Showing posts with label Dostana 2. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dostana 2. Show all posts
Advait Chandan steps away from Vikrant Massey-Lakshya’s Dostana 2
9:47 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 8, 2026)
The long-delayed Dostana 2 appears to have hit another roadblock. According to a recent report, filmmaker Advait Chandan has stepped away from the project, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the sequel to the 2008 film Dostana.
A report by Variety India claims that Advait exited the film due to creative differences with the makers, although there has been no official confirmation from the makers yet. The report adds that the parting was amicable.
The sequel was announced by Dharma Productions in 2019 with Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya in the lead. Shooting had commenced in Goa but production came to a halt in 2021 amid a widely reported fallout between producer Karan Johar and Kartik.
Advait, best known for directing Secret Superstar (2017) and Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), came on board after the project’s original director, Collin D’Cunha, exited the film. Earlier reports in February had suggested that Advait would helm the revamped version of Dostana 2, with Vikrant Massey, Lakshya and former Miss India World Sini Shetty expected to headline the cast.
Dostana 2 revival on cards with Vikrant Massey, Lakshya likely to lead
10:25 AM
Sources say Dostana 2, shelved after Kartik Aaryan’s exit, to be revived with Lakshya; Vikrant Massey frontrunner for the parallel lead
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 6, 2025)
Dostana 2, which was shelved in 2021 after a falling-out between producer Karan Johar and actor Kartik Aaryan, seems to be back on the table. This time, the casting may surprise you. While original choice Aaryan has moved on to another project, Naagzilla, under the same banner, sources close to the development reveal that Lakshya continues to be part of Dostana 2’s cast. We’ve heard that Vikrant Massey is now the frontrunner to play the parallel lead.
In 2019, Dostana 2 was announced with Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Lakshya. However, after 21 days of shoot, Johar announced that Aaryan had exited the rom-com due to “creative differences”, and the project was eventually shelved. Lakshya went on to make his Bollywood debut with Kill (2023).
“As initial talk about reviving the rom-com began in the production house, retaining Lakshya was a no-brainer,” says an insider. Dostana is known for its bromance, and the makers wanted a fresh jodi for the sequel. Massey, who is said to have bagged Don 3, apparently is a strong contender. The insider adds, “He is the top choice if the makers take Dostana 2 forward. The team wants actors with chemistry and gravitas. Vikrant fits that brief.”
We’ve also learnt that the script will undergo changes. If things work out, the rom-com will be a 2026 offering.
Bedhadak setback was easier as I had already been through the disappointment with Dostana 2-Lakshya
10:36 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; February 18, 2025)
After a successful career in television that ran for over half a decade with shows like Porus and Adhuri Kahaani Hamari, Lakshya decided to take a break and explore the big screen. He faced roadblocks along the way - what was supposed to be his big debut, Dostana 2, was shelved after a few days of shooting and his next, Bedhadak, also didn’t take off. But Lakshya didn’t give up, he then went for the big kill. In a chat with us, he talks about his big screen debut Kill, the disappointments he faced at the start and how that’s changed him as a human.
‘There was a point where I thought main hi panauti hoon’
Reflecting on the early setbacks, Lakshya, shares how he handled the challenges. “I believe in Harivansh Rai Bachchan’s lines - ‘Hua toh achcha, na hua toh aur bhi achcha.’ I gave it my best, and I was hopeful and confident. Yes, I faced setbacks, and there was a lot of confusion about what would happen next. However, when Dostana 2 was cancelled, Karan Johar sir called me on the same day to support me. So, taking the setback with Bedhadak was easier because I had already been through the disappointment with Dostana 2. I had prepared myself for it (laughs). There was a point where I thought ki main hi panauti hoon because mere waje se filmay band ho jaati hai. Finally, when I heard the narration for Kill (released last year), I felt a deep sense of excitement. People always talk about patience and perseverance in Bollywood, and it’s true. If you maintain that and give it some time, you’ll eventually get to where you belong,” Lakshya explains.
‘When I was on TV, I became a bit arrogant’
After enjoying popularity as a television actor, when Lakshya struggled in films, the experience only mellowed him down as a human.
The actor who has a bunch of interesting projects coming up shared, “When I was doing TV, I had become a little arrogant. Awareness nahi tha na. Coming from Delhi, getting a show, making money and getting recognized, made me a little full of myself. But the break and setbacks afterward were signs from God, saying, ‘Do you think you’ve arrived? Relax and reflect!’ So, the two rejections I faced helped me shed that arrogance. Also, when you play a king in a show like Porus, you start picking up those traits. While doing TV, I got caught in a loop, and I lost touch with reality. Coming into movies made me realize that there’s much more to achieve, and you’re not everything.”
‘I feel happy when others succeed and move ahead’
He earned praise for his performance in action thriller Kill, and while the film had a slow start at the box office, it later gained traction due to word of mouth and featured international film festivals. The film also featured Raghav Juyal who, too, received a lot of attention for his performance.
