Showing posts with label Ishita Dutta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ishita Dutta. Show all posts
Ishita Dutta teases Drishyam return: "Make another one, and I’ll commit another murder"
9:52 AM
S Farah Rizvi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 10, 2026)
For actor Ishita Dutta Sheth, life has come full circle. “It was my first film, and meri pehchaan comes from this film,” she says.
As the Drishyam franchise where she plays Anju Salgaonkar, reaches its climax with Drishyam: The Conclusion, Dutta admits the box-office response has been overwhelming. “We were surprised. Itna zyada intezar tha logo ko; it was a huge surprise for all of us.”
Living through the annual “October 2” meme mania, she laughs, “That was the perfect release date. Every year, I get flooded with messages.” The pop-culture ritual involving Satsang, pav bhaji, and Panaji has even gone global.
“I have friends abroad who get those October 2 messages without fail,” she chuckles. “They might forget my birthday, but they definitely message me saying, ‘Went to Satsang, then took a train.’ That dialogue has become an absolute rage.”
As for whether the franchise will continue, Dutta reveals, “When I was told this was the conclusion, I told everyone, ‘Make another one, I’ll commit another murder!’ When I shot the first film 12 years ago, nobody knew it would become this big. It gave me immense recognition. Ending it feels bittersweet, but good stories need a proper conclusion before they get dragged out. That said, it’s a very open ending, so you never know!”
On working with family friend and reel-life dad Ajay Devgn, she says, “He’s more than a co-star; our families bond beautifully. Strangely, I keep landing projects with him unknowingly—not just Drishyam, but De De Pyaar De 2 as well.”
Recalling the prep for the latter, she laughs, “I was seven months pregnant, and the team told me we’d shoot in four months. I thought, ‘From which angle will I look like Ajay sir’s daughter right now?’ I was 20 kilos over! I had to immediately start prepping post-delivery to get back in shape.”
She adds, “Shooting with him feels like having a family member on set. I remember craving pani-puri in Chandigarh; the team warned me against eating it there, so Ajay sir arranged for the best from a trusted shop. It was a humbling gesture.”
I was planning a family trip when the Drishyam team called-Ishita Dutta
4:49 PM
Kimberly Colaco (BOMBAY TIMES; February 28, 2026)
Ishita Dutta, recently in Goa for the shoot of Drishyam 3 starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Shriya Saran, describes the state as one of her favourite escapes.
“Goa is close to Mumbai, the weather is similar, and it’s ideal for travelling with kids. The resorts and food are wonderful; I often say Goa has some of the best restaurants in the country. I find immense peace and freedom by the beach,” shares Ishita, who spent time here during both her pregnancies.
'I didn’t expect to return so soon'
She reveals that resuming work after having her second baby was unplanned. “I didn’t expect to return so soon. I was planning a family trip when the Drishyam team called. My husband Vatsal encouraged me to take it up, and I’m glad I did. By the time filming began, our daughter Veda was six months old," shr says.
Health setback and recovery
The actress went through a difficult health phase. Diagnosed with gallbladder stones during her second pregnancy, she underwent surgery two months after delivery. “It was an extremely painful period. I lost around 16 kilos in an unhealthy way and became very weak. The first few months with my baby were challenging,” she shares.
Family as the anchor
Balancing work and motherhood is possible because of family support, she says. “With two young children, you need family. My parents and in-laws have been my biggest strength," adds Ishita.
Ishita Dutta cuts maternity break short for Drishyam 3
8:50 AM
Actor Ishita Dutta Sheth says she returned to work just six months post welcoming her daughter after Drishyam 3 was announced
S Farah Rizvi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 20, 2026)
Actor Ishita Dutta Sheth is back on sets, six months after the birth of her second child, daughter Veda. With major projects coming her way, the actor says she chose not to take an extended break from work as everything unfolded “unexpectedly”, but “organically”.
The 35-year-old shares, “It was during the shoot of De De Pyaar De 2 (2025) that I got pregnant. I couldn’t take a break then because I really wanted to be part of it. Then my baby girl was born. I thought I would finally take some time off since she’s so young, but Drishyam 3 was announced, and I had to be back. It all happened so organically that I just went with the flow.”
Ishita admits that balancing work and motherhood, especially during a long shoot, is challenging: “It always feels good to be back at work, but after having a baby, it does get overwhelming. As a mother, it’s difficult. This is the first time since her birth that I’m on a long schedule. You keep thinking about how things will be when you’re not around, but ho hi jaata hai manage.”
She credits her family for making the return possible. “I’m lucky that my parents live with me and my in-laws are nearby, so they step in when needed,” she shares.
However, Ishita has made a conscious decision not to bring her children to shoot locations: “When you are constantly on the go, you never know where the scene is to be shot, where the vanity van will be, so taking them around everywhere is challenging.”
Being part of the Drishyam series remains deeply special for her. Ishita, who played actor Ajay Devgn’s daughter in the first two installments says, “Who doesn’t want to be part of a successful franchise? From the first film, when I was a newcomer, to now, when I’m a mother of two, this character has stayed closest to my heart. Working again with the OG cast, I just wanted to tell everyone, I’m back.”
Ishita married actor Vatsal Sheth in 2017. The couple welcomed their son Vaayu in July 2023, and daughter Veda in June 2025.
