Showing posts with label Maharaj. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Maharaj. Show all posts
I wouldn’t want to play any of papa’s roles-Junaid Khan
3:44 PM
Iti Shree Misra (BOMBAY TIMES; June 15, 2025)
Actor Junaid Khan acknowledged the perks of his famous lineage while insisting he wants to be known for his own talent. In an interaction with us, the actor said being Aamir Khan’s son does make things easier for him. “I do come from a very wealthy family,” Junaid said, reflecting on his father’s massive influence.
“Papa is respected, loved and powerful. There are privileges that come with that. I generally benefited from them.”
Talking about whether his career would’ve been different without his father’s influence, Junaid says, “Yes, Aditya Chopra knows who I am because I’m Aamir Khan’s son. He doesn’t come to Prithvi theatre to watch plays. Most people know me because I am Aamir Khan’s son. But I have been fortunate that there are few comparing me to him. Basically people are judging me by my own talent and trajectory in my career so far, which is a good thing in a way. It will be tough if I am compared to my father.”
Junaid says that he won’t be able to recreate his father’s roles mainly because of the height difference between the two. “And frankly, why mess with something that’s already there?, he says.
Junaid revealed that Aamir Khan offered practical guidance during the making of Maharaj but avoided shaping his acting choices.
“Papa didn’t have much to do with Maharaj. He’d heard the story and liked it but asked me if I was sure I wanted to take on such a big film early in my career. He saw the final cut and liked it, but with him, if you need specific advice, he’ll always give you solid, practical advice, like how to stay warm shooting in the rain or how not to squint when the lights are too bright. He is not one who will essentially hand out acting tips.”
When asked if he would reprise one of his father’s iconic roles, Junaid made his stance clear. “I wouldn’t want to play any of papa’s roles. Not really. There would be too many comparisons. And frankly, why mess with something that’s already there? Plus, a lot of the roles he does, I just wouldn’t be able to do, especially considering I’m twice his height. That makes a huge difference, particularly in films.”
— With inputs by Manas Mishra
Loveyapa director Advait Chandan on Junaid Khan's public appearances: "When you're a terrible dancer..."
8:27 AM
Director Advait Chandan talks all things Loveyapa—from not treating it as a star kids’ launch vehicle to being proud of Junaid Khan’s conduct in promotions even as the internet slams his awkward behaviour
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; February 5, 2025)
Director Advait Chandan is getting the “exam-wali feeling” as Loveyapa readies for release this Friday. But this is an exam that the director was reluctant to take in the first place, he tells us. When producer Madhu Mantena bought the rights to the Tamil hit, Love Today (2022), and asked Chandan if he wanted to adapt it, his answer was a straight no.
“I said that I don’t want to do a remake. After Laal Singh Chaddha [2022], I had decided I’d work on something original and not do a remake. I was writing something of my own,” he narrates. But when Mantena persuaded him to watch the rom-com revolving around a young couple, who exchange their phones before getting married, he had a change of heart.
Chandan was sold as far as the story was concerned. But he had reservations whether Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor were the right choice to lead the Hindi adaptation. With his dilemma, he went to the one person he trusts the most in the industry—frequent collaborator and Junaid’s superstar-father Aamir Khan.
“I was unsure of both Junaid and Khushi. Maharaj [2024] hadn’t released, nor had The Archies [2023]. So, I went to meet Aamir sir and told him, ‘A film has been offered to me with Junaid and Khushi attached. I’m considering taking the film up, but I don’t know if Junaid is the right person for the film.’ He said, ‘Take up the film. If you think Junaid is not right for the part, then drop him. I won’t mind it and won’t create any pressure on you. You do whatever is right for your film.’ He suggested that I do readings, auditions, and hang out with them and if at the end of the process, I feel they aren’t right, I should let go of them. That was very reassuring,” he smiles.
Over the next two months of readings and prep, the young actors won Chandan over with their “hard work and dedication,” sealing their place in Loveyapa. While it marks the big-screen debut of Junaid and Kapoor, the younger daughter of late Sridevi, the director asserts he didn’t approach the film as a launch vehicle for the two star kids.