Ask him if there was any moment of insecurity or fear of being overshadowed by his co-actor, and he says, “I feel happy when others succeed and move ahead. The more Raghav grows, the more I will too. Everyone has their own destiny. The kind of roles he gets, I won’t get and vice versa. We’re both different as actors. I’m not here to compete. What I really like about him is that he doesn’t take himself too seriously. He’s like water—he just flows. He’s one of my closest friends in the city. During Kill, we only had a few scenes together, but every time he appeared on screen, I’d think, ‘This is some next-level work.’ He had all the funny lines and cool dialogues. I was happy with my own action scenes. My personal favourite in the film is Fani (Rahgav’s character), even more than my own character.”
Dostana 2 actor Lakshya Lalwani is frontrunner for Aryan Khan’s maiden web series?
9:53 AM
Sources say Lakshya, who was to foray into movies alongside Kartik in Dostana 2, is frontrunner for Aryan Khan’s maiden web series
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 25, 2023)
All eyes have been on Aryan Khan ever since news of his directorial debut started circulating earlier this year. The web series, the working title of which is reportedly Stardom, is among the most awaited B-Town projects. The first-time director has long been scouting for the lead, with over 800 people having auditioned for it. Now, we hear that Khan may have found his leading man in Lakshya Lalwani.
Sources say that the six-part series, which is set against the backdrop of the Hindi film industry, was originally scheduled to go on floors this month. However, it has been pushed by a few weeks.
A source reveals, “The casting process took long. Aryan is clear about the kind of actor he wants. Those who showed promise in the initial rounds, were made to undergo six to eight rounds of audition, including screen tests and in-person. Lakshya is the frontrunner. Three more actors will be locked by the weekend.”
Lalwani featured in some television shows, before catching everyone’s attention with his titular role in Porus. In 2019, he bagged Karan Johar’s Dostana 2 — also starring Kartik Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor — that was to mark his Bollywood debut. However, the film was put on the backburner in 2021, after which Lalwani was roped in for Johar’s Bedhadak. The drama has yet to roll.
Hatchet buried? Kartik Aaryan and Karan Johar spotted after work meeting
8:20 AM
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 11, 2023)
Actor Kartik Aaryan and filmmaker Karan Johar are back to making headlines. On Sunday, they were seen exiting the same building in Mumbai, which has led to speculation about whether they had a meeting and reconciled after their reported fallout that resulted in the halt of the production of Dostana 2 two years ago.
A source confirms, saying, “They indeed had a meeting after a long time and are ready to move on from the things that are being projected about their relationship. It was an hour-long meeting with lots of executives, but it is not yet clear if they are working together or not. Kartik left the office one hour after Karan left the premises. They are being very secretive about the details of the meeting inside.”
Another insider, though happy about this new development, doesn’t think that “Kartik and Karan are ready to work with each other after whatever happened last time. However, only time will tell if things are being worked upon”.
Fans got excited too! ”When is the big announcement?” “Dostana 2?” asked one, while another wrote: “@karanjohar Please cast @kartikaaryan and @saraalikhan95 together. We’re dying to see them together, and only you can make this happen”.
Is Dostana 2 back on track with Akshay Kumar?
8:27 AM
Sources say script of Dostana 2 reworked as Akshay joins Janhvi-Laksh starrer; film to roll by year-end
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 18, 2022)
Many wondered about the fate of Dostana 2 after producer Karan Johar, last year, announced that Kartik Aaryan had been dropped from the comedy amid rumours of “unprofessional behaviour”. The actor had shot for almost 30 days at the time. Over a year on, both parties have made significant development on their respective fronts. While Aaryan is enjoying a runaway hit in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, one hears that Johar has put Dostana 2 back on track. Akshay Kumar has apparently been roped in for the Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya Lalwani-starrer.
With the casting change, the team has had to rework the script of Collin D’Cunha’s directorial venture. A source says, “With Akshay coming on board, the film had to be scaled up in terms of vision. Many scenes were rewritten, keeping his character in mind. The final scripting was completed recently.”
The superstar will first shoot for the C Sankaran Nair biopic, after which he will turn his attention to Dostana 2. The source adds, “The makers are keen to take it on floors by November. A chunk of the comedy will be shot in London, where it was originally set.”
Kartik Aaryan not replaced by Ayushmann Khurrana in Aanand L Rai’s next project
8:07 AM
Contrary to various reports that suggested that he was ousted, the filmmaker clarified that the rumours are ‘baseless’
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; June 2, 2021)
Kartik Aaryan has been in the news lately, following his exit from Dostana 2 and alleged fallout with Dharma Productions over creative differences. Last week it was reported that Kartik lost out on another big project — Red Chillies Entertainment’s Freddy, to be directed by Ajay Bahl, and on Monday, it was reported that he was replaced by Ayushmann Khurrana in Aanand L Rai’s next production. There have been various theories doing the rounds online on Kartik’s sudden exit from various projects since then.
On Dostana’s front, both parties maintained a dignified silence, barring a Dharma statement that said, ‘Dostana 2 will be recast due to professional circumstances’. Red Chillies chose not to comment on Freddy. However, Rai was quick to deny the story and called it ‘baseless rumours’. He clarified that they had met Kartik for a different film and are still in talks. In a statement, he said, “We have taken another film to Ayushmann and this is a complete mix up.”
