Showing posts with label Mallika Sherawat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mallika Sherawat. Show all posts
Mallika Sherawat says she will never do Bigg Boss; confirms she is the highest paid in The Traitors 2
2:38 PM
Vinay MR Mishra (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 5, 2026)
Thirteen years after The Bachelorette India: Mere Khayalon Ki Mallika, Mallika Sherawat is returning to reality television with The Traitors. While she has consistently turned down several reality show offers over the years, the actor says the psychological format of the Karan Johar-hosted series finally convinced her to step back into the unscripted space.
'I don't feel passionate about Bigg Boss'
Mallika reveals that reality television was never on her radar after The Bachelorette. In fact, she says she has repeatedly declined offers from popular shows, including Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi. "Initially, I was very apprehensive about Traitors. I didn't want to do any reality show. It didn't excite me as an actor. But then Ankita (Anthony, manager) really convinced me. She said, 'Just see it. After watching season one, if you don't like it, we'll decline. But don't say no without seeing it'. I watched it and I loved it."
Explaining what drew her to the format, she adds, "For me, Traitors was more like a psychological thriller. It wasn't about who's dancing better or who's the loudest voice. It was about instinct and strategy. I felt that in this show, it's not your voice that's your biggest weapon, it's your silence that's your biggest strength. Observing human nature, seeing people laugh with you over breakfast and then discovering by evening that they lied or backstabbed you—that whole psychological aspect excited me as an actor."
As for Bigg Boss, she remains firm about her decision. "The format doesn't appeal to me. I don't think that as an actor I can bring any value to it. Bigg Boss is something I don't feel passionate about. If there is something I don't want to do, then no. I have enough money. I've been very sensible with money and I'm well taken care of. I don't have to work to earn money. Money works for me now."
'I get manipulated easily'
Having spent over two decades in the entertainment industry, Sherawat says The Traitors fascinated her because it stripped away performance and exposed personalities. "I feel the game gives you a mask and all the players have to see the person behind the mask. Also, the format is such that it makes you do things you might not do in real life because you want to win and stay relevant. The game plays you."
While she enjoys observing people, Mallika laughs that manipulation isn't one of her strengths. "I get manipulated easily. I cannot manipulate people. I'm a Haryanvi Jat. I'm too straightforward. I'm very honest."
'I know my worth'
Reports suggest Mallika is the highest-paid contestant on The Traitors. While she stops short of confirming the exact figure, she doesn't shy away from acknowledging that the speculation isn't entirely off the mark.
"The speculation is right," she says with a laugh. "Why apologize for making money? People who say money is never the reason are lying. When you're independent, whether you're a man or a woman, money is always important because you have bills to pay and a lifestyle to maintain. Yes, I know my worth and I won't work for a fiddly amount. I won't even lift my finger out of bed for that. This is my message to every girl and every boy—know your worth. Don't settle for less. Trust me, if they want you, they will pay you."
Calling herself a self-made woman, she adds, "I like making money. I like working and I like buying my own diamonds."
No regrets about The Bachelorette
Looking back at The Bachelorette India, where she didn't find a life partner, Mallika says she has absolutely no regrets about taking up the show. "Why would I? I bought two houses from that show, and now I get the rent," she quips and concludes.
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"I've been in the industry for over 20 years and I'm still taking care of myself. I'm still evolving. I'm still learning acting. Over these years, what has really stood with me is authenticity, honesty and discipline."
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"People make assumptions. Since 20 years, people are making assumptions, but people who make assumptions are not paying attention. They meet my image before they meet me. Why Traitors is so special is because, for the first time, people are going to experience the real Mallika."
Mallika Sherawat says she will never get Botox or fillers: "I don’t want to look 25 forever"
9:20 AM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; July 30, 2026)
At a time when many actors are turning to cosmetic procedures to maintain a youthful appearance, Mallika Sherawat is choosing a different path. She says she has never had Botox or fillers and doesn’t intend to, adding that she would rather focus on being healthy than trying to look 25 forever. She shares, “I have chosen to remain natural. I have not relied on any plastic surgeon. I like the face that I have and I believe there is no shortcut for authenticity and discipline.”
Talking about ageing gracefully, she adds, “I don’t understand why girls are getting convinced that their real faces are not good enough. I don’t want an Instagram face. I want a life that’s worthy of putting on Instagram.”
Mallika shares, “No late nights, no smoking, no alcohol, sleeping early, yoga and pranayama... that’s what I follow. I don’t want to look 25 forever. I simply want to be the healthiest and happiest version of myself at every age.”
‘I don’t have to work for money’
On the work front, 13 years after The Bachelorette India: Mere Khayalon Ki Mallika, Mallika is making her reality show comeback with The Traitors. “Initially, I was apprehensive about taking it up. I didn’t want to do any reality shows, but my manager convinced me to do it.”
Mallika says she has been offered Bigg Boss, too, in the past, but it doesn’t excite her. “The format doesn’t appeal to me. I don’t think that as an actor I can bring any value to it. If there’s something I don’t want to do, I simply don’t do it. I’ve been very sensible with my money, and today I don’t have to work just to earn money,” she says.
‘I was ahead of my time’
Looking back at being labelled a sex symbol, Mallika believes perceptions have changed with time. “Every situation has two sides. Today, being called a sex symbol is considered exciting. I genuinely believe I was ahead of my time. Society wasn’t ready then, which is why people found my honesty, glamour and confidence unusual. Today, writers are creating characters like that. But I also don’t understand why people think glamour and depth cannot coexist, or that an outspoken woman cannot be thoughtful. Those are assumptions some people make,” says Mallika, who has been part of films like Murder, The Myth and Pyaar Ke Side Effects.
