Showing posts with label Advait Chandan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Advait Chandan. Show all posts
Advait Chandan steps away from Vikrant Massey-Lakshya’s Dostana 2
9:47 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 8, 2026)
The long-delayed Dostana 2 appears to have hit another roadblock. According to a recent report, filmmaker Advait Chandan has stepped away from the project, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the sequel to the 2008 film Dostana.
A report by Variety India claims that Advait exited the film due to creative differences with the makers, although there has been no official confirmation from the makers yet. The report adds that the parting was amicable.
The sequel was announced by Dharma Productions in 2019 with Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya in the lead. Shooting had commenced in Goa but production came to a halt in 2021 amid a widely reported fallout between producer Karan Johar and Kartik.
Advait, best known for directing Secret Superstar (2017) and Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), came on board after the project’s original director, Collin D’Cunha, exited the film. Earlier reports in February had suggested that Advait would helm the revamped version of Dostana 2, with Vikrant Massey, Lakshya and former Miss India World Sini Shetty expected to headline the cast.
Mona Singh is a Bachchan; film kaisi bhi ho, Bachchan sahab kabhi kharab nahin hotey-Saurabh Khanna
10:20 AM
Called a ‘Bachchan’ by those who’ve worked with her, Mona Singh is still defying type, chasing risk, and finding new ways to belong everywhere, even two decades after she played Jassi
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; April 12, 2026)
I remember the single happiest day of my teenage years. I came back from school and found a pink letter on my table. It was a friendship band that was sent by Jasmeet Walia, aka Jassi. At 12, I genuinely thought of Jassi [the lead in the show Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin (2003–2006)] as my friend. And there began my love for Mona Singh. Many years later, during an interview, I told her this story and she laughed. “That innocence of Jassi is something I hope we always carry with ourselves,” she’d told me.
In the past few years, everywhere we look, we see Singh. She is the tough cop in Sudeep Sharma’s Kohrra. She is a don in Vir Das’s wacky Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos. She is the hero’s warm mother in Aryan Khan’s Ba***ds Of Bollywood (2025). She is the doctor who can save the world in Netflix’s Kaala Paani (2023). She is also Sunny Deol’s bantering wife in Border 2. And she is the menacing Babli Didi, a mafia queen in Suresh Triveni’s Subedaar. It raises the same question in everyone’s mind — how is she in so many things all at once, never looking out of place in any of these diverse set ups?
The best answer I found to this, came from a late night conversation with Saurabh Khanna, writer of Yeh Meri Family (2018), and the producer of Kaala Paani (2023). He said, quite-matter-of-factly, “She is a Bachchan! Aap koi bhi film dekh lo, Bachchan sahab ki, film kaisi bhi ho, Bachchan sahab kabhi kharab nahin hotey!”
Khanna’s Yeh Meri Family is considered to be Singh’s turning point. She played a mother to three kids in ’90s small town India. What about that show made Khanna think of Singh? “When we started casting, we knew we wanted familiar faces. This wasn’t a show about big lines, big drama. It was about everyday stories. She has this unique quality that she can shine in whatever you give her. Very rarely do we get actors who take punt on fresh ideas, who don’t ask ‘mere opposite kaun hai?’”
Singh broke out with her iconic role Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin in 2003. The role itself was a risk. Television boom had seen an influx of interesting new actors but for any avid TV viewer of that era, Jassi was a revelation. An unofficial adaptation of Ugly Betty, Jassi too was the story of how a spirited young hard working woman is constantly admonished because she does not meet the traditional standards of beauty. At its peak, the show touched a TRP of 9.2 making it among the most-watched television programs in the country. In Jassi, young women saw their own story of being reduced to just their looks.
But success, especially of that magnitude, comes with its own design to pigeonhole someone. For Singh, the shadow of Jassi wouldn’t leave so easy. For years after the show ended, the industry struggled to see her beyond the braces.
“There was a time when people only saw me as Jassi,” she has said. Breaking that image took a lot of courage from her end, which also meant fresh punts. Between 2006 (after Jassi ended) and 2009, Singh was on both Jhalak Dikkhla Jaa and 3 Idiots (2009) — her first film with Aamir Khan, trying her hand at evolving in whatever way she could. She hosted reality shows, did her work in TV but she was made for greater things and it was the advent of OTT that put the spotlight back on her craft.
But it was Khanna’s Ye Meri Family and Ekta Kapoor’s Kehne Ko Humsafar Hai (2018–2020), that was the first of her big OTT outings. In the latter, Singh plays an independent artiste in a relationship with a married man. Written by Neena Gupta, the show portrays Singh with grace.
In 2018, Singh had told mid-day, “It is a tricky part. Ekta Kapoor (the show’s producer) was very sure from the beginning that she will not project her as a vamp. She is a modern woman who happens to fall in love with a married man.” It ties in with what Khanna had told us about Singh’s choices, “Expect the unexpected from her. That’s what she is seeking.”
It’s this very tryst that took her to play Aamir Khan’s mother in Laal Singh Chaddha (2022). As Singh had once corrected me, she is Laal’s mother, defending her decision of agreeing to play a mom to a man well her senior. During his drive from Goa to Mumbai, Adavait Chandan, director of Laal Singh Chaddha, called us to chat about what makes Singh such a phenomenal actor.
“There is a scene where she is crying when Aamir’s character is graduating. Even when I was directing that scene, I had tears in my eyes. It is my favourite scene of hers. She did become Laal’s mother. I find that loyalty she has her for work and craft, her most defining quality. She is a really great person and that energy feeds every character she plays. When our film didn’t work, she held me and we cried together. She taught me so much about how resilient an actor can be.”
But co-stars remember something entirely different about Singh. It’s her big laugh, that stays with those she meets on set, and her ability to remain calm under pressure.