Chandan says, “If a producer comes to me with a budget and a good story, I will make it with anybody who is talented. Khushi and Junaid didn’t walk in with the attitude that ‘I am Sridevi’s daughter’ or ‘I am Aamir Khan’s son’. They came with the approach of making this film well. Khushi made a playlist for her character, she sent me colours that she thought Bani would wear. The pressure was not to launch a star kid. My responsibility is not to star kids, it’s to the audience who has given me their time and money. If I managed to entertain them, I have also done right by Junaid and Khushi. I approached them as two professionals, who needed to know their lines, be emotive and professional. They were all these things. By collaborating to make a good film, we all helped each other. What does that have to do with who is whose father?”
In the last few weeks, the two young leads have aggressively promoted the film. The director takes immense pride in the way Junaid, a self-confessed introvert, has made public appearances.
Tell him that the actor’s awkwardness is glaring, and Chandan replies, “It takes immense amount of strength and courage to stand in front of an audience that is so quick to throw eggs and tomatoes at you, and troll you. He still stands, does that one step again and again, and takes all of that just because he is keen on calling people to theatres. I take immense pride in that boy. It’s easy to go on stage or feature in a reel when you’re a good dancer. But when you’re a terrible dancer, to stand on stage and do that hook step takes courage.”
But isn’t it unfair to make an actor, clearly uncomfortable with putting himself out there, engage in excessive promotions? Chandan shoots back, “Did your heart go out to him? If yes, then my job is done. This is what makes an actor a star.”
As he gears up for the Friday test, it also brings back memories of the last Friday two years ago when he had failed. Chandan’s Laal Singh Chaddha (2022) may be widely loved today, but upon release, the Aamir and Kareena Kapoor Khan-starrer had tanked at the box office. It’s understandable when the director says he is still not over it.
“I went into a dark space. I took the failure to my heart; those days have still not ended. I still feel very emotional when someone says they like Laal Singh Chaddha. I care about the audience and every critic. I have read every comment on the film’s trailer on YouTube and every comment about the film on X (formerly Twitter). When the film didn’t land for a lot of people, it knocked me out.”
While Aamir has publicly expressed that he believed his performance was one of the reasons for the film’s fate, his director disagrees. “Aamir sir has a lot of grace and maturity to process it, I did not. I just shut down. I didn’t know if I could make a film again. But then, I got back and said let’s do better this time. While making Laal Singh Chaddha, I cared about every aspect of that film. I cared about Aamir sir’s performance. His performance landed for me. When I remember the scene in which he is sitting at Rupa’s grave, I choke up even now.”
Did he fear for his career after the debacle of Laal Singh Chaddha, considering he was at the helm of a superstar vehicle? “A director absolutely fears whether he will get enough work after a superstar vehicle doesn’t work. I am grateful to Aamir sir because without him, I wouldn’t have the craft or a career. I wouldn’t be anywhere without him. The way Munna Bhai hallucinates about Gandhi ji, I hallucinate about Aamir sir,” he grins.
Haan Ke Haan wasn’t promoted in any big way; its popularity is organic-Monali Thakur
9:09 AM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 28, 2024)
Monali Thakur’s song Haan Ke Haan from the film Maharaj is currently trending online, and the singer feels “gratified” about its success, especially since “its growth has been organic.”
“People are exploring songs mostly through social media. They are also able to find songs which are otherwise not even being promoted on other platforms. Haan Ke Haan had a similar story as it wasn’t promoted in any big way, and managed to gain a fan-following by itself,” the 38-year-old singer shares, adding, “I received many messages on social media, appreciating the song. I keep seeing it being used in Reels.”
For Thakur, songs no longer need backing from big labels like they used to since social media has changed the game. “People don’t care about who is backing the song anymore. Unhe gaane aur content se matlab hai, aur kisi cheez se koi farak nahin padta. Social media has brought this change in many fields, including small businesses, and the music industry too.”
Reflecting on the song’s journey, the singer also reveals, “We recorded the song almost a couple of years back. At that time, we were quite optimistic about this release. But after the whole controversy around Maharaj, we weren’t really sure if it would be able to reach people. But I am glad that the song worked out and people showed it love.”
