Showing posts with label Kavita Kaushik. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kavita Kaushik. Show all posts
I miss the people, the life and the love I got in Goa-Kavita Kaushik
9:33 AM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; January 24, 2026)
Kavita Kaushik is back in Goa, her happy place, and the return feels as natural as breathing for someone whose bond with the state goes far beyond holidays. Recently sharing a sun-soaked picture from Goa with the caption “When in doubt, head to Goa,” the actress reiterated that the place continued to be her go-to destination whenever life called for a pause.
'It's the capital of rejuvenation'
In a chat with Goa Times, Kavita said, “It's not just in my case; I think anyone who’s been to Goa wants to go back again and again. You can never get enough of Goa. It’s the capital of rejuvenation, the capital of vacation. Anytime I want to be in the sun, eat shack food and just slow down, I head to Goa.”
'I had to shift base from Goa'
The F.I.R actress had lived in Goa for four years before moving to Lonavala last year, a decision she describes as purely practical. “The only reason we shifted to Lonavala was the extreme heat and humidity. We have a beauty brand where everything is made from natural herbs, flowers and leaves. In that heat, my potions would often get spoiled. Lonavala is much more suitable for my ingredients. Even I couldn't deal with the heat, so for my health and business, we took that decision,” she explained.
Despite relocating, the emotional connect with Goa remains unshaken. “I miss living here. That’s why I keep returning whenever I get the opportunity,” she said.
'We celebrated all festivals together'
Looking back at her years in Goa, she says it’s the people, more than the place, that made it home. “Everyone in the colony — the people in the neighbouring bungalows — are friends for life now. Even the staff who worked with me, both at home and at our small karkhana office, became family. We’re still in touch, and they keep calling me back.”
She added, “The love Goans give me, such sweetness, such warmth...I will cherish it forever. We celebrated all festivals together. They would come for Ganpati, stand through the aarti even if they didn’t understand it. During Durga Puja, the women would come and do sindoor khela with me. That sisterhood, especially among women, was very special.”
'My Goan friends took charge of the situation'
She recalls a defining moment that cemented her faith in that bond. “I was shooting for Carry On Jatta 3 in London when my husband fell seriously ill. I called the women from my colony and told them, ‘I don’t know how, but you have to help him.’ They took complete charge — sending meals, coordinating doctors, looking after him. I was able to stay calm because my Goan friends were there.”
Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai writer Manoj Santoshi battling liver cirrhosis, writing episodes from ICU-Kavita Kaushik
10:46 AM
Deep Saxena (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 19, 2025)
Writer Manoj Santoshi, who has penned many popular television shows, including the screenplay and dialogue of Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai!, has been hospitalized after his liver cirrhosis worsened. Actor Kavita Kaushik, who has worked with him in the show FIR, shared a heartfelt Instagram post urging fans to pray for him.
“Writer who’s made the country laugh for decades.. Is fighting for his life (sic)”, she wrote, sharing an old video of Manoj singing at her home.
Kavita tells us, “Manoj has liver cirrhosis, and his state is a bit critical. He is a very big talent — a great writer, a gifted poet and a wonderful person. The team loves him. Bas, duaon ki zaroorat hai as miracles do happen. I believe Ishwar sachche dil se maangi hui prayer sunte hain.”
Talking about Manoj’s dedication to his craft, the actor says, “He is writing episodes from the ICU. He is very strong and financially sound; all he needs is support, treatment and good wishes.”
Kavita says that the television industry is wholeheartedly supporting Manoj during this crucial time. “(Bhabi Ji...actor) Shilpa Shinde has accompanied him to Hyderabad for advance treatment. Producer Binaifer Nakra Kohli flew down to meet him, and many other actors are also helping him out,” she says.
Kavita Kaushik stuck in Joshimath: "Restaurants enroute charging Rs. 200 for using the restroom"
7:58 AM
Iti Shree Misra (BOMBAY TIMES; July 13, 2024)
Actress Kavita Kaushik is stuck in the landslide in Joshimath on the Badrinath route, Uttarakhand, for the past four days. In a span of a week this is just one of the several landslides she has encountered on this visit of hers to Badrinath. Kavita, is as of now in Joshimath, staying at an army camp with her husband Ronnit Biswas.
Speaking to us from the army camp that Kavita has taken shelter in, the FIR actress tells us, “There are more than a thousand cars stuck on the highway, so you can imagine the number of people stranded here. The police, army and Border Road Organization have been working round the clock relentlessly to clear the roads. But they clear one slide and there is another one following that. It is a harrowing time for them but they are ensuring that all the tourists remain safe and as comfortable as possible. It has been quite scary but I salute the Uttarakhand police and the Army who are ensuring that the tourists are safe and comfortable as much as possible.”
Kavita was visiting Badrinath along with husband Ronnit, her pet dog and cousin to celebrate Ronnit’s birthday on July 5. “We drove down from Dehradun to Badrinath and had a very good time there. The darshan was fantastic due to the police and the temple committee’s help,” says Kavita.
The next day Kavita visited Mana, the first Indian village from the China side. “The trip to Mana was heavenly. We bathed in waterfalls, went on treks and chased mountain streams. But that very day there was a landslide there and we were stuck in Mana for three days. Tab tak toh it was fun as Mana is a beautiful place and I love mountains as it is. On July 8 when the roads were cleared, we came down to Joshimath. And as we reached here, we were told that there were two huge landslides near where we were and the highway was completely blocked. So it’s been three days since we have been here. We are at an army camp with my husband’s friend who is an Army officer and being taken care of very well. But there are so many others who are stranded,”
She added, “You know the restaurant and hotels enroute were charging money as much as Rs. 200 from everyone who wanted to use the restroom, but the police and the army personnel went to all of them and instructed them to help all the tourists stranded. As of now there are more than a thousand cars stuck on the roads. So you can imagine just how many people there are here.”