About the recent turn of events, an industry insider told Bombay Times, “Kartik parted ways with Red Chillies’ Freddy in January. Things didn’t work out. There was no bad blood. That film hasn’t taken off yet and the makers themselves wanted changes in the script and director Ajay Bahl was clear that he won’t make any. No one has been signed for it, so Kartik saying no to being cast alongside Katrina Kaif is bizarre. Why are these stories coming out now?” While the production house hasn’t commented yet, a source clarified, “Yes, Kartik has returned the money and the production house has no issues with him. The film will take off this year with Bahl, but they haven’t cast anyone yet.”
As far as Rai is concerned, the insider adds, “He had narrated a different story to Kartik, which he wasn’t excited about. It’s common for directors to pitch multiple stories to actors and then brainstorm on what they want to make. Nothing concrete happened in that meeting. The story offered to Ayushmann was totally different, so there is no question of Kartik being replaced.”
Kartik’s upcoming line-up has Ram Madhvani’s Dhamaka, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 with Anees Bazmee, Hansal Mehta’s next and Sajid Nadiadwala’s upcoming love story.
It’s no longer about finishing Dostana 2; it’s about re shooting it from scratch-Abhishek Banerjee
8:16 AM
Paatal Lok star Abhishek Banerjee, who shot for 15 days of Dostana 2, says the film’s schedule lies uncertain after Kartik Aaryan is dropped from comedy
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; May 1, 2021)
In these trying times, director Amar Kaushik managed to shoot Bhediya, starring Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon, without any hiccups. Abhishek Banerjee, who plays a supporting role in the horror-comedy, wonders whether the team would have been able to pull off this feat in any state other than Arunachal Pradesh. “The state has not seen a drastic surge in Coronavirus cases. It’s one of the safest places [in the country] probably because of the way people have lent their lives to nature and have [encouraged] forestation. If the film was not shot in Arunachal Pradesh, I don’t know how safe we would have felt,” says the Paatal Lok actor, who is in Goa after having wrapped up the film.
Besides his upcoming projects, Banerjee will have to begin work anew on Dostana 2, which became a bone of contention between Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan. Recently, the producer announced that the leading man was dropped from the comedy, amid rumours of his “unprofessional behaviour” and “creative differences”.
Banerjee, who has a pivotal role in the Janhvi Kapoor and Laksh Lalwani-starrer, says, “I had shot for about 15 days. I had no clue about [Aaryan’s exit], and got to know only after I read the reports. I don’t know when we’ll begin shooting because now, it’s no longer about finishing the film; it’s about re-shooting it [from scratch]. I am guessing the film won’t roll anytime soon. [The production house] has informed all the actors involved that it will kick off the project when the time is right.”
Kartik Aaryan ousted from Dostana 2
7:59 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (April 17, 2021)
Kartik Aaryan will no longer be a part of director Collin D’Cunha’s Dostana 2, which is being produced by Karan Johar’s banner. While Dostana (2008) featured John Abraham, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Abhishek Bachchan, the sequel was to be headlined by Kartik, Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya (TV actor, who will be making his debut on the silver screen with this film). The cast of the movie had started the first schedule almost a year ago and had shot for 20 days.
Industry sources say that Kartik had some creative differences with the makers over the film’s script and wasn’t providing them with the dates that were required to complete the shoot. Sources claim that due to the actor’s unprofessional behaviour, the makers will have to bear loses to the tune of Rs. 20 crore. On the personal front, there was buzz that Kartik was dating his co-star Janhvi. In fact, in January this year, the two along with Janhvi’s sister Khushi Kapoor were spotted holidaying in Goa. Post that, according to sources, things seem to have changed between the two of them. However, neither has spoken about it.
Confirming the news of Kartik being replaced in the film, Dharma Productions released a statement yesterday, which read, “Due to professional reasons, on which we have decided to maintain a dignified silence — we will be recasting Dostana 2, directed by Collin D’Cunha. Please wait for the official announcement soon.” We reached out to Kartik’s team, but there was no response till the time of going to press.
Someone said I didn’t want to play a gay character?-Rajkummar Rao
8:13 AM
Rumoured to play homosexual character in Badhaai Do, Rajkummar Rao dismisses talk of turning down Dostana 2 because of its central theme
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; March 18, 2021)
If Ayushmann Khurrana’s Badhaai Ho (2018) sparked a dialogue about sexual desire of those in the autumn of their lives, its sequel Badhaai Do will address another important subject through leads Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar. The actors recently wrapped up the shoot of the Harshvardhan Kulkarni-directed film in north India.
Rao, who plays a cop on screen nine years after Talaash (2012), says his character’s arc is different from his role in the Aamir Khan-starrer. “Talaash was a supporting part, where I played a regular Mumbai cop. Here, a lot more is attached to my character. There are things happening in his personal life that form the film’s [crux],” he says.
