Reluctant to shoot in indoor sets due to the airborne virus, Salman Khan defers Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai shoot to November; scraps plan of festival release
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; July 21, 2020)

Having missed his annual big-screen outing on Eid this year, Salman Khan was keen to release Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai over the Diwali weekend. The superstar had reportedly booked a floor of Mehboob Studio in Bandra from August to complete the 10-day shoot of the Prabhudheva-directed venture. However, he has postponed the schedule in light of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) recent statement about the possibility of the Coronavirus being airborne in closed and crowded spaces.

A source from the production team reveals that Salman Khan — who has been spending the lockdown at his Panvel farmhouse — was to head to his Bandra residence this week to chart out the plan for the August shoot. "However, on Sunday, Salman called off the impending schedule after discussing with his team and co-producers Atul Agnihotri, Sohail Khan and Nikhil Namit. He felt that filming indoors could pose a risk to the health of the cast and crew. On the other hand, an outdoor shoot was not feasible in the monsoon. So, he has decided to hold off the stint till October-end, post which the unit will film the remaining portions — including a song — at outdoor locations."

Naturally then, the actioner, which sees the superstar play an undercover cop, won't be able to meet its Diwali deadline. "Salman's first priority is the safety of his team members. The makers are now eyeing a 2021 festival release; by then, the theatres will have also reopened," adds the source.

Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 2, 2020)

Singer-composer Wajid Khan, 42, of the Sajid-Wajid duo, passed away around midnight on Sunday following health complications from Coronavirus. He had undergone a kidney transplant last year.

Wajid belonged to a classical music gharana and was trained by his father, Ustad Sharafat Ali Khan, a tabla player. He made his debut with brother Sajid in a qawwali for the Salman Khan and Kajol-starrer Pyar Kiya Toh Darna Kya. Soon, the brothers became a favourite with the actor and worked with him in films like Hello Brother, Tere Naam, Garv, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Partner, God Tussi Great Ho, Wanted, Main Aur Mrs Khanna, Veer, the Dabangg franchise, Jai Ho and as a guest composer on Ek Tha Tiger.

In an earlier interview, Wajid had informed that Veer was special for him as a lot of work went into creating tunes from the pre-Independence era. “We went to villages to record sounds of stones and glasses,” he had informed. Director Anil Sharma recalls how one night, Salman called him home and introduced him to Sajid-Wajid. “I was planning to go with multiple composers. When they played the tune of “Surili Akhiyon Wale” on the piano, I decided to go solo with them,” says Sharma, admitting that he’s still wowed by that music sitting.

Writer-director Rumy Jafry reveals that the music of David Dhawan’s Mujhse Shaadi Karogi was to be composed by Anu Malik, with Sajid-Wajid as guest composers. But eventually, they composed the entire album and Anu was left with just one song. He then worked with the duo in his directorial God Tussi Great Ho, which boasted of the chartbuster “Tujhe Aksa Beach”, picturised on Salman and Priyanka Chopra. The song was also supposed to be a part of the Mujhse Shaadi Karogi soundtrack, but since they already had a beach song, “Jeene Ke Hain Char Din” by Anu, Rumi asked Sajid-Wajid to bank it for him and use it in God Tussi Great Ho.

Anees Bazmee informs that the duo composed the title track of Welcome, fronted by Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif, in less than 12 hours. “I was in Dubai and called them during lunch time asking for a title track. In two hours, they had a tune ready for me. Within a day they had the lyrics sorted and had recorded the song which contributed significantly to the film’s success,” admits the producer-director.

The composers gave more hits with Akshay Kumar, including Housefull 2 and Rowdy Rathore. Their other notable scores are Heropanti, Main Tera Hero, Himmatwala and Teri Meri Kahaani. They also recorded the album Deewana (1999), which was Sonu Nigam’s claim to fame with songs like “Ab Mujhe Raat Din” and “Deewana Tera”.

Sukhwinder Singh, who sung the Dabangg title track and “Lagan Lagi” from Tere Naam for the duo, reveals that they were among the very few musicians who didn’t use machines. “Wajid was a natural composer with a classical base who used instruments for sound. They waited 15 days to record ‘Lagan Lagi’ with me, one of Salman’s best,” he exults.

