Showing posts with label Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi. Show all posts
Mallika Sherawat says she will never do Bigg Boss; confirms she is the highest paid in The Traitors 2
2:38 PM
Vinay MR Mishra (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 5, 2026)
Thirteen years after The Bachelorette India: Mere Khayalon Ki Mallika, Mallika Sherawat is returning to reality television with The Traitors. While she has consistently turned down several reality show offers over the years, the actor says the psychological format of the Karan Johar-hosted series finally convinced her to step back into the unscripted space.
'I don't feel passionate about Bigg Boss'
Mallika reveals that reality television was never on her radar after The Bachelorette. In fact, she says she has repeatedly declined offers from popular shows, including Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi. "Initially, I was very apprehensive about Traitors. I didn't want to do any reality show. It didn't excite me as an actor. But then Ankita (Anthony, manager) really convinced me. She said, 'Just see it. After watching season one, if you don't like it, we'll decline. But don't say no without seeing it'. I watched it and I loved it."
Explaining what drew her to the format, she adds, "For me, Traitors was more like a psychological thriller. It wasn't about who's dancing better or who's the loudest voice. It was about instinct and strategy. I felt that in this show, it's not your voice that's your biggest weapon, it's your silence that's your biggest strength. Observing human nature, seeing people laugh with you over breakfast and then discovering by evening that they lied or backstabbed you—that whole psychological aspect excited me as an actor."
As for Bigg Boss, she remains firm about her decision. "The format doesn't appeal to me. I don't think that as an actor I can bring any value to it. Bigg Boss is something I don't feel passionate about. If there is something I don't want to do, then no. I have enough money. I've been very sensible with money and I'm well taken care of. I don't have to work to earn money. Money works for me now."
'I get manipulated easily'
Having spent over two decades in the entertainment industry, Sherawat says The Traitors fascinated her because it stripped away performance and exposed personalities. "I feel the game gives you a mask and all the players have to see the person behind the mask. Also, the format is such that it makes you do things you might not do in real life because you want to win and stay relevant. The game plays you."
While she enjoys observing people, Mallika laughs that manipulation isn't one of her strengths. "I get manipulated easily. I cannot manipulate people. I'm a Haryanvi Jat. I'm too straightforward. I'm very honest."
'I know my worth'
Reports suggest Mallika is the highest-paid contestant on The Traitors. While she stops short of confirming the exact figure, she doesn't shy away from acknowledging that the speculation isn't entirely off the mark.
"The speculation is right," she says with a laugh. "Why apologize for making money? People who say money is never the reason are lying. When you're independent, whether you're a man or a woman, money is always important because you have bills to pay and a lifestyle to maintain. Yes, I know my worth and I won't work for a fiddly amount. I won't even lift my finger out of bed for that. This is my message to every girl and every boy—know your worth. Don't settle for less. Trust me, if they want you, they will pay you."
Calling herself a self-made woman, she adds, "I like making money. I like working and I like buying my own diamonds."
No regrets about The Bachelorette
Looking back at The Bachelorette India, where she didn't find a life partner, Mallika says she has absolutely no regrets about taking up the show. "Why would I? I bought two houses from that show, and now I get the rent," she quips and concludes.
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"I've been in the industry for over 20 years and I'm still taking care of myself. I'm still evolving. I'm still learning acting. Over these years, what has really stood with me is authenticity, honesty and discipline."
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"People make assumptions. Since 20 years, people are making assumptions, but people who make assumptions are not paying attention. They meet my image before they meet me. Why Traitors is so special is because, for the first time, people are going to experience the real Mallika."
People can never tell when I’m joking or being serious-Orry
2:40 PM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; May 16, 2026)
Orhan Awatramani, aka Orry, joining Khatron Ke Khiladi may sound unexpected, but according to him, there wasn’t much thought behind it. “I’m in this phase of my life where I’m just saying yes to everything,” he says. “Do you want to eat sausages for breakfast? Yes. Do you want to do Khatron Ke Khiladi? Yes. Do you want to jump off a cliff? Yes. I’m just going to say yes to everything!”
While social media sees him as chaotic and funny, Orry says people often misunderstand the line between his jokes and serious thoughts. “Because I’m so funny and giggly and sunshine all the time, when I do say something serious, people sit down to listen. Sometimes my delivery of even serious matters comes across as comical, so people can never tell when I’m joking or being serious,” he says.
That confusion extends to his career choices, too. Asked if he wants to become an actor, his answer is both yes and no. “If you ask me to do something, I’m going to say yes. But do I want to? No. So if someone asks me to act, I will do it, but I don’t want to be an actor.”
When asked how he deals with trolls on social media, he says, “People write about me, they post about me and form their opinions. This is the price you pay for being a forever-relevant person. Some people are famous, but they’re not actively relevant all the time. I am actively relevant every day.”
According to him, that level of attention comes with losing control over your own image. “You lose not only the power of privacy, but you lose the right to define yourself. You’re constantly being defined by other people.”
Orry says opportunities somehow keep finding him. “I don’t really look forward to anything. Things just happen in my life. God has blessed me with a life with so many opportunities, and that’s the biggest luxury of them all. So, I grab every opportunity that comes my way, and I dominate it,” he says.
After my diagnosis, I took a 40-day break, then continued working and started taking anti depressants-Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia
8:09 AM
Testing her mental and physical strength with Khatron Ke Khiladi 14, Nimrit recalls battling depression from 2019
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 2, 2024)
Physical prowess aside, Khatron Ke Khiladi also tests its contestants’ resilience. Shooting for the reality show’s 14th season in Romania was Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia’s way of reaffirming what her journey had taught her—that she is stronger than she thinks. The actor, who was diagnosed with depression in 2019, says the past five years have made her realize her inner strength.
“I was diagnosed with burnout, anxiety, and depression due to the long working hours during the shooting of Choti Sarrdaarni. I also had no personal life and experienced loneliness. After my diagnosis, I took a 40-day break, then continued working and started taking anti-depressants,” she recalls.