Wanting to be back in Doon soon, Kavita says, “Being stuck here for four days is making me restless. I have an important event to attend in Kashipur. I’m so stressed about it. I am just hoping that we can get out soon now as I hate to break my commitments.”
Is there no gender-based pay parity on TV and OTT? Celebs speak up
8:23 AM
In an earlier interview, actor Raveena Tandon made heads turn with her statement that female protagonists get paid more in the TV industry, and even OTT is slowly catching up. Navya Kharbanda speaks to some prominent names from the small screen and digital medium to weigh in on the issue of pay disparity and share their experiences
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 14, 2023)
Amit Sadh
The television industry has provided fertile ground for female protagonists to shine and to be the centre of the show. TV has given them a chance to get the same respect and recognition as their male counterparts. In fact, I agree that OTT platforms have also disrupted the traditional power dynamics of the Indian film industry. There is no doubt that we’ll be creating a level playing field for women to showcase their talent and creativity.
Karan Tacker
In television, whoever is the lead of the show gets paid more. Whoever brings in the most viewership for the show will be paid in accordance with that; it doesn’t matter what their gender is. I look at it in terms of, ‘Who’s running the show?’ I’ve never been in a situation where someone got paid more than me or when I’ve been paid more than someone. In the projects that I’ve been involved in, pretty much everyone gets paid according to what they bring to the table and they seem to be happy about it.
Nakuul Mehta
The TV industry is primarily a medium where actors, producers, directors and almost every artiste are women. If not more, female protagonists do get paid equally as their male counterparts. In a time when pay disparity has existed in mainstream cinema for years, the television industry is definitely paving the way for women to be equally valued and paid for their hard work. Time has surely taken a reverse turn, as women are far more valued now and are being paid better than they were earlier.
Erica Fernandes
The TV and OTT industries have been game-changers for female artistes. In most cases, female actors on TV get paid equally or more than men. This is a positive step towards gender equality in the entertainment industry, as it shows that women are valued for their work and talent. However, it is also important to remember that sometimes people are paid according to their experience and worth. It is not always a reflection of how hard one person has worked compared to the other. This is not the case for everyone and pay inequality is still a major issue in many industries. It is important to recognise and address this problem if we want to create a more equitable society.
Aahana Kumra
I don’t think that female protagonists get paid more or equally in the OTT industry. Maybe it happened with Raveena Tandon (who starred in the web show Aranyak) because she’s already a Bollywood star. People also get different treatment because of their background. When you come from a mainstream cinema background, you come with the mindset that, ‘Oh, I’m already a star in Hindi films, and I’m moving to OTT, so I should get a higher pay’. I don’t think that happens with other actors; in fact, I don’t think I get equal pay.
Divyenndu
In television, now and always, especially since the whole Ekta Kapoor era started, women have been at the forefront. Since then, they’ve been getting paid more because they play the leading roles. It’s a commercial business and at the end of the day, whoever is in the driver’s seat will get paid more. Gender isn’t really the deciding factor here. Whoever can attract more viewers will have a higher price. It is a very clear business principle: whoever controls the market will control the price.
Maanvi Gagroo
I don’t think female leads are paid equally or more than their male counterparts in the OTT industry, unless the woman is a significantly bigger star. The pay disparity scenario has changed from what it used to be 10 years ago. However, I don’t think there’s been a blanket change across the industry. Also, it differs from one project to another. There are times when I get paid more, and sometimes my co-actors are paid more. And the inequality is not just about the actor’s fee but also things like hotel, vanity van, flight, etc. that again vary for different actors.
Ridhi Dogra
In this profession, no project will be similar to another because of the people attached to it. I’ve experienced the difference in storytelling, as we see a lot of stories being told about women in OTT. The characters for women on TV and OTT are quite empowering. But in terms of pay parity, I do feel that OTT still has a long way to go. With TV, it is definitely true that women are paid equally or even more than their male counterparts. I’ve worked on both mediums, so I can speak for both industries. If you’re headlining a project and you’re the biggest star, then you will automatically be paid more. And talent is, unfortunately, not respected as much in our industry as marketing is.
Kavita Kaushik
It’s true that women are paid equally or more in the TV industry and I’m sure of it because I started my career on the small screen. I don’t think, unless I was a star kid, I would have been given a role like Chandramukhi Chautala in movies. I was paid a bomb during my tenure on (TV show) FIR. In fact, I think I was the highest-paid actor on TV at that time. In films, less performance-oriented roles are given to women. However, in my 20 years of career, I’ve seen that women are always considered important script-wise on television. I’ve never done any mainstream Hindi films, and whenever something was offered to me, the payment used to be peanuts, like almost no money.
Amol Parashar
In showbiz, there is no fixed pay scale or grade. An actor’s fee is negotiated based on the value they bring to a project through their skills and brand value. As much as we’d like to believe that it should be based more on the former, it’s mostly the latter — the belief that a certain person will bring in audiences and more eyeballs to the project. If my co-star is more famous than me (according to the producers), they’ll definitely be paid more, and vice versa. Since this value is subjective, it’s prone to biases and inaccuracies. No two actors will be paid equally in a project, irrespective of gender, unless they negotiate together, which is a rare occurrence. That is how this business works.
I have never hired a PR person, except during Bigg Boss; I can’t do image-building like other celebrities-Kavita Kaushik
10:12 AM
Actor Kavita Kaushik remains unbothered by what others think of her, says work is her only focus
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 12, 2023)
At a time when most celebs have publicists or PR managers to help with their public image and ensure they stay relevant, actor Kavita Kaushik considers herself an exception. “I have never hired a PR person, except during Bigg Boss,” she tells us.
This, she says, has been a conscious choice and reflects who she is as a person. “I can’t do image-building like other celebrities. Even if I want to, I don’t think I have that talent. It’s just not me. You like me, great; if you don’t like me, I can’t help it. I cannot be one of those actors who call the press to their place and then behave all awkward,” says the actor, who will next be seen in the Punjabi film Carry on Jatta 3.
