Showing posts with label E Niwas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label E Niwas. Show all posts
Rohit Shetty to produce chilling thriller starring Nushrratt Bharuccha
8:40 AM
Rohit Shetty ditches action for the horror genre with Nushrratt Bharuccha in the lead
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 1, 2025)
Rohit Shetty’s films are synonymous with flying cars, gravity-defying stunts, and a generous dose of comedy. However, the filmmaker now plans to shift gears and explore a new genre—horror. Sources reveal he is set to produce a horror film with Nushrratt Bharuccha in the lead. Following the Singham franchise, Simmba (2018), and Sooryavanshi (2021), this move marks a significant departure from the high-octane universe Shetty has crafted over the past decade.
An industry insider close to the project shared that Shetty has been toying with the idea of making a horror film for over a year. “He’s always been drawn to stories that evoke strong emotional reactions, and horror can be just as visceral as action. Nushrratt was his first choice. Her performance in Chhorii showed she can carry a horror plot with both vulnerability and strength,” the source added.
Shetty has roped in E Niwas to helm the yet-untitled project. “E Niwas brings a gritty lens that will keep the horror raw and unsettling, which is exactly what Rohit wants,” said the insider.
Currently in pre-production, the film centres on a woman grappling with supernatural forces tied to a long-buried secret. The source further informed that script revisions and casting are still underway. The film is expected to go on floors later this year, once the actors and the filmmaker align their schedules and sign on the dotted line.
To share screen with Chunky Pandey, Barun Sobti, Divyenndu was a great experience for me-Parul Gulati
10:31 AM
Yashika Mathur (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 10, 2025)
Parul Gulati, who was last seen in Silence 2: The Night Owl Bar Shootout (2024), is set to explore the action genre in her next project. Confirming the development to us, the actor shares that she will be seen doing intense action in the upcoming web series Dunali.
Set against the backdrop of Chambal in the 1960s, Dunali will see Parul play the role of a dacoit. “My character is quite layered and fierce, and I am looking forward to showcasing a new side of me to the audience through this character,” she shares.
Helmed by Eeshwar Nivas, the series will also feature actors Chunky Panday, Divyenndu, Barun Sobti and Sandhya Mridul, and Parul is excited about this opportunity to learn from them. “Dunali is quite close to Eeshwar sir’s heart. And to share screen with actors like Chunky sir, Barun and Divyenndu promises a great experience for me as an artiste too,” she says, adding, “This story has a very emotional angle to it as well, and I am excited to explore it.”
Ram Gopal Varma told me, ‘I can only picture you dancing to Ankhiyon Se Goli Maare’-Raveena Tandon
8:15 AM
As she is honoured with Padma Shri for her 32-year contribution to arts, Raveena recounts how she challenged glam-doll stereotype to front hard-hitting films
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; January 30, 2023)
When Raveena Tandon heard that she had been conferred the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award given by the Indian government, her first reaction was not joy. Instead, she double-checked whether the news was true. “After the news sank in, I missed my dad [producer Ravi Tandon]. I felt that he was my guiding angel all through last year, as I won [multiple] awards. I felt overwhelmed and got teary-eyed after I heard I got the Padma Shri,” she begins.
The mood is naturally joyous at home. The actor says that husband Anil Thadani and son Ranbir Vardhan are one-upping each other in their bid to attend the ceremony with her in Delhi. She laughs, “Both are getting their suits ready, and telling one another that the other is not going with me.”
For the actor, the recognition comes after a 32-year run in the industry. While her filmography today boasts movies from mainstream and independent cinema, Tandon admits that at the time, it wasn’t easy to shed her glamorous image and bag author-backed roles in Shool (1999), Daman (2001), and Satta (2003).
“It was a conscious decision to step into arthouse cinema while doing commercial films with song-and-dance. [At the time], I felt stagnated and wondered how long I could keep doing these glamorous roles wearing stylish outfits. I had to push the boundaries of acting. Initially, it was tough to go beyond my glamorous image. I had to convince directors to cast me. When I wanted to do Shool, director E Niwas wanted to cast me, but producer Ram Gopal Varma wasn’t convinced. He told me, ‘I can only picture you dancing to Ankhiyon Se Goli Maare.’ [Eventually], when I was doing a poster shoot for Shool, Ramu walked past me. [I had transformed for the role] and he couldn’t recognize me.”