While Ahluwalia shot to fame with Choti Sarrdaarni, her personal life went through peaks and troughs. After being on medication for a year, the actor switched to homoeopathy. In 2022, she opened up about her battle on Bigg Boss 16.
“About a month before entering Bigg Boss 16, I stopped taking medication to wean off them. I never struggled to find work. In fact, I was at the peak of my TV career. While the world might not see me as a winner, my biggest victory was recovering mentally and physically from the changes my body experienced over the years.”
It is with this renewed sense of confidence that she is building her way ahead. She hopes that sharing her experiences will inspire others, and more importantly, raise awareness about the benefits of seeking help.
“My journey taught me that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. It’s even more important to reach out for help. I’ve learned that taking care of my mental health is paramount. Success is important, but it means nothing if you’re not happy and healthy inside.”
Sachhai kadvi hoti hai, and I feel people are intimidated by me-Shilpa Shinde
9:31 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 12, 2024)
Last seen in a cameo role in Maddam Sir, in which her track ended abruptly, Shilpa Shinde is set to return to television after over a year with the 14th season of Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi.
Speaking about the gap between projects, she says, “People often ask me why I haven’t been working. It’s not that I don’t want to work, but I should get an offer that truly excites me. There’s a common belief that once you step away from the screen, you are finished. However, by the grace of God, that hasn’t happened to me. As an actor, I feel fortunate not to have an expiry date, and that’s because I feel content with what I have done and don’t panic. I want to be selective about my work, and for that, patience is key. Some people take up any project that comes their way, but as an artiste, main khud ko khatam kyun karoon by accepting everything offered to me.”
‘I feel people are intimidated by me’
Shilpa seems to attract controversy with almost every project she has taken up. Whether it was her exit from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai a few years ago, her remark that “the judges should think before commenting” during her stint on Jhalak Dikkhla Jaa in 2022, or her clash with Gulki Joshi during Maddam Sir, she has been in the news.
Ask her about this, and she says, “Controversy ho jaati hai; create nahi kar sakte aap. The problem is that my truth becomes controversial. Regarding Jhalak, I just said what I felt. It was a normal message from my end that snowballed into a controversy. Sachhai kadvi hoti hai, and I feel people are intimidated by me. However, when they work with me, they tell me I am very simple and realize they fell for hearsay. People make assumptions and form perceptions about me without knowing me. That has happened to me a lot.”
‘I don’t regret quitting Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai,’
Her portrayal of Angoori bhabhi in Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai, remains a landmark in her career, and her sudden exit in 2016 led to much speculation. In hindsight, does she regret her departure from the show?
“I don’t have any regrets and look at it positively. If I had stayed, I would have continued playing the same role and wouldn’t have explored other opportunities. TV aapko wahiin baitha deta hai. Besides, certain characters become so iconic that they can’t be recreated,” she replies.
Sumona Chakravarti on not being part of Kapil Sharma’s show: "Koi khoon ka rishta thodi hai"
7:50 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 7, 2024)
Sumona Chakravarti values her privacy and prefers to keep the focus on her work rather than her personal life. She explains, “Hamesha available ho jaao toh mystery khatam ho jaati hai. I am quite old-school in that regard. Pehle zamaane mein mystery rehti thi, jab social media nahi tha. I believe in maintaining that sense of mystery, so I prefer the era before social media. While I am fine with attention on me as an artiste, I prefer to keep my personal life private.”
Sumona is currently shooting for the 14th season of the stunt-based reality show Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi in Romania. She says, “I have taken it on as a challenge. Being an adventure and adrenaline junkie, I felt the urge to reignite that passion.”
The actress, who has been part of several TV shows such as Kasamh Se, Kasturi, Khotey Sikkey, Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, and Jamai Raja, is today more known as Kapil Sharma’s wife Manju from his comedy show. Often, a popular role can overshadow an artiste’s other work. Does she feel the same way?
“Yes, it has been overshadowed because many know me only from Bade Achhe Lagte Hain or as Manju from Comedy Nights With Kapil. It has been a bit of a speed bump, but I am also repositioning myself by telling people that I have a body of work and am eager to take up different characters,” she replies.
Since Manju has been a much-loved character, was she disappointed when she wasn’t called to join the cast of the OTT version of Kapil’s show?
“Not at all. After wrapping up the season on TV last July, I got busy networking and auditioning. When I found out about the show, it didn’t matter because koi khoon ka rishta thodi hai ki hum kahiin aur zindagi mein kaam nahi karenge kisi aur ke saath, aur yahin karenge. Honestly, I am on a different journey and in a different mindset. That’s a very talented group of people, and I think it’s time for people to see my other talents,” she concludes.
I was an overweight kid, who was thrown into the limelight when I’d go out with my father. People are cruel-Krishna Shroff
9:24 AM
From battling weight issues with fitness to not following in actor-father Jackie’s footsteps, entrepreneur Krishna Shroff talks about travelling the road less taken as she joins Khatron Ke Khiladi 14
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; May 28, 2024)
She could have taken the usual road traversed by star kids—grow up and pursue acting. But Krishna Shroff was clear that it was not her calling. She considers herself the blacksheep of the family, who has defied the expectations people had from her as she was Jackie Shroff’s daughter and Tiger Shroff’s sister. But she would rather be her authentic self than give in to people’s expectations.
After finding her purpose by opening her own mixed martial art studio, she is now set to make her television debut with Khatron Ke Khiladi 14 (KKK 14). In conversation with mid-day, Krishna talks about her journey from an overweight and under-confident teenager to finding her own voice, and her family’s reaction to her decision of joining the show. Edited excerpts from the interview.
Is this the first time that Khatron Ke Khiladi was offered to you?
No, this is the second time the makers came to me. Two years ago, when they first approached me, I wasn’t very confident or secure enough in myself to feel that I could put myself out there. Fast forward to [today], I’m in a different place in terms of how I feel about myself and from within. I’m ready to let the world know who I am.
How did you build your confidence in the two years?
It has to do with age and experiences. I’ve come into my own now. I’m secure with the businesses that I run. [KKK 14] is not something that I need; it’s something I want, and that’s what makes me comfortable going through with it. I’m looking forward to seeing how much more I can push myself, not just physically, but also mentally because it’s a game that [tests your] mental strength. Many contestants in the past have overcome many things with the power of the mind.
