Showing posts with label Hina Khan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hina Khan. Show all posts
Shilpa Shinde on retracting her sexual harassment allegation against producer Sanjay Kohli: "I wanted to come clean"
10:56 PM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (June 4, 2026)
Nearly a decade after accusing Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! producer Sanjay Kohli of sexual harassment, actor Shilpa Shinde has claimed that the allegations were “false” and made because she had “no other option” to exit a contractual dispute.
Shilpa, who played Angoori Bhabhi before being replaced by Shubhangi Atre in 2016, was embroiled in one of TV’s biggest public fallouts. She had accused Kohli and the production team of sexual harassment, mental torture, non-payment of dues and creating a hostile work environment. The dispute also involved industry bodies, including CINTAA and the producers’ association, before ending in a settlement.
Speaking on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa’s podcast, Shilpa said, “I filed a sexual harassment case against my producer because I had no other option. Eventually, I got out of that situation because the matter was settled. I filed the case on that basis because the police directly tell you that if you want an FIR registered, you have to make serious allegations.”
Shilpa said she felt trapped despite having quit the show and claimed Kohli later understood the circumstances that led to the complaint. “Poor man, he ended up getting defamed because of it. Today, through this platform, I want to say that it was false. I am confessing this for the first time,” she said.
Shilpa returned to Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! in 2025 and says she now shares a cordial relationship with the team. We reached out to Sanjay Kohli for comment. No response was received till the time of going to press.
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Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 5, 2026)
Nearly a decade after her acrimonious exit from the TV show Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai!, Shilpa Shinde returned to the show last December. This came as a surprise to everyone because the actress had accused producer Sanjay Kohli of sexual harassment, non-payment of dues and creating a hostile work environment in 2016. In a recent podcast, Shilpa admitted that the allegation that she had made against him was false. Her remarks have also raised uncomfortable questions about accountability and the impact such reversals can have on survivors of workplace harassment. It is against this backdrop that we spoke to Shinde.
‘I cannot even begin to explain the kind of harassment I went through during that phase’
Recalling how the dispute escalated at that time, Shilpa says, “I was asked to sign an exclusivity contract with the channel for the show. In return, I asked for a 25 per cent raise and five days off every month, but they didn’t agree. After that, stories started circulating that I was troubling the producers and wasn’t reporting to the shoot. CINTAA (Cine and TV Artistes Association) asked me to resume shooting the very next day without anyone hearing my side of the story. I told them my dues of Rs. 37 lakh should be cleared, and then I would return to work immediately. Meanwhile, auditions for my replacement were being conducted without informing me.”
She adds, “No one was taking my calls. Main 20 saal se industry mein kaam kar rahi hoon, aur aap kisi ko is tarah badnaam karte ho. No one tried to understand the challenges I was dealing with. I cannot even begin to explain the kind of harassment I went through during that phase.”
‘Sanjay Kohli is a nice man and was the one person who could have resolved the issue back then’
Speaking about Sanjay Kohli, she says, “He is a nice man. He speaks softly and knows how to get work done. What I never understood was why he wasn’t present at the meetings around my exit. He was the one person who could have resolved the issue. The matter was eventually settled in court, and we agreed not to speak about each other after that. After all this, I continued receiving offers to return to Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai! from different quarters. And finally, I took it up in December last year, and things have been fine between all of us.”
When asked whether her allegation could undermine the experiences of women who genuinely face sexual harassment, Shilpa says, “A year of my life went by dealing with all this. A fake MMS of mine was also circulated at the time, which caused even more stress. I have a family, too. Jo mere saath hua, I wanted to return it.”
I’m glad Shilpa came forward with the truth: Binaiferr Kohli
When contacted, Binaiferr Kohli chose not to comment on the larger controversy. She said, “Shilpa speaking up and admitting that she falsely accused my husband after so many years was unexpected. I am glad she came forward with the truth and clarified the matter, as we have always known what the truth was. We have moved on, and I do not wish to comment further on the matter.”
Shilpa’s admission that she falsely accused producer Sanjay Kohli has sparked a discussion in the industry. Hina Khan, without naming Shilpa, posted on Instagram.
She wrote, “Yes, using your sex to malign someone’s image in order to Win during a conflict is absolutely shameful. And everyone is Absolutely Right to Call it out and demand justice. I am shocked beyond words... But I want to talk about the “Real Victim” here. A respected Man with a wife, a daughter and many other women in his family.. A real hardworking producer with many iconic shows. Who went through such an ordeal. As admitted by the Female Actor, her allegations were not just baseless they were used to gain advantage, to win, to score, to claim, to settle without the utilisation of Law. And even after that, the SAME producer gives the SAME show to the SAME person. Another LAUNCHPAD, another MOUTHPIECE, another RELEVANCE, another CHANCE to legitimise her Fake Claim of SEXUAL ASSAULT.. What if the Actor repeats it? After all the actor has been given the same show by the one she falsely ACCUSED... I AM APPALLED. THE JOKE IS ON US (sic).”
Hina Khan is in a profession where, out of 2,000 episodes, she was a bride in about 1,500-Rocky Jaiswal
10:25 AM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; February 13, 2026)
Hina Khan and Rocky Jaiswal, who met on the sets of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai in 2009, got married in June 2025. On Valentine’s Day, the couple shares how their love has evolved over the years.