‘I’m grateful, not a victim’
Despite criticism and controversies throughout her career, Mallika says gratitude has always outweighed resentment. “This industry gave me financial independence, and that is the most important thing for a woman if she wants to live life on her own terms. I’m forever grateful to the industry and even to the women who spoke badly about me — they gave me free publicity and made me even more popular. I studied Philosophy early in life and it changed the way I think. I have so much to be grateful for. Coming from Haryana, meeting US President Barack Obama, walking the Cannes red carpet, working with Jackie Chan and so many incredible people — why would I play victim?” she says.
‘There is no emptiness in my life’
Ask Mallika, who is single, whether she is looking for love or feels the absence of a companion in her life, and she replies, “It’s not that I’m walking around with a torch looking for love. I don’t feel any emptiness or a void in my life. Why would I give up the admiration of so many men for one companion? I love the attention I get.” (smiles)
Mallika Sherawat confirms break up with Cyrille Auxenfans: It’s so difficult to find a worthy man
7:57 AM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; November 25, 2024)
At 48, Mallika Sherawat remains as fierce as ever, debunking Bollywood's 'expiration date' myth. While Hindi movies in her resume of late may be limited, she declares that she is here for another two-decade innings. Excerpts as followed
‘People who say, ‘Mallika is irrelevant’, their thinking is irrelevant’
Mallika has been traveling LA to Mumbai like Mumbai to Delhi in the last couple of years. As she sits down for a conversation with us, she has a clear agenda – bust a myth.
“Bollywood mein ye soch hai ki, once an actress hits her prime in their youth, there is no second chance for them. Woh gumnami ke andhoron mein kho jaati hai. That is something I want to address. It’s been more than 2 decades, and I am still relevant with directors writing parts for me. This is outdated thinking. People who say, ‘Mallika is irrelevant’, their thinking is irrelevant. Main thi, main hoon aur main rahungi. Logon ko bata luft aata hai to see the collapse of an icon. But they will not get this joy out of me,” she roars.
‘I have not done any plastic surgery or Botox’
Defying industry norms, Mallika proudly declares, “I'm looking exactly the way I looked in murder with the same body with the same intensity, with the same enthusiasm and I'm proud of it. I have not done any plastic surgery or Botox. I lead a very disciplined life. I sleep on time. I don't drink alcohol, no cigarettes. Why do you need fake injections, botox, and harmful chemicals? You are tying your self-image with these chemicals. I don't judge people who do it. But I would never do it.”
‘I have stood against time’
Bollywood's 'crabs in a bucket' mentality hasn't clipped Mallika's wings either. The industry that thrives on sowing self-doubt has not influenced the Welcome actress. “I never get affected by these things; I live my life on my terms. I don't listen to all this nonsense. It doesn't matter to me what they say. I have stood against time. All these new faces who are basking in their so-called claim to stardom I will meet them 20 years later, I will still be there looking exactly like this with the same body with the same face without makeup and no plastic surgery," she affirms.
'My parents gave me everything but they didn't give me freedom of thought'
As she comments about the future, we take Mallika 20 years back. Born as Reema Lamba, the actress ran her hometown in Haryana. “I was a rebellious child,” she confesses.
“My parents gave me everything but they didn't give me freedom of thought. I wanted to live my life the way I wanted to live. When I ran away from home and I came to Bombay, I got a sense of independence. There was no patriarchy. So, we have to get out of it. We women are doing it to ourselves (by being shackled). There is nobody to blame really. We have to take the initiative and expand our thinking, our consciousness, and make bold decisions towards life the way I did. And it paid off,” she recalls.
She adds, "Getting a sense of economic independence is so important for women. Till you do not have economic independence, your destiny is controlled by other people. The day you control your purse, you'll control your life; you live your life on your own terms. Otherwise, they will tell you how to live your life. 2024 is a great time to be a woman. All you have to do is just be bold - be bold in your thinking and make a decision."
‘The Sex symbol tag was regressive’
Early in her career, Mallika was marred by the tag of “sex symbol”. She admits, “It was a very regressive tag...I believe boldness is in the mind.” But does she ever think that her bold image may have cost her projects? She replies, “There are two sides of a coin. If you're too coy, then certain things don't work out for you. If you are bold, certain things don't work out for you. You must choose the best, with what's available. I like to focus my attention on what's working for me rather than what's not working for me. Because what's working for me has given me fame. It's made me extremely rich.
'I feel underutilized in comedy'
Mallika, who is back in Mumbai says, “it’s a good feeling to know that I was missed.” She was last seen in Vicky Vidya ka Voh Waala Video, however, ask her about her upcoming work and she claims, “We are reading scripts right now.”
She adds, “People still have not tapped my potential. I want the industry to use my comic timing, and my potential in more comedies because I enjoy doing comedy. I feel underutilized in comedy and I want the industry to offer me more comic roles. Also, I want to do roles with substance now.” Talking about substance Mallika reveals she has refused multiple projects as they lacked substance, one of the many was Ishaan Khatter-starrer The Royals, where she was supposed to play Ishaan's on-screen mother.
While she doesn't address the project directly, she opens up about saying no to projects, “It (Saying no) didn't pinch me, but it pinched my manager more. But I was promised something and what translated looked very lame to me on paper. I felt cheated and let down, So, then I didn’t want to be a part of that."
Meanwhile, her recent meet with her mentor Mahesh Bhatt sparked rumours of a reunion. “It's a dream to work with him again. He has brought up an idea, we are working on it and hopefully it will all turn into a film soon,” she confirms.
'We broke up; I am single'
While she is looking for more funny roles in her professional space, she is also looking for the right man in her personal space. “It’s so difficult in this day and age to find a worthy man,” she says. While she claims to be single, ask her if she is, she replies, “Ye sach hai; I am single.”
Mallika was dating French civilian Cyrille Auxenfans. Mention him and Mallika states, “We broke up... I really don't want to talk about it.”