But, does this approach fare well with her peers and critics? “Sometimes, it may not,” Kaushik says. But, this does not affect her. “I am 42 and I do not care about what people think of me. It’s been 20 years that I have been in front of everyone. I have never cared if people thought I was brash. It is not my job to care about people and what they think of me,” she says.
Instead of paying heed to such gossip, Kaushik prefers focusing on her work. “I have been so busy and creatively active ki mere paas yeh ‘aao behen chugli karein’ wala time hi nahin tha kabhi. I did FIR (TV show) for nine years and I was so occupied that it kept me away from all the TV politics, who is getting what award or who is saying what,” she shares.
Speaking of one of her most popular shows, FIR, Kaushik says she never even had the time to soak in all the appreciation she received for playing sub-inspector Chandramukhi Chautala. “It was much later that I got to know about the impact the show had left on people as well as the Indian television [industry]. Even today, children are watching it and when they meet and recognise me, it feels strange, but special... Kabhi accha sunne ka time bhi nahin mila toh bura kya sunti,” she ends.
To know that my hair can make someone else feel beautiful is amazing-Kavita Kaushik
8:13 AM
Flexcia D’souza (BOMBAY TIMES; November 21, 2021)
It’s just been a few months since she moved to Goa, but Kavita Kaushik already feels at home there. Living and working on her ayurvedic brand from her villa in South Goa, with her husband and pets, she’s enjoying both, the hustle and the calm vibes of living here. Recently, she donated her hair for wigs that will go to cancer patients.
She says, “I lost my dad to cancer. Cancer is a word that’s very painful to me. He was a person I loved the most. A few months back I met a cancer patient in Goa, who was losing her hair due to chemotherapy. And she told me she doesn’t feel beautiful after losing hair. My words of solace didn’t help since I had such lovely, thick, long hair. So I decided to chop my tresses off and prove that women are not defined by their physical beauty, but through our individuality and uniqueness.”
Talking about the process of donation, she says, “In total it should be about nine inches of dry hair, tied in a rubber band and cut an inch above. To make a wig, hair from three people are required. So it’s important for more and more people to come forward and donate hair. It’s an all new look! To know that my hair can make someone else feel beautiful is amazing. I can go swimming in the ocean and not worry about my hair getting ruined and spend less time taking care of my lock.”
For the actor who’s lived in Mumbai for 20 years, how did the move to Goa happen? “During the lockdown, we launched our brand and wanted a bigger space to live and work, so we decided to get a villa in Goa,” she says.
About choosing Goa for the move, she says, “After my TV show FIR ended, I started travelling a lot. I hate being caged, and I felt that way when there was a long commitment with a project. Television doesn’t give you time for having a life. I’m not a person whose life’s ambition is only my career. Keeping all those things in mind, it was apt to move to Goa.”
I have no desire to bring a child into this overpopulated country-Kavita Kaushik
8:07 AM
Akash Wadhwa (BOMBAY TIMES; September 15, 2021)
Kavita Kaushik has not been a part of fiction shows in the last few years and is happy to make a comeback with Lakshmi Ghar Aayi. While there are reports of the show wrapping up soon, Kavita remains unfazed. She says, “It’s a cameo and an interesting role, quite different from the usual roles that I have played. After my show FIR, I did a couple of Punjabi films and I was really happy doing them, because after playing a cop for so many years in FIR I wanted to feel like a woman. But yes, one thing is for sure the kind of attention that television gives you, no other medium can give us actors.”
Ask Kavita if she is averse to doing regular saas-bahu sagas and pat comes a reply, “Yes, I am averse to wearing heavy jewellery and shoot for 30 days in the Mumbai heat. I have crossed that age now. Also, I have crossed the hunger to do so. I salute all the artistes who do that. I can max shoot for 10-12 days and do a cameo on a show. However, even today I wouldn’t mind another season of FIR.”
Married to businessman Ronnit Biswas, ask if she has any plans to extend the family and she says, “I have a cat and a dog and they are my family and I have no desire to bring a child into this overpopulated country.”
Kavita’s Bigg Boss journey in the last season didn’t go quite well as she landed herself in arguments with several housemates. “Being inside that house might do good to others, but for me staying hungry and lack of sleep brought out the worst in me. It brought out the animal in me, which I have been taming for so many years. So indeed, it was a learning experience for me,” she says.
Reality shows have done more harm to my career than good-Kavita Kaushik
8:25 AM
Roshni Olivera (BOMBAY TIMES; April 4, 2021)
Kavita Kaushik was recently in the news for her stint on Bigg Boss 14. The actress, unhappy with the way things shaped up in the house, walked away one day, never to return. Now, Kavita has turned down Khatron Ke Khiladi 11, too, and says she doesn’t want to take up another reality show again. So, what has prompted her to take such a stand? Read on...
Why have you decided to not be a part of any reality show?
I have realised that I have no patience for a reality show. I also lack the dramatics and theatrics required for it. Being on a reality show doesn’t make me happy; in fact, it makes me so uncomfortable and out of place that it shows on my face and makes me an angry person! Not that I haven’t done reality shows in the past; I participated in Nach Baliye 3 and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 8, but I did those only when I wanted to buy a house. I have a few houses that I own now, so I don’t need to put myself through the pain of being in a show and stand in a line to take marks for something that I don’t believe in, just for the money.
Has the Bigg Boss experience also prompted you to take this stand?
I am not a people pleaser, and that disinterest shows on my face, so I think it’s highly unfair on my part to be on a show and not give my 100 per cent. In fact, I don’t know why people are offering me these shows despite me refusing them every year. A reality show has done more harm to my career than good whenever I’ve done one. Also, I think it’s getting repetitive and boring... me walking out of reality shows!
Before Bigg Boss 14, you had walked out of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa a few years ago...