Since Rocky’s birthday is on the same day as Valentine’s Day, Hina says, “It’s a double celebration of love with the love of my life. Throughout the year, he has looked after me, so I am on a mission to make him feel special on his birthday. But there’s just this one day where every girl wants to feel special; it may be childish, but I like celebrating Valentine's Day. Rocky makes sure that the whole year is filled with love.”
Talking about what has changed after marriage, Hina explains, “Before marriage, I always said that I needed my own space, but it has changed for me. Now, we want to spend more time together.” Rocky’s perspective has remained constant.
“I’ve always wanted to be close to her. In the beginning, you think life is precious, so you want to spend more time. Later, you realize what makes life precious, and you simply want to be around that, and for me, that’s her,” he says.
Hina had a quiet wedding. The actress says that little of it was planned. She adds, “Everyone saw the best decor, mehendi artiste and wedding outfit, but there was nothing like that. Two-three days before the wedding, there were no elaborate arrangements.”
She adds, “Things came together slowly. I met Manish (Malhotra) for an event fitting, and he got to know I am getting married, and that’s how he decided to design my wedding outfit. Originally, we were supposed to sit on a couch and sign the papers, but a lot of people and things came together, and it just aligned perfectly to make our wedding memorable.”
Rocky shares, “We didn’t have a dream wedding in our minds, but it all just happened. Hina is in a profession where, out of 2,000 episodes, she was a bride in about 1,500 (laughs). So we decided we would have a simple wedding.”
‘We are together in good and bad times’
Ask them about their decision to tie the knot after dating for 9 years, and Hina says, “It was me who said let’s do it now.” Rocky says, “In my head, I have always been married to her.” In 2024, Hina was diagnosed with breast cancer. She shares how her husband was a rock-solid support during her battle with the disease. Rocky says, “It is the most normal thing anybody can do.” Hina adds, “The storms in our life will not determine our love for each other. We love each other, no matter what. We are together in good and bad times.”
My Eidi wish this year is to be cancer free for life-Hina Khan
9:11 AM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; March 31, 2025)
Hina Khan is filled with gratitude and is beaming with excitement for Eid this year. And rightly so, because this Eid holds special significance for Hina, who has emerged stronger and resilient after a tumultuous year of battling cancer. Dressed in a stunning yellow sharara for an exclusive photoshoot with Bombay Times, she radiates happiness and positivity. Excerpts from a conversation.
‘As a child, I would eagerly wait for Eid’
Growing up in Kashmir, Hina’s Eid celebrations were always filled with anticipation. “As a child, I would eagerly wait for Eid, wondering when the chand would be sighted,” she reminisces and adds, “There was always an air of excitement and anticipation – would Eid be tomorrow or day after?
Hina says, “We would have a bag ready with our dress and footwear. For me, Eid was a lot about dressing up and Eidi. I was never as excited about the food.” She further says that as an actress, dressing up now has a different meaning, because she has to do it so often. “You dress up so much as an actor that on Eid, if you’re at home, you just want to chill in your pyjamas or probably dress up casually.”
‘I am so grateful this Eid’
Eid is a time for reflection and gratitude, and for Hina, the past 10 months have been extremely tough, but also a testament to her courage and determination as she battled cancer and underwent chemotherapy. “I am so grateful this Eid. I did not keep all the rozas. When Ramzan started, I kept six rozas at a stretch and I could even exercise. My doctors have been so kind and accommodative. They told me I can have my medicines, which I am supposed to have at regular intervals during the day, at sehri and iftar. They said, ‘Hina, listen to your body. If you can manage it, then it is fine’. So, I have a lot of gratitude for the way my body managed it all.”
‘I’ve had good and bad days’
Hina’s resilience is a beacon of inspiration for others, who might be navigating similar challenges in life. But even through this ordeal, she didn’t let her spirit take a beating. She admits, “I will not say it was not tough. I’ve had bad days. I’ve had terrible days. But there were good days, too. The last 10 months have gone by in a flash. I have made some amazing memories. I travelled with my family, and we had so many adventures and family gatherings. It’s our choice what we want to prioritise and what memories we want to feed into our life. I choose to make good memories.”
‘Want to be cancer-free for life’
On a parting note, ask Hina what she wants as Eidi this year and she says, “I want to be cancer-free for life. What else would I wish for? I keep telling myself that I am healing and that I will be cancer-free for life. This is what any cancer patient who has gone through so much would wish for. Nothing else.”
‘I was hoping to go to Kashmir this year’
Hina gets into a nostalgic mood as she tells us how she yearned to be in Kashmir this Eid, but couldn’t do that because of work commitments.
She shares, “When Ramzan started, I told my mom that we’d go to Kashmir to celebrate Eid with my extended family. I was very excited about it, but things didn’t work out. I have some wonderful memories from my childhood days there. My nani would take me to several dargahs where I used to go barefoot in the mornings.”
She adds, “This Eid is going to be simple. It will be Ro’s (partner Rocky Jaiswal) family, my family and probably a couple of friends celebrating together.”