Pankaj Dheer dies after prolonged cancer battle; industry pays tribute
9:33 AM
Avijit Ghosh (THE TIMES OF INDIA; October 16, 2025)
Actor Pankaj Dheer, whose impressive turn as the wronged prince Karna in the television epic, ‘Mahabharat’ (1988), embedded him in a generation’s memory, passed away in Mumbai on Wednesday. He was 68. Dheer was suffering from cancer. “He had been in and out of hospital in the past months,” producer and friend Ashoke Pandit told PTI.
In an interview to the video magazine, ‘Lehren Retro’, the actor once revealed that he had refused the part of Arjun in the BR Chopra production because he was asked to shave off his moustache. “It was foolishness,” he admitted. Six months later he was offered Karna which didn’t require him to shave off facial hair.
Dheer’s family roots went back to Kasur, a town south of Lahore, in pre-independence India. But the son of producer-director C L Dheer (‘Bahu Beti’, ‘Alingan’) had grown up in Bandra, Mumbai.
The TV show’s Sanskritised dialogues triggered performance anxiety. The actor sought tips from Rahi Masoom Raza, who had co-written the show. Among other things, Raza suggested that he should read aloud the Hindi daily, ‘Navbharat Times’, a sister publication of The Times of India, everyday.
With his imposing presence and empathetic voice, Dheer executed an unforgettable Karna drawing the audience's sympathy. The role gave him what every actor yearns for: fame, adulation and a steady career.
When the character died in the serial, many shaved off their hair in Bastar, then part of Madhya Pradesh. “At the behest of (then) chief minister Arjun Singh, I flew there and consoled the mourners, assuring them that I was alive. It was something you believe only when you see it,” he recalled in the interview.
Pankaj Dheer also said, “Many people do not know my name, but they recognize me as Karna. Even today, my face is published as Karna’s face in textbooks.”
The role opened doors in television and films leading to nearly 100 TV shows and films. One of his most remembered roles was of King Shivdutt in the mega fantasy, ‘Chandrakanta’ (1994). Two notable films were Bobby Deol’s ‘Soldier’ (1998) and Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Baadshah’ (1999), where he played a scheming security chief.
Dheer’s passing was mourned on social media. Among those who attended the funeral were fellow actors from Mahabharat, and Salman Khan, with whom he had worked in films such as ‘Sanam Bewafa’ (1991).
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Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; October 16, 2025)
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away yesterday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 68. Dheer was seen in films like Sadak, Soldier, and Badshah, as well as several TV shows, including Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, Yug, and Badho Bahu. He is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.
His Mahabharat co-actor and close friend Gajendra Chauhan, who played Yudhisthir in the show, said, “I am deeply saddened and will miss him a lot. Pankaj was not the serious guy he looked like on screen. He was very jovial, always smiling and a wonderful host. We used to meet every fortnight at someone’s home, and Pankaj would keep everyone laughing. Shooting with him was smooth and joyful because he was light-hearted and pleasant.”
Arjun Feroz Khan, who played Arjun in Mahabharat, posted a picture on Instagram and wrote, “Gentleman! Bids goodbye. Will miss you, PD. Stay blessed (sic).”
Puneet Issar, who played Duryodhan, said, "Karna and Duryodhan were brothers, and I could play that part with him so naturally because I had known him even before we did Mahabharat. I am heartbroken, and I will always miss him."
The Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association President Ashoke Pandit penned on social media, “Shocked to know about the sad demise of our dear friend and a brilliant actor, Pankaj Dheer. A great human being. Huge loss to the industry.Heartfelt condolences to the family (sic).”
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Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 16, 2025)
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer died on October 15 after a prolonged battle with cancer at the age of 68. His cremation was held yesterday in Mumbai. A statement from CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association) confirmed the news, expressing “profound grief and deep sorrow” at the passing of their former chairman and general secretary.
His performance as Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat made him a household name, and he appeared in shows Chandrakanta, Yug, The Great Maratha, and Badho Bahu. He also starred in films like Sadak (1991), Soldier (1998), and Baadshah (1999).
Pankaj is survived by his wife Anita Dheer, son Nikitin Dheer, and daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar.
It’s very shocking news and quite sad. I got the honour of working with him in my first film Taarzan: The Wonder Car (2004). He was fantastic and he always made sure that we were all comfortable.
- Vatsal Sheth
It was a privilege to work with him in Rishton Ka Saudagar – Baazigar. He used to get sandwiches from home just for me. Anyone who worked with him knows what an amazing person he was.
- Ishita Dutta Sheth
Pankaj ji was the first senior actor I ever worked with in Rang Badalti Odhani. He treated me like a son with so much kindness. He’ll always be remembered with immense love and respect.
- Karan Tacker
He was one of the finest gentlemen I ever worked with (in Mahabharat). He also crossed the epitome of every humanity angle. He’ll be missed.
- Arjun Feroz Khan
Ishita Dutta shares health update after being hospitalized with son
9:07 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (August 2, 2025)
Actor Ishita Dutta recently revealed that she was hospitalized along with her two-year-old son Vaayu, just a couple of months after welcoming her second baby with husband, Vatsal Sheth (44).
The 34-year-old actor shared a photo from the hospital on Instagram Stories on Wednesday, showing Vaayu and herself receiving IV fluids, though she didn’t reveal their faces in the post.