In the case of Jhalak, I walked out of the finale, not the show, due to some banter, which I didn’t want to be a part of. So, maybe that’s the thing, I don’t like to be at the mercy of others, be controlled or have to take jibes and insults. I guess that’s a weakness in today’s times.
What about the money? Have you been paid your dues for Bigg Boss?
I don’t even want to ask, let alone fight for it. The fact is that I did walk out and refused to go back to the house despite repeated attempts by the team. I like to play fair. I have nothing against the team; they are wonderful and hard-working.
Reality shows provide an actor with a different kind of platform. Don’t you want to reach out to the audience as Kavita Kaushik?
I highly disagree with this notion that what one sees on a reality show is the truth. Those who can project themselves perfectly will be the winners and rebels will fail at such a game. I would want to connect with my audience by giving them different roles and characters to enjoy. Being an actor is my strength and I am passionate about that. Actually, how does it matter what Kavita Kaushik is all about? Kisi ko apni behen ka rishta karna hai kya mere ghar? (Laughs!) Sorry, but I don’t think that way.
In terms of your acting career, what are you looking at next? A fiction show? Maybe a new season of the TV show FIR, given the recent rumours?
Yes, FIR might just be back with a new season if and when the team reassembles. There’s a new Punjabi film and also a web series where I play an investigating officer.
I always knew that I was an absolute misfit for a show like Bigg Boss-Kavita Kaushik
7:45 AM
Roshni Olivera (BOMBAY TIMES; February 15, 2021)
Kavita Kaushik, who is known to speak her mind, entered the Bigg Boss 14 house a couple of months ago with a lot of promise. But things didn’t seem to work out, and one day, she chose to walk out of the house never to return. The actress, who maintained silence so far, has finally opened up. In an exclusive, no-holds-barred interview with Bombay Times, Kavita spoke about all the controversies...
When you look back, do you feel your decision to participate in this season of Bigg Boss was a bad one because it just didn’t work for you?
Indeed, it didn’t work for me! In the 14 years that I was offered the show, during each season, I believed that I was an absolute misfit for it. I knew that I would say something that I wouldn’t mean or walk out. And that’s exactly what happened.
What according to you went wrong for you?
What went wrong was that I had no strategy. I took everyone at face value and was too brash and real. I reacted to every provocation with anger, instead of being cunning and manipulative. I lacked the art of impressing the cameras with my words.
But now, do you feel you should have stayed back in the house rather than walking out after a fight with Rubina Dilaik?
No. I am glad I left because I am not so smart with my words. I realised that I was so done with the fake fights for image building that I could raise my hand on someone in helplessness, and I do not promote violence of any kind.
In my entire journey in the BB house, I never started a fight. Each time, I was provoked to get into an argument, and yes, thereafter, I lacked the shrewdness to watch my words. In anger, I would say things that would take some other turn, leaving behind the actual reason for the fight. I felt this is not who I am, my good qualities are not coming out on the show, so it’s pointless staying inside. I was not so desperate. I was lucky that they gave me the option to leave that day and opened the door. It was like Mahadev ne khulwa diya tha darwaza mere liye. People die to stay in the house, I couldn’t wait to leave.
Rubina and Abhinav Shukla live in the same building as you, and you were friends before Bigg Boss. Now things have soured, particularly after your husband (Ronnit Biswas) tweeted that in the past Abhinav had sent you drunk messages a few times at night. Do you think you guys will patch up anytime soon?
I did not know Rubina, but yes, I knew Abhinav and whatever happened is really sad. I don’t blame anyone. My husband Ronnit felt helpless, when he saw Aly Goni kick a box that injured my leg and arm and then he saw Abhinav telling me laafa maarunga.
When I walked out, Ronnit vented on Twitter, and in his tweets, he mentioned our conversation regarding Abhinav, where I had told him about an unpleasant experience of how our friendship had ended in the past. He later deleted it because when your anger subsides, you know it’s childish and would be embarrassing for both parties to talk about a past equation or a fight. But I also understand Ronnit’s feelings. I don’t hold those messages against Abhinav as we all have done such stupid things. I have done worse, you can make a movie on them! It’s our bad to have spoken about it, however, it’s absolutely not a lie.
Abhinav is out of the Bigg Boss house right now and you may bump into him in your building. How will you react if that happens?
I guess we will ignore each other in the building with better grace.
What about Eijaz Khan? Your comment that the two of you were not friends, as opposed to what he had said, made headlines...
What happened with Eijaz is so surprising. Indeed, he wasn’t a friend, but was an acquaintance and a senior. I did not know him personally at all, he was standing next to me during that conversation that took the nation by a storm, where I was telling Salman Khan how we weren’t friends, and Eijaz asked, ‘Toh mere liye dabba bana ke kyun deti thi?’ And I replied saying that it was during the lockdown when I was checking on one and all. I thought he lived alone and made chicken because he asked me to. Since I was saying it in anger, it sounded harsh. It’s hilarious that people gave the tag of “unkind” to someone who cared compassionately for all. I don’t want to speak about the number of strangers I cared for during this lockdown. It’s highly immature of those misunderstanding this issue as I’ve been around for 20 years and my life has been about an act of giving... if they could just pause and wonder why she said what she said.
Currently, you are on a long road trip. Have you put BB behind you completely?
Why should I put it behind me? A bad decision doesn’t define me, but the lessons it has taught me, will. It taught me some harsh life lessons; I won’t trust easily now, I will definitely do less for strangers and speak correctly, especially when angry. I am on a road trip covering Uttarakhand and Rajasthan. Being in the mountains, jumping into the rivers, visiting my village and staying at my ancestral place has helped me introspect and heal.
On the work front, you have been doing Punjabi films. What about other mediums?
When your career goes on for two decades in a field, it’s natural to feel stagnated. I’ve done most roles I aspired for. I will now do something that gives me the motivation to go on a set. Like I said on BB, I am happy and satisfied.