She, however, does speak on her idea of the institution of marriage. “I'm not for it, but I'm not against it. I'm indifferent to it. It depends on what two people want, she signs off.
"They are highly respected": Konkona Sen Sharma, Mallika Sherawat on film industry’s culture of silence on sexual harassment
2:57 PM
Konkona Sen Sharma and Mallika Sherawat challenge the film industry’s culture of silence surrounding sexual harassment
HINDUSTAN TIMES (October 13, 2024)
Konkona Sen Sharma is never one to shy away from speaking her mind. The actor-filmmaker reveals that there are still many “highly respected” individuals in the film industry who have yet to be publicly identified as sexual predators.
“There are countless instances of sexual harassment that haven’t even come to light. Many people who are working today are hugely problematic,” she states while talking to Sucharita Tyagi, highlighting the pervasive issues of gender dynamics in the industry.
Her comments come in the wake of the Hema Committee Report, which exposed sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry, leading to a wave of revelations. As investigations unfold, voices from various sectors are beginning to speak out against this deeply entrenched issue.
Sen Sharma also shed light on the gender bias present on film sets. “The film industry is hugely hierarchical, reflecting not only gender disparities but also biases related to caste and class,” she explains, adding, “It’s a problematic and patriarchal environment. Even the dynamics around catering — who can sit where, who eats what, and where the bathrooms are — speak volumes about the ingrained inequalities.”
MALLIKA SPEAKS OUT ON DISTURBING INCIDENTS
Mallika Sherawat has also been vocal about the pervasive sexual harassment in the film industry. In an interview, she recounts a shocking experience while filming a song for a movie down South. “The director approached me, ‘Madam, we want to show how hot you are.’ I initially thought it was a typical dance sequence, but then he added, ‘In this scene, the hero will cook rotis on your stomach.’ Can you imagine? This was their idea of portraying a woman as ‘hot.’ Naturally, I declined,” she tells Hauterrfly. The actor also shares another incident involving a co-star who “wanted to come inside” her bedroom during a comedy film shoot: “I firmly told him no, and after that, he never worked with me again.”
Bhumi Pednekar Janhvi Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, Nushrratt Bharuccha considered for Vicky Aur Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video
3:07 PM
Raaj Shaadilyaa blends middle-class humour with small-town charm for Vicky Aur Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, starring Rajkummar and Triptii
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; September 29, 2024)
Filmmaker Raaj Shaandilyaa shot Vicky Aur Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video with Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri in January, and come October, he is set to release it on the big screen. But the journey on the comedy began seven years ago when the director-writer wrote a script about a couple’s private video going viral.
“While doing Dream Girl [2019], I started thinking about my next. Since Rajkummar was busy, I thought about finishing Dream Girl 2 first. In the meantime, I kept updating the script, and finally, we were ready to roll with it,” shares Shaandilyaa, who had gotten his leading man’s approval even before he fleshed out the material.
To the filmmaker, the idea of people’s personal lives going public spelled both comedy and tragedy. He says, “The idea was that a huge population of our country is coy, yet children are born every second. We are living in a world where any video can go viral within seconds. So, we decided to make a film for the middle class that has a message with a lot of humour and romance. I also wanted to explore the plight of the people at whose expense we laugh. [At the same time], we wanted to explore how people from small towns facing this dilemma would feel.”
Shaandilyaa wanted a fresh face opposite Rao. “We considered Nushrratt [Bharuccha], Janhvi [Kapoor], and Bhumi [Pednekar], but Raj had worked with all of them. We had also thought of Shraddha [Kapoor] but Raj was doing Stree 2 with her. Then we thought of trying Tripti. I had watched her previous work and knew she was a good actor.”
While Dimri was locked for the role, the director wrote another, keeping Mallika Sherawat in mind. “Mallika was surprised that I had thought of her. She loved the narration and said that she was waiting for someone to offer her a [strong and fun] character like that,” he adds.
Comedy is a tough genre not only because it’s difficult to make people laugh but also because filmmakers run the risk of upsetting people. The director, however, is clear that there is a difference between “mazak karna aur udana [to joke and make fun of]”.
“When I am writing, I am conscious that it should be something that the majority enjoys and no one should get hurt.” Having said that, he is also aware that in his line of work, he cannot please everyone.
Mallika Sherawat to no longer play Ishaan Khatter's mother
7:57 AM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; April 25, 2024)
Mallika, who made a splash with her debut film Khwahish (2003) and then went on to do films like Welcome and Dhamaal, was last seen in the movie RK/RKay directed by Rajat Kapoor in 2022. The actress was supposed to be a part of Pritish Nandy’s next production The Royals, a web series which stars Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar. Apparently, Mallika even did the look test for the project, which would have marked her reunion with Pritish after their last successful collaboration, Pyaar Ke Side Effects in 2006.
However, we hear that Mallika has opted out of the project. She was supposed to play Ishaan’s mother in the series.
A reliable source close to the actress shares, “Mallika was in two minds to play the character of a mother. However, she was okay to play one, if the role was meaty and was at par with her contemporaries. She was promised that the role would be on the lines of Moira Rose (from Schitts Creek), however, the character had no substance. If she is playing a mother that too of Ishaan she would expect the character to have meat. She walked out of the project."
Meanwhile, another source from the production adds, “Since the show is set in a particular time, we have auditioned multiple actors. The production only picked the actors that were appropriate for the character.”
When we reached out to Mallika, her publicist confirmed the news and said, "Mallika walked out of the project in Feb due to creative differences with the production house. The character wasn’t what they promised her to be. So after rounds of discussions, she eventually took the decision."
The 47-year-old actress was last seen in RK/RKay (2022). Meanwhile, The Royals is already on the floors and the cast is currently filming. The production house chose to not comment on the story till the time we went to the press.