While she didn’t disclose the reason, Ishita mentioned that being unwell has led to significant weight loss. Sharing a health update, she wrote, “It’s been a really tough month... At a time when I was supposed to be with my newborn, I was making hospital rounds instead. Thankfully, both Vaayu and I are doing much better now.”
She also addressed the buzz around her post-partum appearance: “A lot of you have been asking me about my weight loss — it wasn’t deliberate, just a result of being unwell.”
In June, the couple welcomed their daughter, Veda, and their son Vaayu in July 2023.
Ishita and Vatsal fell in love on the sets of the television show, Rishton Ka Saudagar — Baazigar and got married on November 28, 2017, in Mumbai.
There was never any confusion or pressure about breastfeeding-Ishita Dutta
8:56 AM
As World Breastfeeding Week kicks off, actor Ishita Dutta Sheth opens up about the social stigmas and pressures that new mums often face
Vishakha Pandit (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 1, 2025)
The last few months have been a whirlwind for actor Ishita Dutta Sheth, as she welcomed her daughter Veda with husband, actor Vatsal Sheth in June. With World Breastfeeding Week kicking off today, we caught up with Ishita, who is navigating motherhood a second time.
Talking to us, Ishita notes that her experience with both her kids has been vastly different. “When Vaayu (her two-year-old son) was born, latching didn’t work that well. After six months of breastfeeding I shifted to formula milk. But with my second kid, I’ve been lactating quite a bit, to the extent of now donating milk to hospitals,” she says.
Breastfeeding can be a sensitive subject, with a common conception being that the natural way is better than baby formula. However, the 34-year-old states, “I was clear with my approach, if I was lactating enough and my baby latched, I would breastfeed. If not, I would express milk or switch to formula. There was never any confusion or pressure.”
She goes on to assert that a mother shouldn’t be judged for the way she chooses to feed her child: “There are women who can’t breastfeed, and there are those who choose not to. I was formula-fed because my mom couldn’t breastfeed, and I’ve turned out fine. So why shame anyone? Whatever a mother chooses for her child is the best decision for them.”
She also goes on to address the stigma around breastfeeding in public. Ishita notes, “Breasts are still sexualised, and that’s why people stare at a woman breastfeeding in public; it’s uncomfortable. I wish I could feed my baby anywhere without thinking twice. No one tells you directly not to breastfeed, but the way people look at you can make you feel like you shouldn’t.”
However, the actor feels that there’s been a shift in perspective as more public figures speak about these issues. “Even 20 years ago, you’d never hear the words ‘breast’ or ‘period’ in public conversation. Our mums just accepted the pain. Now, at least we’re having these conversations, and that’s a start,” she shares.
“I’d love to live in a world where women don’t have to check for a private room before going out or feel uncomfortable feeding their hungry baby. But to reach that point, we need to normalize it,” she ends.
We are overjoyed to welcome our baby girl-Vatsal Sheth, Ishita Dutta
2:25 PM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; June 13, 2025)
Actors Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta welcomed a baby girl on June 10. The couple, already parents to son Vaayu, couldn’t be happier as their wish for a daughter has come true. Vatsal shared, “We became parents around two years ago for the first time when Vaayu came into our lives. This time, we were hoping for a baby girl and our dream has come true. We are overjoyed. Our family is now complete.”
Talking about how Vaayu reacted to the arrival of his sister, Vatsal said, “Vaayu is about to turn two, so he doesn’t understand much. We kept telling him that a baby will be entering our lives and will be his little sister/brother. When he saw her, he was very happy and gave her flying kisses.”
Meanwhile, the actor has decided to take a short break from work. “I have consciously taken a small break from work because this is family time and I want to spend it with my family. They need my full attention, love and care.”
An elated Ishita told us, “We are happy and excited. The best moment was when we saw Vaayu’s reaction. It was priceless. I can’t wait to see them grow up as siblings. It will take a few days for the fact to sink in that we have a daughter now. I am looking forward to this new journey with Vatsal and our kids.”
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S Farah Rizvi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 12, 2025)
Actors Vatsal Sheth (44) and Ishita Dutta (34) welcomed their second child, a baby girl and shared the happy news with their fans in an Instagram post made late night Tuesday.
Speaking to us, Vatsal gushes, “Ishita and I are ecstatic. It’s an indescribable feeling. Our daughter completes our family in the most beautiful way. We waited for this moment for long. Now that it has happened, it’s a little overwhelming. As young parents, we will redo our learning, but this phase is surely amazing.”
The couple, who became parents to their son Vaayu in July 2023, posted an adorable family picture straight from the hospital. Ishita wrote in the caption, “From two to four hearts beating as one. Our family is now complete. Blessed with a baby girl (sic).”
The comments section of the heartfelt moment (left) is filled congratulations and heart emojis from friends, family, and fans. Actors including Rakul Preet Singh, Suniel Shetty, Bobby Deol, Drashti Dhami, Gauahar Khan, Helly Shah, Kishwer Merchant, and Ridhima Pandit shared good wishes, blessings, and love.
We’d love Vayu to have a little sister, say Vatsal Sheth, Ishita Dutta
10:41 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; February 19, 2025)
Actor-couple Ishita Dutta Sheth and Vatsal Sheth are expecting their second child. Ishita, who is in her second trimester, told us, “We are excited and much more prepared this time around. With Vayu, every experience was new. I remember I would run to the doctor often, but this time my doctor is surprised that I’m not calling him frequently. My parents have moved in with us, so I have a good support system at home.”