Aamir Khan told me, “I am retiring, why don’t you take over.” So, that’s the phase when I stepped in-Junaid Khan
7:26 AM
Madhureeta Mukherjee (BOMBAY TIMES; August 3, 2024)
Junaid Khan made a fine debut with the historical drama Maharaj, directed by Siddharth P Malhotra recently. There was no massive marketing campaign or a tizzy on social media around the launch of superstar Aamir Khan’s son. He quietly and gracefully made an entry, made a mark and left everyone curious about him. On a rainy Sunday morning, he hopped out of a rickshaw and rushed in for an interview with us (minus the entourage and all that jazz).
Refreshing! Between laughs and a few words, our conversation unfolded. He listened more, spoke less and let his charm do the rest. Curious? Read on...
Congrats on an impressive debut with Maharaj! Many people thought it was an unconventional debut. What are your thoughts? Is this the kind of debut you had envisioned for yourself?
I think the story is highly dramatic and that it is a fairly mainstream film. I don’t think it is a niche film at all. I guess different people find different things unconventional. About my debut, I actually didn’t put much thought into it. I have been doing theatre in Mumbai since 2017 and whenever I was called for a reading or an audition, I would go for it. So, I never had any grand plan for my debut film.
Did you hope for your debut film to be a big screen release? Does the medium or format matter to you?
I don’t think it does. What is important to me is that people watch my film, where they watch it is not relevant. In an ideal world, I would say put it up for free on YouTube, but obviously, no one will do that (laughs).
The film is set in a different era, you had a distinct look and a certain dialect, too. How long did it take you to get into the skin of the character?
We spent a year prepping for it. The language in the film is heightened, and there is a slight Gujarati dialect. We worked on that as well to understand how much Gujarati we should include in the dialogues. We also did a lot of look tests and dance rehearsals.
You confessed that you aren’t a good dancer. Are you honing your dancing skills?
Yes, I am not a very good dancer. But at the end of the day, everything is practice, so I will get there (laughs).
Did your experience as a theatre actor prepare you for the big screen?
The craft is the same. However, I didn’t do theatre to prepare for the big screen. There are technical differences in both, but what’s similar is that the more you do it, the better you get. You have to be thorough with what you are doing – whether it is theatre or films. You don’t have the luxury to be unprepared in any medium. That luxury doesn’t exist. Today, no director or producer will appreciate it if an actor comes unprepared.
Was there a certain point in your life when you decided you wanted to be in the movies?
I don’t think there was a point as such when I decided that. I was doing what was coming my way. I had tested for a bunch of roles, like I had auditioned for Laal Singh Chaddha. When I tested for it, the film was in the initial stages, it hadn’t even been budgeted. They were trying to figure out what to do with it, I guess that was one of the reasons it didn’t work.
Maharaj was waiting in the wings for three years to be released. Did you get impatient and restless during that waiting period and have to deal with a lot of questions around its release?
I don’t think I was asked much about what was going on with the film, because I don’t think anyone even knew this film was being made. It wasn’t announced by the producers, and I think it was announced only sometime last September. So, I didn’t feel any pressure during that time, and I trusted that the producers would do what’s best for the film.
All this time, you have been really low-key. Like even your director Siddharth P Malhotra, in an interview, said that many didn’t know you were Aamir Khan’s son. Even now, it’s not like you are spotted much by the paps, nor are you on social media. Was it part of a plan to not overexpose yourself in the media before your launch?
I don’t think there was a plan per se. Most people still don’t know me. I have just been this way (laughs). Long ago, I had a Facebook account, but that was a different time on social media. I haven’t been drawn to Instagram and I don’t think social media is my thing.
You come from a culturally diverse family with creative people who have diverse views and opinions. Has your upbringing shaped your personality and thoughts on life, movies, et al?
I think it definitely has. I think our upbringing and families shape our lives quite profoundly. I have a very supportive and diverse family, and we encourage debate and disagreements. I am thankful for the family that I have.
Did your father’s work have an impact on you and your film choices?
I don’t think so. He’s done some fantastic work and he’s done some work that’s perhaps not all that good also. Everything can’t be the best work ever, as filmmaking is not a science. So, what I have learnt is that you have to take the learnings and move forward.
