Showing posts with label Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. Show all posts
Aap itna bhi mujhe funny na samjhe, I want to explore serious roles-Kapil Sharma
8:04 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (September 15, 2020)
With his impeccable comic timing and witty one-liners, Kapil Sharma has become synonymous with laughter on Indian television. The actor-comedian has also featured in a few films, including two in Bollywood — Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon and Firangi. In a recent chat with BT, Kapil said that he wants to do more movies. “Mann hai bahut films karne ka. I have done two films (in Hindi), and both turned out to be amazing experiences — shooting in various locations with talented co-stars. Nowadays, there is a demand for a lot of content and this is a good time for artistes, as there are so many platforms and more opportunities.”
Interestingly, while it is comedy that has made Kapil a household name, he says that he wants to try serious roles. “Mujhe chance mila toh serious roles bhi karna hai, I want to explore serious roles. Not many people know ki maine apne career ki shuruaat serious roles se hi ki thi. Jab main comedy nahin karta tha, jab theatre karta tha, tab maine comedy plays kiye hi nahi. Mere saare plays serious the. Now, I hope I get a chance to do a serious role,” he shares. Addressing filmmakers in the industry, in his usual tongue-in-cheek style, Kapil adds, “Aap itna bhi mujhe funny na samjhe, main bahut serious aadmi hoon, toh mujhe aap zaroor le serious role ke liye.”
When asked if there are any movies in the pipeline, he says, “There are a couple of projects in the scripting stage, I hope they get finalised soon.”
I played a tree, and just stared at Sanjay Dutt in awe for the two hours I was on stage-Varun Sharma
8:07 AM
The actor who’s winning hearts with his latest comic turn, on childhood idols, rejections and how he reinevents his game
Kunal Guha (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 22, 2019)
Twenty-nine-year-old Varun Sharma shot to fame almost instantly, when he made his debut in the film Fukrey in 2013. So persuasive was his portrayal of the obnoxious prankster Choocha, that the name became synonymous with the actor. But Sharma’s latest turn in Nitesh Tiwari’s Chhichhore promises to change that. “People already call me ‘Sexa’ wherever I go,” says Sharma, who sees it as a measure of the popularity of his latest avatar — a guy obsessed with porn.
His enthusiasm is justified. After all, it’s all he ever wanted. “I spoke with a lisp when I was young,” says Sharma, and describes how he’d stand on his bed and belt out “Yeh Tali Tali Aakhen” from his favourite film, Baazigar. “Years later, when I got to work with Abbas Mustan (in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon) and Shah Rukh sir and Kajol ma’am (in Dilwale), it felt like life had come full circle.”
Born in Jalandhar, Sharma’s earliest memories of regaling an audience go back to his formative years. “Chabilal bhaiya”, who would drive him to his boarding school in Sanawar, HP, served as captive audience and Sharma entertained him with dialogues from his favourite films. Incidentally, school was also where his decision to turn to the profession came to be cemented. “Sanjay Dutt sir, who is an alumnus of my school, was the chief guest at a play once, and I signed up just for a chance to see him,” says Sharma. This was a big deal because Dutt’s 1997 film Daud was the first movie Sharma ever watched on the big screen at Jalandhar’s Lal Ratan Cinema. “I played a tree, and just stared at him [Dutt] in awe for the two hours I was on stage,” Sharma recalls.
Later, while pursuing a Bachelors in Chandigarh, Sharma began collaborating with Punjab University students on theatre productions. “Surprisingly, not once did I attempt comedy then,” says Sharma, who worked on Anton Chekhov’s plays, and even played Ashwathama in Andha Yug.
Moving to Mumbai nine years ago, Sharma began assisting casting director Nandini Shrikent, taking on movies such as Talaash, Ek Main Aur Ek Tu and Student Of The Year. But the ambition to act wasn’t shelved. “I used to audition whenever I could,” says Sharma, who credits his assisting gig for fine-tuning his craft. “When I’d audition 400 people for a part, I would learn as many ways to perform the same role.”
Yet, for all that learning, landing an acting job, even a commercial, seemed a distant dream. “I even got rejected from a shopping network,” says the actor, who was once told off because he didn’t look “upmarket” enough. “I was like ‘Main gora hoon, and my mummy says I am handsome’,” he laughs.
But Sharma was conscious that he wasn’t cut out to play the quintessential Bollywood hero. “My friends would tell me ‘Pehle body bana, phir audition pe ja’. But I felt if I wasted time on my physique, I would miss out on auditions.”
Three years later, he was signed for Fukrey. “I remember that day.” His eyes light up with the memory. “I called my mother to tell her that I would be working with the makers of Dil Chahta Hain, Rock On and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara — and they’re saying I will be on the poster.” His mother went quiet for a minute, Sharma remembers. “That’s when I realised, a lot can be said through silence.”
The success of that film ensured Sharma wouldn’t have to hustle any more. “During my first script narration, a comedy, I broke into tears,” Sharma recalls. “When the director asked me what was wrong, I told him that it was the first time someone was actually asking me to be a part of a project.”
A dozen films later, some feel Sharma has gotten typecast. “If I seem repetitive, it may be because I become too attached to characters and need to work harder,” he defends himself “In Mumbai, one is constantly surrounded by shoptalk and this can get to you,” he says. To break away, after his first few films, Sharma spent a month in Goa, waiting tables at a friend’s bar. “The customers were mostly Russian so no one recognised me. And the experience helped me to reinvent my game.” For his next secret sabbatical, Sharma plans to take up a short-term course with a university overseas. “I want to study during the day, and spend my evenings working as a cashier in a department store or as an attendant at a petrol pump,” he says. “This could be a Pardes or Aa Ab Laut Chalen hangover.”
A look at the 10 hit films of 2016
9:42 AM
Box Office India Trade Network
The year saw ten hit films compared to eleven hit films last year but out of those eleven hit films, six were big hits while only three films (Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Tanu Weds Manu Returns and Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2) were big hits this year. Two films crossed the 100 crore share mark which is the mark for a grosser today and both were Salman Khan starrers. There were 204 releases this year. The classifications of 2015 are as follows with the distributor shares and expected distributor shares in brackets.
All Time Blockbuster
1. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (162.19 crore)
Blockbuster
2. Tanu Weds Manu Returns (68.81 crore)
Super Hit
3. Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2 (27.62 crore)
Hit
4. Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (106.27 crore)
5. Bajirao Mastani (83.50 crore expected)
6. ABCD 2 (51.10 crore)
7. Piku (35.54 crore)
8. Badlapur (23.67 crore)
9. Hate Story 3 (20.84 crore)
10. Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (20.60 crore)
Semi Hit
11. Dilwale (72.50 crore expected)
12. Welcome Back (47.43 crore)
13. Gabbar Is Back (43.18 crore)
14. NH 10 (13.97 crore)
15. Talvar (13.09 crore)
16. Dum Laga Ke Haisha (12.87 crore)
Average
17. Baby (38.49 crore)
18. Drishyam (31.43 crore)
On the flip side there were many disasters where Bombay Velvet and Broken Horses lead the race. Bombay Velvet set a record for losses while Broken Horses was a film for Hollywood by a Indian filmmaker but grossed just $31k in North America and India was just as bad. The other big disasters were Shamitabh, Mr X and All Is Well.
