web Series for Amazon Prime called 'Mirzapur' with excel entertainment, which will be released in September 2018.”

“ONE PERSON I SHOULDN’T CALL IS SWARA (BHASKAR),” SAYS SONAM KAPOOR, IN JEST. #SOICALMEDIASTAR

~ In a candid conversation with host Janice Sequeira along with Rega Jha, Buzzfeed India Editor, Sonam makes some startling and hilarious revelations ~

Sonam Kapoor who is trending across social media platforms, has featured in the pilot episode of Firstpost’s web chat-show Social Media Star, alongside Rega Jha, Buzzfeed India Editor. Show creator and anchor, Janice Sequeira took on the task of decoding what makes these two ladies tick on social media.

When questioned about who they would call for social media advice, Sonam was quick to take Janice’s name and admitted to turning to the show host for advice every time she found herself in a mess. However, it was a hilarious revelation by Sonam that had the ladies burst out in peals of laughter. Sonam said, “One person I shouldn’t call is Swara (Bhaskar) because she encourages me. When I ask her, “Do you think we should do this?” she says, “Obviously! We have our voice and we need to use it, get out there and talk about it.”

Amidst laughter, Sonam said that she then lands into trouble and has to turn to others to clear up the mess. She revealed that her father, superstar Anil Kapoor, also encourages her to speak her mind and is always supportive of her.

Catch Sonam Kapoor and Rega Jha demystify the world of social media with host Janice Sequeira on Firstpost’s Social Media Star.

View the entire episode on - 

https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/social-media-star-watch-sonam-kapoor-rega-jha-in-a-candid-conversation-about-online-trolls-and-all-things-viral-4457297.html

The one thing these actors learnt from their mothers

Moms aren’t just birth givers. They are your biggest supporters, toughest critics, loudest cheerleaders and strictest teachers. They are also the epitome of love and strength. If it weren’t for mom’s constantly watching and leading the way, we’d all be a little lost, in life and otherwise. Here is what a few actors had to say about the one thing they’ve learnt from mom that they follow to this day. After all, Mommy knows best!!

Taapsee Pannu: My mom’s internal strength is what I became a huge fan of once I grew up. The way she handled 3 really different personalities at home (my Dad, my sister and myself) the way she became a shock absorber of our madness and still kept us together. The way she was the bridge between my Dad and me and still continues to be. The way she doesn’t give up on any one of us even though we r very mean to her at times because she is way more evolved and stronger person than us

Richa Chadha:  What I learnt from my Mom is compassion. When I was little, I would kill ants and insects. My mother told me - “Yeh cheenti shayad apni mummy ke paas ja rahi hai?”  That was such a strong rephrase at the time. It’s made me compassionate and ethical.

Ali Fazal: Somebody is always watching. Always. Just remember to fold your clothes and your own sheets. Keep your room neat. Your life is but a version of that room.

Arunoday Singh: The greatest thing my mother has taught me is that happiness and self-esteem are not synonymous with success.  She taught me to seek the joy, to stay in the light. No matter what I’m dealing with.

Sumeet Vyas: That there’s no harm in listening, rather than always waiting for your turn to speak. Also Dosing off in the most dreadful and tense situations in life.

Rasika Dugal: The one skill I have learned from my mother is- attention to detail and that has been an important skill to have as an actor. Her attention to the smallest of things in everything she does never ceases to amaze me. Whether it's in her attention to her work or in the way she chooses gifts for people and especially when she is cooking /baking. I can never be as good as her but I think I have got some of it!

Amyra Dastur: My mother has always been a very kind and generous woman. She never bought our pets over the years, instead, she would adopt them (especially strays). She has paid for the education of all our maids’ children and she’s been helping charities like Red Cross ever since I can remember. My mother has taught me to look at the good inside people and to never ever judge an individual at face value or by someone else’s statements. I admire my mother for not only teaching me how to stay kind and honest in a harsh world but also, how to laugh at myself every once in a while and to not take life so seriously. She is and always will be my hero.