Movies aside, Tandon has become the first delegate from the entertainment industry to participate in W20 India, the arm of G20 that focuses on gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. Representing 675 million Indian women is an honour, says the National Award-winning actor.
“Having this summit is a fantastic opportunity to empower women and provide them with more rights for their social and economic participation. We want to bring to the fore the achievements of women delegates, and the issues that have been plaguing them in professional and social sectors.”
E Niwas directs an eight-episode web series Donali with Barun Sobti, Chunky Panday
9:59 PM
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; January 23, 2022)
After two successful seasons of Sony LIV’s Your Honor, National Award-winning director E Niwas has quietly moved on to his next. Word is that the director is helming a web series, titled Donali, a revenge drama about the Chambal dacoits in the 1960s. The eight-part drama features Chunky Panday, Divyenndu, Sandhya Mridul with Barun Sobti playing a pivotal role.
A trade source reveals that Niwas shot a major chunk of the Applause Entertainment and Juggernaut-backed production in Chambal intermittently over the past two years. “The team started shooting in the ravines of Chambals after the first wave had waned in 2020 and the lockdown was lifted, followed by a few more schedules in 2021. Almost 80 per cent of the series is now complete. The next stint will kick off on January 25 in Mumbai. Post that, the team will head to Wai and Gwalior before calling it a wrap on the project,” says the source.
Through the digital offering, the director will show how the dacoits—called baaghis (rebels) in the area—became a force unto themselves and what led them to pick up arms. “The show is being made on a massive scale. While Chunky has played negative characters before in Begum Jaan [2017] and Saaho [2019], here his character is edgy and unpredictable. Shooting in the Chambals is a challenge, more so, because the unit had to follow strict COVID safety protocols. He filmed it around Chambal, in the regions of Sabalgarh, Seondha and the Chambal river,” added the source.
When mid-day reached out to Niwas, he confirmed the development, but refused to divulge details.
Through Sonu Sood, the importance of farmers will be narrated to the audience-Raaj Shaandilyaa
7:37 AM
Producer Raaj Shaandilyaa says Sonu Sood’s selfless efforts throughout the pandemic make him ideal to front Kisaan
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; May 5, 2021)
Sonu Sood, who helped countless migrant workers reach their hometowns last year, has continued his efforts amid the second wave of the pandemic. From starting a Coronavirus helpline number that offers free medical consultations to providing at-home testing services, he has his ear on the ground, developing services for those in need. Producer Raaj Shaandilyaa believes the actor’s recent endeavours make him the perfect voice to highlight the story of farmers through their next, Kisaan.
As his team develops the screenplay, Shaandilyaa reveals the leading man will play son of the soil in the drama. “Sonu is from Punjab and understands the significance of farming. Now, he is our national hero. Through Sonu, the importance of farmers in our lives will be narrated to the audience. If farmers stop working, we will die. Since people look at him in a new light, Sonu will be able to send the message across to everyone,” he states. Sood has been among the Bollywood celebrities who stood in solidarity with the farmers during their protests.
The drama will be helmed by E Niwas. Eager for his first collaboration with the actor, the director — who is currently prepping for the Hindi remake of Aruvi with Fatima Sana Shaikh — says, “Kisaan is a special project. We will start the film after I wrap up Aruvi.”
Fatima Sana Shaikh bags Hindi remake of Tamil hit Aruvi
8:27 AM
Fatima to lead Hindi remake of Tamil hit Aruvi about woman’s journey in male-dominated world
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; March 5, 2021)
After Karan Johar’s Ajeeb Daastaans, another big-ticket film has landed in Fatima Sana Shaikh’s kitty. The actor has been roped in to play the central character in the Hindi adaptation of the Tamil smash hit, Aruvi (2017). While the original featuring Aditi Balan was helmed by Arun Prabhu Purushothaman, the directorial baton has been handed to Eshwar Nivas aka E Niwas for the remake backed by Applause Entertainment and Viki Rajani’s Faith Films.