Co-star Aditya Rawal, who worked with her on Subedaar, tells us, “This one day we had a big shoot sequence for Subedaar. We were shooting in Chembur and had ordered for chole bhature from somewhere. And then we had this really intense scene. No matter what Mona is shooting, she has this ability to stay calm. She can switch on and off between scenes. She is seamless in front of the camera. And as someone who was working with her, that I felt is the reason why she has endured across mediums, formats,” Rawal tells us.
Aditya Sarpotdar who directed her in the hit film Munjya (2024), told us, “She has always been a very secure actor. She would always encourage the new younger talent and was very approachable for all the young actors around her.”
But no one can read you better than the one who gave you your break. Rajan Shahi, who directed Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin, says the secret to her evolution is quite simple. It’s the one virtue she has had all along in her life, “When I think of Mona, the thing that stands out is she is a selfless soul. She is a true artiste. I remember something from her pre-Jassi success days. She was a nervous student, sitting with script, learning lines, scared before exams. Till date, she is still that nervous student wanting to do well. After the show broke out, Mona was the biggest TV star back then. I remember one day SRK was crossing our set, he and his children waved at her and she waved back. We then got a call from Yash Chopra saying Shah Rukh and his kids want to meet Mona. So many people change after success. They slow down creatively, fame corrupts them. But Mona has stayed grounded. She is humble and kind. When I watched Kohrra season two, I was so surprised that the same young girl is this fine actor today. You know why Mona jaisi koi nahin, because Mona remains unfazed by fame!”
Loveyapa director Advait Chandan on Junaid Khan's public appearances: "When you're a terrible dancer..."
8:27 AM
Director Advait Chandan talks all things Loveyapa—from not treating it as a star kids’ launch vehicle to being proud of Junaid Khan’s conduct in promotions even as the internet slams his awkward behaviour
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; February 5, 2025)
Director Advait Chandan is getting the “exam-wali feeling” as Loveyapa readies for release this Friday. But this is an exam that the director was reluctant to take in the first place, he tells us. When producer Madhu Mantena bought the rights to the Tamil hit, Love Today (2022), and asked Chandan if he wanted to adapt it, his answer was a straight no.
“I said that I don’t want to do a remake. After Laal Singh Chaddha [2022], I had decided I’d work on something original and not do a remake. I was writing something of my own,” he narrates. But when Mantena persuaded him to watch the rom-com revolving around a young couple, who exchange their phones before getting married, he had a change of heart.
Chandan was sold as far as the story was concerned. But he had reservations whether Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor were the right choice to lead the Hindi adaptation. With his dilemma, he went to the one person he trusts the most in the industry—frequent collaborator and Junaid’s superstar-father Aamir Khan.
“I was unsure of both Junaid and Khushi. Maharaj [2024] hadn’t released, nor had The Archies [2023]. So, I went to meet Aamir sir and told him, ‘A film has been offered to me with Junaid and Khushi attached. I’m considering taking the film up, but I don’t know if Junaid is the right person for the film.’ He said, ‘Take up the film. If you think Junaid is not right for the part, then drop him. I won’t mind it and won’t create any pressure on you. You do whatever is right for your film.’ He suggested that I do readings, auditions, and hang out with them and if at the end of the process, I feel they aren’t right, I should let go of them. That was very reassuring,” he smiles.
Over the next two months of readings and prep, the young actors won Chandan over with their “hard work and dedication,” sealing their place in Loveyapa. While it marks the big-screen debut of Junaid and Kapoor, the younger daughter of late Sridevi, the director asserts he didn’t approach the film as a launch vehicle for the two star kids.
Chandan says, “If a producer comes to me with a budget and a good story, I will make it with anybody who is talented. Khushi and Junaid didn’t walk in with the attitude that ‘I am Sridevi’s daughter’ or ‘I am Aamir Khan’s son’. They came with the approach of making this film well. Khushi made a playlist for her character, she sent me colours that she thought Bani would wear. The pressure was not to launch a star kid. My responsibility is not to star kids, it’s to the audience who has given me their time and money. If I managed to entertain them, I have also done right by Junaid and Khushi. I approached them as two professionals, who needed to know their lines, be emotive and professional. They were all these things. By collaborating to make a good film, we all helped each other. What does that have to do with who is whose father?”
In the last few weeks, the two young leads have aggressively promoted the film. The director takes immense pride in the way Junaid, a self-confessed introvert, has made public appearances.
Tell him that the actor’s awkwardness is glaring, and Chandan replies, “It takes immense amount of strength and courage to stand in front of an audience that is so quick to throw eggs and tomatoes at you, and troll you. He still stands, does that one step again and again, and takes all of that just because he is keen on calling people to theatres. I take immense pride in that boy. It’s easy to go on stage or feature in a reel when you’re a good dancer. But when you’re a terrible dancer, to stand on stage and do that hook step takes courage.”
But isn’t it unfair to make an actor, clearly uncomfortable with putting himself out there, engage in excessive promotions? Chandan shoots back, “Did your heart go out to him? If yes, then my job is done. This is what makes an actor a star.”
As he gears up for the Friday test, it also brings back memories of the last Friday two years ago when he had failed. Chandan’s Laal Singh Chaddha (2022) may be widely loved today, but upon release, the Aamir and Kareena Kapoor Khan-starrer had tanked at the box office. It’s understandable when the director says he is still not over it.
“I went into a dark space. I took the failure to my heart; those days have still not ended. I still feel very emotional when someone says they like Laal Singh Chaddha. I care about the audience and every critic. I have read every comment on the film’s trailer on YouTube and every comment about the film on X (formerly Twitter). When the film didn’t land for a lot of people, it knocked me out.”
While Aamir has publicly expressed that he believed his performance was one of the reasons for the film’s fate, his director disagrees. “Aamir sir has a lot of grace and maturity to process it, I did not. I just shut down. I didn’t know if I could make a film again. But then, I got back and said let’s do better this time. While making Laal Singh Chaddha, I cared about every aspect of that film. I cared about Aamir sir’s performance. His performance landed for me. When I remember the scene in which he is sitting at Rupa’s grave, I choke up even now.”