Every woman deserves a man like Rocky Jaiswal-Hina Khan
3:08 PM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (March 12, 2025)
Actor Hina Khan, who is battling stage 3 breast cancer, has expressed gratitude to boyfriend, producer Rocky Jaiswal for being her solid source of support throughout her cancer treatment.
The actor confessed that she often gets overwhelmed with emotion when speaking about him.
“In this journey, if you have a mature and understanding partner by your side, there’s nothing like it. The journey becomes more sweeter,” she told Curly Tales, adding, “When I take his name, I don’t have words to explain what that man has done for me, how he has been with me, and how he has held my hand throughout. He will always do that—that’s just the kind of man he is. I get overwhelmed; I choke up when I talk about him. Every woman deserves a man like him.”
Hina shared her diagnosis was a challenging time for their love: “This really hit him hard. I always tell him, ‘I can’t love you the way you love me.’ But he never takes pride in it; he doesn’t even realize it.”
The actor opened up about her cancer diagnosis last year in June. A while ago, she had penned a long note for Rocky on Instagram and shared several photos and videos from their recent times together. She wrote how he shaved his head for her, prepared well before visiting the doctors and took care of her.
Sometimes while working out, I lose control of my legs-Hina Khan
8:19 AM
Hina Khan, who is battling breast cancer, shares the challenges she faces during her exercise routine
BOMBAY TIMES (August 10, 2024)
Hina Khan, who is currently undergoing chemotherapy for stage three breast cancer, shared the challenges she faces while working out in her new social media post. Along with the video, Hina penned a note, which read, “What’s Your Excuse? Exercise or any kind of physical activity is vital for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But it’s even more essential and effective when one’s going through a phase of illness. Working out regularly not only helps you feel stronger physically, but it also gives sustenance to your mental health. And keeping a healthy mind is obviously unavoidable.”
The actress further added, “In the course of my chemo treatment, I face severe neuropathic pain, which makes my legs and feet numb most of the times, sometimes while working out, I lose control of my legs and fall over due to the numbness. But I only focus on getting back up. I won’t let the fall define me. I will be defined by the strength I show to get up each time,” she shared.
Concluding her note, she said, “Each time, when it feels like I can’t get up and go do the work, I push harder. Because what else have I got other than my strength, my spirit and my willpower? So, what’s your excuse? (sic).”
I don’t know Hina Khan personally, but I would like to tell her that this, too, shall pass-Chhavi Mittal
2:31 PM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; June 30, 2024)
On Friday, Hina Khan posted on social media that she has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. She wrote, “Despite this challenging diagnosis, I wish to reassure everyone that I am doing well. I am strong, determined and fully committed to overcoming this disease.”
We spoke to actress Chhavi Mittal, who battled breast cancer in 2022. Talking about Hina’s post, Chhavi said, “It’s a difficult time for Hina. In her post, she seems focused on staying positive and strong, which is good. We should respect her privacy. I’m sure she is in good hands and will come out of this stronger than ever. I don’t know Hina personally, but I would like to tell her that it may seem tough right now, but this, too, shall pass. In the future, you will look back at this period and understand how you were bestowed with strength. Stay strong, stay positive.”
Chhavi says her own diagnosis and subsequent cancer treatment has made her a stronger person today. She says, “Self-belief is what helped me. There are some things which still bother me physically, but I have accepted that as a part of life. No matter how much I try not to think about what happened to me, it will always stay at the back of my mind.”
She adds, “What is most important is that one has to focus on the positives and believe in themselves. As far as I go, I feel like I’m a new, improved version of myself.”
Hina Khan diagnosed with stage three breast cancer
8:53 AM
stBOMBAY TIMES (June 29, 2024)
Hina Khan has been diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. The 36-year-old shared the diagnosis on Instagram and requested privacy.
Hina’s post read, “Hello Everyone, to address the recent rumour, I want to share some important news with all the Hinaholics and everyone who loves and cares for me. I have been diagnosed with Stage Three Breast Cancer. Despite this challenging diagnosis, I want to reassure everyone that I am doing well. I am strong, determined, and fully committed to overcoming this disease. My treatment has already begun, and I am ready to do everything necessary to emerge from this even stronger (sic).”
The actress further added, “I kindly ask for your respect and privacy during this time. I deeply appreciate your love, strength and blessings. Your personal experiences, anecdotes and supportive suggestions would mean the world to me as I navigate this journey. I, along with my family and loved ones, remain focused, determined and positive. With the grace of the Almighty, we believe I will overcome this challenge and be completely healthy. Please send your prayers, blessings and love. Love, Hina (sic).”
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Cannes jaake aag lagani hai, was my thought-Hina Khan
8:19 AM
Hina Khan, who is back from Cannes, talks about her experience at the prestigious film festival
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 1, 2022)
“This time, Cannes was tiring yet worth it,” says actor Hina Khan about her second appearance at the recently concluded 75th Cannes Film Festival. She adds, “A lot more preparation was put in than the last time. The festival was happening after two years in a normal manner... It felt like a mela. My 2019 visit was amazing, but this year was wonderful too.”
