Showing posts with label Ameesha Patel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ameesha Patel. Show all posts
You don’t need to be constantly busy making reels to prove your worth-Ameesha Patel
2:17 PM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 12, 2025)
Just when it seemed like Ameesha Patel had faded into the background, she came back into the spotlight with the massive success of Gadar 2. Celebrating 25 years in the industry, the actress who made her debut in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000) reflects on her journey, shares her thoughts on her career choices and the importance of staying true to oneself. Excerpts:
‘I want to be part of something that’s remembered for a long time’
Ameesha says that she has always preferred her work to do the talking. “I’ve never been one to boast about my work. I let it speak for itself, and that’s how I want to continue.”
Ask her about her absence from the big screen before Gadar 2, and she says, “Taking a break to reflect on the kind of cinema and roles that resonate with you is a conscious decision. I don’t want to take up any project for the heck of being seen on a Friday. I want to be part of something that will be remembered for a long time. Also, you don’t need to be constantly busy on a set making reels to prove your worth.”
‘I was upset when I learnt about the Gadar climax being altered’
Although Gadar 2 was a box-office success, it stirred controversy. Ameesha was upset when the film’s climax was changed without her knowledge.
She explains, “I was hurt because I had agreed to do Gadar 2 with the understanding that my character would justifiably take revenge and kill the villain. However, the climax was altered, and when Anil Sharma shot it, he didn’t contact me for an entire year. He’s family to me, and I expected him to tell me that the original climax had to be changed. Had they retained the original climax, the film might have achieved an even greater cult status. But it’s in the past now — the film was a success, and it’s time to move on to the next chapter.”
Does this mean she wouldn’t mind collaborating with him again? She responds, “I’ll collaborate with anyone whose content I like, but I’ll be more cautious now when it comes to trust — once bitten, twice shy.”
‘I wouldn’t change anything about my career’
The Humraaz actress has always had an independent streak. Reflecting on her journey, she shares, “I’ve never belonged to any group. I’ve always believed that I should be given opportunities based on merit, not because I have any personal associations with any camp or social circle. In fact, the younger version of me was even more distant from all of this. I understand that being part of these dynamics could have helped my career, and yes, being part of certain camps might have opened doors. However, even then, I chose to stay away from it all, and I wouldn’t change anything about my career. God has been kind, and I have a lot to be happy for.”
‘I have been happily single for over 15 years’
Ask Ameesha about her relationship status, and she replies, “I’ve been happily single for over 15 years, and I am content with that for now. I’ve become synonymous with hardcore romances on screen, with people willing to cross borders for me (laughs!). But I’m sure I am as lucky in real life as I am on the big screen and will soon find my real-life Tara Singh.”
After Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, people stalked me, sent me letters written in blood-Ameesha Patel
8:48 AM
Mugdha Kapoor (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 14, 2025)
The year 2000 ushered in a new era for Bollywood and director Rakesh Roshan’s Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai (KNPH) was symbolic of that shift. The film, which turned actors Hrithik Roshan and Ameesha Patel into overnight sensations, turns 25 today. As it celebrated the milestone with a theatrical re-release over the weekend, Patel tells us she feels “lucky to be a part of such an iconic film”.
“It feels nice that people feel the film is important enough to be re-released,” the actor says, adding, “I had fantastic chemistry with Hrithik; it was also my most raw performance. I think people loved the authenticity reflected on screen.”
However, the 49-year-old is quick to recall that the frenzy often reached extreme lengths: “There were so many fans who took pictures of us to temples and churches and married the photos. I would get pictures of myself with sindoor and letters written in blood. People would stalk me, find my address and wait outside; it was another level of fear and madness.”
As she marks her own 25th anniversary in the industry, Patel notes, “I’d like to think that my grasp of cinema is better now, but I’m still a student. It’s been a great journey and I have no complaints.”
Twenty-five years on, does she plan on catching KNPH in theatres? “I’d only seen it twice. But now, I’m excited to see it with friends and family who didn’t watch it with me at that time,” she replies.
Even if Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai now achieves 1% of what it did back then, it’s a big achievement-Rakesh Roshan
8:58 AM
Madhureeta Mukherjee (BOMBAY TIMES; January 10, 2025)
It’s a landmark year for the Roshans — Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai (KNPH), the film that set the stage for Hrithik Roshan in Hindi cinema and went on to become a smashing hit, re-releases in theatres today, 25 years later, on the actor’s birthday. As the family celebrates Hrithik’s milestone in the industry, they are also proud to present a documentary titled The Roshans, which is coming up soon. Yes, the Roshans are on a roll, and in an interview with us, Rakesh Roshan says, “Even if Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai now achieves 1% of what it did back then, it’s a big achievement.”
Congrats on 25 years of KNPH, a film that proved to be a grand launch for Hrithik. Prior to his debut, Hrithik had assisted you in four of your directorials. What made you feel that he was ready to make his entry as an actor at that point?
When I joined films at 21, I always thought that I had made a mistake by starting out at that age. So, when it came to Hrithik, at the back of my mind, I believed it would be right for him to make his debut at 24-25. I launched him because he was a good actor, not because he is my son. I had seen him in Bhagwan Dada and also in other parts as a child artiste and I realised he had matured as an actor. I was a bit on the edge because some people told me, ‘Yeh dono characters (in KNPH) bhai nahi hai, toh log story kaise believe karenge’. I told them that I always make films where it’s hard to convince people, and my job as a filmmaker is to convince them.
When KNPH released, biggies like Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Anil Kapoor were coming with their films. Didn’t that deter you?
I announced the release date (Jan 14) much earlier. Everyone advised me to change the date, but I thought if I did that, the fear would stay with me forever. It would also mean that I am not confident about my film. If some big filmmakers like Yash Chopra, Sooraj Barjatya and Subhash Ghai were coming with their movies, maybe I would consider not clashing with them. So yes, there were big actors’ releases, but I wasn’t competing with any big filmmaker. My film had two newcomers in the lead, Hrithik and Ameesha Patel, who were very confident, and I was sure about my product, so I went ahead with it, and it paid off.