What was your parents’ (Aamir Khan and Reena Dutta) reaction when they learnt about your debut film? During the release, were they anxious?
Not really (laughs). They weren’t anxious, they were happy for me. They are not anxious people generally, as they have been through all of it and more (being part of the industry for so long). The fact that they weren’t anxious also helped me with everything that was going on with the film. They both liked it. Dad liked it quite a lot He tends to be an easy audience, as he goes in to watch something wanting to enjoy it. My mom is a tougher audience to please.
Did he ever drop in on the set of your film?
He was never on our set. He only came on the first day of the shoot with my three grandparents and then he directly watched the film.
You got a lot of love for your first film, but a huge part of being an actor is about being able to deal with criticism that comes your way, which isn’t always easy. How did you deal with it?
As an actor, you are always learning and growing. Film is an art form, and it encourages diverse opinions. Not everyone will like everything. I know there are a lot of people who didn’t like Maharaj as much as we would have liked them to, but that’s fine. You learn from the good and bad and grow.
Generally, actors step into production much later in their careers. You have already taken on the role of a producer with Pritam Pyaare. What prompted you to do that?
Yes, I have. I have been on film sets and behind the camera on the set of PK. I have assisted in ad shoots as well. After we completed the shoot for Maharaj, there was a film we were working on at AKP (Aamir Khan Productions). At that point, Kiran (Rao) was making Laapataa Ladies and dad was going through this whole ‘I-am-retiring phase’, and he even spoke about that (smiles). He told me, “I am retiring, why don’t you take over.” So, that’s the phase when I stepped in. I think I have a decent understanding of production. It’s probably one of the toughest jobs in filmmaking.
Have you warmed up to the idea of media attention, interviews and the fandom that will follow?
It is definitely a new world, and I am getting used to it.
Aamir Khan, Reena Dutta to host party to celebrate Junaid’s Bollywood debut with Maharaj
8:26 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 27, 2024)
There are star kid launches, and then there is Junaid Khan’s quiet Bollywood debut with Maharaj. In a way, it reminded us of his superstar-dad Aamir Khan, who usually likes to keep a low profile. But now, the proud father wants to celebrate the first milestone of Junaid’s career. We hear Aamir and his ex-wife Reena Dutta will throw a bash to celebrate his entry in the industry.
The party will be held on July 30 at the Aamir Khan Productions’ office in Bandra. A source reveals, “The bash will be attended by Junaid’s friends, and the cast and crew of his next few movies. He has already started shooting for the Advait Chandan-helmed romantic comedy with Khushi Kapoor, and Pritam Pyaare. He is expected to wrap up the rom-com soon.”
A guest, invited to the do, tells us that Aamir and Reena are proud that Junaid didn’t seek his actor-dad’s help to make inroads into the industry.
“He was certain that he wanted to debut on his own merit. Reena and Aamir let him forge his own path. Today, they want to share their happiness with their near and dear ones.”
We were all on edge when Maharaj was stalled-Junaid Khan
8:34 AM
Mugdha Kapoor (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 6, 2024)
Actor Junaid Khan’s debut film, Maharaj, was embroiled in a controversy when its release was halted by the Gujarat High Court after a sect raised concerns about the film’s depiction of their religious beliefs. While the movie received a positive response when it finally dropped on a streaming platform, Junaid asserts the makers never intended to hurt anyone.
“The film celebrates a community that stood up for what was right over 170 years ago when such things (gender inequality, exploitation of women, religious superstitions) were rampant. As more people are watching the film, they are seeing it for what was intended,” says the 31-year-old.
Recalling the tense moments when the film’s release was uncertain, Junaid, who is actor Aamir Khan’s son, says, “We were all on edge when the film was stalled. I’m thankful to the judiciary for seeing the film for what it is and allowing its release.”
Ask what Aamir’s reaction to the film was and if he shared any tips with his son, and Junaid says, “He really liked it. Papa doesn’t really give advice that is not asked for. He lets us do our own thing. If we have any specific things to ask, he is extremely helpful.”