Rajkummar Rao, Triptii Dimri to film two songs in Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video's mohalla set in Rishikesh
10:48 AM
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; February 15, 2024)
Last year, mid-day had reported that Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri would kick off 2024 with the shoot of Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video (New year begins with a scandal, Nov 22). Sure enough, director Raaj Shaandilyaa’s social comedy rolled in Rishikesh on January 27 and is now in its last leg. We hear the team is gearing up to film two songs, after which it will be a wrap on the Ektaa R Kapoor production.
Set in the ’90s, Shaandilyaa’s film revolves around the pandemonium that happens in a small town when an intimate video of Vicky and Vidya, essayed by Rao and Dimri, goes missing. In keeping with the setting, production designer Rajat Poddar and his team built a set reflecting a mohalla of a north Indian town in Rishikesh.
A source reveals, “Everything, from the cars to the television sets, has been designed keeping the ’90s in mind. The director has been filming with the entire cast, including Mallika Sherawat, Rajat Kapoor and Vijay Raaz, in a start-to-finish schedule since January-end. He has allotted the next fortnight for the two songs. From Sunday, he will can a situational number that plays out against the backdrop of the mohalla and features the whole cast. The second is a romantic track featuring the lead pair.” If things go as planned, the project will reach the finish line by March 4.
Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video marks Rao’s first collaboration with director Shaandilyaa as well as leading lady Dimri.
I hate social media, there is so much negativity-Mallika Sherawat
8:15 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 25, 2022)
Mallika Sherawat is happy staying away from the rat race of Bollywood. Not even up for PR strategies to be in the news, the actor shuttles between US and India for work, and is fine with this setup. “I’ve been an honest person, and sometimes, I’ve gotten into a lot of trouble because of that. I don’t pay attention to what other actors are doing or what their PRs are doing,” admits Sherawat, recently seen in the film RK/RKay.
Since she doesn’t believe in following what’s the norm for any actor, she also doesn’t care about social media: “I hate social media, there is so much negativity. I don’t want to subject myself to someone else’s opinion of me.”
Sherawat, 45, might be away from social media, but the internet hasn’t forgotten her. Her breakout role in Murder (2004) established her as a glam actor, and she’s often referred to one of India’s ‘sex symbols’. Does she have a problem with this image? She quips, “Abhi kya karein? Kaise change karein iss image ko? It’s up to people’s attitude how they want to perceive me. I just have to focus on what I’m doing.”
A-lister heroes refused to work with me as I wouldn’t compromise, says Mallika Sherawat
8:23 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 1, 2022)
Mallika Sherawat always has a no-holds-barred approach to answering questions. And that’s why the actor doesn’t hesitate to admit that the existence of casting couch did impact her career in the Indian film industry. “All the A-lister heroes refused to work with me, because I wouldn’t compromise,” she reveals.
Elaborating further, she adds, “It’s very simple — they like actresses who they can control and who will compromise with them. I am not that, my personality isn’t that. I didn’t want to subject myself to someone’s whims and fancies,” says the 45-year-old, most recently seen in the film RK/RKay.
We probe her further to clarify what she means by compromise, and she replies, “Sit, stand, anything. If the hero calls you at 3 am and says, ‘Come to my house’, you have to go, if you are in that circle and if you are doing that film. If you don’t go, then you are out of the film.”
Sherawat is best known for her breakout role in Murder (2004), but over the years, she cut down on the number of Hindi films. When we ask her the reason, she says, “I tried to do my best. I tried to find good roles. I made some mistakes, like all of us do. Some roles were good, some not so good. It is part of an actor’s journey, but overall, it’s been fantastic.”
The actor went on to do international projects, such as The Myth (2005), Hisss (2010), Politics of Love (2011) and Time Raiders (2016). “I am from Haryana.. I got to do Murder, which was so popular that Jackie Chan (actor-filmmaker) cast me in his film! I met the then US President Barack Obama twice,” she remarks, reflecting on her almost two decades in cinema, and seems happy with the opportunities that came her way.
Mallika Sherawat to play her first double role in the horror film Naagmati
8:06 AM
After dabbling in digital entertainment, Sherawat returns to Bollywood after six years with horror outing Naagmati that rolls today
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; November 8, 2021)
In the 2010 film, Hisss, Mallika Sherawat played a shape-shifting serpent who avenges the death of her mate. Eleven years on, it’s a case of role-reversal as the actor returns with another horror thriller Naagmati, which sees her as a princess trying to save her kingdom from a snake’s curse. The project, marking Tamil film director V C Vadivudaiyan’s foray into Bollywood, will go on floors today at Karjat. With this, Sherawat — who has been dabbling in web shows of late — returns to a Hindi film set after Dirty Politics (2015).
“Mallika is playing her first double role,” states the director, explaining that Sherawat portrays a queen and a royal princess, both united in their effort to save the kingdom. “Her character is called Naagmati as the royal family is cursed by a naagin. Mallika will sport two distinct looks. It’s a period movie that takes place in three eras — 1900, 1947 and 1970.” The film, originally shot in Hindi, will be dubbed in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.
The unit has built an elaborate set of a palace at N D Studios in Karjat. The Mumbai leg will be followed by a stint in Rajasthan and an international schedule in South Africa. Vadivudaiyan adds, “Mallika will engage in fighting and sword-wielding in the actioner. The pandemic gave her the time to prepare for the stunts; she has trained in horse-riding and sword-fighting for the film.”
Bullying prompted Mallika Sherawat to head West
8:27 AM
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 24, 2021)
After working in various international productions, actor Mallika Sherawat returned home and marked her digital debut with The Story followed by Booo Sabki Phategi and Nakaab. Sherawat, who turns 45 today, is shooting for yet another web show now. “The digital space is revolutionizing Indian cinema”, notes Sherawat, who reveals that she moved to the West because she faced “bullying and harassment” here.