The Drishyam actress had earlier spoken about mood swings and post-pregnancy issues. When asked about that, she said, “It is real. Motherhood is a unique experience, but a woman goes through a lot of changes in her body and moods. Vatsal has always been a great support.”
She added, "I am glad that Vatsal was a great support and he still is. Even now, a month ago, I had tough time physically but I endured it well."
Vatsal, who was last seen in Adipurush, added, “I feel every time a woman becomes a mother, her partner needs to understand and support her. It is a beautiful journey for the parents, but can be a little tough when you are in a nuclear family set-up. I often joke with Ishita that we should sleep well till our baby arrives and think of holidays only after two to three years now.”
The couple, who are parents to two-year-old Vayu, are hoping to have a baby girl this time. “We just want the baby to be healthy and would love for Vayu to have a little sister.”
While I am really enjoying my shoot, I keep checking on the baby monitor-Ishita Dutta
8:06 AM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 25, 2024)
Actor Ishita Dutta Sheth, who welcomed her first child, son Vayu, with actor-husband Vatsal Sheth in June last year, is returning to work after two years.
While she is excited to make her comeback, Ishita says it was a difficult choice to make: “The decision to get back to work was very tough. I thought I would come back after six months, but when the time came to say yes to any project, I felt reluctant. But, my parents, in-laws and husband all said, ‘We are here to take care of Vayu.’ Vatsal and I both plan our schedules according to him.”
The 34-year-old continues, “Every working woman goes through that guilt. That first day when you have to leave your child and go to work, it will always be hard, be it six months or two years. A mother will always have that separation anxiety; I had it too, but I made it.”
Despite the “mom guilt,” the actor is glad to be back in action. She reveals that she is currently shooting for a film, but keeps the details sparse. “While I am really enjoying my shoot, I keep checking on the baby monitor to see what Vayu is up to. This is the first time I have been away from him for so long,” she tells us.
Ishita adds that she plans on bringing Vayu to the shoot location soon. “We are getting him here. We will see how it goes. If he is able to adjust then, he will stay with me till the end of the schedule. I want to start working properly but I will take a month or two between projects to spend time with him,” the actor concludes.
I think flying kites is in every Gujarati’s blood-Vatsal Sheth
8:46 AM
Soumitra Das (BOMBAY TIMES; January 15, 2024)
Vatsal Sheth, known for TV shows like Just Mohabbat and films like Taarzan: The Wonder Car, is in Ahmedabad currently to dub for his debut Gujarati film. As he stepped out with us for an Uttarayan shoot, he told us, “While Vaayu (his son) is just five-and-a-half months old, I have bought small kites and firkis for him on this trip. They are really cute and since it’s his first Uttarayan, this is the best gift that I could think of for him. I am sure that once he grows up, he would love to fly kites, just like his dad!” Excerpts from a chat:
‘I will be flying kites at Apoorva Lakhia’s pol house’
I feel lucky to be in Ahmedabad this Uttarayan and I will be flying kites at my friend’s (filmmaker Apoorva Lakhia) pol house in the city. Nothing can match the way Uttarayan is celebrated in the pols. Last year, I travelled to Bhavnagar, where I have a few relatives, just to fly kites with them. Uttarayan is among my favourite festivals and I think it’s (flying kites) is in every Gujarati’s blood!
I have celebrated Uttarayan in Ahmedabad earlier also and once, Ishita (Dutta Sheth, his actress-wife) had also tried her hand at flying kites. Earlier, she used to think that flying kites is easy; lekin uss ne 20 patang udaane ki koshish ki, and she was finding it difficult. Then I helped her in flying one kite, lekin woh bhi do second mein kat gayi! She realized that it’s not easy and one has to be very alert and aware while flying kites.
Even if I am shooting during Uttarayan, I make sure to carry kites and firkis to the sets. While doing the show Haasil, Zayed Khan and I had flown kites together on the sets. I have also celebrated the festival in Madh Island while shooting for other TV shows.
‘My friends and cousins buy kites & manjha for me from Surat’
I was born and brought up in Mumbai and although Uttarayan celebrations there can’t match the way it is celebrated in Gujarat, we used to have a lot of fun. About three or four days before the festival, we would visit the kite markets and buy kites. My friends and cousins buy kites and manjha for me from Surat, which are of great quality.
The quality of kites and manjha is crucial when you are looking forward to flying kites for the entire day. The preparation also involved buying tapes and finger protection gloves.
Just the night before Uttarayan, all the friends would get together. Hum agarbatti se kites mein holes karte thay, aur phir kinya bandhte thay. From the next morning, we would be on the terrace for the entire day and woh pench ladane mein jo maza hai, that can’t be described in words. We would also shout ‘lapet’ and ‘kai po che’ at the top of our voice.
Raat ko hum kandeel bhi udate thay, and there would be competitions for that. Uttarayan is also about relishing homemade delicacies. My mom makes amazing chikkis (til chikkis, peanut chikkis and murmura chikkis) and I love gorging on undhiyu and chikkis. She also makes delicious aadu paak (adrak ka halwa). I also love eating mathiya and cholafali.