Note - The classifications does not include Baahubali which was a Telugu film but did phenomenal business in Hindi as well as other languages. The film had the highest footfalls of any film released in India last year.
Kapil Sharma lost award for KKPK due to his sour relations with Colors TV?
10:42 AM
Shaheen Parkar (MID-DAY; December 25, 2015)
Kapil Sharma losing out on his maiden film award is being blamed on his sour relations with a TV channel, which was the telecast partner
If the grapevine is to be believed, Kapil Sharma, who made his Bollywood debut with Kis Kisko Pyar Karoon this year, may have missed bagging an award at a recent film event, thanks to his recent outburst against a television channel. The awards gala is slated to be aired on that particular channel.
Sources say since he and the channel that airs his show, Comedy Nights With Kapil, are no longer on the same page, there might have been an attempt to scuttle his chances. The actor had been nominated in the Best Acting Debut (Male) and Best Actor In A Comic Role. The stand-up comedian has, reportedly, expressed his displeasure over the channel’s decision to promote their other show, Comedy Nights Bachao, hosted by Bharti Singh and Krushna Abhishek. Kapil had apparently alleged that his long-running successful show was being given stepmotherly treatment, forcing him to end the show in mid- January.
Says a source, “Considering Kapil’s popularity, it was likely that he would bag at least one award. But the channel’s involvement as the telecast partner may have ruined his chances. He too feels he was ignored because of being vocal about his displeasure about their attitude towards his show.”
A source close to the channel maintains says, “It was not a TV awards show, but a Bollywood awards night. The organisers call the shots, we only telecast it. Don’t believe people who are trying to seek cheap publicity.” When we contacted Kapil for a comment, he said, “I don’t want to say anything about it.”
I think in Punjabi and translate it into Hindi when I speak-Kapil Sharma
8:42 AM
Kapil Sharma's unique brand of hinterland humour has put him in the big league. Sunday Times talks to the man with jest
Avijit Ghosh (THE TIMES OF INDIA; October 4, 2015)
His Facebook page has over
20 million likes. He has nearly 4 million followers on Twitter. Google
his name, and it will get you more pages than Kapil Dev and Kapil Sibal
put together. And he is ranked ahead of red hot stars like Ranveer Singh
on Forbes' 2014 celebrity list.Still, when Kapil Sharma, the king of guffaws in north India, decided to act in a feature film, boxoffice pundits were sceptical. “Quite a few wondered,“ says Bollywood trade analyst Taran Adarsh, “if people would spend money to watch him at a multiplex when they could see him at home on TV.“ Kapil had the last laugh. Made at an estimated Rs 15-20 crore, his debut film, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (K2PK), has already netted over Rs 44 crore at the domestic box-office, one of the highest returns on cinematic investments this year. “The film is doing well abroad too,“ adds Adarsh.
For many young and restless TV stars, the small screen has always been a pit stop to the dream destination: Bollywood. But exceptions like SRK aside, the ruthless dream factory spits out most. But the stand up comic who started off doing small plays in college now has a box office hit to his name. As in his hit TV show Comedy Nights with Kapil, he is the movie's selling point (he's also sung two numbers). "I knew people would watch my first movie. If you win people's trust, they stand by you,“ says the 33-year-old from Amritsar.
Kapil typifies the self assured youth of small-town India today. Not embarrassed about his so-called limitations, he can use it to his advantage by laughing at his lack of command over English. The quipster knows that his core constituency - which includes quite a bit of the diaspora - loves his desi humour. “I think in Punjabi and translate it into Hindi when I speak,“ he says.
He found his funny bone while cracking jokes during rehearsals for college plays in the late 90s. Theatre was his passion then. When his father, a head constable, succumbed to cancer in 2004, Kapil had to deal with tough times. “But I had faith in my ability. Keep moving, keep working, that's what I believe in,“ he says.
The tide turned in 2007 when he won the Great Indian Laughter Challenge. Part of the winner's cheque of Rs 10 lakh was used to fund his sister's wedding. “Uske baad kitchen ki koi tension nahi thi (I didn't have to worry about making a living thereafter),“ he says. His reputation as a funnyman grew in Comedy Circus where he created memorable characters such as the Punjabi cop Shamsher Singh.
In 2013, Kapil became an entrepreneur, launching his own production house, K9, and co-producing Comedy Nights with Kapil. “I thought why not use my strengths in my own show. If you don't take risks, you are stuck in one place,“ he says over the phone. The show is so popular that stars like SRK, Salman Khan and Akshay use it as a platform to promote their films.
In the show, it's evident that the comic actor is better than his script. You laugh not because of what's being said, but the way Kapil says it. His rapid repartee reminds you of early Govinda. Some of his jokes could seem regressive but they are seldom lewd. The actor's one-liners often have a hinterland feel. During a show with Farah Khan's Happy New Year team, he described the cutesy Vivaan Shah as “pacchas (50) gram paneer ka tukra“. When the team was asked to pick the member with the worst body odour, Deepika Padukone raised her hand to respond. He quipped: “Aap shooting karne jaati thi ya soonghne jaati thhi sabko (Did you go to shoot or smell people).“
Journalist Rajat Sharma says that Kapil's humour and spontaneity are unique. “He has a keen sense of observation and the ability to laugh at himself,“ says Rajat, who interviewed him on television.
Actor Rakesh Bedi says he is blessed with the gift of gab. “He can create humour out of thin air,“ says Bedi. The portraits he creates on screen are all aam aadmi. “I borrow my characters from society, from life,“ says the humorist.
And it seems he is a savvy businessman too, bagging ads for brands like Honda Mobilio, Olx and Micromax. The Forbes 2014 list says he earned Rs 12.5 crore. Enough to buy a Mercedes S class before K2PK's release. But Kapil wants more. The comic star has started working on his second film. “In future I want to produce my own films,“ he says.
How Kapil Sharma got ‘Deepika’ in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon
8:37 AM
Subhash K Jha (DNA; September 27, 2015)
Everyone familiar with Kapil Sharma’s Comedy Nights knows about his crazy infatuation with Deepika Padukone. Kapil’s colleagues from Comedy Nights giggle about how Ranveer Singh is pissed with Kapil who carries his Deepika torch to unbearable heights of glorification. Sources reveal Kapil was keen that Deepika and no other leading lady play his love interest in his debut film Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. But Deepika was busy with Bajirao Mastani and Tamasha. “Directors Abbas-Mastan who had worked with Deepika in Race 2 and shared a cordial rapport with her, did approach her. But she declined. More than her schedules, the role hardly justified Deepika’s presence. There are four girls with Kapil in the film. Kapil wanted Deepika to play his girlfriend. So they signed on Elli Avram for Kapil’s girlfriend’s role.” But here’s the catch. Elli has been named Deepika in the film. “That’s Kapil’s way of incorporating his favourite actress into his debut film. Kapil has told us he had to have Deepika in his first film. She’s not there in person. But very much present in spirit,” says a friend of Kapil.