Manoj Pahwa Reveals Details Of His ‘Khajoor Pe Atke’ Character

Actor Manoj Pahwa, known for his roles in films such as ‘Being Cyrus’, ‘Wanted’, ‘Dabangg 2’, ‘Jolly LLB’, ‘Judwaa 2’ and the super-successful TV show ‘Office Office’, will be next seen in Harsh Chhaya’s directorial debut ‘Khajoor Pe Atke’ and the actor opened up about his character in the film. 

Talking about his character Jeetendar from the film, Pahwa said in an interview, “I play the eldest brother in the family and being the eldest, I feel that it is my solemn duty to take all decisions and be the father figure to everyone else in the family. Needless to say, this causes friction between the other family members and you will get to see in the film the kind of hilarious consequences that arise as a result of the way my character behaves.” 

Apart from Pahwa, ‘Khajoor Pe Atke’ also stars Vinay Pathak, Seema Pahwa, Dolly Ahluwalia, Sanah Kapoor, Suneeta Sengupta and others. ‘Khajoor Pe Atke’ is a tongue-in-cheek look at how different members of a family react when a member of the family is rushed to a hospital after falling gravely ill. This film will offer cine-goers a glimpse into the lives of the most entertaining ‘Item Family’ ever!

Presented by S.O.I.E films, produced by Welcome Films Productions and directed by Harsh Chhaya the film is set to release on 18th May 2018.

Karan Johar tells everyone to take a ‘Self pity Spa’

Kjo has some really cool advices for his callers on his radio show- Calling Karan on Ishq 104.8 FM. While he has been getting calls round the globe on love and relationships, there was a recent caller who was brave enough to  openly speak up about her abusive relationship. While we talk about our society being liberal and its changing scenario, domestic violence and physical abuse is yet kept under wraps. 

In a recent episode, a caller shared her journey of being in an abusive relationship with her partner which took Karan aback.  KJo who is a confidant of many, clearly advised the caller to not entertain such things and not even sulk about it. He said, “Self-pity is a spa and you can stay in it for 5 days if you like and enjoy it. But one need to pull out of it too. He added that there should always be more support in a relationship than discouragement. 

Love is in the air

The day of love is finally here! As telly actors get ready to celebrate Valentine’s Day tomorrow, they share their plans and their dream dates.

Abraam Pandey - Valentine's Day is really not important for me because I think if you love someone and want to express your love, you don't need a particular day to express it. I would like to date Deepika Padukone as she has all the qualities what a guy looks for in his life partner and also because our height is similar.

Tarun Khanna - Valentine's Day has always been a special day in my calendar. I try to not work on this day and if I am working, then I make sure that I pack up by early evening, so that I can spend some romantic time with my beloved wife. Every day is like a Valentine's Day for me ever since she has come into my life. I'm planning to take her for shopping in the morning. Then will take her for Chinese meal as she loves it. Then we will watch a romantic movie or any movie of her choice. In the evening, I will take her for Italian food as that's another of her favourites. We will go for a long drive in the night. I will definitely choose Smriti as my date every time, not because she is my wife, but because I still think that she is the most beautiful woman in and out.

Ankush Bali - I feel that if you love someone then you don’t need a day to show it. But it’s a good day to ask someone to be yours. If I am given a chance to take someone out for a date on Valentine’s Day, it would be Scarlett Johansson as I think she is one of most beautiful woman.

Himmanshoo Mahotraa - Valentine's Day used to be important when I was in school, college and when I was dating Amruta as well. But post marriage, I think Valentine Day loses its importance and birthdays and anniversaries takes precedence. But yes, Valentine's Day is equally important, slightly lesser than birthdays and anniversaries, but it matters nevertheless. Unfortunately, Amu will be shooting this year and I have BCL matches going on, so probably we will go out for a dinner. We would have gone somewhere but that's not possible because of both our work commitments. I wish to take Deepika Padukone on a date once and want to know her more because she is fabulous and very beautiful.