A Shroff, an entrepreneur, fitness enthusiast, actor—which role do you identify with most?
An entrepreneur. I’m blessed to wake up and do what I love every single day. Many don’t have that liberty or that pleasure. I love being my own boss and doing things on my own terms. I’m blessed with the platform I have because of my family and the name that they have in the industry. It’s given me the security to do what I feel passionate about. I’m happy with what I’ve been able to do away from the family legacy that I come from. [I am now trying to] create my own identity in the fitness world.
Was there ever any pressure to follow in your father and brother’s footsteps?
People think I’m absolutely crazy for not taking the opportunity [to act]. But there’s a world beyond it. The pressure definitely hit me when I was a teenager. At that age, you’re influenced easily by outside noise and opinions. I felt like that this is something I have to do because people are expecting me to do it. That’s when I got my bachelor’s degree in film production. I came back to India, assisted on a few of my brother’s movies. That is exactly when I realized this is not what I want to do. From there, I was not going to waste any more time giving in to what people expect from me. I found fitness about seven years ago, and it was the most liberating and empowering feeling. Two hours in the gym feel like therapy.
How did fitness help you?
No matter what was going on in my life, I was focused. Seeing how far I was able to push myself week after week had a direct impact on my mind. It gave me a newfound sense of confidence I didn’t necessarily have growing up because I was an overweight kid, who was sometimes thrown into the limelight when I’d go out with my father. People are cruel. Reading criticism at such a young age was a lot. I was able to channelize that in a positive way through fitness. People need to be a little more mindful. While I was able to take it in a positive way, a lot of people won’t and [probably] can’t.
What were the highs and lows of that journey?
There were many days where I didn’t feel like going to the gym or sticking to that diet. But I am so proud of [myself] for sticking with it because no amount of daddy’s fame or money can give this to you. It’s your hard work and it’s you versus you every single day. I was able to overcome that.
To participate in a show like KKK 14, where do you think your strengths lie?
I love challenges. I’ve purposely put myself in uncomfortable positions with my body to see how far I can push my mind to overcome certain things. I believe I’ll be ready for what’s thrown my way. I tend to thrive under pressure and my competitive nature comes out then.
What was your family’s reaction?
My brother got a good laugh out of it. He was like, ‘I can’t believe you’re doing this’. My parents were initially a little hesitant. They asked me if I surely wanted to do it, and I said yes. It wasn’t long until they were 100 per cent on board. I’ve always been the black sheep of the family. I’ve steered away from what everyone expected me to do.
Khatron Ke Khiladi showrunner Malaya Pradhan decodes the khel behind the khatra
8:19 AM
With the 13th edition of the action reality show hitting the right note, we go behind the scenes with showrunner to understand the execution and challenges of Khatron Ke Khiladi
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; August 15, 2023)
What is life without a little danger, especially if you are paid a million bucks for it? That’s what the makers of Khatron Ke Khiladi will tell you. Kicking off in India in 2008, the reality show, over its subsequent seasons, has shown us the varied forms of daredevilry—from being tied underwater on a wheel in season 9 to lying under a moving train in season 10.
In July, the 13th season kicked off with contestants Daisy Shah, Shiv Thakare, and Arjit Taneja, among others. But what does it exactly take to create a show like this? It’s with this question that we sit down with Malaya Pradhan, Project Head, Fear Factor. “The planning has many components, location being the most critical one and the feasibility of doing the show in that locale,” says the showrunner.
It’s all about the location
Undeniably, stunts are the most important part of an adventure reality show. But they largely depend on the show’s location. Which is why, Pradhan says, the design team begins scouting for destinations almost a year in advance. “In 2017, when we did the Spain edition, [my team] landed in the country in June 2016, and then again in February 2017, before the host and contestants came down in May,” he recollects.
While doing recce, three things are taken into account—camera angles, possibility of stunts in the location, and finally, the animals that the region acts as a habitat to. “Any location has to look great on camera, even if it is to capture the sunset. Since we are investing so much money and effort into the show, it is important to capture locations that the country is known for. The next thing we look at is if at least 30 to 40 stunts can be pulled off there. For example, we see if there are two buildings of the same height and whether a stunt can be arranged between them. Or whether there is a water body and whether a helicopter can be flown over it. We also have to check if the lakes are deep enough so that if someone falls into it, they don’t hit the bottom.”
When it comes to wildlife, different regions satisfy different criteria. While lions are easily available in South Africa, tigers and bears have a dense population in Spain. “At any point, we have to make sure at least 150 types of snakes can be used. So, we check whether the location can provide that. A lot of paperwork goes behind everything we do.”
One also has to consider whether the locales chosen can accommodate the huge shooting team. At any given time, the location has to accommodate at least 200 people. “Production logistics is key. We may find a beautiful location, but if there is no place to park at least 150 vehicles for the production, artistes, hosts and the cranes, it cannot be used,” he explains, adding that they take multiple trips before zeroing in on a destination.
Setting done, stunts shuru
After finalizing the location, the design team addresses the heart of the show—the stunts. Pradhan says all stunts can be broken down into four broad categories—height, water, speed, and reaction. “Height could be [a stunt from the top of a] building or in a chopper. [We sometimes intersect it] with water, wherein you have a contestant on a rig jump into water. Water stunts include anything from [going] underwater or performing a task in a swimming pool. Speed stunts involve cars or long container trucks. The reaction stunts vary from animals to shock. This season, we did about 84 stunts with a forest theme at the opening.”
The execution
Putting together close to 80 stunts every season is not a cake walk. Season on season, the Indian team has been working with either the Argentinian or South African stunt teams. While Pradhan’s team designs and ideates the stunts, the foreign counterpart is trusted with gauging their executability and ensuring the contestants’ safety.
“For instance, this year, we decided against introducing contestants one by one. We decided to have the contestants holding on to a reverse balloon structure under the chopper. The South African team executed it. They determined what is the maximum weight the chopper can carry, what will be the structure, what material it will be made of, and so on. They took every individual’s weight into account before building the structure under the chopper,” shares Pradhan.