Did he fear for his career after the debacle of Laal Singh Chaddha, considering he was at the helm of a superstar vehicle? “A director absolutely fears whether he will get enough work after a superstar vehicle doesn’t work. I am grateful to Aamir sir because without him, I wouldn’t have the craft or a career. I wouldn’t be anywhere without him. The way Munna Bhai hallucinates about Gandhi ji, I hallucinate about Aamir sir,” he grins.
Farah Khan to choreograph special dance number for Junaid Khan, Khushi Kapoor's next
9:49 AM
Farah Khan, who began her choreography career with Aamir Khan’s Pehla Nasha, to now design a special song for his son Junaid’s rom-com
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 12, 2024)
What does a feel-good film about young love need? A special dance number. That’s exactly what director Advait Chandan has envisioned for his yet-untitled next, starring Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor. mid-day has learnt that Farah Khan has been roped in to choreograph a special song, which will be filmed in Karjat on December 19.
A source reveals, “It will be a two-day shoot. Advait felt that Farah would be the right person to design the peppy number that fits seamlessly in the breezy romantic comedy. The prep will start early next week before Junaid and Khushi face the camera next Thursday.” Working with Junaid will be a special experience for Farah, considering she had kicked off her career as a choreographer with Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’s (1992) Pehla Nasha that featured his superstar-father Aamir Khan.
The upcoming film, set to release in February 2025, marks the second outing of Khushi as well as Junaid after their respective debuts in The Archies (2023) and Maharaj. It is said to be an adaptation of the Tamil hit, Love Today (2022), which revolved around a young couple who are compelled to swap their phones for a day to test their love.
Junaid Khan juggling 8-hour daily shoot of rom-com and rehearsals of his play that opens on September 1
8:35 AM
Sources say Khan juggling 8-hour daily shoot of rom-com and rehearsals of his play that opens on Sept 1
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; August 24, 2024)
Junaid Khan may only be a film old, but he is quickly learning to cope with the profession’s demanding schedules. The actor, who made his Bollywood debut with Maharaj in June, is currently juggling two projects—his yet-untitled rom-com with Khushi Kapoor, and his upcoming play, Strictly Unconventional.
With the play set to be performed at NCPA on September 1, he is shooting Advait Chandan’s directorial venture during the day and prepping for Faezeh Jalali’s offering in the evenings.
A source tells us, “Junaid has been doing eight-hour shifts, and then heading for the rehearsals. The film is in its last leg and taking days off work wasn’t possible. So, he decided to straddle the two projects. He is deeply invested in theatre and understands that the medium requires a different kind of discipline compared to films. The actor wants to pursue the stage as well, as he believes it further hones his acting skills.”
Strictly Unconventional is a compilation of short, quirky plays about relationships. The source adds, “The theme challenges societal norms, aligning with Junaid’s passion for impactful storytelling.”
Junaid Khan, Khushi Kapoor shooting romantic portions of their film in Delhi-NCR
9:26 AM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 19, 2024)
While actor Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan’s debut film, Maharaj, landed in legal trouble, the actor is gearing up for his next project alongside actor Khushi Kapoor. We have exclusively learnt that the second shoot schedule of the project is already underway in the Delhi-NCR region.
“The first leg of the shoot wrapped up in Mumbai, and now the duo is filming in Delhi. The team started shooting here three-four days ago, and the schedule will go on for another 10-12 days,” says a source.
Directed by Advait Chandan, the romantic comedy is an adaptation of the hit Tamil film Love Today (2022). The source says, “Junaid and Khushi will be shooting the romantic portions in Delhi. Most of the scenes would be shot during the day.”
Another source adds that the shoot would be held in Noida, Greater Noida and Delhi. “For the college vibe, some sequences will be shot in the Delhi University area and at a hostel in Noida.”
Junaid Khan, Khushi Kapoor's next to roll in June; Aamir Khan monitoring all aspects of pre-production
8:11 AM
With Junaid’s rom-com opposite Khushi slated to roll in June, sources say producer-dad Aamir monitoring all aspects of pre-production
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 13, 2024)
Come June, Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor will report to the set of their yet-untitled next to be helmed by Advait Chandan. The film, an adaptation of Tamil rom-com Love Today (2022), was earlier slated to roll in April (That sweet summer romance, March 12), but its pre-production took longer than expected.
“Advait has done exhaustive pre-production on the film. He has been locking locations over the past month. Now with the casting of secondary characters finalized, the film is ready to start. The first leg will be shot in Mumbai,” reveals a source.
With the adaptation marking one of Junaid’s first few releases, producer-father Aamir Khan is wholly invested in the project. We hear the superstar, who is shooting Sitaare Zameen Par with director R S Prasanna, has been taking regular updates on the rom-com’s progress.
The source adds, “On Sunday, Aamir was shooting at a Powai five-star. He was juggling it with Junaid’s project, as he locked some final details of the latter. With his other production, Lahore 1947, also underway, Aamir is ensuring that his banner doles out more films.”
Laal Singh Chaddha director Advait Chandan to roll Love Today with Junaid Khan, Khushi Kapoor
8:50 AM
Sources say Laal Singh Chaddha director Advait to roll Hindi remake of Tamil hit, Love Today, with Junaid and Khushi in April
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; March 12, 2024)
In February 2023, Phantom Studios announced the Hindi adaptation of the Tamil rom-com, Love Today (2022). Soon, it was learnt that superstar Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan, and Khushi Kapoor would headline the remake. Now, it looks like a summer romance is on the cards for the two star kids. mid-day has learnt that Laal Singh Chaddha (2022) director Advait Chandan is set to take the film on floors this summer, and is currently neck-deep in pre-production.
A source close to the development reveals, “The makers plan to roll the project around April-May. The final script is ready, and casting for supporting characters is underway.”