Vatsal Sheth would not let me have a lot of mithai. Now that I am pregnant, he lets me eat anything I like-Ishita Dutta
8:43 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; March 25, 2023)
Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta Sheth are all set to become parents. Just like their low-key wedding at Iskcon Temple in Mumbai in November 2017, the news of the pregnancy was known only to a few family members and close friends initially. The couple recently shared the news on social media.
Talking about this new phase in their lives, Ishita says, “We are very excited and not exactly prepared, but we are looking forward to it. Every day is a new day. The body is going through a different experience.”
Vatsal adds, “We have been married for five years, but we hadn’t made a conscious decision to have children only after we are settled in our careers. Just like marriage is a milestone, having a child is another milestone. Work keeps happening and you continue to work hard, but welcoming our baby will definitely be the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in our lives.”
Sharing how Ishita broke the news to Vatsal, she says, “I got to know about it in the morning and was waiting for Vatsal to come home. Initially, I wanted to plan something big and share the good news with him, but then I could not wait and told him as soon as he got home.”
Ishita, who is in her second trimester, shared that the baby is due in a few months and she is happy to see her husband fussing over her. “Vatsal is very fit and he is watchful of what he eats and would not let me have a lot of mithai. But now he lets me eat anything I like. In fact, he fulfils my demands immediately. We will think of some baby names soon,” she shares.
The two actors, who have been busy working, were away from each other for a month. Vatsal has been shooting for a Gujarati film, while Ishita has been shooting for a Hindi movie. Vatsal says, “I have also shot for a web series and will be busy throughout the year.”
Ishita wants to continue working during her pregnancy. She says, “As long as the makers are okay with my pregnancy, I will continue to shoot. I want to continue working post pregnancy, too. Of course, when the baby arrives, a lot of things will change and life will take a new direction, but I would like to start working once we settle down after a few months. Vatsal and I love making reels, so yes, social media will also be another important thing to explore.”
Vatsal adds, “I think once the baby arrives, I will be a complete hands-on father and that’s when the feeling will sink in.”
We are boring people who love each other’s company-Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta
8:25 AM
Kimberly Colaco (GOA TIMES; February 14, 2023)
Bollywood couple Ishita Dutta and Vatsal Shet decided to board the flight to Goa to celebrate Valentine’s Day together, relaxing on the beach. “We are both boring people, and not like what you see on TV. But we love each other’s company. It will mostly be a relaxing vacation,” says Vatsal. Ishita adds, “I get scared of the water, but I like to have a drink and read a book by the beach.”
‘NO BIG GESTURES – WE LIKE IT SIMPLE’
The couple who tied the knot in November 2017, believe in a simple funda: give each other enough space. “We do not let our relationship overpower us,” says Ishita. Vatsal adds, “One has to make little adjustments, like – I love sports, she doesn’t, yet, she attends events with me – these small things matter.”
Day to day gestures are important, they say. “We care for each other. It’s not about big surprises, or grand gestures of love. We don’t need to go out to celebrate, it could be as simple as eating dal-chawal at home, watching a film together – that has always been the way for us,” says Ishita.
WILL HAVE A BABY WHEN READY
Are they planning on expanding their family, Ishita quickly replies, “We get asked this a lot, but we will have a baby when we are ready...”
On the work front they are busy shooting for another two months, and hence they decided on this short vacation in Goa. “I will be working in a Gujarati film and will mostly be away while on the shoot,” says Vatsal. While Ishita is tight-lipped about her next project.
A team member had got a fit on sets of my TV show; I borrowed that incident for Drishyam 2-Ishita Dutta
8:07 AM
Reprising her role in Drishyam 2, Ishita says challenging to play character who suffers from anxiety attacks rooted in troubled past
Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; November 18, 2022)
Seven years can be a long wait to reprise a character. As director Abhishek Pathak’s Drishyam 2 opens in cinemas today, Ishita Dutta says her character Anju has changed a lot since the first instalment of the Ajay Devgn and Tabu-led thriller. It was the death of Anju’s classmate that kicked off the cat-and-mouse chase in the 2015 thriller.
“[The death] happened accidentally. It has been traumatic for my character. So, over the years, she has become insecure, fidgety, and suffers from anxiety attacks and fits. Her father [played by Devgn] tries to ensure that her condition doesn’t worsen,” says Dutta.
Portraying the character who suffers from anxiety attacks and fits required considerable prep. The actor says that an incident during one of her TV show shoots helped her gain a better understanding of the condition.
“A member of the team had got a fit on the set of my TV show. It was heartbreaking to see them suffer. When I joined the Drishyam 2 shoot, I borrowed from this incident,” she states.
Besides the crime thriller, Dutta has two projects in her kitty that will see her reunite with actor-husband Vatsal Sheth after Rishton Ka Saudagar — Baazigar (2016). “All I can say for now is that we were supposed to start one film in September, but it got pushed ahead. It will roll early next year, while the second film is scheduled to start mid-2023.”
I couldn’t even bring myself to look at Ajay Devgn, but he is so sweet and easy to work with-Ishita Dutta
8:11 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; November 15, 2022)
Ishita Dutta, who started her career as a TV actress and continues to be a part of the entertainment industry, says that the first instalment of Drishyam (2015) changed a lot for her as an artiste. The actress, who will now feature in the sequel Drishyam 2, helmed by Abhishek Pathak, also starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Akshaye Khanna, elaborates on her experience of working with Ajay Devgn, how she still believes in TV as a medium and the kind of offers she wants to take on going ahead. Read on...