The upcoming comedy apparently explores the concept of lavender marriage — a union undertaken by individuals to hide their sexual orientation in a society that unfortunately stigmatises homosexuality. Rao playing a homosexual character in the movie contradicts rumours that he had previously turned down director Collin D’Cunha’s Dostana 2 because he was skittish about essaying a gay character on screen.
“Someone said I didn’t want to play a gay character?” he asks, surprised, before adding that he has constantly strived to push the envelope with his movies. “I would love to play all kinds of roles and be part of different stories. I have played a goofball, a terrorist, a lawyer and so on. There’s no part I will decline. Right now, I am so excited about my line-up of movies.”
Dostana 2 director Collin DCunha exploring new location for the shoot?
8:30 AM
After London stint of Dostana 2 was called off last year, sources say upcoming UK schedule deferred again due to recent lockdown
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; January 21, 2021)
After the Coronavirus pandemic disrupted their plans to shoot in the United Kingdom last March, the cast and crew of Dostana 2 were to head to London this month for the third and final schedule. Considering it was to be an extensive shoot, the production team had taken dates from lead actors Kartik Aaryan, Janhvi Kapoor and Laksh Lalwani as early as last October. However, looks like second time is not the charm — the stint stands deferred again as the UK has gone into a lockdown to curb the spread of the new strain of the virus.
A source says, “Shooting in the UK looks difficult in the near future. So, the producers and director Collin D’Cunha are exploring whether they can change the location altogether. While Janhvi is currently filming Good Luck Jerry, Kartik is prepping for his next. The final call on the next schedule of Dostana 2 will be taken by the month-end.” The Karan Johar-backed romance comedy is a standalone sequel to the 2008 hit of the same name.
mid-day reached out to Dharma Productions, which remained unavailable for comment
Soon there will be a bottleneck in the industry as all start work in full speed-Abhishek Banerjee
8:04 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 14, 2021)
Abhishek Banerjee has hit the ground running this year. He shot for a few projects in 2020 and will be shooting a new film next month. Later the actor will wrap up portions of Dostana 2 and shoot for Rashmi Rocket as well.
“We are an industry of workaholics and we love to be at work daily, even if not to shoot, discussing ideas, scripts, casting, etc. As shootings will gain momentum this year, there will be too many shoots that might start together. Sab bhookhe hain ab kaam ke liye. Soon, there will be a bottleneck in the industry as everyone would want to start working in full speed after the standstill. There is so much to do every day. I will have as many as four releases this year,” says the Paatal Lok actor.
The last year, Banerjee, 32, admits, was not just about Coronavirus lockdown and releases on OTT for him, but also about fitness. “I was never into fitness but in 2020, I focused on my physical health. With time on hand during the lockdown, I tried yoga and workouts. Later, I went to Goa for a holiday and began enjoying runs on the beaches. I had never lived a lifestyle like that. My wife is a fitness enthusiast and seeing her working out daily, and being disciplined about workouts rubbed off on me,” he shares.
Happy about this development, he adds, “Regular workouts changed a lot in me as I felt more active and energetic. My other takeaway has been to be happy in less, in the basic things of life. I visited my parent’s home last month, which I used to feel is small, but this time, it felt big. These small things changed. We all had lost that somewhere in our daily rush.”
These debutants will grace the screen in 2021/2022
8:20 AM
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 4, 2021)
Every year, Bollywood is deluged by talented new actors. But 2020 was an unusual year and many actors’ dream of their much-awaited debuts remained unfulfilled. Now, with things slowly getting back on track and films slated for release on the big screen, many up-and-coming talents are set to be introduced in tinseltown. Here is an introduction of all those who are set to enter the Hindi film industry this year.
Manushi Chhillar
(first from top) The former Miss World is making her acting debut with period film, Prithviraj. She will be seen alongside Akshay Kumar in the film directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi and which is based on the life or Prithviraj Chauhan. She is playing the role of Prithviraj’s love interest Sanyogita in the period drama.
Ajey Nagar
(second from top) He enjoys massive popularity in the online space, and is known to his army of fans by the name CarryMinati. He is now all set to enter Bollywood with Ajay Devgn- Amitabh Bachchan starrer MayDay.
Shalini Pandey
(third from top) The actor, who rose to fame after starring in Telugu film, Arjun Reddy, is all set to step into the Hindi film industry with Ranveer Singh starrer Jayeshbhai Jordaar. The film is being helmed by debutant writer-director Divyang Thakkar.
Ahan Shetty
(fourth from top) The son of Suniel Shetty is all set to make his presence felt on the silver screen with Tadap. The Milan Luthria-ditected film is the remake of 2018 Telugu film RX 100 and also stars Tara Sutaria.
Lakshya
(extreme right) The TV actor, known for his shows Adhuri Kahani Humari, Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya, Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil and Porus, is making his entry in Bollywood with Dostana 2. The Karan Johar-prodoced film also stars Kartik Aaryan and Janhavi Kapoor.
Isabelle Kaif
(right; on top) After years of speculation, the younger sister of actor Katrina Kaif is finally being launched by Salman Khan in Kwatha opposite Aayush Sharma. Isabelle She had made her acting debut in a 2014 film called Dr. Cabbie starring Kunal Nayyar, Vinay Virmani, and Adrianne Palicki. She also played a small role in this Indo-Canadian production co-produced by Salman Khan.