Surprises and setbacks
In a show of this nature, there are bound to be surprises. Pradhan emphasizes that the key is to be thoroughly prepared. So, what is the biggest challenge? The weather, he says promptly. Summer in Europe is the best time to shoot because there is no wind or rain.
“In 2018, the weather was a huge issue in Argentina [during season 9]. It was extremely cold. When you are doing a height stunt [involving] a rig that is 25 storeys above the ground and one has to walk on a table plate [disc shaped things], which is placed on a ladder or from one building to the other, the wind plays a huge role. In such a scenario, we have to wait for the wind to subside or cancel the stunt. Similarly, once we had planned a chopper stunt. But because of [gusty] winds, we didn’t get the permission from local weather traffic control to take off.”
Weather isn’t the only spoilsport. Sometimes, the team has had to cancel stunts involving animals. “In Bulgaria, in season 10, we had to push a stunt because the ostriches [were running amok]. Likewise, in Spain [in season 8], the animal handler told us to wait for the lions to calm down before shooting with them. We don’t take safety lightly.”
The team keeps back-up stunt designs ready in such situations. Present on location are the safety team, medical team, local production, the Indian production, technical, directors, creative and commercial team.
KKK’s scariest
Chopper stunt (season 11)
Pecked by hen (season 11)
Rotating wheel underwater (season 9)
Under moving train (season 10)
Fire cycle (season 9)
Battling with ostriches (season 11)
Wax on body (season 10)
Tear gas chamber (season 10)
Breathless in vacuum (season 9)
Malaya Pradhan
Even now, I’m referred to as a Salman Khan camp girl-Daisy Shah
10:58 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; May 31, 2023)
Her decision to foray into television with Khatron Ke Khiladi 13 surprised many in the film industry. However, Daisy Shah isn’t one to be swayed by others’ opinions.
She says, “I don’t wish to clarify to anybody who is puzzled by my decision to take up a TV reality show. I wanted to be a part of Khatron Ke Khiladi because it allows me to challenge myself and acquire new skills in the process. It also gives me a wider audience to connect with. Most importantly, the experience will help me prepare for a project I’ll begin working on by the end of this year.”
Daisy says, “Besides, I am free for the next two months, so why not?” So, is she open to doing a fiction show on TV as well? “I am not the saas-bahu type at all. I am not cut out for it, I steer clear of drama,” she answers.
‘I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD BECOME AN ACTOR, BUT I DID’
Though she has done several films in the South, Daisy came into the spotlight when she was launched in Bollywood as Salman Khan’s heroine in Jai Ho (2014). Despite the common perception that her career would skyrocket after making a big-ticket Hindi film debut, the pace slowed down.
She says, “If you ask me whether my career progressed the way I expected, the answer is no. But I have no complaints. I never thought I would become an actor, but I did. Everyone knows that I come from a dance background, and in gaining a foothold in the acting industry, my journey has only been upwards.”
‘I DON’T CRAVE SCREEN SPACE; I WANT TO PLAY IMPACTFUL CHARACTERS’
Daisy aspires to be associated with unconventional subjects and performance-driven characters. She says, “I want to take up quality work. I don’t crave screen space; I want to play impactful characters. I have no idea why I haven’t been offered any so far. Maybe, I didn’t have the right team or probably wasn’t approached because I am still referred to as a Salman Khan camp girl. I don’t understand the conversations around camps and groups. Salman sir is friendly with everybody and so is Shah Rukh Khan. Since I am Salman sir’s protégée, he ensures I am given the kind of work I should be getting.”
Despite my feelings, I am going to perform the tasks, even if they put me in a box with insects-Rohit Roy
8:16 AM
With the aim to overcome his fears, Rohit Bose Roy discusses attempting daredevil stunts in Khatron Ke Khiladi season 13
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; May 16, 2023)
Rohit Bose Roy is ready to test his limits, physical and mental, as he joins the 13th season of Khatron Ke Khiladi. What will be his biggest asset as he steps into the show about daredevilry? His experience over a 25-year-long career, he says. At the same time, the actor looks forward to meeting the contestants, and being influenced by their “energy and enthusiasm”. In a chat with mid-day, Roy talks about who pushed him to do the reality show, especially when his competitors are way younger.
Edited excerpts from the interview.
Have you seen the previous seasons of Khatron Ke Khiladi?
I was approached for the show several times in the past, but somehow the timings never worked out. When they called me this time, I was in the middle of two [commitments]. I rescheduled my dates, rejigged my commitments and then said yes. I’ve wanted to do this for long.
How did you prepare for the show?
I don’t have the luxury of time where I can do anything drastically different from what I’ve been doing for years. But I am giving my 150 per cent, unlike the usual 100 per cent, on my daily workouts. As we speak, I am on the treadmill in the club.
What scares you more — the creepy crawlies or the daredevil stunts?
I’m looking forward to the dangerous stunts, but every human being goes eww when thinking of creepy crawlies [laughs]. Hero screen pe hota hai, real life mein sabki phat ti hai, meri bhi phat ti hai [Heroes are on screen. In real life, everyone is scared, so am I]. Despite my feelings, I am going to perform the tasks, even if they put me in a box with insects. I am an Arian, I don’t believe in giving up. I won’t leave a test mid-way, unless it is something beyond my skill-set. The question of quitting never arises. Look at my career — I have seen highs and lows, but there has never been a day I have quit.
What do you think about the contestants this season?
I have not met all of them, I don’t even know many. I know only a couple of them. They look like a young energetic lot, exactly what you need in the show. I am hoping their energy and enthusiasm rubs off on me.
Do you think you would have an edge over them?
It’s difficult to gauge until you actually get into the mud, but I’d say I have a slight advantage where experience is concerned. All the stunts I have done in my films in the past 25 years [serve as good experience]. I have mental [strength], but I don’t think I have an edge over them or vice versa.
What is the one stunt you hope is included this season?
I would want the mid-air stunts in a helicopter to be included. I know it’s tough, but going on this show is about pushing your boundaries. Also, I am hoping not to be put in a box with snakes [laughs].