Just a few days ago, Sajid-Wajid’s single, “Bhai Bhai” with Salman was released. Radhe will be among Wajid’s last Bollywood scores. Atul Agnihotri, who is producing Radhe with Salman and Sohail, describes him as a beautiful person. The filmmaker has also worked with the duo in his home production, Hello. “His laughter and music will be missed by the family, in our life and movies. Sajid-Wajid shared a great bond with Bhai and have come up with a killer title track for Radhe. It’s straight from the heart, with lots of passion and goodness,” he signs off.

Whenever we had to create an important song on short notice, we could only think of them. Wajid could get things done quickly, without compromising on the quality of the creations
As told to Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; June 2, 2020)

The entire Khan parivaar shared a strong bond with Sajid-Wajid. His love for our family, particularly Salman [Khan] bhai, was unconditional. Many of Bhai's hit tracks were composed by them. To me, he was a friend first, a colleague later. Whenever we had to create an important song on a short notice, we could only think of them. Wajid could get things done quickly, without compromising on the quality of the creations.

When I was making Hello [2008], we needed a special track for Bhai who was making a special appearance in the film. Asking Sajid-Wajid to compose the song was a no-brainer. The duo created it [Hello hello] so quickly. One can't even begin to imagine what Sajid is going through now. Whenever Sajid was stuck in the middle of a tune, Wajid used to help him, and vice versa. It was a great collaboration.

One could never tell that Wajid had health concerns because he always had a smile; he went through all his sufferings with a smile. He recently had a kidney transplant and was recovering. I regret not meeting him post the surgery, but who would have thought this would happen? He was also diabetic and his immune system had weakened. [Towards the end] he contracted Coronavirus. It is tragic that he is gone at 42. To us, he is irreplaceable.

Salman Khan seems to have a mini-lockdown with almost 22 people, including Jacqueline Fernandez and Iulia Vantur, holed up in his farmhouse; coterie spends days horse-riding and swimming
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 17, 2020)

Every December, the gates of Salman Khan's Panvel farmhouse are thrown open as the rich and the famous throng the venue to celebrate the superstar's birthday. We may be months away from December, but a section of Bollywood is cocooned at Arpita Farms. Over the past few weeks, Khan has been playing host to 20-odd people, including Jacqueline Fernandez, Iulia Vantur, director Abhiraj Minawala and wife, and Waluscha De Sousa, who have inadvertently found themselves stuck on the outskirts of Mumbai during the Coronavirus lockdown.

The actor had travelled to Panvel in mid-March with director Minawala to discuss their next, the Mulshi Pattern remake. "Salman's brother-in-law Aayush Sharma joined them along with wife Arpita and their kids. At the same time, Atul Agnihotri, wife Alvira and her friend Waluscha had gone to the farmhouse to spend a fun weekend. They were in for a surprise when the state government issued a stay-at-home order, followed by the nationwide lockdown," says a source. Apparently, Fernandez had headed to Panvel at the same time to discuss her single, Genda Phool. "Now, there are about 22 people holed up in the estate, including Sohail's son Nirvaan, his three friends and the staff. Fortunately, the bungalow is massive with nine bedrooms and two pools. So, social distancing is not a problem."

There is never a dull moment in the house, adds the source. "People spend their days swimming, playing pool and practising organic farming. When Salman is not working on his next, Iulia and he goes horse-riding. He also creates awareness videos about the prevailing situation, which are shot by Saajan Singh. Salman's afternoons are dedicated to mother Salma."

Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 5, 2019)

In an interview to Mirror (April 24), Ali Abbas Zafar had revealed that while brainstorming on the title of his Eid release which opens today, the name Bharat had suddenly popped up in his mind early one morning. “I was tossing in bed at 5 am when the title came to me hours later, when I met SK (Salman Khan) and Atul (Agnihotri, producer). I told them I had a title, Bharat. They froze for two seconds, then Salman said, ‘Yes.’ Since this man symbolises the nation, what better name than Bharat,” Ali had pointed out. The title since has been a major talking point showcasing the journey of its protagonist and the country through six decades.

Mirror has now learnt that the title was actually registered with Salman’s producer-friend, Sajid Nadiadwala, who was planning a film by the same name. When they learnt that it has already been blocked by Sajid, Atul called him with a request. “Without a second thought Sajid bhai gave us the title, it’s really nice of him to do this,” said Nikhil Namit, the co-producer of Bharat. Sources reveal that Sajid intends to make the script he had registered as Bharat with a new title soon and his team is already brainstorming on it.