Love Today, helmed by Pradeep Ranganathan, revolves around a couple who are compelled to swap their phones for a day at the behest of the girl’s father. Ranganathan headlined the runaway hit with Ivana. The material will naturally be tweaked according to the Hindi-speaking audience’s taste. Sneha Desai, one of the writers on Kiran Rao’s much-loved Laapataa Ladies, has reportedly penned the remake with another writer.
The source adds, “The film will be shot primarily in Delhi.”
Aamir Khan is like the Sachin Tendulkar of films, aaj nahin toh kal century maarne wala hai-Advait Chandan
8:47 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 12, 2022)
Filmmaker Advait Chandan is not anxious about his associate of almost two decades, Aamir Khan taking a sabbatical from acting for the next year and a half. The actor recently made the announcement, following the box-office debacle suffered by their film Laal Singh Chaddha (LSC).
“Of course we spoke about it. There are many more legendary roles yet to come his way, at least 20-25 more. They’ll come according to his comfort level. Jab kaam karna hoga unko, toh woh karenge,” he says matter-of-factly.
Chandan, who also directed Khan in Secret Superstar (2017), adds that he grew up watching him in films such as Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992) and Rangeela (1995). “My relationship with him is not 16 but 35 years old! I loved him ever since. I also remember meeting him the first time and what he wore then. Because for me, he was Munna from Rangeela. He is iconic, a living legend. I am not saying this as his associate, but as a fan. He is like the Sachin Tendulkar of films, aaj nahin toh kal century maarne wala hai,” he gushes.
Did the two also talk about LSC’s performance? “What else will we discuss? Of course we do. This film was a huge part of our lives. Films are like our kids,” he says.
As the director of the film, how did he absorb the kind of reactions that came their way upon its release? Chandan shares, “I am a very receptive person. I read every comment, every review... Listened to everyone. I agree with everyone, and believe your opinion is true. That’s all I can do. I believe anybody who spent two hours of their time and paid for the film, be it in theatres or on OTT, is my audience and critic, and I care about your opinion. If you liked it, great. If you didn’t, I will do something better.”
Shoojit Sircar and Advait Chandan sit down for an interesting masterclass on filmmaking at IFFI
7:56 AM
Kimberly Colaco (BOMBAY TIMES; November 23, 2022)
Shoojit Sircar and Advait Chandan sat down for a masterclass on filmmaking at IFFI (International Film Festival of India 2022) on Monday, where the two directors discussed the nuances of direction and how making a film is essentially about teamwork.
“I have worked with like-minded people, many of them friends. More than expertise, I look for someone who understands me. The most important thing is the how the team gels with the director. The key people in the process are the cinematographer, followed by the casting director and the costume designer,” said Shoojit, the director of films like Sardar Udham, Madras Café and Pink. If the crew is new, they may have many suggestions, but those may not always be useful for the director, who has lived with the script for a long time, the director added.
Shoojit spoke about his love for football. “I love soccer more than filmmaking, so you can understand that my soccer experience is like making a film. When there is an 11-member team that work towards scoring a goal, they play a good game.”
He also mentioned how he does not try to second guess what the audience wants. “What I’ve made or I am attempting to make, there is no better judge of it than me.”
Advait, who has movies like Laal Singh Chaddha and Secret Superstar under his belt, said, “I’ve never been to a film school, so when I’m selecting my crew, I like to be the dumbest person in the room. I like to surround myself with people who have more experience than me. That gives me a huge sense of security.”
He also spoke about the importance of listening to your crew. “Have your ears open and be receptive. Making a film is like being in a marriage. You have to treat your crew like a partner – with respect and love. Sometimes you will get along. Sometimes you will part ways. You will agree, disagree, argue and fight.”
Veteran actor Arun Bali passes away at 79
8:36 AM
THE TIMES OF INDIA (October 8, 2022)
Mumbai: Veteran actor Arun Bali, whose stature as an artiste matched his towering 6.4ft height, died at his Jogeshwari residence on Friday.
He was 79. His son Ankush said his father was suffering from myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease, for which he was admitted to hospital early this year.
Bali’s latest film, ironically titled Goodbye, released on Friday, hours after he passed away at 4:30am. The benign actor is well remembered for his role in 3 Idiots, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Saugandh, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Khalnayak, Satya, Hey Ram, 3 Idiots, Ready, Barfi, Manmarziyaan, Kedarnath, Samrat Prithviraj and recently Laal Singh Chaddha.
Bali made his acting debut with filmmaker Lekh Tandon’s TV show Doosra Keval as Shah Rukh Khan’s uncle and went on to work in Chanakya, Swabhimaan, Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand, Kumkum: Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan and POW: Bandi Yuddh Ke.
He is survived by four sons and four daughters. The last rites will be performed at Jogeshwari on Saturday.
Ankush said his father passed away at his residence around 4:30am. “He had mood swings for two-three days. He told the caretaker he wanted to go to the washroom, and after coming out, he told him he wanted to sit down. He never got up,” he said.
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PTI with inputs from Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; October 8, 2022)
Actor Arun Bali, best known for his work on the TV show Swabhimaan and blockbuster hit 3 Idiots, passed away on Friday morning at his residence in Mumbai. He was 79. The veteran actor’s son Ankush said his father was suffering from Myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune disease caused by communication failure between nerves and muscles, for which he was admitted to a hospital early this year.
Ankush said his father was responding well to the treatment but passed away at around 4:30 am. “My father was suffering from Myasthenia gravis. He had mood swings for two-three days. He told the caretaker he wanted to go to the washroom and after coming out he told him he wanted to sit down and he never got up then (sic),” Ankush said.
Bali made his acting debut with noted filmmaker Lekh Tandon’s TV show Doosra Keval as Shah Rukh Khan’s uncle and went on to work in TV shows such as the period drama Chanakya, Swabhimaan, Des Mein Niklla Hoga Chand, Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan and P. O. W. — Bandi Yuddh Ke.