Will wife Manasi Joshi Roy be okay with you being put in a box of snakes?
Manasi is more adventurous than I am. Whenever we travel, she is the one who wants to do river-rafting, kayaking or skydiving. I am more likely to sit and have champagne. She was quite kicked when I was approached for Khatron Ke Khiladi.
Court releases passport, Sheezan Khan can travel abroad for work
7:53 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; May 4, 2023)
Actor Sheezan Khan got a huge relief on Wednesday after the Vasai court in Mumbai allowed the temporary return of his passport. Sheezan, who has spent 70 days in jail on the charge of abetting his former girlfriend Tunisha Sharma’s alleged suicide, is currently out on bail. He had applied for his impounded passport to be released to participate in the upcoming season of Khatron Ke Khiladi, for which he will have to travel abroad.
Sheezan’s lawyer Shailendra Mishra said,“ We are grateful to the honourable court that has permitted Sheezan to travel abroad for Khatron Ke Khiladi.”
Sheezan added: “I had full faith that justice wouldn’t be denied.”
The actor’s sister, Falaq Naaz, who was also present at the hearing, said, “I am delighted that my brother will be able to earn his livelihood again.”
Sheezan was arrested after Tunisha’s mother filed a complaint alleging that he had abetted the actress’ suicide. Tunisha reportedly died by suicide on the set of their TV show, Ali Baba Dastaan-e-Kabul on December 24.
Tunisha Sharma death case: Court to decide today if Sheezan Khan can travel abroad for TV show
8:14 AM
Tunisha’s mother vows to oppose his application to release passport
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; May 2, 2023)
Almost two months after he was released on bail in the Tunisha Sharma death case, things have started to look up for actor Sheezan Khan. He has been offered the stunt-based reality show, Khatron Ke Khiladi. However, the show involves travelling abroad and if he can do that will depend on whether the Vasai sessions court gives him the clearance when the matter comes up for hearing today.
Sheezan was arrested for abetment of suicide on December 25, 2022, based on a complaint filed by Tunisha’s mother, Vanita Sharma. A day earlier, the actress had died, reportedly by suicide, on the set of the TV show, Ali Baba Dastaan-e-Kabul, which starred both Tunisha and Sheezan. The two were in a relationship and had split around two weeks before Tunisha’s death. After spending 70 days in jail, Sheezan finally got bail on March 5.
During his time in jail, Sheezan was replaced by actor Abhishek Nigam in Ali Baba Dastaan-e-Kabul.
DON’T GLORIFY SOMEONE WHO HAS NOT BEEN PROVEN INNOCENT: TUNISHA’S MOTHER VANITA SHARMA
Tunisha’s mother reacted to the news of Sheezan being approached for Khatron Ke Khiladi and released a statement to us that said: “We will oppose Sheezan’s application today to release his passport. I have heard that Sheezan has been offered reality shows, including Khatron Ke Khiladi. What message are channels wanting to impart to society by giving a chance to someone who is an undertrial for a serious offense under section 306 of IPC and against whom the police have submitted a charge sheet of 524 pages? Log TV par apne favourite actors ko dekhkar unko apna idol bana lete hain aur unke jaise banne ki koshish karte hain. I request TV channels and makers to not glorify anyone who has not been proven innocent.”
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HINDUSTAN TIMES (May 2, 2023)
A month after getting bail in the Tunisha Sharma death case, the prime accused, actor Sheezan Khan, filed an application in Maharashtra’s Vasai court on Monday, seeking the return of his passport, which was seized during the investigation. The court will hear Khan’s application today.
According to sources, in his application, Khan stated that he needed to fly abroad for shootings.
The Ali Baba Dastaan-e-Kabul actor was arrested in December last year and was under judicial custody before being released on bail from Thane Central Jail on March 5. The Vasai Court had ordered Sheezan’s bail with a Rs. 1 lakh surety bond and had asked the actor to submit his passport as well.
Khan was reportedly dating his co-star Tunisha, who died by suicide at the show’s set a fortnight after the duo broke up their months-long relationship. Within hours of the actor’s death, Khan was arrested on charges of abetment to suicide.
Tunisha’s mother, Vanita Sharma, levelled allegations against Khan, stating that he used to beat her daughter and force her to adopt Islamic practises.
However, Khan’s family had claimed that he had been falsely implicated in the case by the late actor’s mother and further claimed that the 21-year-old was like “family” to them.
Later, Khan’s sister and co-actor Falaq Naaz reportedly accused Tunisha’s mother of “neglecting” her, and the actor’s depression was due to her childhood trauma.
“Tunisha’s mother accepted that she had been neglecting her daughter and didn’t take care of her. Tunisha’s depression was due to her childhood trauma,” stated Falaq Naaz.
I didn't like the film projects that I was getting. So, I thought, why not explore the television industry?-Rajniesh Duggall
8:08 AM
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 20, 2023)
In a career spanning over a decade, Rajniesh Duggall has been a part of projects across mediums — films, television and more recently, OTT. However, the actor is now back on the small screen for a daily soap.
“The reason for making a shift towards television is not that I was not getting enough work. In fact, I had four to five projects and I have just finished shooting for them. But, a thought [came to mind] that what if these five projects do not get released or are put on hold because of the Covid-19 situation... Also, the projects I was getting, I didn’t like them. Mujhe laga main inko karunga bhi toh koi fayda nahin hai. So, [I thought], why not explore the television industry? I was getting so many calls [for shows]. That’s when I decided to try my hand at television,” he explains.
But, did the thought of being frowned upon ever occur to him? “Luckily, I do not have the TV actor tag. And, lines between mediums are blurring. I have Inspector Avinash (web show) coming out soon, which also stars Randeep Hooda, Urvashi Rautela and Amit Sial. Then, I have Bal Naren, a great film on the Swachh Bharat Mission. The film is already making its way through the film festival circuit. Then, there is a web show called Front Page, of which Sandeep Kaul is the director. That also has a very interesting cast. I am also doing another film based on a true incident that took place at a shelter home in Muzaffarpur (Bihar) in 2018... Achhi cheez ye hai ki I am working in all mediums, so nothing else really matters,” he shares.