Ahaan Panday
The cousin of actor Ananya Panday is reported to make his debut this year with a superhero film which stars Ajay Devgn. The film being directed by Shiv Rawail, grandson of the legendary H.S. Rawail and son of Rahul Rawail, is being planned as a franchise with Pandey as a superhero and Devgn as a super-villain.
Krystle DSouza
(middle; below) The TV actor known for her shows Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, Ek Nayi Pehchaan and Brahmarakshas, is graduating to films and will be seen in Chehre. The Rumi Jaffery-directed film also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Emraan Hashmi, and Rhea Chakraborty.
Sharvari
The actor, who was seen in web series ‘The Forgotten Army- Azaadi Ke Liye, is making her Bollywood debut with Bunty Aur Babli 2. Sharvari will be paired opposite Siddhant Chaturvedi in Bunty Aur Babli 2, which revolves around two con couples - Siddhant-Sharvari, and Rani Mukerji-Saif Ali Khan. The sequel will take a leap of 10 years, from where the original ended.
Rashmika Mandanna
(extreme right) The actor has starred in Telugu, Kannada and Tamil films, is headed the Hindi film industry way. She will be seen in Mission Majnu. The film stars Sidharth Malhotra as a RAW agent.
Samantha Akkineni
The actor, who works in Tamil and Telugu films, will be entering the Hindi entertainment industry with web show Family Man season 2 with Manoj Bajpaayee, Priyamani, and Sharad Kelkar.
The Santa in my life are actually both my parents-Janhvi Kapoor
9:28 PM
The actor talks about having a professionally amazing 2020, Christmas and the Santa(s) in her life
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 25, 2020)
She’s fun, driven, and is making her presence felt in the industry one film at a time. After making a successful debut in Bollywood with Dhadak (2018), actor Janhvi Kapoor surprised everyone with a web anthology, Ghost Stories. And then came Gunjan Saxena — The Kargil Girl, which was appreciated by audiences and critics alike. Lined up next for the actor are biggies such as Dostana 2, Takht and RoohiAfzana. Christmas this time is a merrier and sweeter affair for this 23-year-old. We get talking about the year so far and the festival:
The year 2020 was like Santa giving you your presents early, with both Ghost Stories and Gunjan Saxena garnering appreciation. How would you sum it up?
It was a huge learning experience for me. Rather than the outcome of these projects, it’s in the experience of making them, and getting the opportunity to shoot. There’s Dostana 2 and Takht next... a lot of work happening. To be able to do that is the best phase in my life. Working with different stars and characters has been fruitful.
Were you prepared for a direct to OTT release of Gunjan, since theatres had shut down due to the Coronavirus crisis?
I wasn’t, as while making it we didn’t anticipate an OTT release at all. But given the circumstances, it has really taught me the power and reach of OTT. In this scenario, it’s been a blessing. The idea of making a film is for it to reach audiences For that, I am thankful that at least, my work reached them, and my hard work was appreciated.
What’s your fondest childhood memory of Christmas?
I used to be obsessed with Christmas as a child. I remember, in school, we always had this carnival that the students would put together. It would be in the middle of our school turf. My best friend and I would always bully each other. On one Christmas, I had cut his hair earlier in the day to irritate him, so he threw me in the inflatable pool right in the middle of the Christmas carnival, in front of everyone! Then we got into a lot of trouble. But that was always a thing to look forward to.
Who would you call the Santa in your life? What’s the best present you got from them?
The Santa in my life are actually both my parents (Boney Kapoor and late Sridevi). They have given me a lot of love, support, encouragement, and reassurance. Those are the best gifts. They have equipped me and Khushi (sister) with a lot of security, and love, enough for us to never harbour bitter feelings.
What gift are you wishing for from Santa this time?
Work! Lots and lots of amazing work, and opportunities to learn. I want more work.
I’m never shedding the lover boy image. It’s a privilege that doesn’t trouble me-Kartik Aaryan
8:15 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; December 16, 2020)
Gwalior boy Kartik Aaryan has carved a niche for himself in Bollywood in a relatively short span of time. The actor’s unkempt voluminous hair, boyish smile and ability to mouth monologues in romcoms that revolve around the battle of the sexes catapulted him to stardom. His upcoming thriller Dhamaka will see him breaking away from the ‘Kartik Aaryan brand of cinema’, or so we believe. In an exclusive chat with Bombay Times, the actor opens up on life, movies and how the year changed him as a person.
In our last interaction, you said you love to be a ‘massy hero’. With the OTT boom and the kind of movies that are being made today, are you slowly inching towards what is perhaps more experimental or unconventional? Has this year changed your outlook towards the choices you will make from now on as an actor?