You made Hrithik a superstar and a superhero. In 2003, when you made Koi Mil Gaya, the concept was fairly alien to a large section of the Indian audience. Then, you successfully created the Krrish universe. These subjects required a vision and most of all a lot of courage, would you agree?
I give credit for that to Lagaan. I watched it in South Africa at the premiere, and I was stunned by it. Then I thought, what should I make with Hrithik? I can’t do the same dance or romance. Everyone around me was strongly against the idea. They told me, ‘What are you doing? You made him such a big star, and now you want to ruin his career?’ While we were making Koi Mil Gaya, Hrithik’s other films that released during that time were not doing well, about eight of his films didn’t work and he was even given the tag, ‘One film wonder’. Hrithik and I both believed in the film, and I thought that we can’t keep making the same films, as we need to show the audience how an actor can transform himself and what he can do. I knew this movie would make people realise what kind of actor he is, and he went all out and proved himself.
You have seen Hrithik closely grow from strength to strength, and this year, he completes 25 years in the film industry. He’s seen highs and lows, but nothing has diminished the sheen of his stardom and star power. What do you attribute this kind of success to?
In one word, it’s his honesty. He’s someone who never takes shortcuts. Even when I’m shooting with him, and I say that the shot is okay, he will say, ‘Let’s do one more take, baba. I will do it better this time.’ He gives his 110% to every shot, and that’s what makes him the actor he is.
Somewhere, do you think you’ve lived your dream through Hrithik?
Not just through Hrithik, I have lived my dream through all my actors. When I write a scene, I visualise how I would enact it if I was playing the role. So, I see myself in every actor I direct.
Times have changed, today, even supporting actors are getting meaty parts, and enjoying their moment in the sun. There is a plethora of opportunities out there for actors. Did you ever think of acting again?
No, never, because as an actor, I went through a lot of trouble, and the fear has stayed with me. That phase gave me sleepless nights, of course, things changed when I became a producer and director. The good part is that I was always at it, I never left it – I did lead roles, character roles, villainous parts. I stayed back, but many actors didn’t. Hence, I am here today. I wasn’t educated, and this (movies) is all I ever knew since childhood.
What has been the biggest learning in your career – as an actor, producer and director?
One big learning in my life has been – If you don’t know how to appreciate others’ work, you can never climb the ladder. Never pull down somebody. Yahan kya hota hai…people try to pull you down and they think by doing that they will rise. But that’s not true, they will only fall. So, whenever I see a good film, I call the actor or director and tell them how much I liked what I saw.
On KNPH’s re-release in theatres, are you reminded of the time when it first hit the big screen? What was your state of mind back then?
I was extremely nervous before the release of KHPH. I wanted the film to do well for Hrithik. I called my friends to the editing room to show them the film, because you never know, if the film didn’t do well, he wouldn’t have other films. Luckily, before the film released, Hrithik was signed by Subhash Ghai, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Sooraj Barjatya and Karan Johar. Now that it is re-releasing, I am nervous again. This is an emotional moment for Hrithik and me. Even if the film achieves 1% of what it did back then, it’s a big achievement.
The documentary – The Roshans, is dropping on Netflix on January 17, whose brainchild was it?
My friend Shashi Ranjan, who has a lot of knowledge of music and knows a lot about my father’s work, came up with the idea of making a documentary on him. I took it a step further and thought, why not make a documentary on three generations of Roshans (my father, legendary music director Roshan Lal Nagrath, my brother, music composer Rajesh Roshan and me, and then, my son Hrithik). We are alive, and I can talk more about myself than have others talk about me when I’m not there. The documentary is not about what people know about us from the outside, which is all colourful. It’s about our personal struggles and our journey, beyond how we make films, which is beautifully put out there. In our family, all these years, none of us have really pushed ourselves. My father didn’t, Rajesh and I didn’t, and neither did Hrithik. We, Roshans, have always let our work speak for us.
Gadar 2 to be re-released with Indian Sign Language interpretation
7:21 AM
Gadar 2 to be re-released with Indian Sign Language interpretation; Sunny says understanding deaf community’s needs crucial to make films inclusive
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; August 3, 2024)
Everyone deserves the joy of watching a movie and losing themselves in the make-believe world. Driven by this thought, the makers of Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2: The Katha Continues (2023) are re-releasing it, with Indian Sign Language (ISL). On August 4, the action drama will be released, with ISL interpretation, in select theatres across the country, thus ensuring that viewers with hearing impairment can enjoy the Deol, Ameesha Patel and Utkarsh Sharma-starrer.
In August 2023, all of us witnessed as Anil Sharma’s directorial venture, a sequel to Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001), took the box office by storm. What did it tell us? That Deol had more fans than he thought. It was reiterated in February this year when India Signing Hands (ISH News), a Mumbai-based not-for-profit organization that works towards increasing accessibility for the deaf community, reached out to the makers. They had a simple request—most of their wards were Deol fans and eager to watch the movie. Zee Studios and PVR-Inox Pictures promptly teamed up with the NGO, and had ISL experts dub the movie over two months.
Deol, whose character Tara Singh has become a popular figure, is happy that his film has adopted an inclusive approach to reach his fans. Gadar 2 has always had “a special place” in his heart, and the latest development has only endeared it further to him.
“It’s overwhelming to see the continued love and support from audiences one year after Gadar 2’s release. This re-release with Indian Sign Language interpretation will allow the film to touch the hearts of more audiences. Understanding and empathy towards the accessibility needs of the deaf community is something we, in the entertainment sector, feel strongly about,” he says.
Patel echoes the leading man’s sentiments, stating, “It feels great to bring the story of Sakina back on the big screen for a special audience that does not get enough opportunities to fully enjoy cinema as the rest of us.”
Underlining that movie-viewing should become more inclusive, Umesh Kr Bansal, the studio’s chief business officer, says, “Making cinema accessible for all is a priority for us.”
While the re-release has been planned as a week-long affair, it will be extended if met with a strong response.