Papa (Aamir Khan) really liked Maharaj, but he is an easy audience-Junaid Khan
8:33 AM
Making an unusually quiet star kid debut with Maharaj, Junaid on choosing a gritty subject instead of rom-com and how actor-dad Aamir is a softer critic than mom Reena
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; July 6, 2024)
Before a star kid is launched in Bollywood, you will see him/her everywhere—at promotional events, on your TV screens and billboards across the city. In refreshing contrast, Junaid Khan made one of the quietest acting debuts in recent times with Maharaj. When most newbies are launched with rom-coms or action dramas, his choice of maiden film was equally unconventional. Director Siddharth P Malhotra’s movie offered a retelling of the 1862 Maharaj Libel Case.
“Maharaj is a sensitive story, and I trusted Siddharth sir and YRF to tell the story in a sensitive way. They felt I suited this role. I guess they didn’t see me in a rom-com or an action drama. Adi [Aditya Chopra, YRF head honcho] sir called me after he saw a screen test I had done for another film [and cast me]. He has clarity of vision. After watching Maharaj, he told me that he really liked it,” he says.
Although the Netflix movie has received mixed reviews, Junaid has been largely praised for his restrained performance. The actor, however, knows his strengths and weaknesses.
He candidly admits, “I’m a terrible dancer. So, shooting the Holi song was challenging. The [confrontation] scene in the rain with Jaideep [Ahlawat] sir was shot in difficult conditions, and I wasn’t prepared for that.”
The audience’s verdict regarding Maharaj is out, but we’re more interested in the verdict at home. What were his superstar-father Aamir Khan and mother Reena Dutta’s reactions? “Papa really liked the film, but he is an easy audience. Mama liked it more, and she is definitely a tough audience.”
It’s interesting to note that Aamir, one of the biggest Bollywood stars and with a successful production house to boot, did not launch his son. “Neither of us look at films that way,” says Junaid, who believes he put in the work—from studying acting at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles, to honing his craft in theatre, and serving as an assistant director on PK (2014) and short film To Remember Me By (2019)—before facing the camera. As a star kid, he is aware of his privileges. That fuels him to forge his own path in the movies.
“I have a supportive family and a parent who has been through all of this before. I have access to a tremendous knowledge base of professionals within the family as well as colleagues from the industry. I have had the opportunity to spend three years studying the craft.” He also has the best in the business guiding him.
Did Aamir give him any acting tips? “Papa doesn’t give advice or tips unless asked for. If you go to him with a specific query, he is incredibly helpful. There is a lot to learn from him.”
(Crisp) Movie Review: MAHARAJ by FENIL SETA
10:17 PM
Maharaj, which has released today on Netflix, is based on the true story of a reformer who takes on a powerful priest when the latter misuses his position. It is produced by Yash Raj Films and marks the debut of Aamir Khan's son, Junaid. The film was about to release on June 14 but was stayed by the Gujarat High Court on the grounds that it might hurt religious sentiments. Today, the film was cleared for release. At the very onset, it is clear that the film is not against any sect or community. The protagonist is progressive and also very religious and he raises his voice against malpractice, not on anyone's faith. The film moves at a great pace in the first half and keeps the interest going. The film then dips in the middle. Also, the courtroom drama commences very late in the film. The finale, thankfully, is worth it. Junaid Khan is a bit raw and doesn't have the conventional hero looks. But he makes up for it with his acting talent. Jaideep Ahlawat is terrific as the priest and the way his character prefers to smile instead of raising his voice and temper is terrific. Shalini Pandey is lovely and an actor to watch out for. Sharvari has been credited under 'Special appearance' though she has a crucial role. She is in great form and also adds to the film's humour quotient. Jay Upadhyay (Giridhar Khawas), Sneha Desai (Bhabhu) Kamlesh Oza (Shaam ji), Priyal Gor (Leelavati), Sandeep Mehta (Mulji bhai; Karsan's father), Utkarsh Mazumdar (Lalvanji Maharaj), Jamie Alter (defence lawyer) and Vaibhav Tatwawadi (Dr Bhau Daji Lad) are fair. Sanjay Goradia (Nanubhai) is adorable. Sohail Sen's music is lovely, especially the foot-tapping song 'Holi Ke Rang Maa' and the soulful 'Achyutam Keshavam', sung by Sonu Nigam. All in all, Maharaj is worth watching for the plot, message and powerful moments.