What’s most important, Duggall adds, is to have work throughout the year. “I learnt while doing Khatron Ke Khiladi (reality show) that you need to put your 100% into a task. The worst that can happen is that you will fail. But, you will at least have the satisfaction of having made an honest attempt. I do exactly that with everything in life. I think one should keep working hard. Give your best and then quickly move on to the next, instead of procrastinating. That’s how life is,” he wraps up.
For the first time in the history of Khatron Ke Khiladi, we’ve not had to abort any tasks midway-Rohit Shetty
9:09 AM
Turning host for the seventh time on Khatron Ke Khiladi 12, Rohit Shetty on what makes this season special
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; July 19, 2022)
Think action movies, and the first name that pops in our head is Rohit Shetty. It is only natural that the makers of Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi would then rope him in as a host instead of tapping into other stars for this action reality show. While this is the seventh season that the filmmaker has taken up, he claims that the excitement of the show has not dwindled away in all these years. In fact, the show has only upped the ante every time. “The show has changed a lot over the years. I keep learning, and try to upgrade myself every season,” says Shetty, who is particularly proud of the contestants on board for the 12th edition of the show.
Unlike the contestants in the previous seasons, the latest set of participants, as per Shetty, have unrelenting spirit. “For the first time in the history of KKK, we’ve not had to abort any tasks mid-way. This has been the best lot. You can barely count a few aborts,” he explains, adding that the scale and level of difficulty on the show has increased. Ideally, every season, the makers alter some of the stunts, but crowd favourites are retained.
“Every time we try to push the envelope and expand the scale. Having said that, besides new stunts, the show will also have a lot of humour. Contestants Nishant [Bhat] and Rajeev [Adatia] have been leaving everyone in splits,” says the filmmaker-host.
But ask him to pick a favourite and Shetty is quick to say no. “I think all are my favourites because they keep surprising me at every turn. Usually, right at the start of the season, a few contestants manage to stand out, but that is not the case this year,” he adds.
For the last many years, the show has been shot in Cape Town and has not deviated from the location. Shetty accepts that it is one of his favourite locations for the show. “The team here is fabulous. It is this very team that now comes and works in India for some of my films and a few others. In fact, they also take care of south movies,” says Shetty, adding that there is also a sentimental connection with Cape Town.
“The city is fabulous, but there is an emotional connection with it because this is where we started.”
For Khatron Ke Khiladi, I have a 23 kilo bag of only food in it-Aneri Vajani
3:58 PM
Aneri Vajani on going into Khatron Ke Khiladi 12, armed with confidence and the comfort of homemade food
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; June 28, 2022)
There’s not a mean bone in Aneri Vajani. She believes that if she is nice to people, she will be treated the same way. But Khatron Ke Khiladi 12 is hardly a place for niceties. With surroundings that push your physical limits and tasks that test your mental strength, the show can build or break your resilience. “How can you fear something you’ve never done,” asks Vajani, as she gears up for her first reality show. For moral support, her mother has sent her a bag full of home-cooked food, she laughs. The actor talks about her fears and hopes before heading to Cape Town.
Edited excerpts from the interview.
You were never one to do reality shows. How did you agree to take up Khatron Ke Khiladi?
There is a correct time for everything, and I was waiting for the right vibe. Additionally, my mom wanted me to do some reality shows. She wanted me to go out there and let the world know the real Aneri.
What were some of your inhibitions before signing on the dotted line?
I believe I am one of the most easy-going people in the industry. I don’t travel with an entourage. I want people to be nice to me because I would like to be treated the way I treat them. When they told me I may not be able to do my hair and make-up, I was more than thrilled. I was okay when they told me I won’t have a vanity van. Then, they told me about food issues, and I assured them that my mother will send over lots of food. In fact, I told them that they could come to me if they needed food [laughs]. However, [what shook me] was that I would’ve to stay away from my family for two months. I usually get homesick in two days.
So, what’s special in these dabbas?
We are allowed three bags of 23 kilos each, and two 7-kilo handbags. Of these, I have a 23-kilo bag of only food in it [laughs]. Name a food item, and I have it in my bag. My mother was sure that after two days I would crave pav bhaji, so she vacuumed the dish and sent it with me [laughs]. When we went to Mauritius for Beyhadh, everyone was laughing at me for carrying a bag filled with food. However, when we were stranded at a place, I removed my thepla and started eating. People lost their sh*t. They called me Annapurna devi and begged me for food.
Are you nervous about the show?
I am scared that this is a new journey. Aneri with no filter has never gone and [faced the camera]. I hope people enjoy my humour. Also, I am a bit of a cry baby because I am an emotional person. If I am angry, I will cry. If I am upset, I cry, but I hope I can manage it this time.
Did any task from the previous seasons freak you out?
For the past nine years, I have only worked. I’ve gone from home to the set, and back. I have never explored the adventurous side of me, which was one of the key reasons to [come on board]. Even if I am unable to do something, at least I will know that I tried. I don’t want to fear something and regret it in the future.
Have you made any friends in the group?
I don’t know anyone personally, but I have met Sriti [Jha] a few times. She is sweet. I also know Mohit [Malik], because his Kulfi Kumar Bajewala director [Ravi Bhushan] helmed my show, Nisha Aur Uske Cousins. I met Shivangi [Joshi] during a party. I believe if you are nice to people, they will be nice to you. After all, this is KKK, not Bigg Boss.
Any apprehensions about working with Rohit Shetty?
Rohit sir is as unpredictable as I am. So, if he does something out of the ordinary, I won’t be surprised. He can make you cry, laugh, and mentor you at the same time. So, I am looking forward to meeting him and having him guide me.
Why not recreate big screen experience on OTT?-Rohit Shetty
9:06 AM
Taking his cop universe to a digital platform, filmmaker Rohit Shetty discusses his maiden project, Indian Police Force
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; June 19, 2022)
When Rohit Shetty told the story of a righteous cop in Singham (2011), little had he imagined that he would soon build a popular cop universe. After Simmba (2018) and Sooryavanshi (2021), the filmmaker is foraying into digital entertainment with Indian Police Force, another engaging story on the men in uniform. Stepping into the OTT world came naturally to the director, who believes in going with the flow.