The actor admits that there was a lot of pressure regarding her red carpet look. “I was nervous as my previous red carpet looks were loved by all. Moreover, knowing that there were so many celebs there this time added to the pressure. I wanted to look different from the last time and chose a dramatic look. But I also knew that it was about your own charm and, wahan jaake aag lagani hai, was my thought. I walked [only] once, and I was too tired with just one (laughs). Thankfully, it was well received. Those five minutes on the carpet are magical,” she shares.
Aside from her stylish outings, the 34-year-old also made news for airing her views about not being at the India Pavilion. In an interview, she stated that she was disheartened that she was not part of the inaugural event.
Talking about it, she says, “It wasn’t planned. I was asked a question, and I spoke up. I’ve been vocal about things, and I will always be. I wasn’t in Cannes for a TV show but a film poster launch, so I didn’t understand why this happened. But, after that interview, I was invited to the India Pavilion and even to the screening of (actor-director, R) Madhavan’s film, but it was on the day of my walk and I had to skip.”
I’ve always prayed that if I marry, it would be a man like my father. He was perfect in every way-Hina Khan
8:04 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 15, 2021)
“I am not in a state of mind to speak. The more you think about it, the more it pains,” says Hina Khan, about her dad’s death last month due to cardiac arrest. “I don’t feel like doing anything or interacting with anyone. I will take time and I want to take that time, though some work commitments can’t be deferred,” she adds. She has been away from work for almost a month and recently had a music video release.
The last few weeks were tough on Khan as she not only lost her father but also contracted Coronavirus. She was in isolation at home which she admits affected her. Talking about what kept her going, she says, “My biggest priority is my mother. My parents were a wonderful couple and it’s because of them that I believe in the institution of marriage. I have seen their quarrelling, companionship and their love for each other. I’ve always prayed that if I marry, it would be a man like my father. He was perfect in every way.”
Though she had a tough time with Coronavirus, Khan sees a silver lining in it. “I felt everything happens for a reason as my illness distracted my mother and helped her cope. I couldn’t see her as I was in isolation but she was on her toes taking care of me,” she says.
Khan feels she can understand what Covid-19 patients go through in hospitals. In fact, she reveals, her doctor asked her not to watch any Covid-related news. “More than Covid, people are losing their lives out of fear. Being in isolation is the worst thing to happen to someone as you have no one for company. I pray for people in isolation, may God give them strength,” she adds.
I have taken risks; given up on money to be where I am today-Hina Khan
8:19 AM
Riya Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; January 16, 2021)
Hina Khan, who recently completed 12 years in the industry, spoke to us about how she evolved over the years, the time she left Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (YRKKH), risks that she has taken and what’s next for her.
‘THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING’
Hina shares that as an actor, she can never feel content. “This is just the beginning. I want to step into films and I did a couple of them and got quite a good response. The kind of work, the kind of projects I chose, I am quite happy with them. I am looking forward to doing a lot more in future,” says Hina.
She adds, “I have received so much love and attention from my fans. These years have been a learning experience, whether it was about doing digital films, feature film, TV, launching shows, walking red carpets, walking international red carpets, winning awards and now an international recognition in an American film festival where I won the award for Best Actress. This journey has been amazing.”
‘PROUD OF PLAYING AKSHARA’
Hina began her career with the show, YRKKH, and feels proud to be associated with a show that has been one of the longest-running shows on TV. “When you take up a project, you never think about how it would turn out later. I know I started with Akshara (her character in the show), and she became larger than life and I am so proud of it. I did it for eight long years and considering how it works now, it is very difficult for actors to continue doing a show for such a long time,” says Hina.
The actress shares that it was not easy to break away from the image when she left the show. “When I left TV, it was not an easy journey. It wasn’t easy to break through or break that image or stereotypes that came with it, you get typecast. The longer you play a role, the more typecast you get. And I had done it for the longest time, so it was very difficult to break that image of a bahu and come out as a fashionista. But I didn’t give up, you just have to keep working,” says Hina.
‘I BELIEVE IN TAKING BABY STEPS AND THAT’S WHAT I AM DOING’
Talking about her recognition and her work, Hina says, “I want to win every international award and get recognised everywhere for my hard work. I don’t think an actor would want anything else.”
Hina says taking risks is the key. “Surviving in this industry is so important, I believe in taking baby steps and that’s what I am doing. I have taken risks, I have forgone huge amounts of money to be where I am today. It gives me a lot of confidence that in future if I want to do something, then I can take that risk,” she points out.
‘TV ACTORS ARE NO LONGER TREATED LIKE BEFORE’
Hina feels that the perception of TV actors is definitely changing. “We are not treated the way we used to be. For eight years, I went to my sets, came back home and slept. I did not know about fashion trends, I did not know what was happening in the outside world. It was like I was born again when I left my show. I had to start again from the beginning — how I am supposed to look, what I am supposed to wear and say,” says Hina, adding, “But now things have changed, people’s perceptions have changed. Now, I am given equal importance like other Bollywood celebs.”
‘I WANT TO DO AMAZING PROJECTS IN 2021’
Hina shares that she is awaiting the release of her film, Lines. “I have music videos, want to do big shows and work with good directors. I am aiming for a huge project, I want to work with brilliant actors, so I wish and pray that I get amazing projects in 2021, that is my wish,” she concludes.