“I was the first Indian actor to do a film with Jackie Chan (The Myth, 2005)... But I felt no one was feeling happy seeing a small-town girl, who came to Mumbai to make her career, travel abroad for film festivals. There was some bullying and harassment from certain sections of the media too. I thought it’s best to leave the country.”
She says that she has evolved now and is happy doing what she loves the most, shooting. “I don’t want to do loud roles. I want to play some real characters. But I want to [continue to] work in both Indian and international cinema.”
When I acted in Murder, I was almost morally assassinated for those scenes I shot-Mallika Sherawat
8:02 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; May 26, 2021)
At a time when most film releases are being held up due to the pandemic situation, you must be relieved that your film, RK/RKAY has released in theatres in Canada and the US. How is the situation there at this point of time?
It lifted my spirit in a big way. I left India after completing the work on my web series. I feel fortunate that this film is getting a theatrical run. We all love digital platforms, but nothing beats the joy of watching a movie on the big screen. This release gave me something to look forward to in these times. The situation in LA is changing — things are opening up, indoor seating in restaurants is at 50 per cent. People are careful, things are still pretty contained. Whenever people or the media here ask me about the situation in India, my response to them is that it has been difficult for us, but we’re united as people and we will get past this, too.
You have mostly been seen in all-out commercial films. Working with Rajat Kapoor might have been a fairly new and interesting experience...
I should give him credit for thinking outside the box and offering me this film. I have been a huge fan of his work and his film Ankhon Dekhi is one of my favourites. I was eager to work with him, but I guess filmmakers are hesitant to come to me with serious roles. They are not sure if I can pull off such characters. Rajat was brave enough to approach me to play this part. There is a film being shot within the movie. I’m an actress, Neha, who plays Gulabo, a character in that film. Since that story is set in the bygone era, we researched the looks of the actresses from the 1950s and 60s. It’s been so long since a character like this was crafted for a movie. To answer your question, it is difficult to imagine Rajat and me together and I am thankful to him for casting against type.
From the time you came into the movies, a lot has changed. You started off at the turn of the millennium. What do you think has changed the most?
When I acted in Murder (2004), I was almost morally assassinated for those scenes I shot; I was seen as a fallen woman. Today, those things I did back then are common in our films. People’s perceptions have changed. Our cinema has changed. But even now, when I think of it, nothing beats the cinema of the 50s and 60s. We had wonderful roles for women, but we lack that beauty in our films in a big way. I have waited for years to get a role that has substance.
Waiting for long periods of time for your film to release would be really exhausting, you went through that for the release of your recent film. How did you keep yourself engaged?
I was doing so many other things — I was travelling and doing web shows. I am living my life. I don’t have a backing or a boyfriend in this business who will recommend me for roles. I have made my peace with that and the fact that I will do things my way and lead my life on my own terms. It’s great to be a part of cinema.
In the last one year, the content consumption patterns and conversation around the kind of cinema that we are heading towards has changed...
(Cuts in…) I definitely see a big change and that’s because of streaming platforms, which have been a boon. But even there, how many films and shows do you come across that genuinely have enough and good, meaningful parts for women? Yes, it’s changing, but there are very few projects for women in comparison to what they make for men. We need more movies where women play key characters.
After having been a part of the industry for 17 years, in which direction to do you see your career moving ahead?
I want to play meaningful roles. I have missed doing that. People were approaching me for very glamorous roles, with a lot of money, but no soul in the character or meaning to it. It’s important to reinvent yourself after a period of time. If I do the same things that I have done before, you will only get vintage Mallika. RK/RKAY was the perfect opportunity to start the process of reinvention, and have people see me in a more etched-out role. It’s fulfilling to start a new adventure, a new inning. I hope people see what I can offer. In the past, people have judged me and seen me with a certain mindset. Even after working in films like Pyaar Ke Side Effects (2006) and Dasavathaaram (2008), I got typecast. As an actor, I could only choose the best from what was offered. So, here I am, starting off on a new journey, with my fingers crossed.
Kamala Harris gave me great advice when I was shooting for my Hollywood film-Mallika Sherawat
7:59 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; November 10, 2020)
Creating history in numerous ways, Kamala Harris emerged as the Vice President-elect in the recently-concluded US Presidential Elections. Members of the film industry in India showed overwhelming support for Harris through their social media posts almost instantly. Mallika Sherawat, who played a character based on Kamala in her Hollywood film, Politics Of Love (2011), remembers meeting her in the course of her prep for the role.
Talking to BT about Harris, Mallika says, “Kamala Harris’ win as a Vice President-elect of the United States of America is historic. Not only is she the first woman to occupy the office, but she’s also the first woman of colour and the first Asian-American to hold that office. She gives hope and a voice to the voiceless. She’s led her life by example and gives incredible hope to young girls and women all over the world.”
Recalling her meeting with Harris while preparing for the film, she adds, “She was extremely helpful when I met her while prepping for Politics Of Love. I played a Democrat volunteer who’s half-Indian, half-African-American in the film. I remember she gave me great advice. She had told me to try to keep the character balanced, and the film to represent both sides - the Democrats and the Republicans. I was feeling like a fish out of water in Los Angeles at that time. It was a different country and culture, but Kamala put me at ease. I remember her telling me, ‘Getting out of your comfort zone is good to build character, it will make you a stronger person’.
What I do as a character on screen is different from who I am in real life-Mallika Sherawat
7:55 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; October 14, 2020)
Mallika, what made you respond (check tweet on the right) to the comment about your choice of films?
The fact that we still blame movies, the internet, westernisation and a woman’s dressing sense for something as heinous as rape, instead of blaming the perpetrator and his dirty mindset, sadly reflects the mindset of the people. In a country that worships goddesses and has produced one of the first women Prime Ministers in the world and so many powerful women in different walks of life, our society in so many ways disrespects and disregards women and justifies sexual violence through victim blaming and shaming. It’s such a paradox. Violence against women is a very big issue plaguing our society today. If we have to stamp it out, simply implementing laws will not help. The mindset of our society also needs to change.