I can’t suck up to someone or indulge in idle gossiping to be a part of a camp-Ameesha Patel
8:38 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; September 16, 2023)
“I was taught to call a spade a spade. With me, what you see is what you get,” says Ameesha Patel. Her honesty isn’t just limited to work. She shares, “I have never hidden a relationship, break-up, or make-up, whether with my family, friends, or romantic involvements. Such has been my upbringing.”
The actress shares it was her grandmother who instilled in her the sense of owning up to her true self. “She would say, The path might be tougher for honest people, but it’s a surer path. It’s a longer route to success because you don’t play dirty games with people to get your way, but you sleep well at night’,” she says.
The ‘Gadar 2’ actress, who has seen her share of highs and lows in her career, says that irrespective of the films she landed or lost out on, she didn’t align with any camp or banner. She says, “I don’t backbite, speak ill, or gossip about colleagues from the industry. I don’t belong to camps, so someone sucking up to them gets what I would be offered. I don’t idle gossiping and backbiting because that’s not why I am here. Some camps thrive on it, but I can’t. I can’t put someone down to bring myself up.”
“In an industry that thrives on relationship-building, people don’t always appreciate my kind of honesty,” she confides, adding, “If I am asked for my opinion about a film after its screening, I will tell you the truth, and that can be dangerous. People see me as muhphatt. They know, isko jo bolna hai, ye bolke hi jaayegi. I don’t know how to sugar-coat things and that can sometimes create misunderstandings.”
Ameesha says, “I would never pull someone down to rise. If, in the bargain, I lose out on some work, then so be it. I prefer to sit in a corner and read a book on the set rather than gossip and spread toxicity. I think it is important to have a social and political outlook in life, otherwise, you will get sucked up in small coups of the industry, which is unhealthy. I think this practice and belief is what has kept me grounded and real.”
Talking about her camaraderie with Sunny Deol, the Tara Singh to her Sakina, she says, “Sunny and I are very similar in some ways. He, too, doesn’t belong to any camp. He is honest, and that honesty shows. I think that’s the beauty of ‘Gadar 2’, that there is an innocence in Tara and Sakina. That vulnerability is what the audience relates to.”
Aamir Khan acknowledged that Gadar was at least three times bigger than Lagaan-Anil Sharma
7:58 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; August 12, 2023)
It’s the season of sequels in Bollywood and Hollywood. Twenty-two years after Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, the original cast – Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel and Utkarsh Sharma – reunite in Gadar 2. Filmmaker Anil Sharma talks about why he decided to make the film after over two decades and the huge expectations from Gadar 2. Excerpts:
‘Gadar was a huge brand, but I didn’t want to cash in on it’
Anil says, “It’s the season of sequels. Everyone is making one, and Gadar was a huge brand to cash in on commercially, but that was never my objective. I didn’t want to simply resurrect a brand just for commercial purposes, unless I had a genuine story to tell that warranted a sequel. I was intrigued by the future of Tara Singh’s family. ‘Uske parivaar ka aage kya hua?’, this question hounded me. Writer Shaktimaan Talwar, who wrote the previous film, came back to me with a story that deserved to be made. That’s how Gadar 2 happened.”
Despite the immense success of the first film, the director has released himself from the clutches of expectations. “I am not the kind to put myself under this pressure. Both these films are people’s films; they will decide Gadar 2’s fate.”
‘Aamir acknowledged that Gadar was at least three times bigger than Lagaan’
Speaking of comparison, who can forget Gadar’s epic clash with Aamir Khan-starrer Lagaan: Once Upon A Time In India when it was released on the same day in 2001. Lagaan went on to win an Oscar nomination, and Gadar set new box-office records.
On his film’s 20th anniversary, Aamir had said, “If Lagaan was even one per cent less of a film, we would not have stood a chance.” Sharma reminisced, “Aamir was kind enough to say and acknowledge that Gadar was at least three times bigger than Lagaan.”
‘Gadar was a story about love transcending borders’
Along with the success, Gadar also met with its share of criticism. The director says, “I don’t remember my film getting great reviews from critics. Logon ne meri picture ko chalaya hai because they could emotionally connect with it. It was a story about a family and love transcending borders. I hope the audience is able to feel for the characters and their story once again. Sunny Deol is one of our finest actors. I have closely worked with him and the Deol family, they are nice people and that reflects in their performances as well. It was also nice to have Ameesha (as Sakeena) and my son Utkarsh back.”
‘We wanted Udit Narayan to reprise Udd jaa Kaale Kaava in Gadar 2’
Gadar’s music continues to be a roaring success. Uttam Singh’s iconic composition Udd jaa Kaale Kaava has been recreated and sung by Udit Narayan. Sharma says, “We have retained two songs from the original and Mithoon has done a brilliant job on the new album and reprising the old melodies. We wanted Udit to reprise the song. Film industry sabko bahut jaldi bhool jaati hai. I know that’s how new talent gets a chance and that’s fine. I am not averse to new people, but I don’t believe in overlooking someone only because he has been around for 40 years. He was the perfect choice.”
My mom told me that she watched Gadar's shoot while holding me in her arms-Simratt Kaur Randhawa
8:26 AM
Simratt, who features in Gadar 2, shares how Deol taught her to be true to her emotions during the shoot
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; August 7, 2023)
As a child, Simratt Kaur Randhawa was among the many who had witnessed the filming of Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001) in Amritsar. Over 22 years on, she finds herself a part of its sequel Gadar 2: The Katha Continues, starring alongside Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel and Utkarsh Sharma.
“During the Gadar shoot, there was a huge crowd gathered to watch Sunny sir and Ameesha ji. My mom told me that she watched the shoot while holding me in her arms. I joke that the makers were waiting for me to grow up to make Gadar 2,” laughs Kaur.
The actor, who has previously starred in Telugu and Tamil movies, is foraying into Bollywood with the Anil Sharma-directed action drama in which she plays the love interest of Utkarsh’s character. Grateful for the director’s faith in her, Kaur prepped extensively to play a character living in 1970s India. But she reveals that no prep came close to the learning she imbibed while working with Deol.