My rating - *** ½ out of 5!
My rating - *** ½ out of 5!
Gujarat High Court extends stay on release of Maharaj by one day
9:29 AM
THE TIMES OF INDIA (June 19, 2024)
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat High Court on Tuesday extended its stay by one day on the release of “Maharaj”, the debut film of Bollywood star Aamir Khan’s son Junaid, which was slated for release on Netflix last week.
Justice Sangeeta Vishen extended the stay as the arguments on the applications for removal of stay by Netflix and Yash Raj Films will continue on Wednesday.
The court had stayed the release of the film last Friday on a petition filed by eight members of Pushtimarg sect, claiming that the depiction of 1862 Maharaj Libel Case and projection of observation by the British judges might cause public disorder and disenchantment with the sect and faith because the case was based on a journalist Karsandas Mulji’s articles on a Pushtimargi Jadunath Maharaj’s sexual liaisons with female devotees.
In defence of the film’s subject, the lawyers of the OTT platform and the film production company cited legal battles involving Bandit Queen, Padmaavat, Gangubai Kathiawadi and Faraaz to assert freedom of expression.
For Netflix, senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi argued that the petitioner’s contention about inaction by the govt authorities to address their grievance was absurd because they made representation at the last moment and hence the cause of action is “contrived and artificial”.
The film received a certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification in May 2023 despite it not being required for its release on an OTT platform. The senior counsel argued that the petitioners claimed to be prominent businessmen of Ahmedabad and they did not seem aware of a book on this subject published in 2013, which did not cause any public disorder. Staying the film causes a lot of problems for the filmmakers, he submitted.
He added that it is based on legal history and whether one likes it or not, history does not change.
For the film company, senior advocate Shalin Mehta said the film does not depict the judgment. “The judgment is not read. The trial is depicted, but not the judgment. The petitioners have a problem with the judgment,” he submitted.
Gujarat High Court stays Netflix from releasing Maharaj
11:04 AM
Members Of Pushtimarg Sect Object To Reference To 1862 Maharaj Libel Case In Junaid Khan Starrer
THE TIMES OF INDIA (June 14, 2024)
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat High Court on Thursday restrained OTT platform Netflix from releasing the movie “Maharaj” which features Junaid Khan, the son of Bollywood star Aamir Khan, based on objections raised by members of a religious sect called Pushtimarg. The film was to be released on Friday.
Eight members of the Pushtimarg sect, who are devotees of Lord Krishna and followers of Vallabhacharya, approached the HC alleging that the film is apparently based on the famous Maharaj Libel Case of 1862, and is likely to affect public order and incite violence against followers of the sect and the Hindu religion.
The petitioners contended that the Maharaj Libel Case, which was decided by a court during the British era, castigates the Hindu religion and makes seriously blasphemous comments against God and devotional songs and hymns.
Their senior counsel submitted that reference has been made to excerpts from the court’s judgment that contain scandalous and defamatory language, which affects the Pushtimarg sect as a whole. The possibility of inciting violence itself is in breach of the ethics and codes governing the release of such visual content.
It was also submitted that considering the reach of an OTT platform such as Netflix throughout the world, it would be impossible to rectify the image of the sect once tarnished by the film. Its release would cause an irreversible situation, whereas a stay on the release will only result in small financial losses.
The lawyer also argued requests were made by the petitioners and other groups to the authorities, filmmakers and OTT platform, but they did not get any response from the authorities or the OTT platform, whereas the filmmakers gave them a cryptic reply.
The producer of the film, Yash Raj Films Pvt Ltd, maintains secrecy over the content and this itself is a reason to draw an adverse inference.
On the argument that the movie is likely to hurt religious sentiments, Justice Sangeeta Vishen stayed Netflix from releasing the movie on Friday. The HC issued notice to the authorities concerned, the film production company and Netflix, and posted the next hearing for June 18.