He reasons, “You have to mould yourself according to the audience [preferences]. That is how people started [making projects] for television. So, if the audience is moving towards the web now, why not recreate the big-screen experience for the OTT audience?”
Shetty’s heroes have a larger-than-life aura to them. After Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh and Akshay Kumar have established their characters in the cop universe, the baton has been passed to Sidharth Malhotra. The actor, who enjoyed a high last year with Shershaah (2021), will make his OTT debut with the Amazon Prime Video offering.
“When you see the series, you realize you need a young boy. We already have Ranveer Singh as Simba in my universe. The idea was to create something similar here, too. But I wanted someone with whom I have not worked previously, and who has not been part of any cop universe,” says the filmmaker.
What makes the upcoming series all the more exciting is that the director has made way for a female cop, essayed by Shilpa Shetty Kundra, in the testosterone-heavy world. “The character was already there in our minds. We have been writing it for almost three years. Who better than Shilpa [to essay the character]!”
One would think developing an eight-part series is more demanding than making a film. But for Shetty, who is currently shooting for Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 12, the process doesn’t differ much. Known for his big-budget movies, the filmmaker has adopted the same approach for the web series. “The scale and canvas are big, similar to how we shoot a film. I think Indian Police Force will be one of the most expensive series made in the country.”
Sidharth Malhotra, Rohit Shetty wrap up Mumbai leg of Indian Police Force; to resume shoot in July in north India
8:32 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 28, 2022)
There has been much intrigue around Rohit Shetty’s Indian Police Force ever since the filmmaker announced his maiden web series. Sidharth Malhotra, Shilpa Shetty Kundra and Vivek Oberoi have been busy filming the Amazon Prime Video offering in pockets of Mumbai since mid-April. It has now been learnt that the team concluded its Mumbai schedule yesterday, following a three-day shoot at a lounge in Parel.
A source reveals, “Some high-octane combat sequences were shot over the past three days. Rohit has now called for a long break as he heads out to Cape Town to host the 12th season of Khatron Ke Khiladi.”
The filmmaker will be back by July, post which the cast and crew will resume work on the action drama. The source adds, “The production team will utilise the weeks in between to do the groundwork for the next two schedules. A long stint is being planned in north India, mostly Uttarakhand. Also, since Rohit considers Goa his good luck charm, he will conduct another schedule in the beach state, before calling it a wrap on the ambitious web series.”
Aneri Vajani bids adieu to Anupamaa
8:04 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; May 25, 2022)
Aneri Vajani, who played Malvika in Anupamaa, has bid a final goodbye to the daily soap. Her decision to join a show midway and especially not in the lead role might have surprised many given that she has only played the protagonist in all her outings, but Aneri says that it was the strength of the character Mukku that prompted her to take it up.
She says, “When Rajan Shahi sir narrated the character of Mukku, I realised that it was multilayered and I could explore so much as an actor. More importantly, I was brought in to highlight the social evil of domestic violence. So I couldn’t have declined the offer at any cost. After the short break, when Rajan sir asked me whether I would like to come back, I had to return for the love of Mukku. Par ab khatam ho gaya hai and there is no scope of coming back to the show (smiles). I have been a part of Anupamaa and Anuj’s pre-wedding rituals. Maine saari rasme nibha lee bas shaadi mein nahi rahungi. I will enjoy the rest from Cape Town.”
Why Cape Town, you wonder? Well, the actress will soon be flying to South Africa to participate in Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi (KKK) 12. Talking about it, she says, “I am more excited than nervous, as this is my first reality show. I have never been an adventurous person, so KKK will be a nice addition to my profile. I am a bindaas and carefree girl, and I hope to show that side of me on the show.”
Meanwhile, on the fiction front, Aneri now wants to take up only lead characters and shows that revolve around her. She shares, “I like playing strong characters and that’s the reason why I played Mukku. Ek actor ki craving hoti hai ki yaar kuchh achha karo, ab woh satiate ho gayi hai aur mera pet bhar gaya hai. Now, I am going to focus more on myself. I will only take up lead roles now.”
I tied rakhi to Aly Goni in person immediately after Khatron Ke Khiladi. I got a Chota Bheem rakhi for him-Avika Gor
8:05 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; August 22, 2021)
She is her parent’s only child, but Avika Gor never felt the void of a sibling. Even if she experienced pangs occasionally of missing out on the bitter-sweet moments siblings share, it was taken care of two years ago after she decided to tie rakhi on Aly Goni’s hand. The two participated in Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi in 2019 and Aly’s caring attitude towards Avika had them hitting it off instantly.
Avika shares, “Aly was extremely caring, sweet and protective of me. I was injured during the shoot and needed someone to take care of me. Aly stood by me throughout the show. He cheered for me during every stunt and was extremely encouraging. We did not know each other and yet he supported me. My first ever Eid celebration was at his home and my first ever Eidi was given to me by him. He is kind and honest. I absolutely love him to the core.”
The actress adds, “I tied rakhi to him in person immediately after Khatron Ke Khiladi. We were chilling at Jasmin’s home and I asked him if I could tie him rakhi and he replied, ‘Of course.’ I got a Chota Bheem rakhi for him (laughs!).”
Aly says, “Avika is very caring and sweet. She is always happy with my success and supported me when I was inside the Bigg Boss house. We share a beautiful, special and strong bond. Uske efforts ki wajah se hamaara rishta itna pyaara bana hai. Though we may not get to meet often, she keeps me posted about all the developments in her life. She even told me about Milind Chandwani when she started dating him. I checked his profile and he came across as a nice guy.”
Ask him if he is a protective brother to Avika and he replies, “She doesn’t need anyone to protect her. She is very strong and started working at a young age. Usne itne padhaav dekh liye hain ki usko kisi ke protection ki zaroorat nahi hai. Usne apni life ke faisle khud liye hain. I appreciate it. That’s how I am and I relate to her on that aspect.”