“While shooting an emotional scene, I wasn’t able to give a perfect [take]. He told me, ‘If you try to act, [your effort] will be visible on screen. Switch off for a few minutes, feel the emotion and then you won’t need to act.’ That advice will always stay with me,” she smiles.
Ameesha Patel, Sunny Leone respond to non-payment of dues issue
8:19 AM
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 31, 2023)
Actors Ameesha Patel and Sunny Leone were summoned on July 25 by the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) on an issue of non-payment of dues. The actors failed to appear and IMPPA has given them seven days to repay the entire amount. Ameesha had taken Rs. 65 lakh from producer Haresh Patel and Sunny was paid Rs. 21 lakh by producer Vinod Bachchan for a movie.
Spokesperson, Sunny’s legal team:
With the highest regard for IMPPA, we want to clarify that this is a miscommunication. We had informed them of the postponement [in Sunny’s appearance] with proof that, for the last six months, IMPPA was postponing the case. This was the first time we postponed it and notified them of our prior schedule. We have all the documents to prove we are not at fault.
Vinod Bachchan, Producer:
Yeh case kaafi time se chal raha hai but woh (Sunny) meeting me nahin aa rahe hai. Bahut baar humne try kiya hai. Now IMPPA is looking into the matter.
Kunal Goomer, Ameesha’s representative:
There is no truth to the news. I don’t know what IMPPA is and what they do in Bollywood other than make news.
Haresh Patel, Producer:
I didn’t want to take the legal route, but this has been going on for seven years. Ameesha and Kunal asked for more time as they said she was going through a tough time. I even asked to be paid back in instalments. They have returned Rs. 14-15 lakh till now. When I met Kunal, he gave me a letter saying they will clear all the dues by March 2022 but they blocked me. Kunal has misbehaved with me as well. I have now filed criminal charges against Ameesha in Gujarat.
Abhay Kumar Sinha, President, IMPPA:
Sunny Leone’s husband (Daniel Weber) responded to our query, saying they’ve already given back Rs. 18 lakh. We’ve asked for more details. Ameesha Patel’s team said their legal team would talk to us. If the actors fail to appear before IMPPA or pay back the amount, they won’t be allowed to shoot anywhere as per IMPPA laws.
Vikram Gokhale is one of the greatest actors that I have ever worked with-Sanjay Leela Bhansali
8:03 AM
Bhansali, Kulkarni, and Manjrekar remember the actor’s tremendous talent and down-to-earth nature
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; November 27, 2022)
National Award-winning actor Vikram Gokhale, who was a stalwart in Indian cinema, television and theater, has passed away following multiple organ failure. The actor, aged 77, breathed his last at a hospital in Pune, his daughter told mid-day. “We would like to thank everyone for their good wishes, support and prayers through this difficult time,” she said.
Gokhale remained synonymous with substance throughout his five-decade-old career that saw award-winning performances in both Hindi and Marathi. He debuted in the Hindi film industry with the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Parwana (1971). Even in an ensemble that comprised popular stars, Gokhale stood out, courtesy his tremendous talent. In fact, it remained his strength to elevate even the smallest appearances and the thinnest characters offered to him.
What also set Gokhale apart from his contemporaries was his reliance on minimalism. Whether it was as the strict patriarch in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (HDDCS, 1999) or the portrait of grief in Anubhav Sinha’s Tum Bin (2001), Gokhale performed with just his expressions, where others needed words.
“Vikram ji is one of the greatest actors that I have ever worked with. I feel people should learn from his legacy. Despite being a great reader, orator, and so well-read, he was simple-hearted. When I met him, he was like a friend and colleague, who often told me, ‘Sanju main tere saath hoon. Tu bol kya aur kaisa karna hai’. He was a great colleague to be on the set with, as he was always there for [me]. Vikram ji introduced me to Indian classical vocalist Pandit Ajay Pohankar, who suggested the Albela sajan raag [a version of which is used in HDDCS]. It was hard, but he [barely] took an hour to learn the song,” says Bhansali, adding that he learned the nuances of the craft when he saw Gokhale perform.
“Vikram ji was the complete master of his craft. Always in control of every aspect—in words, dialogue, expressions, and diction. He was spontaneous. We don’t get actors like him anymore.”
Thicker than his association with the Hindi film industry was his relationship with Marathi cinema and stage. In return, Marathi directors did justice to his talent, as he became one of the tallest stars in the fraternity, also earning a National Award for his work in Anumati (2013).
Gokhale’s Anumati co-star and longtime collaborator, Neena Kulkarni, fondly remembers him as the one of the most knowledgeable artistes she had ever met. “He was an intelligent and responsible actor. You could talk to him for hours on the process of acting. He was also well-informed about everything—from literature to politics. His performances are acting classes for the next generation. In Godavari [2006], he had just one dialogue, but he delivered it in variations; that is education in itself. I will obviously miss [my] friend, as we go back a long way. The fact that we have portrayed all relations from husband-wife, lovers to siblings and to me even playing his daughter-in-law was a running joke between us,” she reminisces.
“He used to call me Maya,” says Mahesh Manjrekar, who directed Gokhale in Natsamrat (2016), after which, they did another movie together, Me Shivaji Park (2018). “Vikram Gokhale was an institution in the field of acting that has shut down today. He was the most complete actor in the industry. He could enhance a scene by just using a handkerchief and make it look believable. I have seen him in theatre doing everything, including comedy. [Even though we were] young, he always treated us on par with each other. He was a close friend. Vikram was a director’s actor, but I never had to tell him what to do. Despite his acting prowess, he was casual about it on the sets,” adds the director.
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HINDUSTAN TIMES (November 27, 2022)
Vikram Gokhale, a towering personality in the Indian theatre and cinema space, died on Saturday, after days of being hospitalised. The actor, who was 77, suffered multiple organ failure and breathed his last around 2pm, Shirish Yadkikar from Deenanath Hospital, Pune, confirmed.