Not at all. In fact, I think the OTTs are changing their approach from what it was a couple of years back. We’re seeing so many conventional big-ticket Bollywood films releasing on OTT now. I think it’s best for everyone. Our country’s DNA has commercial and massy ingrained in it. This is reflecting even in the original series that are being made for the web platforms. But it’s true that now we have a big safety net because of digital platforms and actors do not have to dismiss unconventional roles because of the risk factor. My primary criteria still remains the same though — I should get entertained by the script. I won’t choose roles just for the sake of being experimental or unconventional.
From acing the monologue act and romcoms, to entering the thriller space with Ram Madhvani’s Dhamaka. Are you happy to shed the lover boy image finally?
Dhamaka is going to be a pleasant surprise for everyone. Yes, it’s a thriller, but it’s so much more. It keeps you on the edge throughout and talks about so many relevant things that are going on in our society right now. It’s my most commercial film yet.
However, I’m never shedding the lover boy image. It’s a privilege that doesn’t trouble me at all. My favourite lover boy is still Shah Rukh Khan and so is India’s. Even after Dhamaka, I have horror-comedy, rom-com and family films coming up. I’ll keep doing a variety of films. I feel blessed to have a line-up covering so many genres.
Was Dhamaka a conscious decision to move away from the Kartik Aaryan brand of lighthearted cinema? What prompted you to do so?
It is a conscious decision to expand the Kartik Aaryan brand of cinema. Light-hearted is still the flagship. The more of my ‘light-hearted’ work people enjoy, the more they will look forward to my hard-hitting roles. Actually, KokiPoochega (his online talk show during lockdown) may have been a push in this direction. People were extremely kind and warm to me, and we spoke about serious issues.
I don’t think I had to ‘handle’ anything. When I was offered Love Aaj Kal, I was most excited about the process of working on an Imtiaz Ali love story. The process completely lived up to my imagination. I have learnt so much from being on Imtiaz sir’s set, and the energy was on another level. It has given me so much as an actor that I genuinely never bothered about the outcome. A great box office performance would have been nice, but a below average one doesn’t bother me at all. At least not yet. Plus, the fact that my performance was so appreciated, especially by my favourite filmmakers, is more than enough for me.
Do you think 2020 has forever changed the way we watch films or consume content? Has there been any change in how you watch films now?
I think it has only broadened our horizons. We are more accepting of different platforms than before, but that does not mean it will change cinema. People will still go to the theatres. Films are an event for us. How can that ever change? The fact that people have the capacity to now binge watch is an advantage to all makers, regardless of the format and platform.
What has been your biggest learning through this pandemic phase?
Looking ahead, I think we all will come out as better people now. I always valued relationships and people, but having got so much time to spend with family and on the phone with my friends, has refreshed me in a very positive manner. I feel great energy in life right now, which I believe everyone must be feeling. We have definitely made our bonds stronger.
Talk us through your forthcoming releases and what drew you to them?
Dhamaka talks about such an important issue that is going on around us every day that anyone will be hooked on to it from the very first minute. For Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Dostana 2, I don’t think I need to say what drew me to them. They are two of my favourite films from recent years. To be able to do a sequel with such awesome scripts is a no-brainer.
Kartik Aaryan is waiting for COVID-19 curve to flatten before venturing out to complete shooting
8:13 AM
The actor is waiting for the Covid-19 curve to flatten before he ventures out to complete two sequels and start on the remake of Allu Arjun’s Telugu action-drama
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 21, 2020)
Since June, when lockdown restrictions were relaxed, many actors have ventured out to fly home, go shopping or for a visit to the salon and some have even started shooting. Kartik Aaryan, however, hasn’t shown his face outside of social media. Currently living with his family in his Juhu home, the actor has decided not to resume work till the Covid-19 curve flattens.
“In the last six months, Kartik has stepped out of home just once, that too in his building compound and has even been advising friends and family not to venture out. He was sure there would be a surge in cases after the unlocking and the daily numbers have only confirmed his fears,” shares a source, pointing out that Kartik knows that if he gets back on a film set, he will be risking the lives of his staff, along with that of the unit. “Being an actor, he realises that he will be in a privileged position, but taking the safety of others into consideration, he wants to hold back and wait for the situation to improve.”
When shoots were halted in March following the coronavirus-triggered pandemic, Kartik was shooting for Anees Bazmee’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 in Lucknow with Kiara Advani. The schedule had to be cut short. That will be the first film he shoots for on resuming work, for which he’ll need to return to Lucknow.
“After that he will move on to the next schedule of Dostana 2, with Janhvi Kapoor and Lakshya. It was supposed to be shot in London, but given the current scenario, the makers are yet to take a call on whether to go ahead with the original plan. After completing these two films, he will jump on to the Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo remake.”
Unlike his colleagues, Kartik has also not done any endorsements from home during the Coronavirus lockdown and only one magazine shoot. He not only did his own styling and used his own clothes, but also did his own make-up and roped in his sister to take the pictures for it.
This lockdown has made me re evaluate my priorities-Janhvi Kapoor
8:22 AM
The Dhadak actress talks about the lessons she has learnt during this phase and her biggest fears and insecurities
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; May 2, 2020)
The lockdown has impacted all of us in many ways. How has it affected you and what changes do you see in yourself today?