Even today everyone remembers you as Inspector Chandramukhi Chautala from the TV show FIR. As an actress, where do you see yourself today in the current scenario? Do you see yourself playing a naaginor a daayanon TV?
I see myself doing a dark action-comedy about a misunderstood woman. That will come naturally, yeah? (laughs!)
You turn 40 today. How does it feel?
It feels like Big Bad 40 with na maan ka moh aur na apmaan ka darr!
Eijaz Khan doesn’t want friends but chamchas in his life-Kavita Kaushik
8:11 AM
Neha Chaudhary (BOMBAY TIMES; November 7, 2020)
Kavita faced a lot of backlash when she mentioned in the show that she cooked for Eijaz during the lockdown and people said that the actress made it sound like a favour. She clarified, “In March, when the lockdown was announced, I called up all those whom I know who were single. So, I called Eijaz also to check on him and how he is managing everything alone. He told me that there is no cook and it’s getting difficult for him to cook food daily. Out of concern, I cooked something for him, which he can stock in his refrigerator for few days. I didn’t do him any favour, unlike the reports. And I wasn’t making a mockery of him. It was a gesture from my side. You see, it’s a 24-hour show and they show only 45 minutes of the entire day. So, my words were taken out of context.”
As far as posting a picture with Eijaz is concerned on her social media account, she said, “I have a picture with Shah Rukh Khan also, does that make him my friend? Inside the show, I got to know the real Eijaz and realised that he doesn’t want friends but chamchas in his life. And I don’t want to be his chamcha. When he mentioned to Salman Khan that I am his close friend, I could have cleared that thing right there, but out of respect for Eijaz, I didn’t disregard him and refute his claims, something which I should have. In fact, this went against me and Rubina Dilaik nominated me. And what close friend is he blabbering about? Inside the house, I invited him to sit with me while I was having food, but he simply ignored that. He doesn’t need love or friends; I told this to Pavitra Punia. But that time, she didn’t listen to me. And look at the situation now. I saw in the promos that instead of saving her, Eijaz saved Jasmin Bhasin, leaving Pavitra in tears.”
Kavita said that she has learnt a huge lesson during her stint in Bigg Boss. “The biggest lesson that I have learnt is that you have to stand up for yourself and you have to be conscious of who your friends are and who aren’t.”
When asked if she would like to go in as a wildcard contestant, Kavita said, “As of now, I am planning a trip to the hills. So, I really can’t say anything right now.”
I can’t play a typical bahu; even in real life, I’m not one myself-Kavita Kaushik
7:52 AM
Kavita Kaushik on why she’s been missing in action, what made her say ‘yes’ to a reality show after 14 seasons, and plans to keep sanity intact when inside
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 29, 2020)
Kavita Kaushik, popular as F.I.R.’s Inspector Chandramukhi Chautala, is presently imprisoned in the Bigg Boss house. After turning down offers to be a part of the Salman Khan-hosted reality show since the F.I.R.st season, the actress finally gave the nod to its 14th installment, pointing out that it was due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic that has confined the world to their homes. “What had stopped me till now were the fights in the house, I prefer being happy and don’t want people to see my vulnerable side. But with the social media and the pandemic, the real world today has become a Bigg Boss house,” she reasoned, calling it the safest place to be at right now when the fear of a second surge is giving everyone sleepless nights.
However, before entering the house, Kavita admitted it would be difficult staying away from her husband, Ronnit Biswas, who treats her like a queen. “Ever since we got married, four years ago, the only time we have been apart was when I was shooting for my Punjabi film. Even there, Ronnit would turn up in the middle of my schedule and surprise me,” she reminisced, quick to add that his love will be her biggest strength inside the house. “I know whatever happens in there, I have a happy and loving husband waiting with open arms to welcome me back.”
She was confident her cooking skills would come in handy, sharing that she’s been a pro in the kitchen since she was a kid because her mother didn’t like to be there much. “I, on the other hand, am mesmerised by food. Even on the sets of F.I.R., I used to fry pakoras in a saucepan for the entire unit,” she confided, insisting that only if the housemates were nice to her, would she make good food for them.
There was some apprehension as the “fights have started way too early this season and no one’s true personality has been unmasked yet”. The actress who has been watching every season with avid interest believes the house needs humour. “Entertainment doesn’t mean just fights and romance. I hope I get to show my humorous side too.”
Bigg Boss is synonymous with Salman Khan, and Kavita recalled being invited for a meal at his house once. “Salman had seen and complimented me on F.I.R.. Even Salim uncle, Helen aunty and Sohail had seen my TV show and loved it. I was treated to their trademark lavish meal. Even Mithun da (Mithun Chakraborty) had done the same, and I’ll never forget those meals,” she stated emotionally.
Kavita has been missing from TV for a while and when prodded, acknowledged that she finds it difficult to align her personality with any of the current shows. “I can’t play a typical bahu as my body and voice don’t fit the mould. Even in real life, I’m not one myself, and have chosen to settle down with a man who is like a best friend. I get bored very quickly so only something uniquely interesting can grab me. I want to do more shows like F.I.R., which have action, comedy and drama. It has to be a show in which I am irreplaceable,” she concluded.
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.
I also want to know what happened with Sushant Singh Rajput, but what is this circus happening?-Kavita Kaushik
8:22 AM
Kavita Kaushik feels that Sushant Singh Rajput’s death case has turned into a social media circus
Shreya Mukherjee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 18, 2020)
Much like her fellow colleagues, actor Kavita Kaushik, too, is angered to see the way people are jumping the gun in Sushant Singh Rajput’s death case. Asserting that one should let law take its course, she is against the agenda-driven conversations happening around the case.
“We should be sad that the one who’s gone will never return. Par hum toh apne baki cheezon mein lagey pade hain. It’s been over two months,” rues Kaushik. She also points how narratives have been shifting, further complicating the case. “It started from mental health, then went on to nepotism, insider-outsider debate, and now it’s drugs... Kya hamara dhyan baki aur zazoori cheezon se hataya ja raha hai? This case is being politicised right now,” adds Kaushik, 39.