Mrunal Jain - Every year I celebrate Valentine's Day with my wife Sweety. But this time we are busy with MTV BCL. So, I am planning a dinner date with Sweety.

Mohammad Nazim - Love means knowing that no matter what, you have someone to count on. It's unconditional and makes you feel good on the inside. You can trust the person you love and are comfortable around her. It's like your heart tells you that it is good for you. Valentine’s Day is always special because it gives you a cha to make your loved ones feel special, which is exactly what I do every year.  

Rohit Purohit -  I feel to express love, romance and care, each day is special. Hence we must celebrate each day. I am busy shooting in Umbergaon, so will celebrate Valentine's Day with my friends here. 

Aniruddh Dave - Valentine’s Day for me is a day when the heart beats a little faster, when you want to be nowhere else but very close to your loved one. This Valentine’s Day, I will pamper my wife Shubhi Ahuja with gifts, flowers and a lot of love.

On this Valentine's day let us look at Bollywood couples who give us #couplegoals

Bollywood is celebrating the season of love and it’s adorable to see the lovebirds bask in their romance. We have a list of B-town couples who are the epitome of cuteness and they surely give us major #couplegolas this Valentines! 

Anushka Sharma & Virat Kohli 

Their wedding was the talk of the town and the most romantic gesture for their life together. Virat has often been seen blowing away kisses to his lady love during important matches from the field. Their relationship is the most adorable expression of love. 

Deepika Padukone & Ranveer Singh 

One of the most glamorous couples, Deepika and Ranveer are the idols for every couple deeply in love with each other. They can’t seem to get enough of each other and their PDA is very obvious at every event. This is a couple who will support their partner and always stand by each other.

Richa Chadha & Ali Fazal 

This lovely couple is the perfect example of young love blossoming into a beautiful relationship. They are seen sharing sweet moments on red carpets in international shores and also their social media affectionate PDA is every couple’s love for each other. Ali recently gifted Richa her cat who she adores a lot. Their love is an inspiration to the young lovers falling in love this season. 

Mira & Shahid Kapoor 

Will be together through the thick and thin in life, this Jodi is an example of everlasting love. Their dedication to one another is the most important factor which makes for a happy and blessed marriage. Shahid’s cute little gestures for Mira make the girls go weak in their knees. 

Sonam Kapoor & Anand Ahuja 

This couple is a true social media love addict. Distance has never kept them from expressing their love for each other. Soman’s delightful posts about Anand speak a lot about their love for each other. They are internet’s favourite couple which the gen Y can resonate with.

Don’t leave TV for films, maintain a balance, urge TV actors

Many TV actors are returning to television after a failed attempt at movies in Bollywood like Siddharth Shukla, Amar Upadhyay, and Rajeev Khandelwal etc. On the other hand, you have actors like Ram Kapoor, Rohit and Ronit Roy, who are balancing both movie and TV beautifully. Our telly actors tell us their take on this.

Ssharad Malhotraa - We all know TV is booming and its reach has widened over the past few years. It’s getting stronger and bigger by the minute. I am very lucky and thankful to be a part of this medium but as an artist, we all should experiment at different levels/spheres and try and prevent any kind of monotony to set in at workplace. I would love to juggle all 3, stage, films and TV, together. I know that it will be very challenging physically and emotionally but at the same, it will be highly satisfying for my creative urges and entertaining for my audiences too.

Himmanshoo Malhotra - I think the best idea at this point of time is to maintain the balance between television and films. If you leave television and only want to do films, it slightly becomes a risky proposition in today times because films, unfortunately, are not as successful as television. You need to be very lucky. I would say Sushant Singh Rajput is the only exception who's been lucky here. He ventured out of television and entered into films and kept proceeding with it. Only one film does not make you a star proportionally. You have to do 6 films in a row. Sushant got lucky, but not everyone gets lucky like this. I think there should be a balance that is maintained between television and films. I would suggest a balance like Ram Kapoor and Ronit Roy have maintained. They keep doing television and also films. I did film Wajah Tum Ho with T-series and now I am doing a television show as well. If another film is offered, I'll do that film and will be back to television. It is the balance that should be maintained and it will be more fruitful in the coming future.