Whatever I choose, an artsy film or a commercial one, the content has to be appealing-Hina Khan
8:11 AM
Actor Hina Khan talks about completing 12 years as an actor, getting into films, and the journey so far
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 14, 2021)
Twelve years back, Hina Khan started her career with television, and her very first show — Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai — turned out to be a huge success and made her a household name. And then came visiting the Cannes film festival in 2019 with her film Lines, and Bollywood debut with Hacked last year.
As she hits this milestone in her career, the actor says, “The journey has been amazing! When I look back at where I started from to where I am now, all that I’ve experienced has been very overwhelming, and I am grateful to God for giving me some of the best experiences in life through these 12 years.”
What makes it more special is that Khan has won the Best Actress award at Montgomery International Film Festival for Lines. The 33-year-old gushes, “The feeling is amazing, I am filled with gratitude for such a prestigious honour. When our work gets recognised on an International level, it’s definitely a huge achievement for our entire team, and we’re all so ecstatic.”
Since her film career is clearly panning out well, are more Bollywood projects on the horizon in the near future? Khan says, “Hacked was my first commercial film in 2020, and the entire experience of working on the project was great! I do have another film coming up soon, but I will only be able reveal details about it later.”
The actor adds that she isn’t going to differentiate between projects on the basis of whether it’s a masala entertainer or content driven, and it’s only content that counts.
”Content is the king for me, so whatever I choose — an artsy film or a full-fledged commercial film — the content has to be appealing and interesting. Hence, taking a step forward into films with Lines was one of the best decisions I took. The story is beautiful, my character is filled with so much intensity, so many layers which made the experience of playing such a role an even more memorable one for me, and I am very happy that I could foray into films with such an amazing project,” she ends.
I am sad that I didn’t shoot all of last year. I lost a whole year-Hina Khan
7:58 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 4, 2021)
“I am sad that I didn’t shoot all of last year. I lost a whole year,” says Hina Khan, who had two releases — a film titled Hacked (2020) and the web show Damaged 2 (2020), and starred in two shorts, Smartphone and Wishlist but says they were shot in before the pandemic.
“I believe that I lost out on many opportunities. I couldn’t meet good people, attend social gatherings or network. Not meeting people, like we did earlier, makes a lot of difference. You don’t know who picks you for which project based on your connect with them. I lost out on a lot of learning experience as I didn’t work on new projects. I don’t have any project lined up in 2021 as yet. Yet, I consider myself one of the lucky ones as I had multiple projects release last year,” she shares, adding that while she also starred in a popular supernatural TV show and participated in a hit reality show, it was “stressful”.
“Every few days, we hear about actors and technicians testing positive, even ones shooting out of Mumbai. So, working on a set every day and meeting so many people is risky. I have been stepping out and working but the virus is always on my mind. I performed at an awards event recently and I was so nervous and petrified, with dancers picking me and dancing in a group. I stayed away from my parents for a couple of days as there is a lot of fear,” she divulges.
Khan is happy about the vaccine “out there” but knows it might be sometime before “we get it”. She says, “It is great news that a vaccine is available. But we will have to see how effective it is, what are the side effects, how long does it give us immunity for, and how will the authorities reach out to the population of our country. It won’t be easy. The authorities will have to work hard to be able reach everyone, because a vaccine isn’t the need of just our country but the whole world.”
She wants to urge people to remain vigilant and not drop their guard. “We have to continue to maintain all the safety protocols. Coronavirus is still around and sure things have opened up, but we have to do our part as well. We shouldn’t get lax at all,” she concludes.
Social media is more toxic than Bigg Boss-Kavita Kaushik
8:28 AM
Wild card entrant in the ongoing 14th season of Bigg Boss, Kavita Kaushik says trolls have prepared her for the reality show
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; October 27, 2020)
As she completes almost two decades in the television industry, it's time for Kavita Kaushik to embark on a new journey. The actor has entered the Salman Khan hosted reality show, Bigg Boss season 14, as a wild card entry. In conversation with mid-day, while in quarantine, Kaushik talks about previous winners — Sidharth Shukla, Hina Khan and Gauahar Khan, and why she is unfazed by the negativity in the house.
Edited excerpts from the interview.
How have you prepared yourself mentally for your stint in the house?
I am not overthinking it. If I prepare myself too much by reading into what is being aired, I may form too many opinions. I don't want to make any assumptions before entering the house; I would rather read their energies when I go in.
Do you feel Sidharth Shukla, Hina Khan and Gauahar Khan are taking the limelight away from the new housemates?
Sidharth, Hina and Gauahar have played well in their respective seasons by connecting with the audience. Every season has its own distinct flavour that is brought on by the contestants. Even Salman Khan has a different sur in every instalment — sometimes he is playful, at other times, he is intense or angry. As an audience, now, I want to see what the new contestants can bring to the table without copying their predecessors.
Bigg Boss was offered to you every season. Why did you give your nod this year?
I have been headlining FIR for nine years and was happy in that space. I would get a 10-day break every month, which would be spent travelling. The year 2020 has been unpredictable. The pandemic has prepared me for household chores. At a time when people are losing jobs, I didn't want to be ungrateful by rejecting the number one show [on Indian television] that was being offered to me year on year.
You are spiritually inclined. Do you worry the toxicity of the house will affect you?