Some of his popular films include Saugandh, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Khalnayak, Satya, Hey Ram, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, 3 Idiots, Ready, Barfi, Manmarziyaan, Kedarnath, Samrat Prithviraj and Laal Singh Chaddha. Bali is survived by a son and three daughters.
Remembering the actor, filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker said, “Arun Bali ji was a giant of an actor. It was a memorable experience of working with him in Panipat, where he portrayed Maharaja Baba Ala Singh, the King of Patiala. I was worried that Arun ji might say no to the role because of the brief screen appearance, but he consented immediately. Even at his age, Arun ji was most punctual and disciplined. He made sure he knew all his lines before he came in front of the camera, and he would get it right in the first take itself. I will cherish the to the family.”
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It’s a tall order to fill the shoes of the man who is all heart. Longtime friends and fraternity members remember the actor who made an impact even in the smallest of roles
Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; October 8, 2022)
Being remembered even in a cameo — that is the impact Arun Bikramjit Bali had with his performances. The senior actor, 79, who often played the doting grandfather on screen, passed away Friday morning. He was hospitalised earlier this year, after being diagnosed for Myasthenia Gravis — a rare muscular disease that causes a communication failure between the nerves and the muscles.
Friends since 1989, director Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi remembers meeting Bali for the first time when he made his directorial debut with the historical TV series, Chanakya, where the senior actor played the role of King Porus. “I was sitting by the window in my office when I saw Bali saab coming up to meet me. I told my assistant, ‘Here comes my Porus’. He had a majestic persona.”
After beginning his innings in acting with director Lekh Tandon’s Doosra Kewal (1989), Bali went on to do shows, including Dekh Bhai Dekh (1993), The Great Maratha (1994), Shaktimaan (1997), Swabhimaan (1995) and POW (Bandi Yudh Ke).
His “jovial nature and hospitality” moved Dwivedi who was new to Delhi then. “His family loved hosting people at their home,” says the director, who often rode pillion while exploring the nooks and corners of the capital. Bali was also part of Dwivedi’s Samrat Prithviraj.
“During the shoot of the film, I could sense that he was slowing down. I was aware that it was not the age, but the illness catching up with him. One of the best aspects about Bali saab was that in one meeting, anyone could become a part of his family. He was my elder brother and I will miss him deeply,” says the filmmaker.
Laal Singh Chaddha director Advait Chandan remembers Bali as a ball of “energy and enthusiasm”, especially during a scene when he has to refuse golgappas offered by Aamir Khan’s character. “He had the energy of a young boy on the set, and would constantly come up with suggestions and improvisations. Arun ji told me, in reality, he would never ignore a sweet person offering golgappas to him on a train.”
For Umesh Shukla, Bali was the balance between depicting right and wrong for his film OMG Oh My God (2012). “We wanted to show that while there are fake godmen, the world also has good-hearted sadhus. Bali ji played that role with a lot of conviction. To play a positive part against negative characters essayed by actors like Mithun Chakraborty and still being remembered for his strong performance is [a huge deal],” reminisced Shukla.
Bali was also seen in movies like Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman (1992), Khalnayak (1993), Satya (1996), 3 Idiots (2009), PK (2014), Manmarziyaan (2018), Kedarnath (2018), and Panipat (2019).
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Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 8, 2022)
Actor Arun Bali, a popular name in the film and television world, died at the age of 79 on Friday in Mumbai. He was known for his roles in shows such as Swabhimaan, Kumkum — Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan and Chanakya, and he featured in most of filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani’s movies, such as Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), 3 Idiots (2009), PK (2014) and the upcoming Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Dunki.
He had been diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune condition marked by a breakdown in nerve-muscle communication, earlier this year. His son, Ankush Bali, said that his dad was benefiting from the medication, but passed away at around 4.30am. “He told the caretaker he wanted to go to the washroom, and after coming out, he told him he wanted to sit down, and he never got up then,” he told PTI.
For director Chandraprakash Dwivedi and actor Hussain Kuwajerwala, the two things they associate with the late actor Arun Bali, who died at 79, are his jovial nature and big heart. Dwivedi says his association with him was not just limited to the 1991 show, Chanakya. He remembers the time when Bali insisted that he should not stay in a hotel in Delhi but in his own house.
“I was searching for actors then for the show, and would go to the National School of Drama (NSD). I had a brief meeting with him then, and when he got to know that I was staying in a hotel in Janpath, he got his scooter and said, ‘Chalo mere saath, tum mere ghar rahoge’. He lived with his wife, Prakash ji. She was like a mother to me,” he shares.
Dwivedi continues, “I couldn’t stand the winters, hum ek hi razaai mein baithte the. His house was like a second home for me and for a lot of actors from Mumbai.”
On his scooter, Bali would take the director to meet actors who were in Delhi. “I met Shah Rukh Khan for the first time through him, when he was shooting for his TV show. A young man was walking towards us and Arun ji said, ‘Yeh ladka Shah Rukh Khan hai’,” Dwivedi recalls.
Kuwajerwala worked with him in the popular show Kumkum — Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan. The actor says everyone from the show would call him dada ji off-screen too. “We were in touch with him, but not on a regular basis. We will definitely miss that Apart from all the guidance he has given us through the working years of our life. We will miss him,” he gets emotional.
When I saw Junaid act, I thought mera chance gaya-Aamir Khan
8:31 AM
Ready with 'Laal Singh Chaddha' after four years, Aamir reveals that son Junaid was initially considered to lead the film until the writer suggested otherwise
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; August 2, 2022)
It’s difficult to imagine any other actor in a role essayed by Aamir Khan. Such is his ability to make every character his own. But things are different with 'Laal Singh Chaddha'. With director Advait Chandan’s adaptation of 'Forrest Gump' (1994), Khan steps into a role immortalised by Tom Hanks. The scrutiny, then, will be more intense — a fact that the superstar was aware of as he dedicated the last four years giving shape to his passion project. Today, he sits content with his creation, as the film is barely 10 days away from release.