Movie Review: KIS KISKO PYAAR KAROON by FENIL SETA
4:05 PM
It’s common to hear men complaining about their (one) wives. Imagine if u have not one but three biwi's. And none of them should know about each other. And all three of them live in the same building! It can be a hellish experience for anyone but for the viewer, it can turn out to be an extremely fun ride. And that's what happens with Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. Director duo Abbas-Mustan treat it very well which makes things better.
The story of the movie: Circumstances force Shiv Ram Kishan (Kapil Sharma) to marry three women – Juhi (Manjari Fadnis), Simran (Simran Kaur Mundi) and Anjali (Sai Lokur). Circumstances also compel him to house his three wives in the same building. However this also turns out to be his big folly as he has to always ensure that they don't see or get to know each other. Also he can’t be seen in public with any of his biwi, lest the other two might catch him red handed. But Shiv, determined to mess up his life even more, has a girlfriend as well, Deepika (Elli Avram). On the other hand, there's Tiger Bhai (Arbaaz Khan) and Mr Kothari (Manoj Joshi) who further wreak havoc in his life. Shiv's only confidante is Karan (Varun Sharma).
At the start of this month, I had mentioned how mindless comic capers haven't released off late. I didn't think then that just like Shiv getting three wives, audiences would get a chance to see three laugh riots, almost back to back - Welcome Back, Gujjubhai The Great (Gujarati) and now, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. The first scene of the film itself makes it clear that this is a mindless film and that one is not expected to find logic. The manner in which Shiv gets into the mess is nicely shown, in the context of the film. The way he used to handle his triple life and make up stories is damn hilarious and the best part of the film. The mall sequence in the first half is damn funny and would be loved for sure. The film suddenly gets a bit emotional at the intermission point but it’s worth watching nevertheless. The fun continues in the second half but the film also starts dragging at this point. The film could have been shorter by at least 15-20 minutes. 2 songs - Jugni Peeke Tight Hai and Samandar – could have been done away with, although one can’t deny that Samandar is beautifully shot. The film picks up in the climax in the marriage scene. Again, the film turns emotional and it looks a bit sudden considering that most part of the film has been funny. But then, did the makers have any choice? The base of the film is emotional and it had to be exhibited well and hence the rona-dhona in the end is necessary. However, the very final scene once again brings the film back on track. In fact, the finale is quite unpredictable.
Performance wise, it’s Kapil Sharma obviously who takes the cake. The actor makes a confident debut and entertains a lot with his antiques. His stint on television had proved it well that he can be a great performer and in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, he confirms the same. He has the comic timing of Govinda and the charm of Salman Khan and both come out very well in the film. From the heroines, Manjari Fadnis leaves the maximum impact. She looks extremely charming and is a fine performer. An actor that deserves to be seen more! Simran Kaur Mundi gives a confident performance and raises laughs in the scenes with her maid. Elli Avram is sizzling and gives a good performance. However, her screen presence is limited. Sai Lokur leaves the least impact and somewhere gets overpowered by the other three heroines. But she too gives her hundred per cent. Arbaaz Khan has a great character and he portrays it beautifully. Varun Sharma has a superb comic timing and watch out when he explains his ‘science’! Jamie Lever (maid) is terrific. Manoj Joshi is fine and same goes for Sharat Saxena and Supriya Pathak.
Music is fine but not something that would be remembered for long. The song that works big time is Bam Bam. Salil Amrute’s background score is a bit loud but that’s fine for a film of this sort. Ashok Lokare’s art direction is quite unreal – the residences of Shiv seem very unconvincing. Anukalp Goswami’s story has all the ingredients of a great entertainer. But the problem is that this idea of having multiple wives is so unique and so rarely used (obviously), that one can’t help but draw parallels to similar films in this space. Hence, a comparison of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon with Sandwich and No Entry is inevitable. Screenplay (Anukalp Goswami, Dheeraj Sarna) is fine but could have been better in the second half. Dialogues are superb and succeed in tickling the funny bone. Abbas-Mustan’s direction is as always simple and they make sure that the film never gets complicated. They are known for their thrillers but in the past, they have exhibited their comic side in films like Baazigar, Khiladi, Baadshah, 36 China Town etc. Hence, it isn’t surprising that they have helmed a full-blown comedy film. However, they could do better. The film gets a bit repetitive after a point. Also, the 2 songs in the second half are unnecessary. Nevertheless, a nice change from their suspense thrillers and eagerly waiting for their next, like always!
Some of the best scenes:
1. Shiv gets married to Juhi, Simran and Anjali
2. All scenes of Tiger bhai
3. Shiv in the mall
4. The intermission point
5. The karwa chauth scene
6. Anjali’s birthday bash
7. The family court sequence
8. The climax
On the whole, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon is a light-hearted funny entertainer that succeeds in raising laughs. Kapil Sharma, as expected, makes a confident debut and has a superb comic timing and charm. The film could have been shorter and sans 2 songs. Nevertheless, it’s surely worth a watch for Kapil Sharma lovers! Enjoy his adventures as he handles 3 wives, a girlfriend and a deaf brother-in-law don! (P.S.: Don’t miss the beginning)
My rating - *** out of 5!
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 378
4:29 PM
ABBAS MUSTAN VS MADHUR BHANDARKAR THIS WEEKEND!
Madhur Bhandarkar and Abbas-Mustan both are prominent directors known for making big scale films. But tomorrow, they’ll be coming up with relatively smaller films and it remains to be seen if they manage to a mark. My views on these films:
CALENDAR GIRLS: This Madhur Bhandarkar film has 5 fresh faces – Kyra Dutt, Ruhi Singh, Akanksha Puri, Avani Modi and Satarupa Pyne. As the name suggests, the film tells the story of the hot girls who feature on the calendars, which have been popularized by Kingfisher’s Vijay Mallya. In fact, a character in the film closely resembles Mr Mallya and is essayed by Suhel Seth. Rohit Roy plays a character modelled on star photographer Atul Kasbekar. The film looks fresh and sizzling and at the same has something to say and should be worth watching. On the flipside, the songs haven’t worked while the calendar girls haven’t really generated huge excitement. Many fear that the film will follow the path carved by previous Bhandarkar films. Being a film featuring 5 hot girls, it can work in hinterlands to an extent and if the response is good, it can pick up at the multiplexes as well although the opening will be low.