Born in Pune, the actor comes from an illustrious lineage. His father, Chandrakant Gokhale, was a renowned theatre and film actor, while his great grandmother, Durgabai Kamat, is credited for being the first female actor in Indian cinema. Having worked in Marathi theatre productions, Gokhale made his Bollywood debut in 1971 with Parwana. Thereafter, he starred in hits such as Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999), Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007), De Dana Dan (2009), Mission Mangal (2019), etc. A man of many talents, he donned the director’s hat in 2010 for the Marathi film, Aaghaat.
In 2013, his Marathi film Anumati fetched him the National Film Award for Best Actor. While he retired from stage work in 2016 due to an ailment, he continued working in films. He was last seen in Nikamma.
The last rites took place on Saturday evening, ANI reported. htc
Smita Jayakar
I worked with Vikram ji since the beginning of my career, in Marathi and Hindi projects. He was a very good friend and an amazing human being. I met him two months ago at a wedding in Pune. He didn’t look very healthy, but I did not imagine he’d leave us within two months. It is a big loss.
Neena Kulkarni
I’ve played his wife, girlfriend, sister and in our last film, his daughter-in-law. You would not see an actor like him. The fearlessness of Vikram Gokhale is what I’ll take from his life. I’ve lost a very good friend.
Subodh Bhave
The first commercial play I watched was Vikram ji’s. I was zapped by his performance. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with him in a few films. He was like my father, as he has played my father on screen. I’m certain that he’ll be talking to God passionately about plays.
Ameesha Patel
The more that is said about Vikram Gokhale, the less it is. I had the privilege of working with him in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, I got to learn a lot. His death leaves a huge void in the industry.
Shilpa Shetty Kundra
Vikram Gokhale ji was a fantastic actor, a thorough professional. I worked with him in Nikamma. He had great memory. He remembered an entire scene and did the whole monologue in just one shot.
It’s silly: Ameesha Patel reacts to rumours about dating Pakistani actor Imran Abbas
9:57 AM
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 29, 2022)
Ever since actor Ameesha Patel posted a video with Pakistani actor Imran Abbas, rumour mills have been on overdrive suggesting that they are a couple.
When we reached out to the 46-year-old about the same, she chuckled at the mention of such reports. “I read them too, and had a huge laugh about it. The whole thing is just crazy and full of silliness. I was meeting my buddy after so many years. So, it was just a catch up,” shares the actor.
Patel met Abbas, 39, in Bahrain, at a recent event, and they recorded a fun video of the song Dil Mein Dard Sa Jaga Hai from the 2002 movie Kranti, featuring Patel and actor Bobby Deol. She later posted the video on her Instagram, which led to the rumours. “He happens to love that song of mine. It’s his favourite song... We just did an impromptu thing, which was recorded by a friend. It came out so cute, so we posted it. It was not planned,” she further shares.
The Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001) actor adds, “We have known each other for many years, since the time I studied with him at a university in the USA. And I have stayed in touch with most of my friends in Pakistan, who just love India. Abbas belongs to the film industry there, and we have a lot more to talk about.”
Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2 to revisit original songs for the sequel
8:15 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; March 3, 2022)
One of the highlights of Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001), starring Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel, were its songs. The film, which was released at the turn of the millennium, had popular tracks like Udd Ja Kale Kawan and Main Nikla Gaddi Leke. The sequel to the film has gone on floors after a gap of 20 years in North India, taking the story ahead from where the first one left us. Bombay Times has it that Sunny and director Anil Sharma plan to reboot some of the songs from the original album for the sequel.
Talking about it, Sunny says, “Yes, why not? Main Nikla Gaddi Leke and Udd Ja Kale Kawan might just be a part of Gadar 2. Gadar was a musical because my character, Tara Singh, was driven by music. His sense of music won’t change.”
Adding to this, director Anil Sharma says,“Woh toh wahi gaane bajayega na? Music was the heartbeat of the original and our idea is to ensure that the audience does not go home disappointed with the sequel. They should feel as close to this story as they felt with the original. We don’t ever wish to spoil the legacy of the original. Music will be an integral part of Tara Singh’s journey, this time, too.”
Relationships are emotionally very draining; I am happy to be single-Ameesha Patel
8:35 AM
The actress addresses rumours of being in a relationship with good friend Faisal Patel
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; January 4, 2021)
Ameesha Patel made headlines recently, after her social media banter with Faisal Patel, son of late politician Ahmed Patel, went viral. A few days ago, Faisal made a marriage proposal to her publicly on Twitter, leading us to believe that they are in a serious relationship. It all started when the actress wished the latter on his birthday on December 30 on social media. Her message on Twitter read, “Happy birthday my darling, love you... have a super awesome year.” It was followed by Faisal’s reply, which read, “I’m formally proposing in public. Will you marry me?”
In an exclusive chat with BT, Ameesha cleared the air saying, “It is hilarious! Faisal and I go back a long way. We have known each other for years. I am friends with him and his sister. That message was just an internal joke between us. There is nothing more to it. I am single and I am happy being single. I am not interested in being in a relationship right now. Faisal is someone who loves to crack these jokes.”
Interestingly, after his marriage proposal went viral, Faisal deleted his message, to which Ameesha says, “I told him that you shouldn’t have deleted the message, and that I would have replied to the post in my style. But he said that he started getting calls from people. You see this is what happens with public figures, you can’t even joke in public.”
About their association, Ameesha elaborates, “Both of us share political backgrounds. My grandfather, Barrister Rajni Patel, worked with (former Indian PM) Indira Gandhi, while Mr Ahmed Patel worked with Sonia Gandhi. Our families have known each other for three generations. I was very close to late Ahmed uncle. Faisal and I share common friends, too.”
She adds, “I know a lot of celebs are getting married of late, but I have no plans to join the bandwagon. I am happy to stay single and do my own thing as I wish. I feel that being in a relationship is emotionally very draining. At this point, I don’t have time for that.”