You have been a part of films and TV shows, but you are best remembered for your stint in Drishyam . How did the film change the course of your career?
The first instalment of Drishyam marked my debut in Hindi cinema. I was quite young then and had just done one TV show (Ek Ghar Banaunga). The film opened many doors for me, and people recognized me as an actor because of it. I am glad that I bagged the film because it changed a lot for me as an artiste. I had not seen the Malayalam version of the film while shooting for it. In fact, my director (Nishikant Kamat) told me not to watch it because they wanted me to bring my own take on the character. While people do recognize me for my characters in TV shows, Drishyam has earned pan-India recognition. No matter what they say about TV and the web, films have a different feel to them, in terms of how the audience perceives you. I am very happy with the journey so far and I hope it continues the same way.
Anju, the character that you play in both the instalments of Drishyam, is an integral part of the story. How much has it progressed between both films?
It has progressed a lot. In the previous film, something traumatic happened to Anju. Seven years later, the audience will see how the incident has impacted her. She isn’t stable and suffers from fits and nightmares. She needs medical help and her father (played by Ajay Devgn) tries his best to protect her even more. As a character, that’s been a major shift. It was quite challenging personally. I had to perform a scene in which I suffered from an episode of convulsion and Abhishek (Pathak, the director) told me that it was probably the most important scene for me and had to look natural. Making that scene look as real as possible was quite challenging. I watched a lot of videos and did workshops to get it right.
Your husband, Vatsal Sheth and you have known Ajay Devgn for many years now. How was your experience of shooting with him?
During the first film, I was obviously intimidated by Ajay sir. I couldn’t have just walked up to him and interacted. Coming from a small town like Jamshedpur, one tends to be in awe of every actor. When I saw Ajay sir, I couldn’t even bring myself to look at him. I was that scared, but he is so sweet and easy to work with. He makes you feel comfortable despite being such a big star. That’s why the father-daughter bond came out so well in the film. I think a lot of credit for that goes to him.
Even after the success of the first instalment, you continued to actively be a part of TV. You never quit the small screen and have balanced the two mediums, especially when a lot of TV actors complain about not getting their due in cinema...
I had decided that I would choose the best from what I was offered, irrespective of the medium. So, I tend to take up a project that helps my growth as an actor. I got a lot of film offers, but they were very similar to what I was doing. I am glad I didn’t take up just any role as that wouldn’t have made any difference to my career. While acting on TV, I realized that I was liking the process and got to learn immensely at the same time. In fact, I will take up a good project, be it on TV, the web or film, instead of waiting for something extraordinary to fall into my lap. I like being busy, so I would not want to wait for that perfect opportunity. I believe in taking up the best from what is being offered to me and moving ahead.
So, you have no intention of giving up television for films? Or is it that you don’t wish to be tied down by any medium?
A lot of people warned me against starting my career with TV. I was told that my sister (Tanushree Dutta) was already a part of Bollywood, so I should wait and start with films. However, she said that I should learn rather than wait for something that may not happen. I am glad about the choices I have made. Had I not done TV, I wouldn’t have been prepared for Drishyam. No other medium can teach the things that TV teaches you. I didn’t even know how to face the camera or deliver dialogues. A year-and-a-half later, if I could play the part where I was five years younger than my original age in Drishyam, it was because of my learnings while shooting for a TV show. People also told me that I wouldn’t be able to make a transition from TV to films because we didn’t have any examples to quote. I don’t differentiate between mediums. While I love doing movies, I will continue to dabble in TV. I feel people should give it a little more credit and not demean it, especially not in 2022 when you have seen big actors taking up TV shows and small-screen actors going on to do films. Actors should focus on the craft more than the medium.
I’ve lost out on work opportunities because I am an introvert, but I won’t change-Ishita Dutta
8:06 AM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; June 8, 2022)
It’s not easy landing movie offers when you are doing TV shows. Ishita Dutta, who is currently shooting for the film Drishyam 2, shares how it can get tough for TV actors to break into the film world. She says, “There have been times when I have found it difficult to get film projects because I come from the TV industry. Some people feel that TV actors are overexposed. But we’ve come a long way and I think a decade later, this won’t even be a topic to discuss because the line between films and TV will disappear.”
Ishita hopes to dabble in different mediums. She says, “As an actor, I want to be part of all kinds of content and story-telling, be it web, films or TV. I don’t mind doing TV while I’m doing films.”
She is happy with the way her career has shaped up so far, but she’s also gone through her share of lows. “Every individual goes through that at some point. But I’d like to say that the pandemic was a difficult time for me. I was consciously not working because I was living with my parents and I didn’t want them to catch the virus, so we were all at home. Apart from that, I think the wait between two projects can sometimes be tough,” says the actress, who was last seen in the TV show Thoda Sa Baadal Thoda Sa Paani.
Ishita is an introvert and feels that she may have lost out on some work because of that. “I think one needs to be outgoing and go to parties and events, and meet people from the industry. That does help one get work. But I am an introvert and I like staying at home. I avoid going to parties. So somewhere I feel that I could have lost out on a few opportunities due to that, but I will not change because that’s who I am and I don’t think I should alter that,” shares the Bepanah Pyaar actress.