Shashank Vyas: Well, I think every individual has his or her own journey. One cannot be non-risky in this profession. Being always in a comfort zone is not my choice. Look at SRK, Sushant Singh Rajput, all of them are from TV and they both made it big. It’s talent and destiny which decides your career graph. Of course, hard work will take you a long way.

Mohammad Nazim TV is a mass medium. The character becomes part of the audiences life. TV or films, the objective of both is entertainment, entertainment and entertainment. Even Salman Khan and SRK are doing TV. How you carry your career is your choice. One can surely balance both TV and films. The will to survive must be there. If you can maintain a balance between both, then there is nothing like it.

Tinaa Dattaa TV is TV and films are films for an actor. Films are larger than life and TV makes you a household name. Both have their own impact. TV actors are doing well in films and vice versa. In last few years, many actors have migrated to films and have got a good response. It is important to go on trying, that will surely make you succeed. One bad film will not ruin your career, it’s important to believe in this.

Vivian Dsena As far as TV is concerned, I would like to stick to the TV as it is my bread, butter and dessert. I am open to the idea of doing films as and when they happen. An actor is an actor and medium can vary. But I will never give out television for films. TV has made me who I am today and I will never forget that.

Nimrat Kaur shares a heartfelt message in this open letter

This RepublicDay, find inspiration through her words and go live your dreams! 

I was born, in a small town named Pilani in Rajasthan, to the second son of three, in a farmer family hailing from a remote village in the neighbouring region. But that for me, wasn’t the interesting part of this story. What however I could never have enough of, was how, my then, Captain of a father, distributed “peydaas” (a stamp of celebratory sentiment) among not one or two families, but the entire colony! Much to the shock among many back in his family and village. I used to love the idea of being a celebration for doing something I had no part to play in, being born. 

However, as life, society and experience happened, that story took over a different meaning once I began to read the subtext. People back in his village weren’t shocked about him being able to afford “peydaas” for the whole colony, but about him doing so for me. My father was an exception to the norm which didn’t approve of his joy over the birth of a girl child for his first born. And I belonged to a statistically shocking minority of girls who enjoyed that privilege. 

I don’t know how drastically has that statistic changed, but I do know that not very long ago, a young girl hailing from the same region as my father’s village, became the first ever woman commando to be indicted in the BSF, a 51 year old establishment. She stood tall and beaming with her arm around her father, who couldn’t have smiled a wider smile. Each time I come across a similar success story about a woman excelling in the field of sports, services, entertainment, banking, politics or any arena where she blossoms alongside or outside of her biologically expected domain; I begin to dream of a world where this won’t be an anamoly anymore.  

This year as we celebrate the 69th Republic Day of India, I wish for a future that nurtures, encourages and protects every young girl who’s aspirations aren’t curbed due to her gender. Who isn’t told that going to school is of no use as all she needs to grow up to be is a wife or a mother. I wish for every man and woman in a place of authority and responsibility to realise the imperative urgency of every girl child being assured of just and equal opportunities. A reality which stirred me by existing in an unexpected walk of life, when in late 2016 I was made aware of women not being allowed to serve in combat roles in the army up until February that year. 

Eversince, The Test Case, hinging on that subject, which I have had the deepest privilege of being attached to, has compelled to me to share what I took away from this entire journey. In its creative attempt not just at provoking the ideologies or the politics of defence, and addressing the globally rampant struggle of gender discrimination; being a hyperbole it’s a story aimed at reminding any and everyone watching, about a basic fact, that the only way a woman can be held down from her flight of fantasy is if she’s denied the right to earn the same license as a man. 

I hereby, salute and applaud all the loving, nourishing and kind men and women who’ve made mine possible, both on and off screen. Here’s wishing the same for every girl reading this. 

Happy Republic Day and Jai Hind.