KIS KISKO PYAAR KAROON: It is directed by Abbas-Mustan and marks the debut of television’s comedy man Kapil Sharma. The promo is hilarious as it showcases how Kapil is managing three wives – Manjari Fadnis, Simran Kaur Mundi, Sai Lokur – all in the same apartment complex. What’s more, he even has a girlfriend – Elli Avram. Then there’s Arbaaz Khan as the deaf gangster who brings further chaos in his lives. There’s also Varun Sharma (of Fukrey fame) who seems like Kapil’s friend. Songs are foot tapping but haven’t really picked up. Also, the look is very television-like and not film-like and this affects the appeal of the film for sure. However, Kapil is highly popular on TV. And TV has a huge penetration in the country. Hence, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon can attract audiences and can open better than Calendar Girls. From Day 2, it’s the content that’ll decide.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE CALENDAR GIRLS OR KIS KISKO PYAAR KAROON AND WHY? DO LET US KNOW!
Ranveer Singh asked for a huge fee to host an episode for 'friend' Kapil Sharma?
8:53 AM
Meena Iyer (BOMBAY TIMES; September 12, 2015)
Kapil Sharma recently got a
taste of the frivolous side of Bollywood. Even as he readies himself for
his film debut in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (KKPK), India's stand-up
comedy star is allegedly getting a taste of how some friendships in
showbiz come with a price tag.Here's a bit of the background. Most big stars have made a beeline for Kapil's television show - Comedy Nights With Kapil (CNWK) -to promote their films. Now, it is time for a role reversal. Kapil needed to be the star on his own show to promote KKPK and what was needed was a host. One knows that several stars, when they made their appearance on Kapil's show, offered to host an episode for him, when it was his turn to publicise his film.
Of course, there are people in the industry who were gracious enough to stand by their promise. The Indian cinema icon Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan agreed to give a special message wishing Kapil luck. As did Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha, who also volunteered to support Kapil's debut in whatever way they could. Shah Rukh Khan went one step ahead and expressed a desire to post a special video message for Kapil.
Now turn around and ask why Kapil's team chose Ranveer Singh to host an episode and not any of the other actors who were so willing. Well, it is simple. Abhishek is in London shooting, so is Akshay. Ajay is expected to be in Los Angeles for some work and SRK is neck-deep in his next film in Hyderabad. Taking feasibility into account, it was decided they would request Ranveer to host this episode because he happens to be in Mumbai and also happens to share a warm relationship with Kapil.
A source says, “Kapil's team narrowed down on Ranveer, who has been on CNWK on more than one occasion. And the two have had a blast. One had seen a genuine bond between the two when Ranveer appeared on the show for Gunday, Dil Dhadakne Do and other films.“ Keeping this in mind, Kapil himself volunteered to speak to his dost Ranveer asking him whether he would consider hosting an episode for him.
However, a source tells us that when the request was put forward to Ranveer, the talent management agency representing him reportedly asked for a fat cheque. This stumped everyone involved, including Kapil. Like it is said, there are no free lunches in B-town.
Responding to our text message on whether Ranveer had asked for a huge fee, his spokesperson said, “He was asked whether he would host an episode for Kapil. They also checked what he usually charges for such things. However, he had to decline the offer because Bajirao Mastani has a deadline and it would be impossible to get Sanjay Leela Bhansali's permission at this stage.“
We also contacted Kapil's spokesperson, who is in Delhi for promotions. He said, “I think there was some date clash.“
My biggest desire is to have Narendra Modi on Comedy Nights With Kapil-Kapil Sharma
8:54 AM
Meena Iyer (BOMBAY TIMES; September 6, 2015)
The security personnel
outside India's most famous stand comedian Kapil Sharma's vanity van
scrutinise passers-by with an eagle eye. Their sense of purpose seems to
convey that they are guarding a prized possession. But on second
thoughts, Kapil is precious because he gives a solemn society something
to laugh about, week on week. Superstars and celebrities use his show as
a platform for a bit of the
spotlight. As he readies himself for his film debut in Abbas-Mustan's
Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, releasing on September 25, Kapil talks of a new
set of aspirations and dreams. Tune in for a hilarious Q & A
session:
Is it true that Christy Clark, the current Premier of British Columbia and you were colour-coordinated when she came to watch a recent show of yours in Toronto?
Yes, that is true. I had met Christy Clark in June when Mika Singh and I went to Canada on International Yoga Day. Then last month, she came to see me perform in Toronto when I took Comedy Nights With Kapil there. She was actually out with her children on vacation. But when she learnt that I was going to be performing there, she arrived. In fact, she was dressed in a blue Indian salwar suit. And I was wearing blue myself. I teased her saying that she had deliberately chosen the chosen the colour to match my clothes. And she replied saying, 'Yes Kapil, I specially wore this colour for you.' She is a sport and it was sweet of her to humour me. We took a selfie together and she even did a dance with Gutthi (Sunil Grover). Jason Kenney, Canada's Minister of National Defence and Minister for Multiculturalism, also came to my show in Toronto.
There is talk that you have plans to call the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on your show?
Yes, I want to invite our Prime Minister on my show. He had nominated me for his Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. I'm a fan of Modi Sir. My biggest desire is to have him on my show. In Toronto, Jason Kenney came to my show and even came up on stage. I'm not aware of things like protocol. But I'm wondering if there were no protocol issues in that country, would there be any out here. Someone was saying that since Modi Sir is the PM, he would not be able to come. I'm often asked why I do not invite politicians on my show. My answer is simple - I would love them to come but honestly, I do not know how to approach them. I had approached Modi Sir before the elections last year. However, his campaigning had started and I was told that during campaigning, he cannot come on GECs. Now he is the PM. I hope he sets aside protocol and makes an exception to come on my show. When he goes to other news shows, they talk strategy and serious issues. If ever Modi Sir comes to my show, I would like him to talk about his personal struggle. His story is so inspiring.
Your debut film, that is releasing on September 25, is called Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (KKPK)? You have five heroines in the film; tell us who is the lucky one you fall for?
Frankly, I'm in love with just one girl in the film. However, she is out studying in another city. What I go through with various girls in the course of a year, is what this film is all about. The writer of the film (Anukalp Goswami) is someone who is a part of Comedy Nights With Kapil. His writing can really tickle the funny bone. I can guarantee you that KKPK will make people laugh. I'm very critical when it comes to movies. And I can tell you that my first film is good because I have seen the rushes.
Have you ever been in a spot as far as girls are concerned?
Yes, in college I was always wondering which girl to get close to. There were such beautiful girls around; I was always wondering which one to go out with.
One had read that when you went to Abbas-Mustan's office to sign the film, the street leading up to their office was jam-packed with people wanting a peek at you?
Now that you remind me, yes, a crowd had gathered there. There were some girls who had ordered pani puri on their terrace and they were causing a lot of commotion. The nice thing in this was that Abbas-Mustan, who saw the crowd gathered outside, were perhaps thinking to themselves that they had made the right decision by casting me as a hero.
So you are saying crowds will also come to your movie, first day, first show?