Vatsal Seth, Ishita Dutta to star in 7 Hours At Bhata Road; author Ajinkya Bhasme speaks up
8:33 AM
Ajinkya Bhasme’s 7 Hours At Bhata Road to see real-life husband-wife duo Vatsal and Ishita headline thriller movie
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 3, 2022)
Ajinkya Bhasme, the author of 7 Hours At Bhata Road, has joined the list of writers whose works have been adapted for cinema. The adaptation will feature Vatsal Seth and wife Ishita Dutta, and will shed light on the subject of class inequality that forms the crux of the book.
Bhasme, who began his career as a chemical engineer, says, “The underlying message of class inequality and deviance that my book talks about will be reflected magically on screen. The director was keen on creating a setup that would be as close to the original work as possible. [The world of cinema] is new for me, so I will let the experts in subject matter [take the needed decisions]. They have been in the industry for long enough to know more than I do. As the father of this work, I will express my viewpoint with regards to the past and the future of my story. My book starts and ends mysteriously; I love teasing the reader. For the [filmmaker], it is important to consider what was going on in the author’s head.”
Seth and Dutta will be seen as a couple that has “depth in their relationship”. “When you are with someone for so long, you don’t always need to speak to express things. Your body language says a lot. And who better to portray that love than a couple that has already experienced it for one another?” says the writer.
Bhasme describes the book as an occult horror, set in a village. “The story progressed in different timelines. But the highest thrill is to see if Aditi and Sandesh survive. They get stuck for seven hours, and every chapter is a countdown to [the final hour].”
Image: Vatsal Sheth-Ishita Dutta shoot a short film at home during the lockdown
7:56 AM
Debarati Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; April 27, 2020)
Actor couple Ishita Dutta and Vatsal Sheth have taken #WorkFromHome to another level during the ongoing nationwide Coronavirus lockdown. The duo has created a short film, titled Kahaa Toh Tha, from the confines of their home. It has been scripted, directed and shot by them, and of course, the two even feature in it. And all this, in just three days.
“It was 15 days into the lockdown when we decided to do something creative. We are entertainers, we have a camera and a story to tell, so we thought, let’s just make a film. We used basic lights and shot on our phones. We moved the furniture around in our house to get the perfect frame. We would shoot the scene and run back to the frame to check if everything was shot well. A lot of hard work has gone into this,” says Vatsal.
For the post-production, the couple sought help from professional technicians. Ishita says, “We got Mehul Vyas (who had worked on Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior) to do the background score for us, an editor and another technician to help us with the creatives.”
Kahaa Toh Tha will release exclusively on Times Music’s YouTube channel at 11am, today.
Vatsal adds, “This lockdown has turned me into a director, which I never thought would happen. So, in that sense, it’s been a positive period for me, and I am happy with the way the short film has turned out.”
It is very tough to make a film and even tougher to release it-Behzad Khambata
7:55 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; April 30, 2019)
It took Behzad Khambata, who has assisted on films like Boss and OMG – Oh My God!, 14 years to bag his first directorial venture. His movie, Blank, which features Sunny Deol and newcomer Karan Kapadia in lead roles, revolves around a suicide bomber, who loses his memory and has a bomb attached to his heart. The anti-terrorist squad has to prevent the bomb from exploding. The director spoke to Bombay Times about working with Sunny Deol in his maiden project, and the pressure of making commercial films. Excerpts:
Why did you choose a topic like terrorism for your debut as a director?
Two years ago, when we thought of this subject, a film on Uri attacks had not been made. In the last few months, there have been many movies based on patriotism and dealing with the topic of terrorism. It does get unnerving because my film also has terrorism as its backdrop. I liked the subject and the uncertainty that surrounded a guy, who has a bomb in his heart. My film is commercial, but if you are waiting for someone to break into a song, that won’t happen. It has a runtime of 100 minutes, and it goes from one scene to another and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I learnt a lot while shooting with a senior actor like Sunny Deol because some people on my team, Karan Kapadia, my assistant director and writer, were all first-timers.
Considering the fact that this is your first film, was it intimidating to direct a senior actor like Sunny?
I had many inhibitions before I started working with him, but once the shoot began everything went smoothly. He insisted that I should correct him or let him know if something goes wrong so that we don’t repent while editing the film. The role of an antiterrorist squad chief suits him. I am thankful that he agreed to do it.
You have shot the film in Mumbai. What kind of an experience did you have?
I remember we had to shoot two scenes in Mira Road. It was a crowded area and was perfect for the shot. On one particular day, after I finished filming with Karan, it was time to shoot with Ishita (Dutta). At around 1.30 pm, when we went on the location, surprisingly, the streets were completely empty. Perhaps it was Eid that day, so people had closed their shops and gone home to celebrate. I was worried as I needed a crowd for my shot. There weren’t any junior artists either. So, we had to cheat and shoot with four-five people behind Ishita. You learn to handle such situations if you have worked as an assistant director. We also shot the movie in Vasai, Dongri and on the sets.
Your first film often paves the way for you in the industry. Are you feeling the pressure?
We have stayed true to the script and given it our best shot. Now, the audiences will give its verdict. It is very tough to make a film and even tougher to release it. With this movie, I have learnt many things about filmmaking, which will be useful when I direct my next project. This is not a big bonanza movie; it revolves around a great script and performances. I am happy that two years ago, when Karan heard the script, he agreed to do it as it is a rather unconventional choice.