Honestly, social media is more toxic than the Bigg Boss house. Try posting your opinion on the state of the nation, love, unity, or anything. Over the years, I have received so much love from the audience. So, when something wrong happens and I raise my voice against it, I am shocked to see people, who don't even understand the context, pouncing on me. Trolls have prepared me for the show.
Do you feel you're at a disadvantage entering mid-season?
I have not strategized so much to think about such aspects. I know I am entertaining, talkative, a good dancer and have a flair for comedy. If people like me, I will have a successful journey.
What do you believe are your strengths and weaknesses?
My biggest strength is that I have nothing to lose. I am not worried about controversies rearing their ugly head, or rumours about past affairs [resurfacing]. I am proud of my journey and all the mistakes I have made along the way. As for disadvantages, I have been living in a bubble so far because my husband [Ronnit Biswas] has been protecting me. He is a down-to-earth man, but he treats me like a queen. I hope I don't break down while thinking of him.
People didn’t watch Hacked in theatres, as it didn’t have a big star’s daughter-Hina Khan
9:02 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 13, 2020)
Many films that don’t get their due in theatres often end up gaining popularity when they release on OTT platforms. Hina Khan would somewhat relate to this, as her debut film — Vikram Bhatt’s Hacked — failed to create a buzz when it released on the big screens earlier this year, but its OTT release received a great response.
However, Khan, 32, says that she was disappointed with the poor reception of her film in theatres. “Recently, Kareena (Kapoor Khan) spoke up about nepotism and said quite bluntly, ‘If people feel there’s so much nepotism, then don’t watch our films’. I agree that it’s the audiences, who decide what they want to watch — be it movies of star kids or newcomers. We put so much efforts to get our movies into the theatres, but if we don’t get enough audiences, then blaming nepotism doesn’t help,” says Khan, who has been a popular face on TV for over a decade.
Khan, who stars in web series Damaged 2, and web film, Unlocked, believes that theatrical release of her film wasn’t appreciated due to a new cast. “People didn’t watch Hacked in theatres, as it didn’t have a big star’s daughter. But on OTT, it was among the most watched films during the lockdown. I want to urge the audiences to give us a chance to make it a level-playing field. Bollywood mafia, insider vs outsider — all debates will end if audiences give us equal opportunities,” she adds.
The mix of real, probable, sexy and dreamy makes me desirable-Hina Khan
8:17 AM
Unnati Joshi (BOMBAY TIMES; September 5, 2020)
The coveted list of The Times 20 Most Desirable Women on Television 2019 is out. Based on their popularity and votes of an internal jury, these gorgeous women, who have wooed the audience on Hindi TV shows, have grabbed a spot on this list. Hina Khan tops the list for the second consecutive year. The actress, who played the demure Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai for many years, was appreciated for her style quotient on Bigg Boss 11 and as Komolika in Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2. Excerpts from an interview with the actress:
This is your second year as Times Most Desirable Woman on TV. What are your thoughts on grabbing the top spot again?
TV has given me everything that I wanted and more. I have a lot of respect for the medium and all my contemporaries. I must say that the title of the most desirable woman on TV is quite intriguing, and I accept it with a lot of love. It’s like being called the most-dreamed-about girl (laughs!), who wouldn’t like that?
According to you, what are the qualities that make you desirable?
I think what connects me to my audience is the way I portray each character that I play. Mostly, these roles are very different from who I am, but I try to bring in the real me in them as well. Also, I put in a lot of effort in the way my character appears — the mix of real, probable, sexy and dreamy, and I think that makes me desirable.
Who, according to you, is the most desirable man and woman?
For me, the most desirable woman is Priyanka Chopra Jonas. She inspires me, and I am sure, millions get inspiration from her in ways that even she wouldn’t know. As far as the most desirable man is concerned, I really like Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his subtleties, calm persona and his charisma.
Forget film roles, television actors aren’t even considered when it comes to donning a big designer’s outfit-Hina Khan
8:27 AM
Roshni Olivera (BOMBAY TIMES; July 31, 2020)
She played the demure Akshara on TV for eight years and then, Bigg Boss happened. The reality show gave us a glimpse into what the real Hina Khan was all about. Along with her straightforwardness, her style quotient, too, came to the fore. Thereafter, one saw a different Hina, who even walked the red carpet at Cannes — a rare opportunity for TV actors. She has often expressed that she has “big dreams” for herself. In a candid chat with BT, the actress, who made her Bollywood debut with Hacked this year, spoke about her journey, how challenging it is for TV actors to break into the world of cinema, and what has prompted her to play the new naagin on the small screen. Excerpts...
You are all set to return to television with Naagin...
Actually, I was focussing more on films and digital shows, and it was all going well. I even had two releases (on OTT platforms) during the Coronavirus lockdown, while talks are on for other projects. But then, Ekta Kapoor came into my life and dropped the bomb! She is not someone who will ask you whether you want to play this role, she just tells you (laughs!). On a serious note, we share a great rapport and I am doing a web show for her, too. When she mentioned Naagin to me, I told her that I didn’t want to do television, but she said that it’s just for one season, and I could do it for some time.
What do you think about the current content on Indian television?