Salman and Sajid’s friendship goes back a long way. The duo had first collaborated on the 1996 film Jeet following it up with the comic caper, Judwaa (1997), which saw the former in a double role for the first time. Since then, they have worked together on films like the Raj Kanwar-directed 2000 love story Har Dil Jo Pyaar Karega, Shirish Kunder’s directorial debut, Jaan-EMann (2006), which had co-starred Akshay Kumar.

In 2014, Sajid made his directorial debut with the action-packed Kick, which was fronted by Salman and featured Jacqueline Fernandez as his leading lady. It had Nawazuddin Siddiqui as the antagonist. Salman and Sajid are now gearing up for the sequel of the hit film, which is expected to go on floors sometime next year.

Despite the suggestion of Salman Khan keeping Bharat ticket rates to the minimum, city theatres hike fares by an average 20 per cent
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; June 3, 2019)

A recent report suggesting that Salman Khan had refrained from hiking the ticket price of his Eid release, Bharat, seemed to be much in sync with the actor's traditional practice of sweeping in at eleventh hour with a welcome announcement. But, a lot seems to have been lost in translation, with ticket prices across the city indicating that the drama will be priced at a higher rate than usual.

At odds with rumours that the minimal fare was touted to be bhai's eidi to his followers, prices at select cinema houses seem to have been hiked by an average 20 per cent. Mahim's Citylight cinema, which sold tickets of recent releases De De Pyaar De and India's Most Wanted at Rs 200, has set the Ali Abbas Zafar-directed venture at a rate of Rs 250. At Lower Parel's PVR Luxe, theatre owners are drawing Rs 1,800 per ticket. Prices at Juhu and Wadala theatres too sit at an increased fare.

Trade expert Amod Mehra suggests that the limited hype surrounding the film has edged producers to up the per-ticket fare. "Bharat will see a five-day opening weekend. The producers want to take advantage of it, especially because the buzz isn't strong. Also, an aim to break previous box-office records is always a reason to increase prices," he says. As cinephiles wriggle their way into the festive week today, Mehra admits that advance bookings for the film don't look promising, just yet. "I hope it picks up over the next two days. With big-ticket films not performing well enough, the audience has grown cautious."

At odds with Mehra's stance, trade expert Amul Mohan isn't bothered by the rates. He says that as far as a film's release goes, the actor's word isn't binding. "The distributors and exhibitors are actually aware of the pricing." Producer Atul Agnihotri says he wasn't aware of the development. "I can only get clarity after speaking to [distributor] Anil Thadani."

Thadani, on his part, reiterates that upping prices during festive periods is a regular practice.

Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; May 4, 2019)

T-Series, which was once known for mainly churning out albums and dominating the music industry, has today become a prominent name in the business of filmmaking, too. Bhushan Kumar, head honcho of the company, talks to us about cracking the code in the movie business, producing films with big stars as well as backing fresh talent and small-budget movies, and the new generation that’s lured by remixes. Excerpts:

You have an interesting mix of as many as 15 films lined up this year. How involved are you in each of these projects?
Movies were one of my father’s biggest passions. He wanted the company to become a leading production house in the country. Like any other son, even I wanted to fulfil my father’s (Gulshan Kumar) dream after I took over around 21 years ago. It was my idea to move to films after taking over the company, which was primarily about music. I have tried my level best to achieve that and I think I have accomplished what I set out to do. I would say that Aashiqui 2 (2013) was the turning point for me. The film was a huge success and its music was a hit, too. Thereon, we moved on from making small films to joint ventures and multiple projects simultaneously with the simple idea that if I had to look after every project creatively, then I wouldn’t be able to make so many movies. And I didn’t want to compromise on the quality of the movies that I was backing. I am collaborating with people like Dinesh Vijan, Nikhil Advani, Luv Ranjan, Atul Agnihotri and Ajay Devgn. Having a good creative team is paramount. Money is important, but as a producer, I believe that it won’t be fair to the audience if we worked with only profits in mind. Besides, I personally watch every film to see what kind of content is working with the audience.

While it’s been proven time and again that content is what drives the audience to the theatres today, most of your films are headlined by big stars. At some level, do you think that getting big names for your projects adds more weightage to your films?
Gone are the days when people would flock to theatres after big names. Fortunately, I am getting to strike a balance between the two. So, while Bharat is headlined by Salman Khan, it’s a content-driven film as well. Likewise with Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, which stars Ajay Devgn. Also, no project is big or small today. The idea has to be big. Stree, which was made on a small budget of around Rs 17 crore, did great business. We are ensuring that we are either making a biopic, a real-life story, or a full-on masala action movie. The films that I am making with newcomers could probably be small budgeted projects, but they are high on content with a great business potential.