Upset with the blame game and name calling on social media, she says, “Social media is the worst drug. Look at the language, threats, abuses being hurled at people and the random judgements being passed. We must protest, seek justice. I also want to know what happened with Sushant, but what is this circus happening?”
Meanwhile, given that the industry is anyway going through a rough patch due to the pandemic, Kaushik isn’t in any rush to take up just any work that comes her way. “I’d rather sit at home and play with my cats than be a part of supernatural shows or shows portraying typical Indian women whose entire life revolves around the kitchen... No one has offered me anything reasonably interesting yet, which’d coerce me to get going with my sanitisers and 10 packs of masks,” she tells us.
Kangana Ranaut-BMC row: Actor finds support among Bollywood celebs
8:54 AM
Despite raging, unhinged statements against Bollywood, many celebs have come out in support of Ranaut after a part of her office was demolished by the BMC on September 9
Juhi Chakraborty, Rishabh Suri and Shreya Mukherjee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 11, 2020)
While Bollywood celebrities and Kangana Ranaut cannot see eye to eye on most occasions, on Wednesday, when the actor’s office in Mumbai was partially demolished by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), there were some who came out in support of the actor. Actors such as Dia Mirza, Renuka Shahane, Sonal Chauhan and Anupam Kher took to social media to express their anger about the incident. Kangana had also voiced her anger in a series of tweets, calling it the ‘death of democracy’. Here are what some other celebrities have to say about this demolition drive.
Gulshan Devaiah, Actor
Kangana is a high performing actor and has a high performing respectable career. What she has done for the female actors and the box office success she has got is tremendous. She deserves the respect regardless of what she is saying right now. However, a lot of things that she has said are very insincere especially about the film industry and other things, and that is also the truth.
Kavita Kaushik, Actor
We are living in times where everyone is just fighting. No one should resort to violence of any kind. This seems like a political fight between two very strong parties. Kangana is not in politics right now, but she is a very strong, successful and powerful woman and she is playing it well
Kubbra Sait, actor
This is not a human on human war. It’s become even more lousy to call it a war against patriarchy or war against Kangana. I can stand for Kangana, and I can also stand for something else that I believe in. What’s happening to her is not right. No one has shied away from speaking, we don’t agree with the reasons. it’s not easy to make or break a house. What if it happened to me? I am not okay with it happening to anyone.
Nikhil Dwivedi, Actor-producer
I hope that the law were followed during the demolition. How do we speculate that it wasn’t followed? I am ignorant of the procedure. It seemed wrong but I can’t be sure. But it didn’t make for great optics.
Meera Chopra, Actor
Whatever Kangana said was her personal opinion, but demolishing her office is not justified. It’s a complete challenge for democracy also. In a way, they are saying ‘tum hamare khilaaf kuchh bologe toh hum yeh karenge’. A government can’t expect everybody to love them. Ek aurat se revenge le rahe ho? What happened to the state being a bigger person and letting it go?
Onir, Filmmaker
I might not agree with what Kangana says but what BMC has done is misuse of power. She has the right to support or be against the government. Now, those who have no problems with what happened at JNU earlier this year, will talk about this. The whole atmosphere has become toxic. Everyone is so full of hate that people just want to justify things which should not be justified. Regardless of your political beliefs, one needs to be able to differentiate between the right and the wrong.
Don’t judge those who are going out to work-Kavita Kaushik
8:02 AM
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 24, 2020)
As shoots of several TV shows have resumed, there has been a spike in the number of Coronavirus cases, too. And many actors and crew members, who stepped out to work, have contracted the virus. This made many question whether it’s a bit too soon to resume work. However, Kavita Kaushik says there should be “no judgements” for those who’re working.
“Everybody wants everything to get back to normal, that’s a unanimous feeling. So, people who’re going to work have a right to do so. They shouldn’t be made to feel guilty,” says the 39-year-old.
Kaushik points out that besides the health crisis the nation is facing, one can’t overlook the financial crisis that many are going through.
“It’s a bit early (to shoot) as the cases are on the rise in Maharashtra. Having said that, the daily wage earners are suffering. When people raise questions about the dependency of daily wage workers on shooting, there’s no right answer to that,” she says.
The actor also feels that this pandemic has brought to light the “gross inequality” of the country.
“We, as a country, aren’t really there for the poor. That’s a fact. If you’re rich, you can stay without work. And if something happens to you, you’ll get the best of facilities. But the same can’t be said about the poor in the country and we’re talking about millions,” she says.
Kamya Panjabi looked like a princess and Shalabh Dang was her prince-Suchitra Pillai
7:59 AM
Suchitra Pillai shares details of the actress’s traditional Punjabi wedding
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; February 11, 2020)
Kamya Panjabi tied the knot with healthcare professional Shalabh Dang in a small Gurudwara wedding on Monday morning. The festivities began with a bachelorette party on February 2, followed by an engagement ceremony at a Gurudwara on Saturday. The haldi was held on Sunday morning. During the mehendi and sangeet the same evening, Kamya had danced with bestie, Kavita Kaushik (right), to the tunes of “Mujhko Rana Ji Maaf Karna”. Kavita had to miss the wedding after she injured her knee while doing yoga the next morning.Fellow actress and another close friend Suchitra Pillai, was at the shaadi and informed that it was a family only affair with traditional rituals and a few close friends. The baraat arrived at 11 am and the pheras took place at 1 pm, followed by lunch. “Kamya looked like a princess in her lehenga and Shalabh was her prince. It was a beautiful, dreamy wedding,” Suchitra gushed. The bride wore a traditional red lehenga and gold jewellery with the groom in a golden sherwani.