As a viewer, I don’t watch much TV, because honestly, the content does not interest me. Unfortunately, what we have on television is regressive, it’s not empowering. It’s sad when women are insulted and treated badly, and such shows are watched and also liked by people. We had some good content over 20 years ago, some good comedies and shows like Buniyaad, but those won’t work today. So, I don’t know where we are headed.
But, even you have been a part of daily soaps like Kasautii Zindagii Kay You also played Akshara for eight years on TV...
Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai was my first show, where I played Akshara for eight years. She gets married, and initially, has to cover her head with a pallu and do a lot of things in her sasural. But, gradually, things change for her. So, somewhere, we were promoting the fact that women should not be caged. In many ways, it was empowering.
Would you agree that participating in Bigg Boss two years ago was a turning point in your career?
Absolutely, my real side came out. No one is flawless and I am happy that when I came out of the Bigg Boss house, people could relate to me. My fashion sense was appreciated, and viewers were surprised by it, because they had seen me in a particular get-up for years. That really changed the game for me.
Did you have any regrets when you came out of the house, perhaps, with the way the audience perceived you?
Not at all. Even people who didn’t like me at that time, apologised later. It’s a reality show and a well-edited one. They have no personal dushmani with anyone; whoever sells in whichever light, they keep on showing that. Not that I haven’t made mistakes, everyone has. It’s just about what they want to present to the audience. And, eventually, once you are out, your real side is seen.
Post Bigg Boss, are you happy with the way your career has shaped up?
There is a lot more to explore. I have big dreams and I am working towards them, too. I try taking up a variety of projects, so that people see me in a different light as an actor. I have been pretty lucky, and I’m glad that I am doing good work in different mediums. But sometimes, I feel that if I get more opportunities, it will help people notice what I am capable of as an actor.
Do you feel that even today, it’s tough for TV actors to break into the film industry?
Of course, it is difficult. Forget about work, television actors are not even considered when it comes to donning an outfit for a big designer. For me, things have changed because I went to Cannes (in 2019), and I am in touch with a lot of top designers. But usse pehle aisa nahin hota tha. Even to walk the red carpet there, I went through a struggle. Some feel TV actors utne professional nahin hote hain, but I don’t think they should be judged that way. If I had got big opportunities, even I would have done something magical by now, and would have been holding a Filmfare Award in my hand.
How safe are dubbing studio premises for artistes?
8:33 AM
Debarati Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; July 14, 2020)
In the last three months, through the lockdown, most Bollywood singers, composers and technicians have adapted to working from home with their own basic studio set-up. However, with the current unlock phase, several singers and actors have been stepping out for recordings and dubbing sessions, albeit with extra precautions. Though the source of the virus remains unknown, recent reports that Abhishek Bachchan had been dubbing for his OTT show before testing positive for Coronavirus, has further raised safety concerns. While all operational recording and dubbing studios are taking necessary steps to ensure safety as per the government guidelines, how safe do artistes feel about using the studio premises, given the growing number of COVID-19 cases in the city? BT talks to singers, actors and recording studio owners about the risks involved and the measures they are taking...“THIS WAS MY FIRST OUTDOOR ACTIVITY POST LOCKDOWN, AND I DID NOT FEEL SAFE”
Actress Hina Khan’s first outdoor work activity post lockdown entailed dubbing. Excerpts from her social media post read, “This was my first outdoor work activity post lockdown...Trust me, I just did not feel safe. This is just a glimpse of an actor’s life...I sanitised everything around before I began...tried dubbing with the mask on, but that’s not how it works.” She continued, “I tried to maintain a distance from the mic and dub, but guess what, it didn’t work. I was told my voice is not clear. I realised that it’s so so unsafe to inhale and exhale so close to the microphone. God knows how many of them have dubbed in the same studio before me... The studio is taking full precautions... but one careless move can be fatal unfortunately.”
‘THIS IS THE NEW NORMAL AND I FEEL THAT IT IS SAFE’
Actress Maninee De, who has dubbed for a few OTT shows over the past month, said, “I go to a studio in Santacruz. I wear gloves, mask, protective shield, socks and full-sleeved clothes. I also carry water, sanitiser gel, spray, tissue paper, and a set of headphones from home. Everything is organised at the studio and they are all careful. They smoke out the entire room and everything is sanitised. This is the new normal and I feel that it is safe. But, after hearing about the Bachchans being infected, my daughter has told me that I should not be stepping out for any more dubbing.”
‘JUST THE SINGER, COMPOSER AND SOUND ENGINEER ARE ALLOWED IN THE STUDIO’Singer Antara Mitra, known for songs like Dil Hi Toh Hai (The Sky Is Pink) and Gerua (Dilwale), said, “There were singers who had been going out for recordings, but somehow, I could not muster up enough courage to step out. But then, on my birthday a few days ago, I got an opportunity to record and I decided to take it up. I must say that I was relieved to see the kind of precautions they had taken.”
She added, “The studios in Mumbai have been using vapour constantly. The doors, handles, knobs are being wiped with sanitisers. Not just that, limited people are allowed in the studio — just the singer, composer and the sound engineer, and they are keeping only a single recording in a day.”