The person you slammed on Twitter was pointing out that your movie choices as an actor don’t sit well with what you were trying to say. A lot of celebrities believe that the entertainment industry is very often quickly blamed for the wrongs and evils in society. Your thoughts?
The awful truth about our culture — movies and the clothes we wear are considered an invitation for offence. That is exactly what I feel needs to change. It’s a democratic country, and if you have a problem, don’t watch the film. This is not the first time that films are being blamed. As a society, we need to ask ourselves that if we don’t use our celebrity status to speak up for those not empowered enough, who will? If I do that, I get branded as someone who talks too much, is a motor-mouth and is trying to bring a bad name to the country. I am often silenced by women. We all know that women in India have faced a long history of violence, thanks to regressive ideologies, passed down generations. It’s normalised for people to think that if she is a woman, she will serve and obey. It’s often an illusion that we’re progressive — you just have to study the mindset and attitude of people in general to realise that.
Some of these beliefs are deeply entwined in the fabric of our society. How do you think things will change?
It will have to start at home, with parents teaching their boys that a girl has to be treated as an equal and with immense respect, and a girl that she has to make herself financially independent. Education goes a long way in changing things. Yes, it takes time, but it gradually shows. I grew up in a well-to-do, educated family, but I was treated like the lesser kid. Equal opportunity is so important. I had to go through the grind and work hard to get work, and today, it’s my profession that has given me everything that I have. We, as people, have to make that effort to ensure that no girl is ever seen as a liability in any family.
You’ve also been fairly outspoken about the difficulties you faced when you were trying to make a foray into showbiz. Do you feel things are different now?
I lost 20-30 movies because I didn’t give into things that I didn’t believe in. What I do as a character on screen is different from who I am in real life. I had to make the demarcation very clear from the beginning, and that cost me those movies. But I am happy that I could still get work on my terms and get a string of great opportunities. Today, I feel that the industry is far more organised and women are headlining good films, which is a promising sign.
This crisis has made social media a kinder place-Mallika Sherawat
8:30 AM
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 11, 2020)
User engagement on social media platforms has witnessed a surge amid the Coronavirus lockdown, and actor Mallika Sherawat is no exception.
Spending a lot of her time online, the actor asserts to have observed a sea change among social media users. “I see a lot of positives on social media these days. People are not pulling each other down anymore. There are less haters. This crisis has made social media a kinder place and made us more compassionate. Social media can really be used to uplift people, if we really want to do that,” she says.
The actor, 43, also talks of striking a balance between online and personal space and insists that despite spending more time on social media, she isn’t overdoing it. “I feel responsible about what I post. I will engage with my fans on social media for a limited time but it does not define my life,” she says.
Sherawat also urges people to maintain a positive outlook amid the ongoing situation. “There is a lot of rumour mongering going on. You must not lose your commons sense and critical thinking at such times. That is how we can avoid a total panic situation,” she says.
She is making the most of this time by focusing on fitness. “I am doing yoga twice daily and have been polishing my pranayam techniques. I am also doing meditation. Besides that, of course I am spending a lot of time with my little nephew, who has turned three recently,” Sherawat shares.
Tusshar Kapoor reunites with Mallika Sherawat after 17 years with Booo - Sabki Phategi
8:29 AM
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; February 1, 2019)
Having expressed his interest in exploring the digital medium, Tusshar Kapoor didn't have to look too far for the perfect debut vehicle. The actor is set to foray into web with sister Ekta Kapoor's production — a horror comedy, titled Booo – Sabki Phategi. Interestingly, the ALT Balaji venture marks the digital debut of another Bollywood star, Mallika Sherawat.
"I am looking forward to working with Mallika after 17 years. We are collaborating again after Jeena Sirf Merre Liye (2002)," says Tusshar, of the show that is expected to go on floors next week. Naturally, the venture is a homecoming of sorts for Tusshar, who has featured in several of Ekta's productions, the last being on Kyaa Kool Hai Hum 3 (2016). "It's a wonderful feeling to work with Balaji Telefilms and my sister, Ekta. I had done a few comedy films with them, and I am sure this time too, we will win the audience's heart."
With Farhad Samji at the helm of affairs, Tusshar says the project is in able hands. That he has previously collaborated with the writer-director on the Golmaal series - Samji is one of the writers of the laugh riot - only makes matters easier. "It is a horror comedy, a genre that has never been explored in the digital space. I am glad that he is part of this project."
Sherawat is expected to fly down to India by the weekend, just in time for the commencement of the shoot. Talking to mid-day, the actor says that she greenlit the project at the first narration itself as it offered her an unusual character. "I play the character of a ghost," she laughs before adding, "My look in the show will be interesting, and I couldn't have asked for a better digital debut."
Mallika Sherawat hires lawyers to adapt American legal drama The Good Wife
7:51 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; August 3, 2018)
A few weeks ago, BT was the first to tell you that Mallika Sherawat has secured the rights for the Indian adaptation of the Emmy-winning show, ‘The Good Wife’. The actress had even told us that she will headline the cast of the show. BT now has it that the actress, currently in the process of casting for the show, has been approaching top lawyers in the city to get a perspective on the legal system and incorporate it into her court room drama.
“I’ve been watching shows across platforms and some of them have actually set the benchmark really high. So, I want my show to be as real as it gets. The idea is to make some strong statements with this show. We plan to take up contemporary issues like some of the rape cases that have made headlines in recent times. The legal system in India is very different from the one in USA. The idea is to add Indian context to the show and make it relevant to our audience. I’ve also appointed a legal researcher who can guide us on various things on our legal system,” says Mallika.