The past few years were admittedly not easy on Khan. “To play this character, I had to get into his mind. I am 57, and had to play a 22-year-old. I had [to depict] the different stages of his life. To get that innocence [of youth] was tough,” he begins.
His obvious point of reference to play the endearing protagonist was Hanks in the original film. But the superstar surprises us when he says that he found another source of inspiration — son Junaid Khan. “Since it was a tricky film, I told Advait that I wanted to see a test shoot. I suggested that he shoot seven to eight scenes with Junaid. When Kiran [Rao, producer] and I saw the test shoot, we were blown away by Junaid’s performance. He had become Laal. I thought mera toh chance gaya,” he laughs.
The actor then showed the 20-minute test shoot to his friends in the industry, trying to gauge whether Junaid would be a better fit than him. “Almost 98 per cent of them said, ‘You should take Junaid for the role.’ So, I shaved my beard that I had grown for six months. We decided to make the film with him. But Atul [Kulkarni, writer] and Adi [Chopra] said no to the idea. [They reasoned] that it’s not a plot-heavy film; since it’s an episodic film, a newcomer won’t be able to carry it. Junaid too said, ‘Your budget is high. You can’t cast a newcomer like me.’ So, I was back on the project. But in those eight scenes, Junaid had picked the sur. I got the film’s sur from him.”
The drama, also starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, will be released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. Recently, the actor-producer held a special screening for S S Rajamouli, Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna and Sukumar in Hyderabad. Khan says their feedback was enlightening. “They liked it. In fact, all of them had a common [input]. We made the change, and realised that the change was very important.”
Aamir Khan likes Panchgani, which is why we worked there with a bunch of musicians-Tanuj Tiku
8:21 AM
Tanuj Tiku discusses employing orchestral arrangements for the making of slice-of-life film Laal Singh Chaddha, featuring Aamir
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; June 13, 2022)
Nested for two weeks at a Panchgani home, the crew members of Aamir Khan’s Laal Singh Chaddha immersed themselves into telling the tale of “the extraordinary journey of an ordinary man”. The brief given to score composer Tanuj Tiku — who has films like Kaabil, Chhichhore and Ajeeb Daastaans on his resume — was simple. “It was a slice-of-life film. Aamir sir likes Panchgani, which is why we worked there with a bunch of musicians. We played live, jammed together, and created the thematic music there. Within two weeks, all the thematic material and character motifs were readied,” says Tiku, further crediting Khan and director Advait Chandan for fostering an atmosphere of creativity.
“The culture at [Aamir’s production house], and Advait’s relationship with him, is noteworthy. There is always a plan in place, but the process is organic. We watched the film, and immediately decided to jump into the score composition. My team and I began to ideate, and we [primarily used] the violin, piano, and guitar. We’d perform the themes to him live, and the first few days were simply spent in sampling these [chunks], listening to music and creating different colour palettes for different characters and themes, based on the brief.”
Tiku was convinced that he wanted orchestral influences to be evident in the score in keeping with its theme. He admits that creating a score of over 19 minutes posed a set of challenges, especially since it had to be recorded live. “But the story is beautiful, and we wanted the score to complement it. The harmonic language, and the simplicity of the character is at the film’s core. There are musical layers that help narrate the story. Over 150 people have worked on the score, including 75 musicians from the orchestra. The music for the trailer was recorded in Budapest.”
In his first collaboration with Khan, Tiku deciphered that the “detail-oriented” actor is indeed a lover of music, and enjoys being part of the process of its making. “He loves the process of making a film in general. He’ll hang out with people [across all departments], share ideas, and then leave us to ourselves. He supports his team, coaxes them, and then lets them work on their craft. He really knows how to [extract] the best from his artistes.”
In a first, Laal Singh Chaddha's trailer to be launched during strategic time-out in IPL final
8:24 AM
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; May 21, 2022)
Two events are bound to catch the attention of the Indian audience — a cricket match, and an Aamir Khan film. What if you club the two? You’ve probably got the attention of more than half the country. And that’s when Khan — as much a marketing whiz as he is a creative spirit — goes in for the kill. It is heard that the actor-producer is set to release the trailer of Laal Singh Chaddha during the strategic time-out session of the Indian Premier League (IPL) final that is slated for May 29.
This is said to be the first time that a movie trailer has been launched during the 15-year run of the IPL. A source reveals, “The trailer will be launched at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the match’s three-minute strategic time-out. Aamir and director Advait Chandan will not be present for the event. Every match has two strategic time-outs. The two-and-a-half minute trailer will be shown during the second break. Laal Singh Chaddha is easily Aamir’s most ambitious project, and more importantly, one that he considers the closest to his heart, having worked on it for years. So, he wants to take it to the audiences in the most fascinating way possible. Following the launch, the trailer will be shared on social media and aired on other channels.”
The movie, also starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, is the official adaptation of Tom Hanks’s 1994 gem, Forrest Gump. “Spanning five decades, Laal Singh Chaddha revisits the political and cultural milestones of the country, as seen through the eyes of the endearing protagonist. The promo will show some of the key moments in his life, from being a young boy who is initially unable to walk properly, to finding love in his childhood friend,” adds the source.
Right from the beginning, the superstar has adopted creative ways to promote the film. First, he launched two songs, Kahani and Main ki karan, months before the film’s August 11 release. Earlier this month, he followed it up with Laal Singh Chaddha Ki Kahaniyaan, a podcast where he reveals the behind-the-scenes action.
The source adds, “Launching the trailer at the final will only increase the curiosity around the film. The IPL is one of the most-watched offerings on Indian television, with Star Sports broadcasting it in eight languages.”
Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor ready to resume Laal Singh Chaddha's shoot in Mumbai from September 7
8:46 AM
Five months since the Delhi leg was called off, Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan set to resume Laal Singh Chaddha shoot in Mumbai on September 7
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; September 4, 2020)
The superstar has given his nod, and the stage is being set. After the unprecedented five-month halt owing to the Coronavirus pandemic, mid-day has learnt that Aamir Khan is ready to resume the shoot of Laal Singh Chaddha in the city from September 7. Though the release of the Advait Chandan-directed film has been deferred to Christmas 2021, the superstar has been relentlessly working on his labour of love over the past few weeks, including making a trip to Turkey for recce.
No sooner did Khan greenlight the move last month than the unit swiftly began constructing two sets at Film City in Goregaon and Vrundavan Studios in Malad. Kareena Kapoor Khan, who plays Khan's love interest in the official adaptation of Forrest Gump (1994), will join the actor during the Film City leg. "Aamir is certain that he wants to begin with indoor shoots. A set of a house has been erected at the Goregaon studio, where the two actors will shoot their joint scenes. Post that, Aamir will move on to Vrundavan Studios where a huge set of a military hospital is being constructed. This leg is crucial to the narrative as the unit will shoot the portions where his character Laal Singh Chaddha is seen returning from the war," reveals a source.
Given his perfectionist streak, it is not surprising that Khan bided his time before deciding to face the camera again. "As the producer, Aamir feels responsible for the safety of his crew, and hence, has appointed a special team that will monitor the safety measures being adopted on the set. The cast and crew will undergo COVID test every week, apart from the daily temperature and oximeter checks. Considering Kareena is pregnant, Aamir Khan has instructed Advait that only a skeletal crew be present on set when she is scheduled to shoot," adds the source.
Aamir Khan's Laal Singh Chaddha won't reach Ladakh, due to India-China clash
8:30 AM
Aamir Khan calls off Laal Singh Chaddha's schedule in the region following Sino-India clash in Galwan Valley, considers shooting portion in Kargil
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 6, 2020)
The ambitious story of Laal Singh Chaddha has taken actor-producer Aamir Khan and director Advait Chandan to Kolkata, Delhi, Rajasthan, Chandigarh and Amritsar so far. The unit had two major schedules pending in Delhi and Ladakh when the nationwide lockdown brought its shoot to a grinding halt in March. Even as Khan is certain about not resuming shoot until October, the superstar — along with co-producer Viacom18 Motion Pictures — has decided to cancel the Ladakh schedule in light of the India-China military standoff along the Galwan Valley.
A source reveals, "Given the current scenario, shooting in Ladakh is out of the question. So, Aamir, Advait and the top brass at the studio are considering shifting the venue to Kargil. The final call will be taken in the coming weeks."
The film, also starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, is an official adaptation of Tom Hanks-starrer Forrest Gump (1994). It was originally slated for a Christmas 2020 release, but has now been pushed to 2021.
In contrast to several filmmakers who are planning to go back to work, Khan has apparently informed the co-producers that he does not wish to put the cast and crew at risk by resuming shoot. "With some of Aamir's staff members testing positive for Coronavirus last week, the actor is all the more certain that he will not return to the set until the situation is under control. He also pointed out that some countries that opened up are now experiencing a second wave of the virus. Though a significant portion of the movie remains to be filmed, the creators and the studio have unanimously decided to exercise caution and hold off the shoot for now."
mid-day texted studio head Ajit Andhare, who confirmed that the Ladakh schedule has been called off.
Mona Singh joins the cast of Aamir Khan-starrer Laal Singh Chaddha
8:21 AM
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; November 17, 2019)
Buzz is that Mona Singh has joined her 3 Idiots (2009) co-stars Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan in the remake of Forrest Gump, titled Laal Singh Chaddha. A source reveals, "Details of her character have been kept under wraps," and explains that the actor will be playing a pivotal role in the film.The source adds, "Advait Chandan [director] believes Mona fits the role perfectly. The first schedule is underway in Chandigarh, and Mona will join the cast soon." Singh has been attending multiple workshops and script reading sessions with the cast and crew. Singh, who was last seen in ALTBalaji's MOM, will juggle the shoot of Laal Singh Chaddha and the third season of Kehne Ko Humsafar Hain.
Singh confirms the development and says, "I am looking forward to our shoot. Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you get. For me, it's been a box of wishes that came true. It will be exciting and challenging to play this role as it spans over a lifetime."
Sushant Singh Rajput in Chhichhore spoke, walked, and sat like Nitesh Tiwari sir-Sanya Malhotra
8:04 AM
Actress Sanya Malhotra on watching her first director’s new film and planning a sabbatical to learn a new dance form
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 15, 2019)
Sanya Malhotra, who rose to fame as the feisty Babita in Nitesh Tiwari’s Dangal, has been amassing followers on social media with her dancing skills. Trained in ballet, she’s planning a sabbatical in a year or two but before that she hopes to land a musical. “Dancing is my passion. I’ll take a break to go abroad to train in a new dance form, may be tap-dancing. But if I get a dance film, I can stay here and earn money,” she laughs.Not many know that she had choreographed her Dangal co-star and mentor Aamir Khan in the “Sexy Baliye” song for Advait Chandan’s 2017 musical-drama, Secret Superstar. “That was a dream come true. Advait wanted me to choreograph the song but I thought he was kidding. After a week, he called to ask if I was ready. It was a lot of fun, but I don’t want to choreograph myself. I’d tried it for the title track in Pataakha but I can’t handle everything if I’m in the frame too,” says Sanya, who recently returned to the city from the UK schedule of the Shakuntala Devi biopic with Vidya Balan in the titular role. A self-confessed fan, she describes her co-star as a “wonderful person with a great sense of humour”.
Meanwhile, she’s still on a high after Junglee Pictures’ Badhaai Ho was adjudged Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment at the National Awards. She describes the win as “exciting and gratifying”. “It’s a special film and I’m glad so many loved it. We haven’t had time to celebrate yet as everyone is busy with work commitments, but hopefully it will happen soon,” she beams.