‘WE TAKE BOOKINGS ONLY FOR EMERGENCY PURPOSES, LIKE COVID-19-BASED CAMPAIGNS’Singer Aaman Trikha, who is known for songs like Prem Leela (Prem Ratan Dhan Payo) and Butterfly (Jab Harry Met Sejal), said, “After the first unlock phase began, there was an important recording for which I had to go to LM Studio (Lata Mangeshkar’s studio), where they are following every guideline. After every recording, they sanitise mics, headphones and other equipment along with the whole dubbing room and mixing room. They check the temperature of everyone coming in, and maintain strict social distancing. The only time the artistes remove their masks is when they are in front of the mic. There is no one else in the recording room.”
Noel Gonsalves, owner of Sound Chapel Studios (Andheri), said, “We take bookings only for emergency purposes, like recording for COVID-19-based campaigns or songs. Only two people are allowed during the recording — the artiste, who is in the acoustic room, and another person in the monitor room. After every recording, a thorough sanitisation is conducted.”
— With inputs from Onkar Kulkarni
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SAFETY MEASURES USED BY RECORDING STUDIOS
- Frequent sanitisation of mics, headphones, other equipment and dubbing room
- Minimum number of people within the premises (including singers and technicians)
- Single recording session in a day
#IgnoreNoMore: Shveta Salve and Aashka Goradia take on vulgar trolls
8:14 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 13, 2020)
On June 11, actors Shveta Salve and Aashka Goradia were part of a live yoga session on Instagram, but they stopped as Salve noticed a number of vulgar comments during the session. She then decided to #ignorenomore and began naming and shaming the trolls, reporting the accounts.
Sharing screenshots of her direct messages, where trolls could be seen apologising for their comments, Salve, 35, wrote, “I’m done with this bs and we need to take action....” Many TV celebs, including Hina Khan, Narayani Shastri and Meghna Naidu, also stood up for the actors.
Talking about online harassment, Goradia says, “People comment during live sessions, once the live is saved the comments disappear. This is how these trolls get away. Usually women are told or they don’t want to react and keep ignoring abusive and lewd comments. And when you raise your voice, people counter, ‘You put up bold bikini pics online, toh log bolenge hi’. I want to ask them: when has a regular photo or covered up girl stopped anyone from being vulgar?”
Goradia, 34, points out that the teenagers who write such “rubbish online” might grow up to be “abusers and worse”.
“Shveta felt so bad for me that she was compelled to do this. I have learned one doesn’t have to always ignore, and we need to set a precedent. I urge women to come forward and report them. People should fear making any sexual comment to anyone,” she says.
I’m able to observe Ramzan to the fullest because of the lockdown-Hina Khan
8:27 AM
Riya Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; May 11, 2020)
Having been in self-isolation since five days before the official Coronavirus lockdown was announced, Hina Khan feels she has mastered the art of patience while staying at home. From cleaning her house to sketching and now fasting during Ramzan, Hina talks about how the month is different this year, her biggest takeaway from the lockdown and how she’s happy spending time with her family.Hina says, “Each year has been tough during Ramzan as I’ve been working while fasting. But this year, there isn’t any work to do, so resting at home and breaking the fast later in the day is all there is to do. I’m making the most of this time to ensure that I observe the festival to the fullest. My only wish for everybody is to emerge physically and mentally stronger from the lockdown. I’d be ecstatic if the situation improves by Eid.”
Talking about her daily routine, Hina says, “It is mainly household chores and activities I haven’t been able to do due to my hectic work schedule — cleaning the home, trying my hand at cooking and pursuing a new hobby like sketching.”
Hina says the one thing she never expected to do was wash a doormat. “It came quite as a shock when my mother asked me to wash the doormat, but it turned out to be quite funny, and I had a hearty laugh while getting it done,” she tells us.
What she has learnt from the lockdown is patience. She says, “This is an important time, when none of us are certain of when we’ll get back on our feet, so keeping patience and being composed is the only way of handling it better. I feel this is one thing I have managed to conquer pretty well.”
Colors TV plans memorial concert for Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor, called Dard-E-Dil: A Tribute To The Legends
8:25 AM
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 7, 2020)
Last week, the Hindi film industry lost two icons, Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor. After a barrage of tributes on TV and the social media, Colors has planned a memorial concert — Dard-E-Dil: A Tribute To The Legends—to be aired this weekend. Artistes from TV and films will unite to celebrate the lives and achievements of the duo, with pre-recorded videos from home.The line-up includes comedienne Bharti Singh, singers Sukhwinder Singh, Aditya Narayan, Abu Malik, and TV actors Hina Khan and Devoleena Bhattacharjee. The ex-contestants of the live singing reality show, Rising Star, will also be a part of the concert which will be hosted by Maniesh Paul. “Aditya will croon ‘Suit Suit Karda’ from Hindi Medium while Hina has recorded ‘Teri Umeed Tera Intezaar’ from Deewana. Arjun Bijlani will sing and perform to another Rishi chartbuster, ‘Om Shanti Om’ from Karz among other acts,” revealed a source.
Meanwhile, Manisha Sharma of Viacom18 pointed out that owing to the lockdown, fans could not give an appropriate farewell to their favourite stars. “We wish to give them an opportunity to do so through this special episode. They left an everlasting impression on our minds with their films and songs. That’s how we wish to remember them, through art and music,” she said.
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