The Maharaj Libel Case was a trial in a Bombay court against journalists Karshandas Mulji and Nanabhai Rustomji Ranina after they were sued for defamation for public accusations that religious leaders of the Pushtimarg sect had sexual liaisons with women devotees. The court ruled in favour of the journalists.
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 834
8:53 AM
MUNJYA IS A SUCCESS; ALL EYES ON CHANDU CHAMPION AND MAHARAJ
Last week’s release, Munjya, has proved all calculations wrong. The buzz seemed limited and it was expected to open at Rs. 1 crore. A day before the release, it seemed like the film would manage to open at Rs. 2 crores. But it managed to open at a huge Rs. 4.25 crores. Usually, when a film overperforms on day 1, it drops on the second day or doesn’t grow significantly. Munjya, however, jumped to Rs. 7.25 crores on Saturday. The drop was minimal on Sunday – Rs. 8.25 crores – due to the India vs Pakistan match. On Monday, the film collected Rs. 4 crores when usually films drop 40-50% on day 4. Tuesday's collections were the same as Monday's.
What went in favour of Munjya was the horror-comedy genre and its connection with the Stree-Bhediya universe. Also, the makers kept the ticket rates in check. The weekday trend is strong because in certain parts of North India, the film took time to get the audience. Looking at the trend, it seems like it’ll have a first week of Rs. 35 crores. It also indicates that the second Friday will be strong. If that happens, Munjya can have a lifetime of Rs. 75-80 crores. In fact, a Rs. 100 crore lifetime also can’t be ruled out!
This week’s big release is Chandu Champion. It stars Kartik Aaryan as Murlikant Petkar, a sportsman who had an unbelievable journey. It is directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The trailer was launched in a grand fashion in Kartik’s hometown, Gwalior. The trailer catches attention, especially due to Kartik’s transformation.
However, the buzz for the film is limited as the trailer has a niche appeal. The songs haven’t worked at all. Kartik’s last film Satyaprem Ki Katha opened at Rs. 8.20 crores and looking at the advance, Chandu Champion might open lower than the 2023 film or in the same range. if the word of mouth is positive, it can see a huge jump from Friday evening.
Lastly, Junaid Khan’s debut film, Maharaj, will stream on Netflix from tomorrow. It is backed by Yash Raj Films and has faced trouble after Vishwa Hindu Parishad objected to the film’s plot. As a result, the makers haven’t released the trailer of the film at all. They won’t put up hoardings and it is said that Netflix won’t even upload a ‘Now streaming’ post on their social media handles! This is the first time something of this sort is happening. Nevertheless, the film will get the desired viewership as the controversy has grabbed eyeballs.
Last week’s release, Munjya, has proved all calculations wrong. The buzz seemed limited and it was expected to open at Rs. 1 crore. A day before the release, it seemed like the film would manage to open at Rs. 2 crores. But it managed to open at a huge Rs. 4.25 crores. Usually, when a film overperforms on day 1, it drops on the second day or doesn’t grow significantly. Munjya, however, jumped to Rs. 7.25 crores on Saturday. The drop was minimal on Sunday – Rs. 8.25 crores – due to the India vs Pakistan match. On Monday, the film collected Rs. 4 crores when usually films drop 40-50% on day 4. Tuesday's collections were the same as Monday's.
What went in favour of Munjya was the horror-comedy genre and its connection with the Stree-Bhediya universe. Also, the makers kept the ticket rates in check. The weekday trend is strong because in certain parts of North India, the film took time to get the audience. Looking at the trend, it seems like it’ll have a first week of Rs. 35 crores. It also indicates that the second Friday will be strong. If that happens, Munjya can have a lifetime of Rs. 75-80 crores. In fact, a Rs. 100 crore lifetime also can’t be ruled out!
This week’s big release is Chandu Champion. It stars Kartik Aaryan as Murlikant Petkar, a sportsman who had an unbelievable journey. It is directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The trailer was launched in a grand fashion in Kartik’s hometown, Gwalior. The trailer catches attention, especially due to Kartik’s transformation.
However, the buzz for the film is limited as the trailer has a niche appeal. The songs haven’t worked at all. Kartik’s last film Satyaprem Ki Katha opened at Rs. 8.20 crores and looking at the advance, Chandu Champion might open lower than the 2023 film or in the same range. if the word of mouth is positive, it can see a huge jump from Friday evening.