The Tamil film, widely praised on its release, reflected on the misogynistic ways of society through the journey of the protagonist who is disowned by her family and tries to build a life anew in Chennai. If the satire shone because of its script, it was also elevated by Balan’s brave performance as a woman whose rage against society finds an unlikely outlet on a reality show. Shaikh admits she is excited and nervous in equal measure as she gears up to shoulder the movie. “I am thrilled to do the Aruvi remake, and am looking forward to diving deep into the character. I am glad that [the two studios] have come together with E Nivas to make this content.”
The production team is zeroing in on the principal cast before the film goes on floors mid-2021. Producer Sameer Nair, CEO, Applause Entertainment, says the movie is another attempt by the studio to bring strong feminine voices to the fore. “Equally funny and ferocious, Aruvi is a feminist social satire that stunned us when we first saw it. We were drawn in by its unconventional narrative, deftly balancing its black comedy leanings with the beats of a taut thriller,” he says.
Applause Entertainment announces a dark thriller drama series, Your Honor
7:54 AM
(Clockwise from left) Yashpal Sharma, Sunjoy Waddhwa, Jimmy Sheirgill, Sameer Nair, Suhasini Mulay, Mita Vashisht and E Niwas
MUMBAI MIRROR (September 12, 2019)
Close on the heels of successful drama series like Criminal Justice, City of Dreams and Hostages, Applause Entertainment, the content studio from the Aditya Birla Group, led by Sameer Nair, announced the completion of their latest drama-thriller, Your Honor. Adapted from the Israeli series Kvodo, distributed by Yes Studios, Your Honor has been produced for Applause Entertainment by Sphereorigins.
Dark, gripping and morally complex, it tells the story of Bishan Khosla (Jimmy Sheirgill), a judge known for his uncompromising honesty. His attempt to protect his son Abeer Khosla (Pulkit Makol) who is involved in a hit-and-run accident triggers a disturbing downward spiral of events, as Bishan uncharacteristically obstructs justice to hide the truth.
The series, directed by E Niwas, is adapted by writer Ishan Trivedi and produced by Sunjoy Waddhwa. It also features Mita Vashisht, Varun Badola, Yashpal Sharma, Parul Gulati, Suhasini Mulay, Richa Pallod, Kunj Anand, Pulkit Makol, Mahabir Bhullar in key roles.
Sameer Nair, CEO, Applause Entertainment says, “At Applause, we aim to create premium content that will appeal to the discerning mass audience in India and across the world, and Your Honor is a perfect example of this vision. E Niwas has helped us craft a stunning thriller, and we are excited to have on board a dazzling array of talented actors, led by Jimmy Sheirgill”.
Jimmy Sheirgill adds, “The substance of the story is what convinced me to take up the part. The length an individual can go, burning all the bridges and principles for the ones he loves, is truly compelling.”
Director E Niwas says, “I am excited to mark my digital journey with Your Honor, a show packed with intense emotions and depth of characters. I am glad to have worked with creative minds like Sameer, Deepak and Sunjoy to re-create this adaptation.”
Sunjoy Waddhwa, CMD of the production house Sphereorigins says, “E Niwas has helmed the Indian adaptation brilliantly which has resulted in a truly gripping drama. Our entire team is very thrilled to have associated with Sameer Nair and Applause Entertainment.”
Your Honor will be streaming soon on a leading OTT platform.
Amitabh Bachchan and Akshaye Khanna to star in Gumnaam?
8:25 AM
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; February 17, 2018)
Mid last year, there was news of a Gumnaam remake being planned. But soon after, things became uncertain when Pravesh Sippy — son of NN Sippy, producer of the 1965 whodunnit Gumnaam (1965) — apparently objected and claimed that he hasn’t sold the remake rights to anyone. Pravesh reportedly was planning to remake his late father’s hit production.
As a result of this, E Niwas’ film of the same name was delayed. An insider reveals that the director and his producer Jayantilal Gada had a joint narration about their film with Pravesh. After hearing their subject, set against the backdrop of a reality show, Pravesh was convinced that it’s not a remake of his late father’s production.
With their movie back on track, Jayantilal confirms, “Yes, I’m planning a film called Gumnaam — The Game of Unknown. It’s a murder mystery but with a completely fresh story.” When probed about the legalities involved, he maintains, “Our legal team is handling that. Though our film is also a murder mystery, it isn’t a remake of NN Sippy’s Gumnaam. We have just used the title, but it’s a different plot altogether.”