The lockdown has made me realise that the human mind has an astonishing ability to adapt to or normalise any routine that you follow long enough. Before the lockdown, my life was hectic and that was normal for me. So, the first few days of the lockdown were tough, but then, this became normal. This phase has taught me patience and made me reevaluate my priorities. I am happier when I work, but I have managed to stay happy and positive through the lockdown. This phase has been a revelation to me because I always thought that I need to be on a film set to be happy. We visualise our future in our head, but when things don’t go according to our plans, we need to accept that there are bigger things at play. Happiness actually lies in little things.
Initially, people were worried about how we’d adjust to the long lockdown period. After the lockdown, do you think we will struggle to get back to our normal life as well?
At least for me, I’ll be rejuvenated post the lockdown. People like me, who have been lucky to stay at home and have the resources that we need to survive, should ideally approach life post lockdown with more vigour and passion. There’s so much pent-up energy in all of us that if we channel it in the right direction, it will give us a fresh perspective and momentum.
Your recent social media post on minimalism — how little we actually need in life and valuing the things we take for granted — was touching. What triggered that thought?
I enjoy writing. I hadn’t written for a long time, but once the lockdown started, I got back to it. I had no intention of posting what I had written. I shared it with a friend and he suggested that I post it. There was a period during the lockdown when I had become inactive on social media. With everything that’s happening around, I didn’t feel like saying anything except for sharing that note on Instagram.
What is your biggest fear or insecurity?
My biggest fear is losing someone I love. I also fear that people who I love might not know how much they mean to me. I feel the need to constantly reassure them that I love them, because I don’t think I did that for a while with the people that I should have. At this stage of my life and career, I want to learn. So, I get anxious when I am not on a film set. I am agitated when I am not working creatively.
The Coronavirus pandemic has thrown everyone’s timetable off the chart, including film releases. Your movie, Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl, was scheduled to release, too...
My film Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (a biopic on Gunjan Saxena, the first female Indian Air Force pilot in combat) was scheduled to release in April, and Roohi-Afza (horror comedy with Rajkummar Rao), late this summer. We were supposed to finish the shoot of Dostana 2 and release it this year and then, start shooting for Takht. But, right now, our main priority is to recover as a nation. You can’t worry about these things as there are bigger issues to deal with for all of us.
Playing a romantic hero was always a dream-Kartik Aaryan
8:32 AM
Calling himself a Shah Rukh Khan fan, Kartik Aaryan feels he has ‘changed as a person’ after working with Imtiaz Ali
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 13, 2020)
Kartik Aaryan just can’t thank his stars enough for the success that he is enjoying. Since his big breakthrough film, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (SKTKS; 2018), the actor has been on a roll and seems to have clearly become one of the most sought-after young stars in Bollywood. With an enviable line-up and a spotless box office trajectory, he is surely having a dream run. And that’s what the Love Aaj Kal actor plans to steam ahead with. “I want people to look forward to every film I do, and that’s why I’m trying to do different genres,” says Kartik, who was also seen in films such as Luka Chuppi and Pati Patni Aur Woh (both 2019).
After SKTKS, you’ve had back-to-back hits. Is there any sort of pressure with your next release?
I’d be lying if I say there’s no pressure. Being actors, we know that a Friday is very crucial for everyone attached to a film, including us. But, I guess everyone would agree that it’s a feeling any actor would like to go through. I know that there are certain expectations from me and my film, and we’ve to live up to it. In Love Aaj Kal, I’ve played a double role for the first time, so I’m excited and nervous as well. Also, I’m curious to know how the audiences react to it.
The film puts you in a completely new zone, of an out-and-out romantic hero in an Imtiaz Ali film. What’s the feeling like?
I’ve grown up watching Shah Rukh Khan’s romantic films. I’m his huge fan. So, playing a romantic hero was always my dream. Now, for the first time, I’ve got an opportunity to portray, not one, but two different characters from two different eras, who are hard-core romantic at heart. And the fact that I got to do ‘something different’ in an Imtiaz Ali film — who is known for creating a magical yet relatable romantic world — is like sone par suhaga, and a very special feeling, too.
Do you find this to be the most exciting time as an actor, getting to work in a range of films, and also with top filmmakers?
I’m grateful to the filmmakers for giving me the opportunity to be part of their dream, their world. It’s the best time to be in the Hindi film industry. Filmmakers are ready to experiment, trying to push the envelope and creating something new. As a result, great scripts are being written. For instance, I saw Tanhaji (earlier this year) and was blown away by the visuals that (director) Om Raut has created. I’m really glad that he thought of me for his next film.
What has been your biggest takeaway from Love Aaj Kal and working with Imtiaz?
This has been my most special experience. After working with him, I feel I’ve changed not only as an actor, but also as a person. That’s the magic of him. I’m waiting for the next opportunity to work with him.
Are you looking at taking up a particular kind of films at this stage of your career?
I want to give a new, exciting experience to the audience with each film. If you see Love Aaj Kal, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Dostana 2, they’re all totally different from each other. Like a pure romantic film, I also wanted to do a big actioner. So, when Om (Raut) narrated me a story, I could see myself in that world. I’m very excited to begin prep for his film. That would require intense prep, and so, I shall start training for it, soon.