I'm hoping they will. When I was in the US and Canada recently for Comedy Nights With Kapil, everyone in the crowd knew the name of my first film, they also knew when it was releasing and other details. That is gratifying. It means people are following all the work that I'm doing. A bunch of people actually turned up wearing t-shirts with my face embossed on it. This is flattering and humbling at the same time. There was a crowd of 15,000 present in the various arenas that we performed at. And we continue to get enquiries for our show from other American cities that we couldn't visit in this round.
So are you planning a trip abroad again?
When our TV show was bi-weekly, we had a very tight shooting schedule. I had barely eased out from that and my film Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon rolled. Again, I was back to travelling and doing extensive shoots. We are scheduled to go to London and Birmingham after the release of KKPK.
Rumours say that you are discontinuing Comedy Nights...
I will never do that. This is the show that actually brought me where I am. How can I discontinue it? I do not think of Comedy Nights With Kapil as work. I think of it as pleasure. I enjoy it so much. You were present at the rehearsals earlier and you must have seen what a blast we have. I must tell you that I had gone to the US six years ago. There was no Comedy Nights... then. An elderly lady, whose son was a dentist in Seattle, had come to see me perform. She had brought a huge quantity of sarson da saag with white butter with her. She was originally from Hoshiarpur and she told me that the reason she came to see me was because I reminded her of her native place. She explained that she had brought the saag along because she felt that perhaps I was missing home food in a foreign land. She knew that I would be getting other material comforts because of my name. But her point in bringing that home-cooked meal along was that it would give me a different kind of joy. The point I am making here is that, what I have really earned today is not just name, fame and money. I have got the true love of so many people. I have the blessings of elders across the world. This is my real wealth.
The reason how the rumour of you going missing as a television host started because Arshad Warsi and Sajid Khan stood in for you.
I had a slipped disc in February. I had a back problem earlier too. I had never bothered with it. Dr Ali Irani was treating me. He thought it was my earlier back pain that was resurfacing. We realised that it was a slipped disc issue only after I did an MRI. I was asked to rest for 21 days. So, I had to take a break from my show.
That's the time when Arshad and Sajid hosted an episode each?
Yes, I was laid up and had no choice but to rest it out.
How is your back now?
When I was in the US, I took an injection in the spine that rid me of the pain. However, the moment the pain went away, I got careless. As it is, my job requires me to jump around quite a bit. I even shot a couple of songs for my movie recently. However, the doctors tell me that my back needs to be stronger. I have been recommended a tough exercise routine.
Are you open to doing more movies?
I do not wish to do movies just for the sake of it. By the grace of God, my television show is doing well and it is paying for my everyday needs. So I can pick and choose my movies.
What kind of movies do you think you are suited for?
A couple of days ago, someone made me hear the script of a mur der mystery. I told him that I was not suited for this. He turned around and said, 'But currently you are on top of your game.' I agree with him. However, I have my limitations. I cannot turn around and punch someone on screen. If I do that, I myself will fall down laughing. That is not my personality. So, I have to be careful with my choices. Having said that, I have certain script ideas. I'm a writer myself, so I keep pondering over the kind of movies I should attempt.
Kapil, the biggest of stars have said that they enjoy coming on your comedy show. Are you flattered?
It is their generosity and grace that they say such things.
What are the kinds of movies you see?
I wait for the reviews to see films. I'm so engrossed with my work. I shoot or write till late at night. The next morning (though not very early), I'm back to work. So, my movie viewing is dictated by what I hear about a film and the reviews that come. Recently, I saw Bajrangi Bhaijaan and then I saw Drishyam. I enjoyed both films. I am a fan of Amitabh Bachchan. I love Dharmendra. My father was a huge fan of his. Now, everyone comes on our show to promote their films. But when my show was new, Dharamji had come on it. His Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 had released 25 days or so before. He didn't need to come on my show and yet he took time out for me. While on my relationship with Dharam paaji, I must tell you that I had earlier travelled with him to Canada for a show. I wasn't the one telling him jokes on our plane ride. He was the one telling me jokes. I genuinely love that man. In Canada, we had gone for a Punjabi film awards show. Dharamji was actually leaving the auditorium after a short stay because he was not feeling too well. However, when I came on stage, he stayed back to watch me and then sat for the next two hours. I was so happy. I took his blessings. I love him.
So you are a sentimental guy...
Yes, I do not forget things from my struggler days. I'm sentimental about people who have stood by me through that phase.
Anyone who inspires you?
Yes, I'm inspired by Shah Rukh, Irrfan and Nawazuddin. When I read about their struggles, I feel my own struggle is nothing. It is inspiring to see the heights Irrfan has achieved. SRK also had humble beginnings. I was talking to him once, and he told me that he had even done a tiny role in a Ramlila once. When I hear their stories, I feel so charged.
Like SRK, one hears you are an insomniac too?
This is a condition that has happened after I came to Mumbai and did Laughter Challenge. It is true that I cannot sleep till late at night. My whole team is like that. All of us burn the midnight oil. However, when I was back home in Amritsar I used to go to bed by 9 pm.
Is your mother excited about your film debut?
Oh yes. Earlier mummy didn't have any friends in Mumbai. Now she has managed to make some. She goes shopping with them. And wherever she goes, she gets recognised because she is seen on my show every week. Now mummy has her own fan following, so she spends less time fussing or thinking about me (laughs). People want to take selfies with her.
Have you sung in your film?
Yes, my director Abbas bhai asked me to. I didn't want to ruin my film, so I was hesitant. However, I found a song that was suited to me. I have sung just one stanza. It's a peppy number but I usually prefer Sufi numbers. Dr Zeus told me to sing. I just remembered I have sung one more song in the film. It comes after a drunken scene that I have done.
Is there a chance that you will do a film with Deepika Padukone?
That's not happening yet. She is a very big heroine. But you never know. Who knew I would become an actor one day? I had just come to Mumbai to try my luck on Laughter Challenge. Who would have foreseen then that a stand-up comedian would reach here? God paved the path for my future and here I am. I did Comedy Circus and then I made my own show. And this show has been such a success that Abbas-Mustan called me to do their film.
What is the secret of the success of your show?
On a comedy show, it is very easy to do below the belt stuff. But we have stayed away from it. The secret of my show is that a father and a daughter can watch my show together and not be embarrassed. I have earned the trust of people watching my show that they will never be embarrassed watching it with their entire family. The humour on our show may be in lesser degree, but we have not let vulgarity come into it.
Is it true that Christy Clark, the current Premier of British Columbia and you were colour-coordinated when she came to watch a recent show of yours in Toronto?
Yes, that is true. I had met Christy Clark in June when Mika Singh and I went to Canada on International Yoga Day. Then last month, she came to see me perform in Toronto when I took Comedy Nights With Kapil there. She was actually out with her children on vacation. But when she learnt that I was going to be performing there, she arrived. In fact, she was dressed in a blue Indian salwar suit. And I was wearing blue myself. I teased her saying that she had deliberately chosen the chosen the colour to match my clothes. And she replied saying, 'Yes Kapil, I specially wore this colour for you.' She is a sport and it was sweet of her to humour me. We took a selfie together and she even did a dance with Gutthi (Sunil Grover). Jason Kenney, Canada's Minister of National Defence and Minister for Multiculturalism, also came to my show in Toronto.