Currently, Ameesha is busy shooting for Gadar 2, which is a sequel to the 2001 hit film Gadar: Ek Prem Katha directed by Anil Sharma. Talking about making a comeback as Sakeena, in the sequel that reunites her with Sunny Deol on screen, she says, “I have had the most surreal experience living the dream once again. It is a beautiful script and I am working hard on it. I have just come back from a grilling schedule in Himachal Pradesh, where we were shooting in zero degrees.”
About Sunny, with whom she went on to do films like Teesri Aankh: The Hidden Camera (2006) and Bhaiaji Superhit (2018), Ameesha says, “We get along really well. The moment we wear our costumes as Tara Singh and Sakeena (their characters from Gadar 2) it gets magical on set. He is a fantastic actor, but moreover, a respectful gentleman. He is so good looking and the manliest man ever!”
Revisiting Sakina for Gadar 2 feels surreal; when I wear Sakina’s costume, I feel like Wonder Woman-Ameesha Patel
7:56 AM
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 10, 2021)
Actor Ameesha Patel is happy and excited to enter the world of Sakina once again for Gadar 2, the much-awaited sequel of the 2001 film. She admits that she has lived with the onscreen persona for 20 years in her heart, which makes revisiting it all the more special. “It feels wonderful to be back on such a historic film. Actually, it is surreal to get back to playing the character of Sakina along with Tara Singh (Sunny Deol),” says Patel during a break from her ongoing shooting schedule in Dharamshala.
She adds, “It doesn’t seem like 20 years to me. Sakina is part of my blood. So, getting into the skin of the character didn’t require any effort. Even while doing Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, I felt that she was an extension of me. She is lovable, pure, respectful, educated, comes from a good family, believes in the right path and fights for love and what is right. These are a part of me as well. The minute I wear Sakina’s costume, I feel like Wonder Woman.”
Nostalgia is riding high on the film’s set as the cast reunites to create the second chapter of the story, which is being directed by Anil Sharma and written by Shaktimaan.
Deol and Utkarsh Sharma have joined the cast, Mithoon is on board as a music composer and the project is produced by Zee Studios and Anil Sharma Productions.
According to Patel, Gadar belongs to the list of iconic films, such as Mughal-E-Azam (1960), Sholay (1975) and Titanic (1997). She explains, “These movies didn’t get the second part, and we are fortunate that we are getting this chance. The whole team is passionate about the project. Zee Studios has backed this project and has so much faith in us. It is wonderful.”
About what to expect from Gadar 2, Patel says, “It will be a visual delight for the audience because people are not going to realise that there has been a gap of 20 years. The film will come with great music, drama, comedy, and dialogues where one can expect cheers, claps, and seetis. The cinema, which was missing for so long, will be recreated with Gadar coming back onto the big screen.”
Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel, Utkarsh Sharma to return in Gadar sequel
8:11 AM
Director Anil Sharma in talks to helm sequel to 2001 blockbuster Gadar; actor-son Utkarsh Sharma to join original stars Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; March 16, 2021)
Think Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001), and you instantly remember Sunny Deol uprooting a hand pump in a fit of rage as he takes on the bad guys single-handedly. Not to mention that the romantic drama had released on the same day as Aamir Khan’s game-changing Lagaan (2001), and went on to become one of the biggest blockbusters of the year. Two decades on, it is heard that director Anil Sharma is developing a sequel to the period drama.
A source reveals, “The makers of Gadar have figured out the plot points and are working on a script. While Sunny and Ameesha Patel will be a part of the story, the director’s son Utkarsh, who essayed the role of their son Jeeta in the original, will play a pivotal part. The young actor had forayed into Bollywood in 2018 with Genius.”
When mid-day reached out to Sharma, the director said, “Talks about a sequel are on, but I will officially confirm at the right time. At the moment, things are at a nascent stage.”
Meanwhile, the director is busy with the pre-production of Apne 2 that will roll in London by June.
Hrithik Roshan is a boy with deep emotions, more suited to love stories-Rakesh Roshan
8:11 AM
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; January 14, 2020)
In March 1998, I arrived at Rakesh Roshan’s Santa Cruz office one afternoon for a chat with the producer-director on his next film, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, which marked the debut of his son Hrithik. “You missed him by a few minutes, he just left” he told me regretfully. Looking at the photographs on the walls, I pointed out that Hrithik was still there with us.With his lean six-foot frame, macho stubble and smouldering eyes, he looked like a ’90s Rambo rather than another turn-of-the-century Romeo. Papa, however, pointed out that “Hrithik is a boy with deep emotions, more suited to love stories”. He didn’t want to play around with the rich-boy-falls-in-love-with-poor-girl cliché. “I wanted a hint of mystery,” he reminisced. And one day, a story just came to him. “A story where the hero dies in the first half.”
Back then, Raj Kapoor’s granddaughter and Randhir and Babita’s younger daughter, Kareena Kapoor, was the leading lady. Eventually though, Ameesha Patel went on to play Sonia, Rohit’s girlfriend and Raj’s wife. The change in cast made little difference to the outcome. Kaho Naa… opened on January 14, 2000, to an overwhelming response. It was Hrithik’s film all the way and he went on to not only sweep the best debutant (male) awards, but also beat Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to the best actor trophy, playing two contrasting characters with ease that came from months of hard work. Interestingly, at one of the award shows, Kareena presented him with the best actor award. When she opened the envelope and saw his name, she quipped, “It’s very obvious…” reinforcing public opinion.
Hrithik had worked with his father as an assistant for five years before he was signed for Shekhar Kapur’s Ta Ra Rum Pum, which was to also feature Preity Zinta. But the film didn’t take off. Then, one day, while he was doing the rounds of producers’ offices with his portfolio, his father dropped a bombshell, casually informing him that he’d be doing his next film. “I was so stunned I quietly walked out of the room. Dad followed, asking, ‘Aren’t you ready? Don’t you want to do the film?’ he had reminisced back then. Hrithik being Hrithik say much. He simply got a photo session done and it was only when his father liked the pictures, did he start prepping for a career in films, going on for voice training, dialogue classes and even learning music.