Your love life has always been in the spotlight, thanks to a string of link-up rumours (with Ananya Panday and Sara Ali Khan). Have you developed a way to deal with them?
There’s no ‘dealing’ with anything. As a kid, I was a huge fan of film stars, and was always interested in every aspect related to them, and not just the parts they play onscreen. Now, when people are interested in everything about me, I totally understand (the feeling). In fact, I enjoy it. Honestly, it’s a pity that I know the entire truth about what goes into the making of my ‘brand’. Else, I’d have enjoyed finding out what he’s about (laughs). I feel blessed that people love me so much that they keep talking about me (smiles). This is the life I asked for, and am happy to have got it.
I auditioned Vicky Kaushal for Ghanchakkar-Abhishek Banerjee
9:07 AM
Abhishek Banerjee on scouting actors who became big names and working with Varun Dhawan and Kartik Aaryan-Janhvi Kapoor
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 12, 2020)
In 2010, Abhishek Banerjee got a head-start in Bollywood as a casting director and went on to scout talent for films like No One Killed Jessica, The Dirty Picture and Gabbar Is Back. It wasn’t until 2018 that he came into his own as an actor, the goofy sidekick Jana in the Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor’s horror-comedy Stree. “I was rejected in the audition but Dinesh Vijan (producer) liked my tape better than the guy who was selected,” he shares, adding that a lot of people believed he did the casting for this film as well. “When they call me for meetings, things get awkward when I correct them,” he laughs.Abhishek is also often mistaken as one of the writers of Anushka Sharma’s horror film Pari though he was not associated with it in any capacity. “I get calls from filmmakers to write scripts. When I tell them it wasn’t me, they accuse me of lying,” he chuckles. Coincidentally, he had teased the real writer of the film (who happens to be his namesake) about the potential confusion but never thought it would come true.
This year, he’s working in two Karan Johar productions—Dostana 2 with Kartik Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor and Mr Lele, fronted by Varun Dhawan. By his own admission, his innings as an actor started earlier than he had anticipated. “After all this time lapsed, I figured I would start my acting career like Boman Irani (who debuted while in his 40s),” he deadpans, excited to start work with Varun next month. “He has quirks and innocence working for him, like most of my characters. Even Shashank (Khaitan, director) sir insists we rehearse together.”In Dostana 2, Abhishek joins Kartik and Janhvi, as “a quirky, naïve Punjabi boy”. The second schedule of the film, which marks the film debut of TV actor Lakshya, wrapped up in December.
Besides being associated with some big projects as a casting director, Abhishek also auditioned actors who went on to become big names. “I am proud to say that Siddhant Chaturvedi (MC Sher in Gully Boy) is my find,” he beams. Then, there was Vicky Kaushal, long before he won the National Award for playing a braveheart army man in Uri: The Surgical Strike. “When I was an associate, I auditioned him for a part in (Raj Kumar Gupta’s Emraan Hashmi, Vidya Balan-starrer) Ghanchakkar. Everyone was intrigued by him as he was (action director) Sham Kaushal’s son. I instantly knew that he’d become a star one day. Also, before sharing screen space with Rajkummar, I had tested him for a role in the 2010 film Knock Out, which was eventually played by Apoorva Lakhia.”Neither Ayushmann Khurrana nor me are seeking commercial advantage-Kartik Aaryan
10:46 AM
Unfazed that Ayushmann's Shubh Mangal enjoys first-mover advantage over his Dostana 2, Kartik says highlighting LGBTQi+ stories more important than box office success
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 10, 2020)
In 2016, producer Karan Johar had revealed how he knocked on Fawad Khan's door when as many as six Bollywood actors had refused to play the homosexual character in Kapoor & Sons. Cut to present, Ayushmann Khurrana and Kartik Aaryan are bravely headlining two same-sex love stories — Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan and Dostana 2, respectively.The industry may firmly believe in first-mover advantage, but Aaryan is unperturbed that his comedy will hit screens several months after Khurrana's February 21 release. Stating that the industry is batting unitedly for this cause, he says, "The storylines of the two films are not similar. In fact, the subject is so important that we are all invested in it equally. Neither of us is looking for commercial advantages here, nor [is the Dostana 2 team] feeling slighted that their movie will arrive before ours. We have not represented the queer community appropriately for decades; may 2020 be a year of celebrating such stories. Be it Dostana 2 or Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan, I am glad that these films are finally starting a conversation. Slowly, the hiccups that producers would usually have about such subjects are smoothening out."
Recently, Khurrana told mid-day that he was discouraged by industry folk from playing a homosexual character on screen. Ask Aaryan if he faced any resistance, and he says, "I go with my gut feeling. It doesn't matter what my family, or my PR team advises me. In this case, I discussed the idea with my college friends who encouraged me to take it up."
It has been heard that Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor play siblings who fall for the same man in the Collin D'Cunha film. "As a movie buff, I was sold on the script's entertainment value," he smiles.
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