Avika won’t be in Mumbai this year to celebrate the festival with Aly. She says, “Sadly, I won’t be in Mumbai this year, too. So, I will be sending him the rakhi. It’s like a long-distance sibling love between us (smiles!).”
The actress says that though they may not be in touch with each other on a regular basis when they meet, they pick up where they left off. She says, “The USP of our friendship and the brother-sister love is that we may not talk for months, but we know that we are there for each other and have each other’s back. I will always cherish the sweet bond that we have.”
It’s not easy to hold back such a big film like Sooryavanshi...that’s a lot of money blocked-Rohit Shetty
8:15 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; July 30, 2021)
High-speed car chases, flying vehicles and intense fight scenes are just some of the things that are synonymous with a Rohit Shetty film. But apart from his hit movies, the filmmaker is also known to be the encouraging and witty host of the popular stuntbased reality show, Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi (KKK). Shooting amid the pandemic poses several challenges, but Rohit shot a major portion of the Ranveer Singh-starrer Cirkus in 2020 and KKK in May-June this year.
Talking about how challenging the phase has been, he says, “It’s been tough both as a human being and as a producer. But you have to be strong, as so many people depend on you for their livelihood. It is important to be brave because at the end of the day, you have to take care of so many families. When you have people looking up to you, you can’t afford to fall, especially during these challenging times.”
Rohit says, “It was difficult for me and still is. We continue to fight the battle. But whatever is meant to happen will happen.”
He adds, “You have to keep marching ahead and keep working. That’s what we did through the pandemic till date. Things haven’t returned to normalcy yet, but we continue to work.We started filming Cirkus and shot a mini-series of KKK in Film City last year and the ongoing season of the reality show in Cape Town (South Africa) in May and June this year. I was thankful that we managed to leave the country before the second wave hit us. Going to Cape Town was a tough decision to take because there were cases of Coronavirus there as well. But we have to take things in our stride and move on… we can’t stop.”
Like several of his peers in the industry, Rohit has also been affected by the pandemic as his film Sooryavanshi starring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif remains unreleased for almost a year-and-a-half. Is he worried about the content getting dated, given the humongous budget and scale of the film? “As I said, you can’t help it. The film was ready to hit theatres when the pandemic struck us. We have waited for over a year to release it in theatres. It’s not easy to hold back such a big film... that’s a lot of money blocked. Now, I can sustain myself for a long period, but for me, my team is also important. When I look at them, I realise that they are depending on me for their income. I started Cirkus for them. Now, that is again an investment, it is not a recovery. I am not making any money from it, but I am happy that my team has done six months of work,” he replies.
There were rumours about Sooryavanshi releasing on August 15. Addressing the buzz, he says, “Yes, there was a rumour, but no one knows whether theatres are going to open by then. Norms are changing every day. It’s been challenging for the government also because every second day a new variant of the virus is reported. Currently, we don’t know what is going to happen. We can only hold on to the film as long as we can and see how things unfold in the coming months.”
Dabbling in the action genre and high-octane fight sequences seem to have come in handy to stay afloat during the pandemic. “I can only fight,” he says, adding, “The pandemic has been challenging for every human being and not just the film industry. I just look at the positives. Every day, when I wake up, all of us are healthy, my staff is healthy. There is no issue as far as finances are concerned for them or me. We are working, we made one film. There are so many families who have gone through so much. Local transport hasn’t started; companies are shutting down. I consider myself blessed; I have no complaints.”
Me and my kids sleep with our video calling app switched on so that we can see each other every time we wake up-Shweta Tiwari
8:25 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 7, 2021)
The actress is shooting for the show in Cape Town, away from her children — Palak and Reyansh. She tells us that she misses them a lot and they are in constant touch with each other virtually. She shares, “At night, we sleep with our video calling app switched on so that we can see each other every time we wake up. We talk at every opportunity. I talk to my daughter before every stunt and after it to tell her how I have fared. My son wants me to get him a hippopotamus, which he calls ‘hippomonatus’ from South Africa to India for him. So, if in an episode I get to meet a hippopotamus, I am going to take him home, because my son wants it (laughs!).”
While many are struggling to find work, Shweta feels fortunate to be getting work during these challenging times. She says, “It has indeed been a difficult time for all of us. While I am grateful for the quality time spent with my children and family, I realised ki kaam karte rehna kitna important hai. Agar kaam ruk jaaye toh sab kuch ruk jaata hai. Your income may stop, but expenses don’t. You have to pay the EMIs and other expenses. So, it was very important to work. I thank my stars that today I have work and I can look after my kids.”
Post Khatron Ke Khiladi, she plans to get back to the fiction genre provided the concept is good and shows her in a never-seen-before avatar. “Whenever I am offered a show, I look at the graph of my character to ensure that it’s interesting so that I am not bored before the show has ended. If something interesting comes my way, I’ll take it up, be it a negative or a positive character, naagin ho ya daayan ho. I am a daily soap actress.”
On the personal front, Shweta has in recent times been in the news for her ugly public spat with her estranged husband, Abhinav Kohli. The latter has accused her of not allowing him to meet their son and leaving him alone amid the pandemic while she has gone abroad to shoot for the reality show.
Refusing to comment on her personal life, Shweta says, “Look, everyone faces some problem in their life. Ups and downs are a part of life. But if you keep your goals, priorities and responsibilities aside and run after those problems or those creating those problems, then you will feel lost in life. My priority is my kids. I will focus on them and keep working because only that’s going to help me in the long run. I don’t owe any justification or clarification to anyone because I know what’s good for my children. No one knows it better than me. I know how to keep my kids physically and mentally healthy, give them a better life and take care of them. Logon ke sahi ya galat se meri zindagi nahi chal rahi hai. Meri zindagi mere sahi, galat aur jisme mere bachhon ki bhalai hai, uss se chal rahi hai. I am fully dedicated to my kids and my work, which is why I keep working and forging ahead. If people want to forget their responsibilities and problems and make me the centre of their lives, they are most welcome. But meri zindagi mein aur kisi ke liye koi jagah nahi hai siwaai mere bachhon and meri family ke.”
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