There is talk that you have plans to call the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on your show?
Yes, I want to invite our Prime Minister on my show. He had nominated me for his Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. I'm a fan of Modi Sir. My biggest desire is to have him on my show. In Toronto, Jason Kenney came to my show and even came up on stage. I'm not aware of things like protocol. But I'm wondering if there were no protocol issues in that country, would there be any out here. Someone was saying that since Modi Sir is the PM, he would not be able to come. I'm often asked why I do not invite politicians on my show. My answer is simple - I would love them to come but honestly, I do not know how to approach them. I had approached Modi Sir before the elections last year. However, his campaigning had started and I was told that during campaigning, he cannot come on GECs. Now he is the PM. I hope he sets aside protocol and makes an exception to come on my show. When he goes to other news shows, they talk strategy and serious issues. If ever Modi Sir comes to my show, I would like him to talk about his personal struggle. His story is so inspiring.
Your debut film, that is releasing on September 25, is called Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (KKPK)? You have five heroines in the film; tell us who is the lucky one you fall for?
Frankly, I'm in love with just one girl in the film. However, she is out studying in another city. What I go through with various girls in the course of a year, is what this film is all about. The writer of the film (Anukalp Goswami) is someone who is a part of Comedy Nights With Kapil. His writing can really tickle the funny bone. I can guarantee you that KKPK will make people laugh. I'm very critical when it comes to movies. And I can tell you that my first film is good because I have seen the rushes.
Have you ever been in a spot as far as girls are concerned?
Yes, in college I was always wondering which girl to get close to. There were such beautiful girls around; I was always wondering which one to go out with.
One had read that when you went to Abbas-Mustan's office to sign the film, the street leading up to their office was jam-packed with people wanting a peek at you?
Now that you remind me, yes, a crowd had gathered there. There were some girls who had ordered pani puri on their terrace and they were causing a lot of commotion. The nice thing in this was that Abbas-Mustan, who saw the crowd gathered outside, were perhaps thinking to themselves that they had made the right decision by casting me as a hero.
So you are saying crowds will also come to your movie, first day, first show?
I'm hoping they will. When I was in the US and Canada recently for Comedy Nights With Kapil, everyone in the crowd knew the name of my first film, they also knew when it was releasing and other details. That is gratifying. It means people are following all the work that I'm doing. A bunch of people actually turned up wearing t-shirts with my face embossed on it. This is flattering and humbling at the same time. There was a crowd of 15,000 present in the various arenas that we performed at. And we continue to get enquiries for our show from other American cities that we couldn't visit in this round.
So are you planning a trip abroad again?
When our TV show was bi-weekly, we had a very tight shooting schedule. I had barely eased out from that and my film Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon rolled. Again, I was back to travelling and doing extensive shoots. We are scheduled to go to London and Birmingham after the release of KKPK.
Rumours say that you are discontinuing Comedy Nights...
I will never do that. This is the show that actually brought me where I am. How can I discontinue it? I do not think of Comedy Nights With Kapil as work. I think of it as pleasure. I enjoy it so much. You were present at the rehearsals earlier and you must have seen what a blast we have. I must tell you that I had gone to the US six years ago. There was no Comedy Nights... then. An elderly lady, whose son was a dentist in Seattle, had come to see me perform. She had brought a huge quantity of sarson da saag with white butter with her. She was originally from Hoshiarpur and she told me that the reason she came to see me was because I reminded her of her native place. She explained that she had brought the saag along because she felt that perhaps I was missing home food in a foreign land. She knew that I would be getting other material comforts because of my name. But her point in bringing that home-cooked meal along was that it would give me a different kind of joy. The point I am making here is that, what I have really earned today is not just name, fame and money. I have got the true love of so many people. I have the blessings of elders across the world. This is my real wealth.
The reason how the rumour of you going missing as a television host started because Arshad Warsi and Sajid Khan stood in for you.
I had a slipped disc in February. I had a back problem earlier too. I had never bothered with it. Dr Ali Irani was treating me. He thought it was my earlier back pain that was resurfacing. We realised that it was a slipped disc issue only after I did an MRI. I was asked to rest for 21 days. So, I had to take a break from my show.
That's the time when Arshad and Sajid hosted an episode each?
Yes, I was laid up and had no choice but to rest it out.
How is your back now?
When I was in the US, I took an injection in the spine that rid me of the pain. However, the moment the pain went away, I got careless. As it is, my job requires me to jump around quite a bit. I even shot a couple of songs for my movie recently. However, the doctors tell me that my back needs to be stronger. I have been recommended a tough exercise routine.
Are you open to doing more movies?
I do not wish to do movies just for the sake of it. By the grace of God, my television show is doing well and it is paying for my everyday needs. So I can pick and choose my movies.
What kind of movies do you think you are suited for?
A couple of days ago, someone made me hear the script of a mur der mystery. I told him that I was not suited for this. He turned around and said, 'But currently you are on top of your game.' I agree with him. However, I have my limitations. I cannot turn around and punch someone on screen. If I do that, I myself will fall down laughing. That is not my personality. So, I have to be careful with my choices. Having said that, I have certain script ideas. I'm a writer myself, so I keep pondering over the kind of movies I should attempt.
Kapil, the biggest of stars have said that they enjoy coming on your comedy show. Are you flattered?
It is their generosity and grace that they say such things.
What are the kinds of movies you see?
I wait for the reviews to see films. I'm so engrossed with my work. I shoot or write till late at night. The next morning (though not very early), I'm back to work. So, my movie viewing is dictated by what I hear about a film and the reviews that come. Recently, I saw Bajrangi Bhaijaan and then I saw Drishyam. I enjoyed both films. I am a fan of Amitabh Bachchan. I love Dharmendra. My father was a huge fan of his. Now, everyone comes on our show to promote their films. But when my show was new, Dharamji had come on it. His Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 had released 25 days or so before. He didn't need to come on my show and yet he took time out for me. While on my relationship with Dharam paaji, I must tell you that I had earlier travelled with him to Canada for a show. I wasn't the one telling him jokes on our plane ride. He was the one telling me jokes. I genuinely love that man. In Canada, we had gone for a Punjabi film awards show. Dharamji was actually leaving the auditorium after a short stay because he was not feeling too well. However, when I came on stage, he stayed back to watch me and then sat for the next two hours. I was so happy. I took his blessings. I love him.
So you are a sentimental guy...
Yes, I do not forget things from my struggler days. I'm sentimental about people who have stood by me through that phase.
Anyone who inspires you?
Yes, I'm inspired by Shah Rukh, Irrfan and Nawazuddin. When I read about their struggles, I feel my own struggle is nothing. It is inspiring to see the heights Irrfan has achieved. SRK also had humble beginnings. I was talking to him once, and he told me that he had even done a tiny role in a Ramlila once. When I hear their stories, I feel so charged.