The actress has even approached top lawyers in the city for their inputs on high profile cases like the Kathua rape case, and a bunch of other social issues, which can help the writers put the story in perspective. “We will do our best because we’re adapting an Emmy-winner. It’s not easy. A lot of people have asked me how I managed to get the rights for The Good Wife and why I am headlining the cast. For me, this is reinvention. It’s is very important for an actress. At this stage of my career, I just can’t imagine myself running around trees,” she adds.
Elaborating on why she decided to adapt the show for the Indian audience, she says, “The Good Wife has aspirational value. It’s relatable for Indian women because the central protagonist here stands by her husband even after he goes wrong. It’s relevant to modern India because the country is brimming with strong, independent women who are running the show across various professional fields. In our adaptation, the central character faces humiliation when she starts at the bottom of the pyramid. That’s our reality, too. Many women will relate to this show because each one will find something familiar with the character. There’s no black or white, only grey shades, as the character makes mistakes and stands by them. She’s as real as any Indian woman.”
Mallika Sherawat's brother Vikram Singh Lamba signs Chris Pratt for his Hollywood film The Kid
9:17 AM
Actress’s filmmaker brother, who’s working with Chris Pratt, on how she facilitated his H’wood career
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 2, 2018)
Mallika Sherawat may have made quite the splash at the Cannes premiere of her first international project, the 2005 Jackie Chan-starrer Chinese production The Myth, but her Hollywood debut would materialise only five years later with the Jennifer Lynch-directed Hisss. And while her 2011 followup, Politics Of Love, sank without a trace like its predecessor, the film marked the actress’s brother Vikram Singh Lamba’s foray in Hollywood, who had served as a co-producer on the film.
After seven years, Lamba has made a giant leap in his career in the West — the 36-year-old filmmaker’s next production, The Kid, features the star of American screen extravaganzas Jurassic World and Gaurdians of the Galaxy, Chris Pratt.
“Today, I shuttle between Mumbai and Los Angeles but back in 2011, it was really difficult. It took me a while to understand the business as Hollywood doesn’t open to outsiders overnight. Mallika was instrumental in helping me find my feet because she has made some great connections in Los Angeles. It’s because of her that I have managed to do everything here,” Lamba tells Mirror.
He is also gearing up to bring his leading man, 38, to India towards the year-end to promote their film. Adding that the film’s ensemble cast and the makers, are looking forward to the trip, Lamba informs, “Everyone in the West is always excited about visiting India. To them, it is a mysterious land replete with charm and colours. They have Rajasthan, Kerala and the Taj Mahal on their itinerary.”
The Kid is directed by Vincent D’Onofrio (who also features in the film) and was shot in New Mexico last year in October and November. Currently in postproduction, it has been conceptualised and co-produced by Jordan Shur, who brought Lamba on board as co-producer.
Prod him on the time between his first and second Hollywood projects and Lamba informs that he brought his sister’s close friend Chan to India in 2010 to promote his Hollywood action-drama, Little Big Soldier. Chan had not only explored tourist spots in South India but also met with the then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. “Mallika introduced me to a whole new network of people. In 2016, I coordinated Arnold Schwarzenegger’s trip,” he says, adding that he also introduced the Cannes AmFAR charitable gala in India in 2013 with Oscar winner Hilary Swank in attendance and a live performance by singer-songwriter Kesha.
Is a Hollywood project with his actress-sister on the cards, too? “Mallika is not involved in any of my upcoming projects as both of us are moving in different directions. She is busy with her life right now, while I have a slate of films ready that includes A-list actors and top directors but down the line, I definitely want to collaborate with Mallika too,” Vikram signs off.
Mallika Sherawat may have made quite the splash at the Cannes premiere of her first international project, the 2005 Jackie Chan-starrer Chinese production The Myth, but her Hollywood debut would materialise only five years later with the Jennifer Lynch-directed Hisss. And while her 2011 followup, Politics Of Love, sank without a trace like its predecessor, the film marked the actress’s brother Vikram Singh Lamba’s foray in Hollywood, who had served as a co-producer on the film.
After seven years, Lamba has made a giant leap in his career in the West — the 36-year-old filmmaker’s next production, The Kid, features the star of American screen extravaganzas Jurassic World and Gaurdians of the Galaxy, Chris Pratt.
“Today, I shuttle between Mumbai and Los Angeles but back in 2011, it was really difficult. It took me a while to understand the business as Hollywood doesn’t open to outsiders overnight. Mallika was instrumental in helping me find my feet because she has made some great connections in Los Angeles. It’s because of her that I have managed to do everything here,” Lamba tells Mirror.
He is also gearing up to bring his leading man, 38, to India towards the year-end to promote their film. Adding that the film’s ensemble cast and the makers, are looking forward to the trip, Lamba informs, “Everyone in the West is always excited about visiting India. To them, it is a mysterious land replete with charm and colours. They have Rajasthan, Kerala and the Taj Mahal on their itinerary.”
The Kid is directed by Vincent D’Onofrio (who also features in the film) and was shot in New Mexico last year in October and November. Currently in postproduction, it has been conceptualised and co-produced by Jordan Shur, who brought Lamba on board as co-producer.
Prod him on the time between his first and second Hollywood projects and Lamba informs that he brought his sister’s close friend Chan to India in 2010 to promote his Hollywood action-drama, Little Big Soldier. Chan had not only explored tourist spots in South India but also met with the then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. “Mallika introduced me to a whole new network of people. In 2016, I coordinated Arnold Schwarzenegger’s trip,” he says, adding that he also introduced the Cannes AmFAR charitable gala in India in 2013 with Oscar winner Hilary Swank in attendance and a live performance by singer-songwriter Kesha.
Is a Hollywood project with his actress-sister on the cards, too? “Mallika is not involved in any of my upcoming projects as both of us are moving in different directions. She is busy with her life right now, while I have a slate of films ready that includes A-list actors and top directors but down the line, I definitely want to collaborate with Mallika too,” Vikram signs off.