At an award function in 1999, before the release of his film, he had wowed a 5000-plus audience when he had rolled into stage in a snazzy blue sports car and twirled to one of my favourite numbers from the film, “Kyun Chalti Hai Pavan” with the grace of a ballerino. As part of the act, he also joined the velvet-voiced Lucky Ali who was crooning the song live, picked up the mic himself. And even though Aamir Khan in absentia bagged the best actor award that year for Sarfarosh, it was HR who was voted the Hero No. 1 of the evening.
Interestingly, Lucky Ali had never given playback for a film before and only did it because the Roshan brothers were good friends. In fact, Rajesh Roshan had debuted as a composer with Kunwara Baap, directed by Lucky’s father Mehmood, who also acted in the 1974 film. While on firsts, Rajesh Roshan was also the first music director to give Alka Yagnik a break in Basu Chatterjee’s Hamari Bahu Alka. Eighteen years later, she sang the title track of Kaho Naa… Farah Khan, the film’s choreographer, recalled how, while filming “Ek Pal Ka Jeena”, one of her assistants had given Hrithik some really tough moves as a joke. Unfazed, he kept rehearsing till he got them down pat. After seeing the rushes and realising what a super dancer he was, Farah decided to re-shoot portions of the song, giving Hrithik some really difficult steps. He pulled them off too.
It’s been 20 years… Hrithik’s still urging the audience, “Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai”, and the answer to that is still a resounding “Kaha Naa Pyaar Hai.”
The Great Indian Casino, film on demonetization, promoted at Cannes Film Festival
7:56 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (May 30, 2019)
Director Rupesh Paul’s The Great Indian Casino (TGIC) was well-received at the recently-concluded Cannes film festival, where it was promoted. The entire team of the film, headed by producer Chanderkant Sharma, attended the festival.
After Cannes, the TGIC team is now planning to promote the film internationally, in countries like Switzerland, Italy and Germany. Rupesh will also travel to East Asian countries for promotions.
Chanderkant Sharma says, “Our movie has high potential in the overseas market. That’s why we are trying a new marketing strategy. We are sure that many Bollywood movies will follow it in future.”
TGIC, which is based on the Narendra Modi government’s demonetization policy, was launched by Dharmendra. Rupesh, who has previously helmed movies like My Name Is Raga and Kamasutra 3D, has written and directed TGIC. The thriller will also see Ameesha Patel making a huge comeback.
The Great Indian Casino releases on July 14.
Ameesha Patel's production Desi Magic finally complete and ready for release
8:10 AM
MUMBAI MIRROR (May 18, 2019)
Ameesha Patel, who is gearing up for the release of her next film, Desi Magic, with an ensemble cast, is in an upbeat mood. And the months preceding D-day, which she spent roaming the world, is the reason behind it. The actress, who is an avid social media user, and has been keeping her fans abreast about developments on the film. Over the last 15 months Ameesha has been globe-trotting, not just for the shoot but to honour other professional commitments as well. Desi Magic, which is Ameesha’s first home production, is now complete and generating a huge buzz among those who have seen the rushes. Riding the buzz, she’s ensured that Desi Magic is the biggest, most lavishly mounted film by an actress-producer in the romcom genre till date.
Ameesha and her business partner, Kuunal Goomer, have left no stone unturned to meet this objective and while they took their time to wrap it up, they have succeeded in delivering a full-on commercial entertainer. If reports are to be believed, Ameesha is really happy that the film is finally complete. She and her team are currently occupied with the post production and are very confident with the way it is shaping up.
The interesting cast and great music is the USP of Desi Magic. Over the last 15 months, Ameesha and Kuunal have travelled far and wide with it, from Mumbai to Paris, Georgia, London and Bangkok.
While Ameesha plays a double role in the film, she has kept in mind that the story is not just about her but all key components of the script. Rajat Rawail plays a key character from Punjab, who is a die-hard fan of Ranveer Singh’s character Sangram Bhalerao from Simmba. The role promises a lot of laughs. The emotional father-daughter bond between Randhir Kapoor and Ameesha will also touch a lot of hearts.
From music and comedy to emotions, the film has it all and the release date will be announced very soon.
Financier accuses Ameesha Patel, partner Kuunal Goomer, of fraud
8:43 AM
Ajay Kumar Singh has moved court after he was told by the duo that they have no intention of returning the Rs 2.5 crore that he lent them
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 29, 2019)
Producer Ajay Kumar Singh who is gearing up for the release of the Jimmy Sheirgill-Mahie Gill-starrer Family Of Thakurganj has moved court against Ameesha Patel and her business partner Kuunal Goomer accusing them of fraud (Mirror is in possession of the legal documents). He claims he had given the duo Rs 2.5 crore as financier to complete their long-in-the-making film Desi Magic and all that he has to show for it today are some bounced cheques.The Mehul Atha-directed romcom, Ameesha’s first production with Kuunal Goomer, went on the floors in 2013 but has yet to see the light of day. Featuring Zayed Khan, Ravi Kishan, Sahil Shroff and Randhir Kapoor, it has Ameesha in a double role of Sonia Saxena and Mahi Deol.
Ajay told Mirror, “I had given Ameesha and Kuunal Rs 2.5 crore when they visited Ranchi in March last year for an event. They had told me the film would release by June 2018 and would be a profitable venture for me. It has yet to arrive at the theatres and when I badgered them, they promised to return my money with interest in two-three months. They even gave me a cheque of Rs 3 crore but it bounced and when I went back to them, they told me this time that they had no intention of refunding my money. They also threatened me by showing me Ameesha’s photos with some influential people.”
The harrowed financier has now been forced to take the legal route and has filed a complaint with the Ranchi court alleging fraud and cheque bouncing. “They say the film will release this year, but I haven’t got any updates on their plans,” he added Ameesha and Kuunal chose not to respond to calls and messages.