Lastly, Junaid Khan’s debut film, Maharaj, will stream on Netflix from tomorrow. It is backed by Yash Raj Films and has faced trouble after Vishwa Hindu Parishad objected to the film’s plot. As a result, the makers haven’t released the trailer of the film at all. They won’t put up hoardings and it is said that Netflix won’t even upload a ‘Now streaming’ post on their social media handles! This is the first time something of this sort is happening. Nevertheless, the film will get the desired viewership as the controversy has grabbed eyeballs.
I didn’t know Jayeshbhai Jordaar's debacle would break my heart so badly. I cried for days-Shalini Pandey
8:22 AM
After debuting in Bollywood with Jayeshbhai Jordaar, Shalini Pandey on working with Aamir’s son Junaid Khan in his maiden project Maharaj
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; June 9, 2024)
For someone who shot to fame in the Telugu film industry with her debut offering Arjun Reddy (2017), Shalini Pandey’s Bollywood journey hasn’t been what she expected. The actor’s maiden Hindi film, Jayeshbhai Jordaar (2022) opposite Ranveer Singh, had all the makings of a dream launch, but had an underwhelming run. She admits it left her “heartbroken”.
“Some people liked the film, some just didn’t—as simple as that. I cried for many days. It was a big deal for me to be part of a Yash Raj movie, to have a co-actor like Ranveer and to work with the best cast and crew. I don’t come from a film family. I didn’t know it would break my heart so badly. I was not prepared for it,” says the actor. However, she views this experience as a crucial lesson. “When I look at it now in retrospect, it let me loose [and I realized] that nothing is in my control.”
With this learning, Pandey is moving forward to her upcoming projects. She has a big-ticket film in Maharaj, which marks the debut of Aamir Khan’s son Junaid. Director Siddharth P Malhotra’s period drama is based on the 1862 Maharaja Libel Case. Does she fear being sidelined as the focus would be on Junaid?
“I don’t think I will [be sidelined]. When you see the film, you will know that everyone is important. I can’t say anything about my character right now.”
The actor views Maharaj as a project that brought her new experiences every day, as she worked with a first-time actor in Junaid as well as with senior artistes.
“Junaid is a sweet supporting co-actor. He is a very hard-working human being so much so that sometimes he works a little too much so I had to tell him that he had to slow down a bit. Technically, it was one of the best teams I worked with. I’m a curious person, who is all over the place wanting to know [how things work]. I got to work with DoP [director of photography] Rajeev Ravi sir. His lighting sense amused me, and I have now learned the science behind it.”
The actor also has a Prime Video show and a Netflix offering in the pipeline.
Junaid Khan, Khushi Kapoor commence shooting for Love Today remake in Mira Road
8:13 AM
Sources say Junaid, whose maiden film is gearing up for June release, has kicked off shoot of his rom-com with Khushi in a Mira Road club
MID-DAY (May 28, 2024)
It’s proving to be an eventful week for Junaid Khan. Yesterday, mid-day reported that his maiden film Maharaj was being lined up for a June 14 premiere on Netflix (Maharaj gets a date, May 27). Now, we’ve heard that on Monday, the actor kicked off the shoot of his next with director Advait Chandan in Mira Road. The yet-untitled romantic comedy is an adaptation of the Tamil hit, Love Today (2022), and will see Junaid romancing Khushi Kapoor.
While the movie was originally supposed to roll in June, Chandan apparently advanced the date. A source tells us, “Sunday was the first day of shoot, but Junaid and Khushi started their portions only on Monday. Since Junaid will be busy promoting Maharaj next month, the director started filming a few days earlier. Over the coming three weeks, Advait and his unit will shoot across Mumbai. The banquet hall of Seven Eleven Club in Mira Road is the primary location for the next few days.”
The idea is to wrap up the outdoor portions by mid-June before the rains hit the city. Junaid’s producer-father Aamir Khan was thoroughly involved with the film’s pre-production. But the superstar will head to Delhi this week to finish the last leg of his next, Sitaare Zameen Par.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)