I don’t want to shed my glamorous image just for the sake of it-Mallika Sherawat
8:34 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; April 28, 2018)
Mallika Sherawat made kissing on screen fashionable back in the early 2000s. However, after a sensational start in Bollywood, she found fewer opportunities to show her acting chops. Today, she’s a Cannes regular, often seen hobnobbing with A-list Hollywood actors at the French Riviera and at key events in America, apart from doing quirky roles in films across the globe. The actress, who is currently in India for a set of professional commitments, is also fronting a social cause that rehabilitates victims of child sex trafficking. In a conversation with BT, she throws light on what drove her to take up the cause, playing strong characters and why India will take long before it gets its own #MeToo campaign. Excerpts:
It’s been three years since your last Hindi film, Dirty Politics, released. Now that there are talks of Welcome 3 being in the pipeline, can we expect you to make a comeback?
Well, I’d love to be a part of Welcome 3. Romancing Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor in the first installment was so much fun. Anees Bazmee is a fabulous director.
You are known for your sultry avatar in all your films. Will you be willing to shed it, if an exciting and challenging offer comes your way?
I don’t want to shed my glamorous image just for the sake of it. I am a very bold person in real life, too. That’s part of my personality and I am comfortable with it. But having said that, I now want to veer towards performance-oriented roles, and wouldn’t even mind playing a vamp. In fact, I’m obsessed with the idea of being a character artiste.
You started out in the early 2000s, when there weren’t as many women-centric films being made. Do you think that there is a marked improvement in the situation today?
I think it’s still a struggle to find a film that is genuinely centred around a woman, though it’s getting better with the new breed of directors. The number of films written with men as the central characters is way higher. What hasn’t changed is that then and even now, people enjoy a heroine being a heroine. However, actresses like Vidya Balan and their choices are exemplary. They’re proving that women can hold a film on their shoulders. Also, the internet has opened a new world to all of us. Today, we have access to content from all over the world. There’s also independent cinema, which caters to the thinking mind.
Soon, you will be seen at Cannes. While your bold outfits are often talked about, your detractors say that you get to be on the coveted red carpet without much mainstream work to your credit…
Why not? I go, because I get invited. I had a chance to hobnob with Barack Obama (former US President) and I did. Why shouldn’t I be there? I don’t focus on detractors; what they say doesn’t matter. I focus on the happy and pleasant things in my life. In fact, it’s fun to have detractors and prove them wrong with twice the might. I feel bad when their numbers reduce. I don’t want their number to dwindle. You see, I’m having a ball in my life. My aim was to be financially independent; it was never to win an Oscar. Most women in my home state (Haryana) don’t even get a chance at life. It’s a gilded cage and so, women like me who’ve managed to get out, are asked how we did it. Today, I’m just very happy that I am financially sound. I can pay my bills and afford this lifestyle. It’s a big deal given where I come from. I give myself a lot of credit for that.
You have joined an initiative, which rehabilitates victims of child prostitution and trafficking. Do you think that your growing-up years in Haryana pushed you to support this cause? Also, do you feel that the perception of the state, after producing talents like Miss World 2017 Manushi Chhillar and a cross-section of women sportspersons, has seen a change?
Children, especially girls, are being forced into prostitution, which leads to several other crimes. This initiative by School For Justice, among other things, educate rescued girls to become lawyers, who can then fight for themselves and other girls who are being trafficked. Merely rescuing girls is a meaningless process. When I was growing up, I had regressive experiences in childhood. I was only allowed to breathe. That’s it! I wasn’t allowed to go out or pursue hobbies. The fact that my parents could educate me is an exemplary feat on their part. I grew up in the middle of a feudal and patriarchal system. Women were subjected to unheard-of cruelties. When I had spoken openly against this, after the release of Murder (2004), it led to a backlash. At least now, we are in a position to have a conversation on these topics. But I still don’t see a campaign like #MeToo happening in India because of the way people think.
But do you think that if women in India stopped competing with one another, they could find a way to initiate a #MeToo campaign?
Powerful people will have to understand that if a woman is raped, it’s not her fault. They must not blame the woman. Sadly, I’ve also seen certain women practise victim-shaming and blaming. The patriarchal mindset needs to change. Having said that, it’s not just women, as a society, we have a tendency to pull each other down. People love pulling me down; they love to see me fall because it makes them feel happy and justified.
Talking about your personal life, you are in a steady relationship. Is marriage on the cards?
I am not interested in marriage. I don’t want to be a bahu, yaar! Why would I forsake the admiration of so many men for one man? It doesn’t make sense. I do have a man in my life and I am in love. The relationship is a very private aspect of my life. I have great companionship and he’s proud of my choices and my approach to life. That’s what matters…
I am committed to fight violence against women-Mallika Sherawat
8:07 AM
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; February 7, 2018)
After hitting headlines for being allegedly evicted from her house in Paris for not having paid rent — a report that she denied outright — Mallika Sherawat is back in news. The actor, who is the brand ambassador of School For Justice (a programme that supports girls that have been rescued from brothels), has now featured in a documentary that opens the discussion on abuse against women.
Shot across India, the European documentary, titled Free A Girl, aims to bring the murky truth about violence against women in India to light. “Like me, the women at Free A Girl are committed to raise their voices against violence and make their voices be heard. I hope this documentary helps everyone understand the magnitude of the problem and be part of the movement,” says Sherawat.
In a country that is no stranger to domestic or sexual abuse, the actor says it is up to the women to lead the change. “Until and unless women are safe in India, it will be impossible to fully realise our potential as a country. Women do not have the luxury of waiting for change to happen. We must act now. I feel strongly about women who face violence at home or outside.”
The documentary will release next month.
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