Kylie Jenner to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a trend - shift towards natural looking lips: Dr Monica Kapoor

Meghan Markle has always managed to be the inspiration for uncountable women around, sometimes it's for unmatchable talent while the other times it's her irresistible looks. At the moment, her lips are catching eyeballs across the world as it gives highly desirable and perfectly proportioned pout. Well-known celebrity cosmetic surgeon Dr. Monica Kapoor, in fact, revealed the increase in the number of women, demanding lips like that of Meghan.

She mentions, "Many women come to me every week for lip enhancement procedure. Most of them want to change the shape of their lips like that of their favorite celebrity. Until 2017, Kylie Jenner's lips appealed and influenced people to undergo cosmetic lip treatment. Girls used to come with the picture of Kylie on their mobile, willing to get fuller and plumper lips like her in order to have that perfect pout".

“The trends are changing and women are asking lips more like Meghan Markle or our very own Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wherein the looks are more natural and less pouty." she added.

Explaining how these social influencers are setting a benchmark for beauty, Dr. Monica stated, "the common factors in the lips of both these stars Meghan or Aishwarya Rai are that their lower lips are slightly bigger than the upper lip, very prominent cupid’s bow thereby making it desirable. Tapering corners makes it look proportionate with other facial features like eyes, nose, and lips, hence complementing the overall facial beauty.”

"In Kylie Jenner lip type, the lips are more plump and fuller. Both upper and lower lips are almost of the same size and the cupid's bow is negligible. Such lips stand out giving a perfect pout. But sometimes they don't look proportionate with other facial features and the lips look odd giving the DUCK-LIP appearance. Lips should always be in proportion to other features to give harmony to beauty,” Dr. Kapoor explains.

Stating the technical side of the lip augmentation procedure, Dr. Kapoor stated, “In order to have lips like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan or Meghan Markle the Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are the most popular and safer treatment to reshape or augment the lips. Hyaluronic acid is the natural substance injected into the lips to have desired results. It’s a lunchtime procedure and the results can last for almost one year. Also, with ‘dermal fillers’ one can also accentuate only the borders of the lips so as to have shape enhancement.”

She also shows her concern that the procedure should be done by a well-trained doctor in this field, otherwise it can turn out to be a disaster for face beauty.

TV frat stands divided on whether national anthem should be sung in theatres

Our TV actors give us their take on whether the national anthem should be played in theatres.Ankush Bali: I don’t think the National Athem should not be played in halls. There is no point to show or prove patriotism just before watching a movie.

Rohan Gandotra: In our busy life, I feel that's the only place where we get to listen to our national anthem and we actually stand and give respect to it. I don't think in our day to day life or even on  Republic Day and Independence day for that matter, one actually stands up for the national anthem. Compulsion or no compulsion, I feel it's a right decision to play the national anthem in cinemas. It hardly takes two minutes of your free time.

Sehban Azim: There's nothing wrong in making the national anthem compulsory in theaters, right before a movie. It's just a two-minute thing and I guess we all as Indian citizens should have no problem standing up for it. It would make a difference because in our school days, we all have stood up every day for it and it reminds us of our country. It surely induces love and praise towards our motherland. Now we hardly get to hear it or sing it. As almost everyone goes to the theatre, so it seems the legit place to make it happen, to invoke that same emotion which we experienced when we were growing up.

Himmanshoo Malhotra: I think it should be played since it keeps you in touch with the beautiful lyrics of the anthem and their in-depth meaning. As it is life is running at such a faster pace, standing up for the anthem and taking a respite for 2 mins is actually necessary. Also, we must take care of the fact that all these things should be done not imposingly but voluntarily.

Saurabh Pandey: I think the main idea of playing the national anthem in cinema halls is to make you remember the national anthem, as we hardly ever singh it otherwise. Secondly, we should remember that we are Indians and the love that we have for our country should always be in our hearts. I am sure that many of us don't even remember the lyrics  of our national anthem. So I think it's a good way to give two minutes to our country before we get ready to get entertained. I also feel that it should be compulsorily in every factory, office, workplace in India, to sing that national anthem before the work day begins. I totally think it's a good thing. Also, the meaning of national anthem is beautiful. It's a beautiful description of India.