Do you think that today it has become easier for new directors to get a break?
Yes, I think there is a huge influx of actors and directors in the industry, and everyone has work now. I had a difficult time finding projects as an AD, but when I call people now, they seem to get work relatively easily. This motivates me. I respect makers, who make a film with all the commercial trappings because the pressure to release such a movie is very high. They have more to lose as their money and reputation are at a higher risk. When a big producer fails, it becomes public news. If my movie does not work, I will be washed away because people are skeptical about working with someone whose film has not worked, even if it had good reviews. Luckily, I had Anthony D’souza (director) who guided me. I learnt a lot from him. At the end of the day, this was a great team to work with.
I would love to romance Vatsal Seth on screen, but I have always liked him in negative roles-Ishita Dutta
7:58 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 24, 2019)
Ishita Dutta is often asked questions about her actress sister Tanushree Dutta, who took Bollywood by storm by initiating the #MeToo campaign in India, last year. While Ishita doesn’t mind fielding queries about her sister, she also wants the focus to be on her work. The actress is now set to return to daily soap three years after Rishton Ka Saudagar – Baazigar ended. She has been roped in to play the heroine in the second season of Kasam Tere Pyaar Ki.She says, “I am excited about returning to the daily soap genre after three years. I also feel the pressure because the first season of the show did well. My responsibility is to make sure that people like my character just as they liked the previous characters. I play Palak, who is is a girl of today. She is a go-getter and looks for solutions rather than sulking over problems. She is independent, smart, intelligent and full of life. She is very much like me.”
The actress is balancing two mediums — TV and films. Ask her about the three year break from television and she replies, “I bagged the film, Firangi, after Baazigar wrapped up. I couldn’t commit myself to a TV show due to my films. TV takes up all your time, and you can’t do anything else when you are shooting for a show.”
In between, she was seen with her real husband, actor Vatsal Sheth, in the supernatural show, Kaun Hai. Ishita and Vatsal — her co-actor in Baazigar — tied the knot last year. Talking about her experience of working with him after marriage, she says, “I was very excited about working with Vatsal again in Kaun Hai. I have always shared a great comfort level with him, right from the look test for Baazigar, which is when I first met him. We hit it off instantly and would have a lot of fun during the shoot. We would chat a lot and that’s how we got to know each other. Of course, it was better when I worked with him on Kaun Hai, as he was my husband. We would travel together and the conversation changed. Initially, it was more as friends, and now it was more about khaane mein kya bann raha hai, ghar par kaun aa raha hai and shoot par kaise jaana hai.”
She adds, “It was my first experience with the supernatural genre and it was great fun. I would definitely be interested in taking up a show in the genre. The audience is lapping up such shows.”
Interestingly, both Baazigar and Kaun Hai featured Vatsal in a negative role. Ishita says, “I would love to do a show with him, in which I get to romance him on screen. But I have always liked him in negative roles. I think he does it well.”
The actress says that life has changed post marriage. She says, “I keep telling my mother that after marriage, I appreciate her so much more. I have realised the effort that it takes to run a home. Now that I will start shooting on a daily basis, I need to plan everything in advance. I think it will be require a bit of adjustment, but I am excited about being back to a daily soap. It’s a blessing to have a partner, who understands me so well, and is supportive.”
I support my sister Tanushree because she is supporting the truth-Ishita Dutta
8:18 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 19, 2019)
Tanushree Dutta could not be reached for a comment, but her sister, actress Ishita Dutta, spoke to BT. “I understand that this could land me in a precarious situation, but what’s right is right. My sister is supporting the truth,” Ishita said.
To those uninitiated, Ishita and her husband Vatsal Sheth are close to Ajay Devgn, who attended their wedding last year. In fact, she has even acted with Ajay in Drishyam where she played his adopted daughter. Ask her if Tanushree’s remarks could hamper her equation with Ajay and she replied, “Not at all. My equation with Ajay sir is separate and bears no connection with what my sister feels about the situation. I don’t think he will be upset or angry with me for what she has to say. Vatsal and I have a strong equation with him. Ajay sir isn’t the producer of the film, so he can’t be solely responsible. It has to be a collective decision. I believe that they (the makers of the film) couldn’t have possibly done anything about it.”
Talking about her sister spearheading the #MeToo movement in Bollywood, she says, “My sister is totally justified. If not her, who will speak about it? I would have still supported her even if I wasn’t related to her. She has nothing to gain or lose. She isn’t even a part of the industry anymore. It takes a lot of guts to take a stand like this.”
She adds, “What Tanushree has done is commendable and I feel that the industry, too, should take a strong stand against this issue. Like other associations, we should also have a council to address such matters and complaints. My sister started a movement, which enabled people to step forward and talk about their ugly experiences. Something needs to be done if we want to bring about a change in our society and make this industry a better place.”
The actress, signs off, saying, “Personally, I choose to stay away from controversies. My sister is outspoken and brave, while I am not. However, I will always support the truth. I can't morally go against the truth. I understand that till the verdict is out, one can't account someone guilty. These cases are old, thereby making it even more difficult to gather proof against the accused. The movement started by my sister shouldn't die down. What if, tomorrow, my kids want to join the industry and for that matter, any other profession? We want the world and the industry to become a better place for them and us.”
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