Big B as lead
E Niwas is very particular about the casting and has already bounced off the idea to Amitabh Bachchan.
According to our source, “Mr Bachchan has liked the idea. But he has not locked his dates for the film as he is already committed to a few projects. He’s trying to figure out if he can fit this movie in his date diary. Everyone’s awaiting his approval because it’s only after his confirmation that the other cast members will be finalised.”
Akshaye in place of Madhavan
For the second lead, R Madhavan was the first choice. But a source associated with the movie reveals that things weren’t working out with him.
Since a good actor was required more than just adding star value, Akshaye Khanna was the next immediate option. The director discussed the subject with the actor who’s picky about his films. Says our source, “Akshaye has just done Ittefaq which was also a suspense thriller, so he’s taking time to give his nod to the project; though he knows he won’t be playing a sleuth in this one but will be one of the prime suspects.” The finances are also being worked out.
Swara and Shriya also
For the female leads, the team has spoken to Swara Bhaskar and Shriya Saran. “Swara had given her verbal nod when she was first approached for this film. Later, Shriya too confirmed in principle for it,” says the source. Along with them, there will be a few more characters, but these four are the main players.
Why no announcement?
When we asked Jayantilal if they have approached the four actors, he maintained a ‘no comments’ stand. But he added, “Since it’s a multi-starrer, everyone’s dates are being worked out currently.
E Niwas will take the final call on the casting. We haven’t signed anyone yet, but once everyone is locked, we will announce the film and go on floors.”
Gumnaam in a remake row as producer claims he hasn't given rights
8:01 AM
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 1, 2017)
Soon after news of E Niwas remaking the 1965 suspense-thriller Gumnaam surfaced, the original’s producer N N Sippy’s son Pravesh got in touch with him, pointing out that he hasn’t given them the rights to the remake. “I saw news stories in which they had used stills from our film and I was livid, especially because I am making the remake myself and have a first draft ready. Niwas was polite but mostly evasive during our conversation and said that he will make me speak to his producer. Minutes after I hung up, I got a call from Mr Jayantilal Gada who informed me that he is producing Niwas’s film,” Pravesh said, adding that Gada had reached out to him three months ago as well, seeking the rights to the title which he had denied in the wake of his own remake.
According to Pravesh, Gada also informed him that he has bought the rights to the original’s title track “Gumnaam Hai Koi” and will use the title ‘Gumnaam’ with a tag line. “He reiterated that his film is not a remake of Gumnaam but a completely new script. I continued my research and found out that there are certain similarities between Niwas’s script and the original. His film has some 7-8 characters like Gumnaam,” Pravesh stated, contending that Gada and Niwas should drop the project and apologise.
“I have started feeding my lawyer with information on this, but I would prefer to settle this out of court. If that doesn’t happen, I will resort to legal action to safeguard my rights,” asserts Pravesh, recounting a similar episode when a Marathi film titled Ashach Eka Betavar was also remade from Gumnaam but the makers refused to give royalties to him. “They refused to accept that it was an unofficial remake so I dragged them to court and won the case, following which they gave me due credit and had to pay a settlement. I will ask Niwas and Gada saab to show me their script and if there is no resemblance with the original, I will let them go ahead with it,” he stated.
When Mirror contacted Gada, he admitted to have bought the rights to the original Gumnaam songs and that he intends to use the title with a tagline but refuted allegations of making a remake of the 1965 classic. “Sanjay Masoomm has written the script which is completely original. If Sholay had 10 cast members, it doesn’t mean another film can’t have the same number of people. We are going on the floors with the film next month,” he signed off.
E Niwas to direct Manali To Bhatinda
8:39 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (June 4, 2016)
Producer Salim of Saiff
Entertainment has signed E Niwas to direct his film Manali To Bhatinda,
which is in its final stages of scripting. “We are very happy to have
him on board,“ says Salim. This is his first feature film as a producer. E
Niwas, who got the National award for his first film, Shool, went on to
make many films of various genres. He is currently directing Juvenile, a
romantic crime drama set in the backdrop of Mumbai. He is excited about
helming Manali To Bhatinda which is a road movie and also a complete
family entertainer with its fair share of thrills. “Now, we just need the
right cast in place,“ says Niwas.
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