The couple will host a party for family and friends from the industry at a club tonight. They will head to Delhi, Shalabh’s hometown after that to complete the rituals.On January 17, Kamya marked one year of their relationship with a heartfelt post. Recalling how she was broken and lonely on the same day last year, she thanked Shalabh for picking up the pieces and making her happy again. Proclaiming him to be “Gannu’s best gift” to her, she said she was looking forward for a lifetime with him. Her beau, in turn, promised her, “Only and Only Good times ahead.” The following day, the actress shared a glimpse of their wedding card.
Kamya has been a part of the TV industry since 2001 and has been a part of shows like Piya Ka Ghar and Banoo Main Teri Dulhan. She is best remembered for her stint as a contestant on Bigg Boss 7 and is currently seen on the show Shakti—Astitva ke Ehsaas Ki.
With yoga, I feel like I am finally giving back-Kavita Kaushik
8:33 AM
Actress Kavita Kaushik, once popular as the fiery Chandramukhi Chautala of the hit TV show FIR, on her new avatar as a yoga geek
Aastha Atray Banan (MID-DAY; May 12, 2019)
If you are an Indian TV buff, you must remember Kavita Kaushik play the tempestuous and hilarious Haryanvi cop, Chandramukhi Chautala, in the show FIR. The last time we met Kaushik in 2013, she had made a comeback to the screen as her replacement in FIR just wasn't getting the same attention. Five years later, she is now acting in Punjabi movies and honing her theatre skills, with the play Pajama Party, which launches next week. Today, she is also a yoga geek, giving her 388K Instagram followers a daily dose of mind-bending asanas.
"Television life is so busy. I used to work 25 days a month, in 9-to-9 shifts. So, where was the time for a leisurely workout routine? So, though I loved yoga, and have been practising for more than 10 years, it's only now that I can actually give time to it," says the 38-year-old, who has picked up bits and pieces of the science from various places across the country. She has done a course in Isha Kriya, and learnt yoga at the Ananda in the Himalayas.
Her experience clearly shows: Kaushik can bend her body to her will and her Instagram is proof of that. But these days, for her, it's all about sharing the wisdom. "There are so many things that are spread about an actor that aren't necessarily true. So, nobody really knows you. At the stage I am at in my life now, I feel the need to give back. And virtual reality, and this digital forum, is the way I can do that. I do yoga and talk about changing. I say that I am not the person I was 10 years ago, or even three years ago. I talk about how we can make our lives better every day, and if I can help anyone in any way, then that means I am now, really a celebrity." The actress also shares that women message her every single day with mental and physical health dilemmas.
Kaushik also routinely posts about working out with her husband of two years, Ronnit Biswas, and says that it's helped deepen their bond. "He's a gym guy, and I am a yoga freak, and we combine that strength and flexibility well. When we do yoga together, time just seems to fly. You know when I am in the air floating above, and he is supporting me, we feel we have created something so awesome. And we love sharing it with the world." While her favourite pose is the headstand, she does say that yoga has helped the angry young woman of FIR transform into a 'baba'. "I have become more compassionate, patient, empathetic and nicer. I actually see people now, you know. It's for this precise reason that I want to spread the word."
I want to run far away from the current naagin and daayan scenario on television-Kavita Kaushik
8:44 AM
Roshni Olivera (BOMBAY TIMES; December 2, 2018)
Kavita Kaushik, best known as television’s feisty Chandramukhi Chautala from F.I.R, has been missing from the scene for a while now. And it’s purely by choice. The current content on TV doesn’t interest Kavita and she says that she’d rather wait for the right role than play a character that she’s not convinced about. In a candid chat with Bombay Times, the actress, who’s known to call a spade a spade, talks about her choices, being trolled recently for her bikini pictures and how life has changed post marriage. Excerpts…
You recently hit back at trolls for their comments on pictures of you doing yoga by the beach in a bikini. What upset you the most?
Actually I’m not upset. I’m more amused at how each time I go on a vacation, the so-called trolls start counting the inches through my holiday wear! I have been in the industry for 18 beautiful years and I’m still counting... actually not just counting, but still playing a heroine in Punjabi films. For one of the films, which was shot six months ago, where I was playing Gurdas Mann sahab’s wife, I had to put on a little weight. When I went to a beach, a little chubbiness did not deter me from wearing a swimsuit, but it was laughable to see how shallow some people’s knowledge about fitness is, and how some unhealthy people chose to troll me. Now, on my most recent vacation, because I had lost weight, I had the same people loving my swimwear pictures. So, I will keep working, vacationing, changing my body shape according to my roles, my mood and the weather, while trolls can keep doing what they do best!
After playing police officer Chandramukhi Chautala on the show FIR, which revolved around you, was it difficult for you to accept other roles that did not match up to it?My answer lies in your question. Which character can match up to Chandramukhi Chautala? That role is both, my blessing and my curse.
Where do you see yourself in the current scenario on television, where naagins and daayans seem to be ruling?
Far away, either trekking on a mountain or fishing on an island. That’s how far I want to run from this scenario. Don’t get me wrong, but with all due respect to people who make and watch such shows, I feel that there are many real stories to be told and good actors sitting at home, waiting for meaningful roles. There are veteran actors who are a delight to watch, but they shy away from regressive concepts.
We can’t let the entertainment industry go to the frontbenchers and the service class only. Baakiyon ke liye bhi toh banao, let’s not sell our souls to TRPs. Until now, I have done three Punjabi films and have two on floors. This keeps my hunger satiated in times when TV offers me only reality shows and daayan-naagin characters. I really feel bad when I turn down such roles because I love to go to the sets. Acting is my passion, but I know that I won’t be happy even for a day if I don’t believe in the project. Hence I do less, but I feel blessed that Punjab has welcomed me with open arms.
So, is your focus primarily on films now and not TV?
Punjabi films have great scripts and it’s no secret that TV has none currently, at least not the kind I would enjoy working on. Also, the work there is faster, less in quantity and more viable from the business point of view. So, right now, I’m happy with the field I’m playing on. When there is something fun on TV, which fits in my schedule, I’ll do it.