Like SRK, one hears you are an insomniac too?
This is a condition that has happened after I came to Mumbai and did Laughter Challenge. It is true that I cannot sleep till late at night. My whole team is like that. All of us burn the midnight oil. However, when I was back home in Amritsar I used to go to bed by 9 pm.
Is your mother excited about your film debut?
Oh yes. Earlier mummy didn't have any friends in Mumbai. Now she has managed to make some. She goes shopping with them. And wherever she goes, she gets recognised because she is seen on my show every week. Now mummy has her own fan following, so she spends less time fussing or thinking about me (laughs). People want to take selfies with her.
Have you sung in your film?
Yes, my director Abbas bhai asked me to. I didn't want to ruin my film, so I was hesitant. However, I found a song that was suited to me. I have sung just one stanza. It's a peppy number but I usually prefer Sufi numbers. Dr Zeus told me to sing. I just remembered I have sung one more song in the film. It comes after a drunken scene that I have done.
Is there a chance that you will do a film with Deepika Padukone?
That's not happening yet. She is a very big heroine. But you never know. Who knew I would become an actor one day? I had just come to Mumbai to try my luck on Laughter Challenge. Who would have foreseen then that a stand-up comedian would reach here? God paved the path for my future and here I am. I did Comedy Circus and then I made my own show. And this show has been such a success that Abbas-Mustan called me to do their film.
What is the secret of the success of your show?
On a comedy show, it is very easy to do below the belt stuff. But we have stayed away from it. The secret of my show is that a father and a daughter can watch my show together and not be embarrassed. I have earned the trust of people watching my show that they will never be embarrassed watching it with their entire family. The humour on our show may be in lesser degree, but we have not let vulgarity come into it.
Everyone who aspires to be an actor dreams of being like Shah Rukh Khan-Varun Sharma
7:56 AM
DNA (August 19, 2015)
Varun Sharma (Fukrey) knew that he wanted to become an actor when he saw
Shah Rukh Khan in Baazigar as a kid. He would often imitate him in
front of his friends and family. Imagine his shock and delight when he
heard that he would be sharing screen space with the Badshah for a TV
commercial, which subsequently helped him get a role in Dilwale. Varun
says, “Every one who aspires to be an actor dreams of being like Shah
Rukh sir and I feel extremely happy to have got an opportunity to work
with him as there is a lot that I get to learn. Interestingly,
Abbas-Mustan who directed me in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon had directed Shah
Rukh sir in Baazigar.” That’s how life imitates art sometimes.Kapil Sharma is the perfect simpleton-Anukalp Goswami
7:42 AM
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 19, 2015)
Two years ago, Anukalp Goswami wrote a comedy caper with Akshay Kumar in mind. When he narrated the script to director duo Abbas-Mastan, they came on board immediately and decided to add a thrilling edge of their own to the plot. Anukalp, who was then scripting Comedy Nights With Kapil, took the filmmakers to the set to catch an episode he wrote, and it was love at first sight for the white-suited-booted men and comedian, Kapil Sharma.
"Kapil had never thought he'd act in a Bollywood
film as the lead hero and I had never thought he'd feature in my script
either. But when I look back, he's the perfect simpleton," says Anukalp,
who makes a debut as the story, screenplay and dialogue writer of, Kis
Kisko Pyaar Karoon. The film follows Shiv Ram Kishan, fondly known as SRK, who has three wives - Anjali, Simran and Juhi, named after King Khan's leading ladies. "All three of them live in one building. The wife, who lives on the fourth floor wants to be a model and is obsessed with fashion, the second, who resides on the sixth floor is always trying to have a baby, and the third, living on the eighth floor, is a god-fearing, religious woman, who keeps saying, 'Bhagwan aisa pati sab ko de...' to which the hero smirks back, 'Bhagwan ne sun liya,' pointing out to his current situation," Anukalp explains.
The writer confesses that the best lines in the film belong to SRK's parents, played by Supriya pathak and Sharat Saxena. "They are a divorced couple who believe their son is the most seedha-saadha boy in the world. Things go haywire when they find out that he has two wives," laughs Anukalp, adding that they don't come face-to-face with the third until the climax.
"The lead does not play a fraud or a dishonest man," Anukalp is quick to clear the air, adding that the actor had improvised most lines, like he often does on his weekly comedy show too. He particularly remembers one scene when all of Kapil's wives bump into each other at the mall. "It's a laugh riot as all the three women meet and the hero not only takes them shopping but also introduces them to each other in a witty manner," Anukalp points out, adding that Kapil's impromptu lines set the film apart from similar-genre films like the Masti franchise. "There have been films with two and three actresses romancing one hero, but it has always been a star. Kapil is a nobody and that's what makes the film special," he signs off.
Anukalp is currently scripting Hera Pheri 3.
Johny Lever's daughter Jamie is female Babulal in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon
7:46 AM
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 17, 2015)
Twenty two years after
Johnny Lever's character, Babulal, in the SRK starrer,
Baazigar, left the audience in splits, his daughter, Jamie, is playing a
similar
character in Abbas-Mustan's comic caper Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon. “Babulal
was inherently funny while this kadak, muphat bai is dragged into funny
situations,“ says Jamie, who saw Baazigar when she was 10 and laughed
her heart out. “My father is a serious person at home. Even
today, when I do stage shows with him, he's like a boss. I think he
sometimes forgets he's my father.“
The filmmakers saw a stand-up video of Jamie, which was doing the rounds on social media, and offered her this role. “It was a surprise to both my father and me. Abbas-Mustan have known me since I was a child and Kapil Sharma is the biggest name on TV today. I couldn't have asked for a better launch,“ asserts Jamie, who had dabbled in marketing for two years earlier. She received a standing ovation at a live show abroad, which convinced Johnny that she could follow in his footsteps.
The filmmakers saw a stand-up video of Jamie, which was doing the rounds on social media, and offered her this role. “It was a surprise to both my father and me. Abbas-Mustan have known me since I was a child and Kapil Sharma is the biggest name on TV today. I couldn't have asked for a better launch,“ asserts Jamie, who had dabbled in marketing for two years earlier. She received a standing ovation at a live show abroad, which convinced Johnny that she could follow in his footsteps.
Meet the other Bollywood star kids who live on the fringe
9:10 AM
Shaheen Parkar (MID-DAY; August 16, 2015)
Jamie, daughter of veteran comedian Johny Lever, remembers director duo Abbas-Mustan dropping in to their house often. After all, Lever Sr, one India’s best-known funny men, has featured in several of their films. She recalls Abbas-Mustan, in their stark white outfit which got them their Men In White monicker, often lounging around in her living room.Years later, their spotless white trademark outfits remain, only now Jamie is an actress in their film, not the daughter of an actor. Lever Jr features in their upcoming comic caper, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, which marks the debut of the country’s current comic flavour, Kapil Sharma.
Ask her how she bagged the role, and Jamie’s reply is quick. “No,” she drawls. “It is not that dad told them.”