Sanjay Gagnani: I’m a patriotic and so I wouldn’t mind dedicating two minutes of my time in singing the national anthem before a watching a film. But whether it should be played or not in cinema halls, I wouldn’t like to comment on that instead I would leave that to our constitution and supreme courts to decide. Because I have full faith in the decisions of the constitution and the Supreme Court of my country.

Sneha Wagh: Nationality should be in heart more than in cinema halls. I don’t understand what good it will do to play the national anthem before a film, if people don’t know how to respect it.

Gurpreet Singh: Yes, I agree that the  national anthem should be played in cinema halls. I don't know why people can't stand for even 52 seconds, it's our motherland after all. We have the time to watch the movie for 3 hours, but we don’t have the time to stand for the national anthem. It is our duty to show respect to our national anthem. Our Indian army fights every day and night and stands for us. Our freedom fighters have struggled a lot of things to get us independence, then why can't people respect that? Whenever there is a terrorist attack, so many people say we are with our army. All their patriotism comes out at that time. We should stand and show respect to our national anthem.

Gavie Chahal: Our national anthem is our pride. Standing in respect of it is equal to respecting and touching the feet of your parents and take their blessings every morning. Do you know that in countries like Australia, every day at 6 PM at all community centers, pubs or wherever, they play a 1-minute anthem in respect of their soldiers and martyr! And here people find it difficult to stand before a film.

Sshrey Pareek: To be very honest, it's a good gesture to remind us in theatres at least. I don't think any countryman sing or remember national anthem in daily life. I get goosebumps every time I listen to it in theatres and I have not seen in so many years that anyone is not standing and disrespecting it.

Ssharad Malhotraa People go to the cinema halls to watch a film. They go there for entertainment. At that time many of them are not serious and don’t sing the national anthem seriously. We often see people moving or even laughing when the national anthem is going on. This is why I feel that it should not be played in theaters.

Arjun Bijlani Our country has given us so much and we should be grateful. The national anthem should invoke a sense of pride in us. If this happens, then it won’t matter where we are signing it. I am ok with the idea of national anthems being played in cinema halls.

I am excited to be part of Badho Bahu: Mridanjli Rawal

Actor Mridanjli Rawal, who is part of Dipti Kalwani's (Sunny Side Up), Teenna Swayyam, Sushant Kumar's (Hum Tum Telefilms) Badho Bahu, is thrilled to be in the show. This is her debut show and she is excited to be in it. “This is my first TV show. Before this, I have done ads and I am also doing theatre. Bhago is the name of my character. I am so excited to play this character. I am playing a thief,” she says.

She adds, “I am very thankful to our producer Dipti Kalwani and Hum Tum telefilms to make a special part of this amazing show.”

Mridanjli is from Haryana and playing a Haryanvi character comes naturally to her. “Haryana is my hometown. Haryanvi reminds me of my people. Playing a Haryanvi girl is super exciting and super fun. I am lucky that in my very first show, I get to speak with a Haryanvi accent. It was easy. For the first time, I was told that my character is inspired by Babli from the film Bunty Aur Babli, I was super excited. These characters are exciting and challenging at the same time. But it's super fun,” she says.

The actor is an avid follower of the show. “I have watched all the episodes of Badho Bahu in past. I love the story and the concept of the show, since its beginning. It revolves around Haryana. It's like being home,” she says.