Sanya is also all praise for Nitesh’s recent release, the Sushant Singh Rajput and Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Chhichhore. She had met up with the filmmaker and her Dangal co-star Fatima Sana Shaikh after the film opened, sharing a picture of the reunion writing, “Chhoriyan Chhichhoron Se Kam Na Hai.” “I saw the film twice. The second time, it struck me that the way Sushant spoke, walked and sat, was all Nitesh sir,” she exclaims. The director paid her a visit recently when informed that her mother was in town. “He came over to eat chhole bhature, it was so much fun. We haven’t discussed work yet, but I would love to work with him again,” she admits.
Next up, Sanya will be seen alongside Aditya Roy Kapur in Anurag Basu’s untitled next. “I can’t talk about my character but working with Aditya is amazing. We are a lot alike. Besides having the same number of followers on Instagram and sharing a manager, dono chup chap rehte hain aur zyada baat nahin karte,” the actress concludes.
Gippy Grewal gifts Aamir Khan Guru Da Kada as a token of good luck for Laal Singh Chaddha
8:06 AM
Regional star Gippy Grewal gifts kada to Aamir during his recce in the state, actor to sport it in Laal Singh Chadha
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; September 24, 2019)
In the six months since he announced Laal Singh Chadha as his next, Aamir Khan has been undergoing a physical transformation for the part while director Advait Chandan is polishing the script. Ahead of the film — an adaptation of Tom Hanks' starrer Forrest Gump (1994) — rolling in November, the superstar and his team went to Punjab for a recce in the second week of September. Turns out, during the trip, Punjabi singer-filmmaker Gippy Grewal gifted Khan a kada (a bracelet worn by Sikhs) that has now found pride of place in the movie.A source in the creative team reveals, "Gippy Grewal is an Aamir fan. Whenever the superstar goes to Punjab, Gippy makes sure to meet him. Recently, when the actor went to Punjab for a recce, Gippy joined the film's crew and helped them zero in on locations. Since he knew that Aamir plays a Sikh in the movie, he gifted the superstar the Guru da Kada as a token of good luck. Aamir was touched by the gesture, and promised the Punjabi singer that he will sport the kada in the film."
Interestingly, Khan — knowing that Grewal would have a strong command over Punjabi — sought his help in giving the finishing touches to the script. Another source says, "Since the film has a lot of Punjabi dialogues, Aamir requested Gippy to oversee the screenplay. However, as Gippy was busy, he put his Ardaas Karan co-writer, Rana Ranbir, on the job. Rana recently had a meeting with Aamir and Advait in Mumbai, and offered his suggestions on the script."
It was a delight to watch Neena Gupta and Gajraj Rao improvise-Sanya Malhotra
8:08 AM
Sanya Malhotra on sharing screen space with actress in Junglee Pictures’ Badhaai Ho and why she wouldn’t choreograph her own songs
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 17, 2018)
After playing unconventional protagonists in Dangal, Pataakha, Sanya Malhotra is joining the Bollywood mainstream as a hip Delhi Girl in Amit Sharma’s Badhaai Ho, in which she also showcases her skills as a trained dancer. Excerpts from an interview:
What was it like working on Badhaai Ho?
It is a well written film, and I wanted to be a part of its mad circus. My character Renne, who is Nakul’s (Ayushmann Khurrana) colleague and girlfriend, is a sensible girl who doesn’t judge his parents and tries to explain to him that they are entitled to have sex at whatever age they want to. It’s none of his business.
What was it like sharing screen space with veteran actors like Neena Gupta and Surekha Sikri?
Besides being an amazing actor, Neena ji is fierce and confident. I remember watching her TV serial, Saans, with my mother, who is a big fan and was also her junior in college. I was nervous about working alongside her, Surekha ji and Gajraj ji (Rao). It’s just my third film and I wondered if I would do a bad job. But when I saw Neena ji and Gajraj ji on the first day of shooting, they had transformed into Nakul ke mummy papa. That was my favourite day on sets. It was a delight to watch them improvise.
You’re a trained dancer, but this is the first time that you will be seen showcasing your prowess in Bollywood dancing on screen…
I was so excited to know that I’d be in the song “Morni Banke”. It was also nerve-wrecking as it was my first time dancing in front of the camera instead of an Instagram video. I’m a huge Guru Randhawa (who has sung the song) fan and the choreography was fun.
Tell us about Nawazuddin Siddiqui, your co-star in Ritesh Batra’s Photograph.
I play an introvert who is also Nawaz’s muse. We might announce the release date soon. I am an introvert in real life too, so it was an interesting experience.
How has your family adjusted to your fame?
I am getting pictures clicked even if I go home for two-three days. Sometimes, people get wind of my arrival and approach my mom for a picture with me. I am exhausted by the end of the day, but my family feels so proud and that’s cute.
Tell us about your initiation into Bollywood.
I came to Mumbai to participate in (the dance-based talent hunt show) Dance India Dance, but couldn’t go beyond the top 100. However, I decided to stay back and pursue my dream of acting. You don’t have access to the industry in Delhi and I thought maybe a reality show would open those doors. It didn’t, and I was heartbroken. I think things worked out for the better — if I had got through the show, I wouldn’t have been an actor today.
You also have a bit of a choreographing experience...
I directed the song “Sexy Baliye” in Secret Superstar and had taken it up because why would anyone say ‘no’ to working for an Aamir Khan production? When Advait (Chandan, director) came up with the idea, I thought he’s joking. After a few days, he asked me if the steps were ready and that’s when I realised that he had been serious about it all along. In the future, if I get a good opportunity to choreograph, I will take it up, but I don’t want to choreograph my own songs because it would be quite a distraction.
Is it true that you have signed choreographer Bosco Martis’s directorial debut?
I haven’t signed the film as of now, but we might announce something soon. Stay tuned…
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