You are mostly into co-producing films. How does that model work for you?
Look, that’s the best model; otherwise, it would be impossible to make so many films. The success rate is high when you have different minds working together. If I have to make films on my own, I won’t be able to make more than two a year and the film might also suffer on a creative level. Filmmaking is a totally different ball game and it can’t be compared to the creativity that’s required for music. I can make a song in five minutes along with a music director and a lyricist, but when it comes to movies, the approach is very different.

Does your acumen for music come in handy as a producer?
My father had a tremendous sense of music. Every song that he picked connected with the audience. I have inherited that ear for music from him. I bought the rights of Aankh Marey and Tere Bin Nahi Lagda Dil Mera Dholna and told the team to recreate it for Simmba, as I knew both would become a hit. Rohit (Shetty) shot the two songs beautifully and they went on to become major hits. Similarly, my father would also suggest songs for several films and I am following in his footsteps. It applies to scripts as well; I might have gone wrong many a times, but we are getting there.

Today, music is incorporated in a film in a rather organic manner. Unlike earlier, songs are now a part of the narrative. How do you view this change?
For some films, music is really important, but then I have also produced a film like Baby, which had no scope for music. I incorporate songs in a film only if they don’t disturb the story. Earlier people would tell me, ‘Tum ye film kar rahe ho, usme aise gaanon ki jagah nahi hai’. But I want them to know that I am also ready to do a film without music. Aise hi nahi ki hero yahaan se bhaaga aur gaana chaalu ho gaya, or ye hua toh seedha Switzerland pohoch gaye. If there’s a romantic song, it comes organically and is placed depending on the narrative. There aren’t any dream-sequence songs in my films.

What do you have to say about the current music scenario with rap and pop becoming a rage? Since you’re a man of melody, was it difficult to adapt to these changes?
I am very happy. People are enjoying different kinds of music, which is opening different genres for creators like us. Earlier, a romantic or a dance track was supposed to be made in a particular way. But we are happy that new genres are opening up. If you observe, every song has a great melody apart from rap. Melody honi bohot zaroori hoti hai nahi toh woh gaana work nahi karta hai. So, melody never goes out of fashion, whether it’s a dance or a romantic track. Let me tell you, there is a great demand for sad romantic tracks in India. Once Shah Rukh Khan had mentioned in an interview, ‘Mujhe Bhushan ye bolta tha ki harr gaane mein dard hona chahiye, toh maine dance track mein bhi dard daal diya’. He was referring to the song Dard-E-Disco from Om Shanti Om (laughs!).

In one of your interviews, you mentioned that your father, Gulshan Kumar, would go to parties hosted by music composers just to understand what kind of music was working. How do you keep abreast?
Yes, he would do that. Today, you have everything on your mobile phone. I access the online platforms a lot. I keep track of new independent artistes, who put up their videos. If we like the song, we call the singer and buy the rights for it. At times, we adapt it to make songs in a similar zone. Most of the times, these artistes put up these videos expecting a big label to call them, take their song for a film and picturise it on a big star. That way their voice gets famous and, in turn, they get more shows.

As somebody who’s so musically inclined, what’s your view on recreating songs? Why aren’t we creating more original songs instead?
Recreating music is a tougher job than making new songs because you have to do it correctly. If you don’t make the song better than the original one, then it will be a wasted effort. Also, we make sure that most part of the song, which has been recreated, is new; that’s something you don’t realise while listening to it. For example, in Dilbar Dilbar, barring just two lines, seven lines are new — both in terms of the lyrics and the tune. So, for almost every song that’s recreated, we just take the hook line and then create new content for 90 per cent of it, including the tune, the sound and the lyrics. It is not that we are recreating tracks, because we are not getting new songs. We are purposely making it, because this is the demand of the market. We make a mix of recreated numbers and original songs for a film. The reason why these redux versions are working today is because people want to listen to them and that’s why they get millions of views. Also, what qualifies as a remix song for the older generation, is a new track for the youth. Many people from the industry criticise it, but the audience wants to listen to it. So, what's wrong in it?