I am open to doing reality show, would like to try all of them: Priyamvada Kant

Actor Priyamvada Kant, who is seen in Tenali Rama, wants to try her hand at a reality show now. The actor loves the format and says that they are interesting to be part of. “I’m open to doing them. I think they are a lot of fun and people get to see the real you. Dance, comedy, stunts, cooking I’d love to do it all,” she says.Ask her who her favourite dancer is, and she says, “Madhuri Dixit, she is timeless and the industry hasn’t seen a better dancer than her. She is graceful and her expressions are unparalleled.” There are a variety of reality shows on screen today like Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi. The actor says that she would love to try all of them. “I think Bigg Boss is very entertaining! And this year the contestants have proved that you don’t need to go so low for entertainment. Everyone’s played with tact and self-respect. It’s changed my opinion for the show, I would take up the offer,” she says, adding, “As far as Khatron ke Khiladi goes, I have done a version of Fear Factor for Pakistan, with Indian and Pakistani celebrities, which I won. So I’d definitely do Khatron Ke Khiladi!”

Thrilled to be part of Mahakaali: Liliput

Actor Liliput, who is currently playing the character of Apasmar Raakshas in Siddharth Kumar Tewary’s Mahakaali - Anth Hi Aarambh Hai, says that he is thrilled to be part of the show. Talking about his character, he says, “I am playing a negative role and my character fights with Lord Shiva. I am so happy to be part of this show,” he says.

This is the actor’s first mythological show. Talking about the differences in working style that he sees in films, theatre and TV, he says, “For an actor theatre, television, and films all are important. Theatre is considered more important because you get to see the output and results instantly while the other mediums show the results slowly. You need the appraisal from an audience and it's every actor's wish that the audience loves them,” he says.

The actor has been part of showbiz since a long time now and says that the industry has grown by leaps and bounds. “The industry has seen a lot of changes. Earlier work was done very honestly and with hard work but now it's just the quantity that matters and not the quality,” he says.

My mother’s blessings are always with me, miss her every minute of every day: Shashank Vyas

For actor Shashank Vyas, the start of every year has a special meaning. The first day of the New Year also happens to be his mother’s birthday. Even though his mother is no more, he makes sure to celebrate the day.

“I went to Siddhivinayak and then I went to Mahim Darga for praying on the first of January,” he says, adding, “My mother's blessings are always with me and I always miss my mother every minute of every day. She has always been with me and whatever I am today is just because of her blessings.”

Shashank has also ways maintained that his fans have also contributed to making him who he is today. He recently met an ardent fan and says that it was a lovely experience. “Meeting fans is always a wonderful feeling altogether. The girl's name is Sheetal and she knows me since my Balika Vadhu days. When a fan messages you repeatedly, you end up remembering their name. So I know her name and know everything about her because she sends me cards. She is more like my family. I was lucky to meet her. It's great to start your year, meeting your fans and getting so much of love and warmth from them,” he says.

The actor is also grateful for the love that he gets on social media. “It's good to be loved and appreciated. There are few critics and trolls also but I always focus on the positive side. I am too busy with people I love. It's really good to be liked as everyone wants love, warmth, appreciation, motivation. I feel very lucky,” he says.

In fact, Shashank says that his fans have continued to shower him with love, even when he is not on air. “This indicates that they are not only connected to my work but to me. They know me as a person, they know who I am. They even keep records of who I meet and where I am going and what I am doing. For me, I would love to give best to my craft and I would like to entertain more. I won't take up roles that I haven't done till now so that my fans see a new side of me. I am looking for nice, good and concrete work to come back on screen,” he says.

Shashank has a lot of goals for the following year. “As far as the career part is concerned, I will love to have a concrete show, as a solo lead protagonist. I am all set to deliver my best. I don't want to repeat my roles and characters. And in my personal life, I am working hard with on my body, working out hard in the gym. So Insha-Alla people will see a nice good me, a new Shashank altogether,” he says.

The actor also has some travelling plans. “I miss winters and that's the reason I am travelling because I don't want to miss winters anymore. I am going to Himachal Pradesh and Jammu in the month of February because of January, I am busy with some meetings,” he says.

Shashank also has a special message for his fans. “I would rather call them my blessings and I really want to thank them wholeheartedly for all the love they've shown. And I'd like to tell them that as much as I've worked hard to be here, their love has done an equally amazing job. Thank you all!” he says.