Your husband Ronnit Biswas and you were close friends before you fell in love and tied the knot in 2017. Does it help to marry your best friend?Ronnit and I were friends for a year before we fell in love. He is a simple man who does a simple job, but loves me extraordinarily. He keeps me grounded and real. We struggle through everything like two silly friends and win everyday battles, be it maid issues or our schedules not matching. Through all this, we manage to steal our cuddly joyful moments and travel time together. I can get all poetic talking about our romance... naam bhi Kavita hai! But that’s another story. In today’s scenario, I feel that one should only marry a friend, tabhi tikegi shaadi. With every passing generation, people are turning more intolerant and hence, being with a buddy who doesn’t change you or change himself according to societal norms, is the need of the hour. I feel that when two people get together to create a unique life, which doesn’t need approval from relatives and society, you sail through better in the ocean of life.
Your dear friend, actress Sakshi Tanwar, adopted a baby girl recently. Have you met little Dityaa?
Dityaa is the love of all our lives right now. She has blessed us all with her presence.
I stayed away from TV for 4 years after my bad experience on FIR-Chitrashi Rawat
7:46 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 23, 2017)
After four years, Chak De
girl Chitrashi Rawat has finally decided to move on from her bitter
experience on television. The actress, who had stepped into
Kavita Kaushik's shoes in FIR, had to exit the show unceremoniously.
While the incident left Chitrashi wary of the small screen for some
time, she is back in action now. Chitrashi will be seen as one of the
three female leads in Shankar Jai Kisan 3 In 1, a story revolving around
triplets.
She says, “Apart from a guest appearance on Tu Mera Hero, I stayed away from TV after my bad experience on FIR. It's challenging to replace someone, that too, someone who has been associated with a show for seven years. Though I got positive feedback for my character, I was suddenly told that my track wasn't working and hence, they were replacing me. It's another matter that despite bringing back the original heroine, the show wrapped up some time later. Kavita did a fabulous job, but FIR had run its course by that time. I was very disappointed and even toyed with the idea of taking the matter to court, but finally decided against it. It has taken me four years to make up my mind and return to TV. I have now realised that TV works differently and actors don't have much of a say. It's always the producer or the broadcaster who calls the shot. And if an actor tries to voice his opinion, he is usually alienated.“
The actress will play a dominating judo expert in her next venture, which might remind viewers of her tough girl avatars in the film Chak De! India and FIR. Ask her if she feels typecast on TV and she replies, “To an extent, it may be true. However, I cannot see myself play a sari-clad bahu anyway. That won't go well with my personality. In addition to that, I am a little biased towards sport-based projects since I am a sportsperson myself.“
She says, “Apart from a guest appearance on Tu Mera Hero, I stayed away from TV after my bad experience on FIR. It's challenging to replace someone, that too, someone who has been associated with a show for seven years. Though I got positive feedback for my character, I was suddenly told that my track wasn't working and hence, they were replacing me. It's another matter that despite bringing back the original heroine, the show wrapped up some time later. Kavita did a fabulous job, but FIR had run its course by that time. I was very disappointed and even toyed with the idea of taking the matter to court, but finally decided against it. It has taken me four years to make up my mind and return to TV. I have now realised that TV works differently and actors don't have much of a say. It's always the producer or the broadcaster who calls the shot. And if an actor tries to voice his opinion, he is usually alienated.“
The actress will play a dominating judo expert in her next venture, which might remind viewers of her tough girl avatars in the film Chak De! India and FIR. Ask her if she feels typecast on TV and she replies, “To an extent, it may be true. However, I cannot see myself play a sari-clad bahu anyway. That won't go well with my personality. In addition to that, I am a little biased towards sport-based projects since I am a sportsperson myself.“
Kavita Kaushik & I have split but it's not because of religion-Nawab Shah
7:38 AM
In an exclusive chat, actor Nawab Shah reveals what went wrong in his relationship with Kavita Kaushik and how he has found love again
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; September 25, 2016)
It may not be true always,
but the best way to get over a break-up is to fall in love again.This
seems to be holding true for film and television actor Nawab Shah, who
recently started dating Diya Balki, a cinematographer and graphic
designer from Los Angeles, after breaking up with actress Kavita
Kaushik.
Says Nawab, “I think I have found my soulmate in Diya. I believe that everything happens for the best, and currently I am in a happy state of mind. After my break-up with Kavita, I grew closer to Diya, who has been an old friend. I'll soon be going to LA for a two-month workshop. I'm looking forward to that.“ Over the past few months, people have been asking Nawab if his split with Kavita was due to their different religious beliefs.
He says, “I don't understand why people are making a fuss about our religious backgrounds. I want to clear this once and for all... Kavita and I broke up because we had major differences for a long time. We are strong-headed individuals and in this day and age, religion cannot be a barrier in love, especially in a city like Mumbai, where people work and live together, regardless of caste or creed. Kavita and I did try to make our five-year relationship work, but we couldn't. We have gone our separate ways and I have nothing to do with Kavita anymore.“
Says Nawab, “I think I have found my soulmate in Diya. I believe that everything happens for the best, and currently I am in a happy state of mind. After my break-up with Kavita, I grew closer to Diya, who has been an old friend. I'll soon be going to LA for a two-month workshop. I'm looking forward to that.“ Over the past few months, people have been asking Nawab if his split with Kavita was due to their different religious beliefs.
He says, “I don't understand why people are making a fuss about our religious backgrounds. I want to clear this once and for all... Kavita and I broke up because we had major differences for a long time. We are strong-headed individuals and in this day and age, religion cannot be a barrier in love, especially in a city like Mumbai, where people work and live together, regardless of caste or creed. Kavita and I did try to make our five-year relationship work, but we couldn't. We have gone our separate ways and I have nothing to do with Kavita anymore.“
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