Bollywood personalities mourn the loss of Krishna Raj Kapoor
9:14 AM
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 2, 2018)
Krishna Raj Kapoor, who passed away following a cardiac arrest, was brought to the RK cottage in Deonar, where she had lived, from the Breach Candy Hospital. The 10-12 cops posted at the gate couldn’t keep curious onlookers at bay.
Her eldest son, Randhir, was spotted at the bungalow with wife Babita, daughters Karisma and Kareena, and son-in-law Saif Ali Khan. Her youngest son, Rajiv, daughter Ritu Nanda and grandson Armaan Jain were also present, while Rishi and Neetu, along with Ranbir, had flown off to the US for treatment over the weekend.
Amitabh Bachchan, whose daughter Shweta is married to Ritu’s son Nikhil, arrived with her at around 2 pm and was seen consoling Kareena. Sharmila Tagore, Saif’s mother was accompanied by daughter Soha and son-in-law Kunal Kemmu. Alia Bhatt, Ranbir’s steady date, arrived with Brahmastra producer and director, Karan Johar and Ayan Mukerji, at around 3 pm.
Among the first visitors were Anil and Sunita Kapoor, along with younger brother Sanjay. While Kajol came early, Rani Mukerji drove in a little later in the day. Jeetendra, Rakesh Roshan, Prem Chopra and Raza Murad and Sanjay, Maanayata Dutt were among the visitors too. Politician Supriya Sule turned up a little after noon.
The ambulance arrived at the the Chembur crematorium for the last rites at 5.30 pm. Rajiv, Anil Ambani and Armaan were among those who carried the body in, with Randhir, Kareena, Rima Jain and Riddhima Kapoor Sahni following.
Anil, Saif, Kunal, the Bachchans, and Ameesha Patel left their car behind to walk to the crematorium. Arjun Kapoor came in with sister Anshula. Salim Khan and Farhan Akhtar arrived soon after. The funeral ended by 6 pm. While Rahul Rawail and Siddharth Roy walked back to avoid the traffic jam. Amitabh and Abhishek could leave in their car only after the police intervened to control the crowds.
I'm blessed with certain features or looks where you can look sexy as well as the homely wife-Ameesha Patel
8:56 AM
Paresh B Mehta (MID-DAY; August 31, 2018)
mid- day catches up with the glam doll who stole a million hearts from day one of her debut film as an actress. Now she prepares to steal a million more, with her debut as a producer and actor of upcoming film DESI MAGIC.
How do you manage to look hot and hotter with every year passing by?
Well thank you for you lovely compliments. Firstly I don’t see myself as hot (Ameesha gives out a big laugh) and for this I need to thank my fans who think of me that way. I am so delighted with my fans who have loved me all throughout since the time I played a simple Gadar girl and then the innocent wife I played in Bhool Bhulaya opposite Akhshay Kumar to the times of my ‘Sexy lazy lamhe’ song.
How do you manage to play so well and look so apt for each character with so much ease whereas it surely seems difficult?
Well it isn’t so hard for me and I am sure it isn’t for other actors as well. Sometimes when you are blessed with certain features or looks where you can look sexy as well as the homely wife, then it certainly becomes a lot easier for sure. For instance, in Race 2, I played this bubbly girl and that was fun and I really loved being a part of that action thriller. Coming to your question – Yes playing the bubbly character was almost like me in real life but in the future as an actor I would like to venture out doing various roles where as an actor I can showcase my real talent to my fans. I promise them that I shall always good quality work like something I’ve always done in the past as well.
As an actress how does that feel to become a producer too?
It feels great and I cannot wait to showcase my first film as a producer and as an actor very soon. Desi Magic is my debut film as a producer and finally it is now around the corner. We would announce its release date very soon. My business partner Kuunal Goomer and myself have left no stone unturned to make sure that Desi Magic lives up to the expectations, specially considering the time it has taken. All I can say is very soon its trailer will be out and I pray and hope all the curiosity and questions generated around the film will be answered once my fans get to see a glimpse of the product we have created. As of now, all I can say is confidently that as first time producers we are very proud the way it has turned out!
What is the film Desi Magic about?
It isn’t a slapstick nor is it a serious content based film. Desi Magic is and out-n-out entertainer with family emotions, comedy, great music and romance. It will appeal to all kinds of audiences as it is a full on masala film
I am pleasantly surprised that even the social media has taken great notice of my recent pics, with some of them commented as ‘Shocking loads’ (giggles). Thanks for your lovely compliment which Subi equally deserves as he has done a great job.
You been quite active on social media of late .. is that a intentional decision?
Well I wasn’t active until the last 15 months. But now I think social media is a wonderful way to reach out to your fans and interact with them and also at the same time if it is used constructively, it can be very knowledgeable as well in several ways.
Who do you think is currently the most handsome Bollywood hero?
For me it was and will always be Hrithik Roshan as I always feel no one can match his looks and his dedication as an actor, at the same time no one can beat the charming and classy personality of SRK. I have also worked with Salman in Yeh hai Jalwa and with Aamir Khan in Mangal Pandey, both of them are simply amazing actors and super human beings as well. And of course each of them is thoroughly professional.
What do you feel about the journey ahead for you? Where does it lead to?
It may sound funny but I think my journey has just begin (she says it with a big smile). In time to come I hope that I can deliver some great performances and hopefully make my fans proud and happy and of course to my God above all - because of whom I am here. I heartily thank my business partner Kuunal Goomer who is very much involved with me in every aspect of Desi Magic and its making. He is so meticulous and remains particular about every small detail. He remains firm on what he wants in the film and he makes sure he executes things the way he has imagined it to be.
How is it working with Mr Randhir Kapoor who is playing your on screen father in Desi Magic?
Randhir Kapoor Sir is a delight to work with and he is a great human being. I feel so lucky to have worked with him.
Finally, how was it working with Sahil Shroff who is your co- star in the film?
Saahil Shroff is a top model and has a class of his own. He has an awesome personality and remains our surprise factor in the film. I am sure that the audience will be charmed by his performance and hope his pairing opposite me will be appreciated as well.
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