What the progress on Mogul, a biopic on your father, which is an ambitious project for you?
That’s a very emotional and touchy subject for us, which we will definitely make. The only thing I can tell you right now is that we are starting the film in 2020. Everything else is under wraps. 

Actor to kick off ‘stylised, contemporary’ cop-thriller by the year-end
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 8, 2019)

Salman Khan, whose Eid release Bharat is an official Hindi remake of the South Korean film, Ode to My Father, is set to take on another adaptation. The 53-year-old actor’s next is an official Hindi remake of the 2015 Korean cop-thriller, Veteran.

“Several studios were looking to bring the critically-acclaimed film to Hindi cinema but Atul Agnihotri and the CEO of his banner, Nikhil Namit, bagged the rights from the Korean production house, CJ Entertainment. This film is right up Salman’s alley,” a source close to the development told Mirror, adding that the actor will play an upright cop. “But unlike Chulbul Pandey of Dabangg, this character will be more stylised and contemporary.”

There is also the character of a young millionaire who is involved in a crime syndicate. He is Salman’s nemesis in the film and the makers will approach a younger actor with a strong screen presence for the part. “It’s a good-versus-evil story, and this character challenges the cop throughout,” the source informed.

While some members of Atul’s team are busy wrapping up Bharat, others are working on the script. “It has the right blend of action, comedy and thrills,” the source asserted, adding that they want to take the film on the floors as soon as possible. "If everything goes as planned, it will kick off by the year-end.”

Veteran, a critical and commercial success, was directed by Ryoo Seungwan and featured Hwang Jung-min as the cop, with Yoo Ah-in as his playboy nemesis. The film is the fourth highest grossing Korean film of all time. Incidentally, the banner behind it also produced Ode To My Father.

Salman, is currently shooting for the Ali Abbas Zafar-directed Bharat at a suburban city studio. In April, he will flag off Dabangg 3, which will be shot in a 100-day start-tofinish schedule. 

Workout centre, complete with equipment from Salman Khan's personalised fitness range, constructed on Bharat set in Film City for superstar
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; January 15, 2019)

Irrespective of how busy Salman Khan is, his daily schedule will feature a rigorous workout session - the primary reason why he is fighting fit at 53. The superstar, who has moved lock, stock and barrel to Goregaon for the last schedule of Bharat, hasn't let the move play havoc with his ritual - mid-day has learnt that producers Atul Agnihotri and Nikhil Namit have specially built a 10,000 square feet gym in Film City to ensure Khan doesn't miss his workout regimen. What makes it all the more special is that the centre boasts of equipment from the actor's recently launched line of fitness gear.

For the uninitiated, Khan announced late last year that he will be launching his own range of fitness equipment. The superstar acquired 100 per cent manufacturing rights of Jerai Fitness - which designs and manufactures weight-resistance, exercise equipment - for the endeavour.

Says a source from the unit, "Since Salman did not want to travel to Goregaon from Bandra daily, he moved to a location near the set. He asked for a huge gym to be made on the set itself, with the equipment from his own line, Being Human. It's a state-of-the-art gym, which has all the latest workout gear hand-picked by Salman. It took a week to construct the gym."

The source adds that Khan has been working out twice a day to maintain a lean look for the Ali Abbas Zafar-directed venture. "The film sees him in five different looks as the story spans across decades. Currently, they are shooting the portions that see Salman's character in his younger days. So, he has to sport a thinner frame, and has been training there religiously."

Producer Nikhil Namit confirms, "We have constructed a 10,000 square feet gym, with equipment from Salman's gym line, on the sets of Bharat. The cast and crew use it, too."

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; November 11, 2018)

Ali Abbas Zafar is currently working round the clock to wrap up his ambitious project Bharat. Over 75 per cent of the film, which stars Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in the lead, is complete. The team is left with three small schedules — in Punjab, Delhi and Mumbai.

A source from the team tells us, “The film will span across seven decades and will also capture the evolution of India, along with its main leading character (played by Salman). The team had to film a few portions at the Wagah border, but it wasn’t feasible for security reasons.” So, for the Punjab leg of the shoot, the team has built a gigantic set. “Producer Atul Agnihotri and Ali have envisioned the film in a certain way and they are making sure it looks like a visual extravaganza. They have recreated the Wagah border in Ludhiana where Salman and Katrina will be shooting for the next eight days, starting today.”

Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 6, 2018)

The finale of Dus Ka Dum 3 is yet to be aired, but Salman Khan has already moved on to his other TV show, Bigg Boss. The superstar will host the 12th season of the reality show, which was launched in Goa. Ask him if it was because he was shooting for his film in the sun-kissed beach city that the show was unveiled there and he says he is only chilling there! “Every time the show is launched either in a studio or at a hangar, so this time we wanted it to be different,” he shares. Here, he talks about what brings him back to the show, what went wrong with Dus Ka Dum, and Priyanka Chopra not doing Bharat.

What brings you back to host Bigg Boss consecutively for nine years?
I find it interesting to watch people’s behaviour in the house, and when I see something going wrong, I get involved in it, unlike the other hosts who play it right. Earlier in my life, a lot of things have gone wrong, takleef toh hoti hai. Not only for the person, but even the parents go through a lot of trouble and pain. That’s the reason, when things go wrong in the Bigg Boss house, I tell them to not get into that space. But, honestly, this is where our country is going. If they do something that is not in our culture or go overboard then I step in for their sake. If those under the cameras inside the house are okay with behaving like that (badly) and people are watching them making it one of the highest-rated shows, obviously everyone is enjoying it.

Has the show been advanced this year because you will get busy with your film shoots later?
It has nothing to do with my film schedules or dates. The channel wanted the show to get over before December so that the contestants can be free to celebrate the New Year.

This time the theme is jodis. Will we see anyone co-hosting with you later?
No. But when Katrina (Kaif) got to know that the show will have jodis, she said she wanted to host with me! But she said that in jest.

You returned as the host of Dus Ka Dum after nine years, but it did not live up to the expectations. What went wrong?
What happened was we slotted the show on Monday-Tuesday, but nobody knew that it was being telecast. Wahan thodasa maar kha gaye. Even I had thought it was a brilliant idea to slot it on those days because on weekends people have several things to do. I thought ki log ghar baithke dekh sakte hain at the beginning of the week. Lekin that didn’t happen because the awareness was not there. Even Atul’s (Agnihotri) mother did not know about it. When the show was in its fourth week, she asked me when was it starting. Only when I told her (Atul Agnihotri’s mother) it had already begun that she started watching it... in the fourth week. The makers got to know something was amiss in the second or third week and they started checking. They decided to shift it to Saturday-Sunday, which was much riskier. But they got their promotions correct this time, even I created awareness about it in the show and it started rating 1.7-1.8.

Will you be hosting the next season?
Yes, why not?

Earlier at the press conference, you joked that one person who will not go into the Bigg Boss house will be Priyanka (Chopra). Has it got something with her not doing Bharat?
(Laughs) We were destroyed that she is not doing Bharat, we were devastated (he says placing his hand on his heart with a impish smile), but we had to handle it, and we did. (On a serious note) No, she had a genuine problem at that point of time, but it’s just that we should have known it slightly earlier. But I am sure it’s okay, hope that film (with Chirs Pratt) works out for her. She has got engaged and I am really happy. Arpita (Khan Sharma, his sister) had gone for the engagement. Now, we have Katrina in Bharat, she is looking beautiful and is working hard. But main waise dalte rehta hoon (about Priyanka), nahi toh boring ho jaata hai (smiles).

Revealing that Katrina Kaif was the original choice for period drama until Priyanka Chopra evinced interest, Salman Khan on how he harbours no hard feelings over her sudden exit
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; September 5, 2018)

To beat the heat in Goa, Salman Khan swapped his shirt for a white vest. That is not to imply that the superstar compromised on his style at the launch of Bigg Boss 12; what he lacked in the sartorial department, he made up for by his grand entry - Khan arrived at the event in a motor boat amid cheers from his fans.

As he sat down for a chat with mid-day, we addressed the inevitable: Priyanka Chopra's abrupt exit from his period drama, Bharat. "It was sweet of her to tell us five days before the shoot that she couldn't do Bharat," began Khan, indicating that it was not just his muscles on display, but his dry humour too. "I'm glad Katrina is part of the film. She was Atul's [Agnihotri, producer] first choice. But Priyanka called Ali [Abbas Zafar, director] and said she wanted to do Bharat, so we considered her."

While it was initially believed that Chopra walked out of the film to get engaged to boyfriend Nick Jonas, it was later learnt that she had chosen Cowboy Ninja Viking opposite Chris Pratt over the Khan starrer. However, days later, the makers announced that the Hollywood project was infinitely delayed. Khan, on his part, says, "I hope the other movie that she has signed, works out. Now that she is engaged, we are happy for her. I hope she gets married soon, has children and lives happily ever after."