Star valueIt’s known that star kids get offers on a platter even before they are ready to act. Not that the opportunities come without pressures. Often, the younger generation is compared to their parents and has to constantly battle expectations. But, it can’t be argued that getting a launchpad for them is a tad easier — if not in a home production, another star will turn mentor as Salman Khan did for two star kids — Athiya Shetty (daughter of Suniel Shetty) and Sooraj Pancholi (son of Aditya Pancholi) in his production Hero. But there are other industry kids looking for a foothold in Bollywood. They are offsprings of character actors, technicians, action directors and writers. Though these roles are integral to the industry, the kids come without the star tag.
Actress Manisha Kelkar (above), daughter of the late writer Ram Kelkar explains, “It is a case of being there, but not yet there.” Her father passed away in 2002, “so I don’t know if things would have been different had he been around,” she points out. Kelkar Sr penned several of Subhash Ghai’s films including Ram Lakhan (1989) and Khalnayak (1993).
Her childhood memories, like Jamie’s, too are replete with faces of big Bollywood names alongside her fathers — producers like J Omprakash and Subhash Ghai among them. “In those days hotel rooms would be booked for story writing sessions. It would invariably be the Fariyas hotel at Lonavla or Sun-n-Sand at Juhu. We, as kids, would tag along.”
In fact, Ghai had told her brother Yogesh that he would launch him in Saudagar (1991), but that never happened and her brother then showed no interest in acting.
Name droppingFinding themselves at the periphery, these industry offsprings can’t go around dropping names as a sure ticket to land a role. Nor would reams be written about them being tomorrow’s star.
It’s a lesson Vicky Kaushal has learnt. Acclaimed for his role in Neeraj Ghaywan’s critically-acclaimed film Masaan, Kaushal found himself struggling for roles just as any newcomer would do. But, Kaushal is the son of action director Sham Kaushal. Vicky says, “You are just like anyone else. Nobody is going to cast you because your father is part of the industry too. You have to audition and do the rounds like any non-industry person interested in an acting career.”
Jamie adds, “I cannot be going around and saying, ‘Hey, can you launch me? I am Johnny Lever’s daughter’.” Abbas-Mustan saw her in an online spoof which she had done in Gujarati. Her antics in the video fetched her a role. “And guess what?” she drawls. “This is one of those rare films of Abbas-Mustan featuring Jamie, not Johny Lever.”
Jamie has been doing stand-up acts and was part of the comedy television show, Comedy Ka Maha Muqabala. Ironically, on the show she was to team up with Kapil Sharma, who then left the show to do Comedy Nights With Kapil. But as fate would have it, Jamie now features with Kapil in her debut film. “I did not want to be here, there and everywhere. Over-exposure can be dangerous in Bollywood. I stuck to stand-up acts, anchoring and comedy shows. I avoided being part of soaps. Now that I want to act, I am still a relatively fresh face when it comes to Bollywood.”
Reliving talesManisha, on the other hand, began with Marathi films and veered towards Bollywood with Lottery (2009) and Bandook (2013), both of which are better forgotten. She says, “I am blessed to be part of the industry, but when I go for auditions, I do not mention my father’s name. When the old-timers get to know, they share anecdotes about him…It is nice to hear others talk fondly about my father, but it need not translate into work.”
Manisha recently featured in an online short film, Friend Request. She still does the rounds of auditions and hopes for that big break.
Veteran actor Mohan Bhandari’s son Dhruv (above) echoes her sentiment. A popular face on the small screen, Mohan has featured in films like Bawandar (2000), Pratighaat (1987) and Paheli (2005). Says Dhruv, “having a father from the same profession makes no difference. I had to struggle. When people come to know who my is father, the expectations rise.”
Ultimately they feel that hard work and luck — the biggest driving force in Bollywood — matters. Who knows who will make it and who will not?
As Dhruv adds, “There is no easy way out. No one gives you work because of your background. There are enough examples of children with famous fathers, who did not make it big.”
A decade ago Dhruv was slated to make his debut along Pulkit Samrat in a television show called Sixerrr. The show failed to take off, Pulkit went on to become a Bollywood actor. Dhruv went on to do television and then did a film that was better forgotten. He now has a fresh lease of life with his ongoing television show Tere Shehar Main.
Making it
Vicky fetched acclaim in his award-winning film Masaan, but he still has to go through the rounds of meeting people, auditioning. His next film Zubaan is slated to release in October. After Masaan, he knows he has to work harder, as expectations are high. According to him, his father did not mix his professional and his personal life. “So, I did not hang around the sets. I have studied engineering, but went on to do theatre and become an assistant director till Masaan made people notice me.”
Wish fulfilled
On the other spectrum, there are stars like Akshay Kumar who go the extra length to help. A couple of years ago when his business manager Vikas Bali passed away he decided to fulfill his wish to make his son Vedant Bali an actor. As Vikas had been associated with the Khiladi ever since he stepped into Bollywood, Akshay took up the responsibility. Vedant featured in I Love Desi which released earlier this year. Akshay’s decision to help his manager’s son find a foothold is an exception rather than a rule in B-Town.
Divine intervention
Manjiri Makhijani, daughter of Mac Mohan (best remembered as Sholay’s Sambha), who passed away in 2010, attributes it to “God’s grace” that she could rope in Tom Alter as well as music composers Salim-Sulaiman for her film, The Corner Table, made for the festival circuit. When she made up her mind to direct film, he gave her tips. Manjari has worked as an assistant director for films like Wake Up Sid (2009) and 7 Khoon Maaf (2011). She began with a short film, The Last Marble, about a street child that fetched her honours on the international film festivals circuit. Directing Bollywood films is top on her to do list.
There are not many from the periphery who have made it to the top of the heap. But then Salman Khan — writer Salim Khan’s son — reigns over Bollywood. As Manisha explains, “You can never know what clicks, if you are lucky and blessed, things just happen.”
Kapil Sharma recovers from back injury suffered during film shoot
8:17 AM
Subhash K Jha (DNA; April 6, 2015)
Since signing Abbas-Mustaan's Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, comedian Kapil Sharma has been on a weight-loss regime.
Those close to him say he's been taking the slim-down to the extreme. "He's a foodie. But since he signed KKPK, he's stopped snacking completely, a habit he picked up after years of doing comedy shows. His meals are now strictly diet-controlled. His workout sessions would last at least two hours every morning and an hour in the evening," says a source. One of these rigorous workout sessions apparently caused a back injury and the actor was recommended complete bed-rest for a few weeks.
Says Sharma, "I was on bed-rest for quite a while. The injury took place when I went to Rajasthan to shoot a song for my film. I overdid the work-out. Aisa nahin karna chahiye tha. Everything must be in moderation. I'm healing now."
Kapil is undergoing physiotherapy with Dr Ali Irani, the doctor who watches the back of the cricket team. He says, "We have only two more songs to shoot for the film before we begin with the promotions."
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