Before he begins the next schedule of Bharat, Khan will honour his small screen commitment. Having been the face of nine of the 12 seasons of Bigg Boss, he insists that hosting the show is no mean feat. "I don't know why certain contestants behave the way they do. Maybe it's because of the environment. I think the Bigg Boss house is the most difficult place to be in. And I am somebody who has even been to jail."

He also realises that many seek to boost their career through the show, "Some people get into the house to get work. But how will anyone hire them for a job, if they behave in an unruly manner in the house?"

Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 29, 2018)

After ace comedian Sunil Grover, the makers of Ali Abbas Zafar’s Salman Khan-starrer Bharat have roped in Aasif Sheikh, popularly known as Vibhuti Narayan Mishra from the TV show Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai for a pivotal role. Aasif has earlier worked with Salman in Karan Arjun, Bandhan, Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa, Auzaar and Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar.

“I have only three friends, and Atul (Agnihotri, Bharat producer) is one of them, so I was more than happy to be a part of this film. Also, I really like Ali Abbas Zafar as a director and I can’t wait to collaborate with Salman again. I am playing his sister’s husband in the film who always delivers these one-liners and there is a big time span that we cover together. I have known Salman since his Maine Pyar Kiya days. He is a very special person,” says Aasif, adding that he has been discussing his character with Ali to make it more interesting. “I will not disappoint you,” he promises.

Aasif was last seen in Kader Kashmiri’s 2016 film Aman Ke Farishtey. Prod him on why he hasn’t been taking up more films and he says, “I have been getting offers, but something should interest me, and my focus presently is on my TV show. It caters to people from ages 4 to 80. In fact, just a few days ago, while I was waiting in my car for the signal to turn green, a young boy of about four from the car next to mine called out to me by my character’s name — Vibhu. The show has given me fame, name and money too and I don’t want to lose out on it for just anything. However, Bharat is special, and I can’t wait to start work on it,” smiles Aasif, sharing one of the memorable incidents while working with Salman on a previous film.

“Whenever I shoot with him, I invariably end up in his vanity van for a chat. I remember one day, a big star had come to meet Salman, so I told him I’ll go out, but he insisted that I stay put as I am his friend too. He is a great human being and hasn’t changed at all over the years,” says Aasif.

Filmmaker confirms that the actress has given the nod to the Eid 2019 release; period-drama marks PeeCee’s return to B’wood after 2 yrs
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 17, 2018)

It’s official! In one of the biggest casting coups of the year, Priyanka Chopra will be paired with Salman Khan in Ali Abbas Zafar’s period drama Bharat. Putting an end to weeks of speculation, Ali told Mirror, “Bharat is Priyanka’s homecoming to Bollywood after having proved herself as a performer in a global TV show, Quantico, and in Hollywood. Bharat is rooted in India and its culture, spans over seven decades and travels across the world. Priyanka is the biggest Indian artist globally today and a perfect fit for the film as she brings to the table her incredible talent and international appeal.”

The young director who has delivered two back-to-back top grossers, travelled to New York recently with the film’s producer Atul Agnihotri to give Priyanka a narration. “She loved the script and immediately gave her nod. Salman and Priyanka will be teaming up after 10 years, making the association all the more special,” says a source. They were earlier seen in David Dhawan’s romcom, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), Nikkhil Advani’s anthology, Salaam-e-Ishq (2007) and Rumi Jaffrey’s fantasy-comedy God Tussi Great Ho (2008).

Ali who directed Priyanka four years ago in Gunday says jubilantly, “Bharat is a mature, subtle love story and her character is the soul of the film. She stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Salman in his journey and is the catalyst who triggers what will be a turning point in the plot.” The director started his prep in London before travelling on to Spain, Poland, Portugal, Malta and Bulgaria.

Salman meanwhile is wrapping up Ramesh Taurani’s action-thriller, Race 3, which opens this Eid. Bharat has already booked Eid 2019 and takes off in July. The film is an official adaptation of the 2014 South Korean drama, Ode To My Father, which depicted modern Korean history from the 1950s to the present day through the life of an ordinary man and events such as the Hungnam Evacuation, and the Vietnam war.

“That film is just the starting point for ours. Bharat starts in 1947 and ends in 2000. It is the journey of a country and also a person, both of whom go by the name of Bharat. We are very happy to welcome Priyanka to the Bharat family. We couldn’t have asked for anyone better to play the role,” Atul informed.

In the film, Salman sports five different looks and a crucial part of his journey will showcase him in his late 20s.

Co-producer Bhushan Kumar says, “We are very happy that the best of talents are coming together. It is a beautiful story.”

Priyanka, last seen in a Hindi film as a punch ‘em cop in Prakash Jha’s hard-hitting Jai Gangaajal two years ago, is equally gung-ho. “I’m looking forward to working with Salman and Ali after a considerable time. I’ve learnt a lot from them during our previous collaborations and I am excited to see what this one has to offer. I’m also looking forward to working with Atul, Alvira and the entire team. To all my well-wishers who have been patient and supportive, thank you for your constant support and I’ll see you at the movies,” she says.

Actor will foot Pooja Dadwal’s medical bills; the actress, suffering from TB, has been abandoned by her father, husband but has got assistance from CINTAA, Ravi Kishan
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 26, 2018)

After dialogue and screenplay writer K K Sinha swept all the awards for his Nana Patekar-starrer, Krantiveer, he decided to turn director with another powerful script. Veergati co-produced by his writer-friend Babubhai Latiwala, had Salman Khan in the lead, playing a cynical, vengeful gambler Ajay. Keeping him company were Divya Dutta, Himani Shivpuri, Farida Jalal and Rohini Hattangadi. Atul Agnihotri, who married Salman’s sister, Alvira, around the film’s release in 1995, played second lead. Sinha launched a new face, 21-year-old Pooja Dadwal, opposite Atul’s Sulokh.

“Twenty-three years later, the once chulbuli and confident Pooja is unrecognisable. She has lost almost 25 kgs as she lies bed-ridden at a tuberculosis hospital in Sewri, abandoned by her father and her husband. When I connected with her through mutual friends, she was penniless and distraught,” Veergati’s chief assistant director, Arshad Siddiqui, tells Mirror.

Pooja, 44, was diagnosed with tuberculosis and other lung ailments six months ago. She still finds it difficult to speak clearly and no longer uses a mobile phone. “Some of my friends have pulled me out of my misery and are urging me to bounce back up. Everybody knows how expensive medical treatment is. I could not afford a private hospital and government hospitals are so over-crowded. Through some friends, I sent out a video message to several industry personalities requesting them for help to pay for my treatment. I don’t want the money for myself, I know once I’m able to work, I will be able to fend for myself,” she says with difficulty.

Arshad recalls that three years after she debuted in Veergati, he had bumped into Pooja at a Mumbai studio and she had complained that she wasn’t getting good roles despite the film celebrating a 100-day run. “The two releases that followed didn’t do well and Pooja always rued that while Veergati made her a popular face, it did not get her any mileage,” he says.

Financially stressed, the actress ended up accepting smaller roles in TV serials and occasionally worked at a casino in Goa. After a few years, even the TV jobs faded away, but always resilient, Pooja bounced back in 2001 with Aslam Azmi’s Inteqam. But roles were few and far between. Then, she fell ill, was left at the hospital and is in bad shape today.

Wondering how to settle her bills, Pooja recalls to her friends, how during the shooting of Veergati Salman was told that an old woman had been waiting outside since he had arrived, wanting to meet him.The actor immediately invited her inside and after hearing her out, asked his chauffeur to bring a bag of clothes and money from his car which he handed to her and sent her home happy. This was decades before he became known for his charitable causes.

With that incident playing on her mind, Pooja wrote to Atul and Alvira, and sent many messages to Salman begging for help. The actor was in Pune on his Da-Bangg The Tour over the weekend when he learnt about Pooja’s plight and immediately asked his team to arrange for funds and a care package. She received two bags of clothes and other gifts from Salman, along with the assurance that he would be footing all her medical bills henceforth.

Financial help has also come from the Cine and Television Artistes’ Association (CINTAA), which will be sending her monthly cheques, as well as from Bhojpuri and Hindi film actor Ravi Kishan.

“Finally, I will be moving to a private hospital and I hope that I will get back on my feet soon. At least now, after weeks I will be able to afford a cup of tea thanks to all these good people,” she said.


Veergati actress Pooja Dadwal at Sewri’s tuberculosis hospital