Showing posts with label Maniesh Paul. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Maniesh Paul. Show all posts
I was the worst student in class while Varun Dhawan was the most hardworking student-Kubbra Sait
8:46 AM
Kubbra Sait on working with her acting school alumni Varun Dhawan in David Dhawan’s Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; July 27, 2025)
Even as Kubbra Sait awaits the release of Son of Sardaar 2, she is thrilled to have already completed her second comedy feature, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai. Unlike the Ajay Devgn-led film, the David Dhawan directorial features her in a small part. “In all honesty, that was a one-day shoot,” she reveals.
But that didn’t matter, as the opportunity to be part of a film directed by the veteran filmmaker was quite special for the actor. “For me, it’s a legacy project, because I’m working with ‘the’ David Dhawan,” she says, before mentioning that the film "was also giving me a chance to work with Mrunal Thakur, whom I last worked with in Son Of Sardaar 2. So, it would have been an extension of our earlier collaboration. Varun Dhawan has been my classmate in my acting class! Lastly, Maniesh Paul is someone I have shared the stage with for so many years. So, that for me was a project I would never say no to, even if it was an hour’s job,” she shares.
Sait tells us that Varun and she attended Barry John’s acting school before making their screen debuts. “We were in the same batch. I would [often] run away to do my events and other stuff; I think I was the worst student in the class. Varun, on the other hand, was the most hardworking student,” she smiles
After Border 2, Varun Dhawan to reunite with dad David Dhawan for romantic film
9:38 AM
After Border 2, Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan gears up for his fourth film with father David Dhawan in an entertainer, set to shoot across the UK this May-June
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; March 2, 2025)
Varun Dhawan barely has time to breathe. After wrapping up an elaborate 45-day schedule for Border 2, he is now preparing for the next schedule in Uttarakhand. He will then head to shoot for his father David Dhawan’s entertainer. This yet-untitled project marks the father-son duo’s fourth collaboration after Main Tera Hero (2014), Judwaa 2 (2017), and Coolie No. 1 (2020). Backed by Ramesh Taurani’s Tips Entertainment, the film also marks Kannada actor Sreeleela’s Bollywood debut, featuring alongside Mrunal Thakur and Maniesh Paul.
After wrapping up the Mumbai and Goa schedule, a 45-day schedule has been planned across London and other parts of the UK during May and June. A source reveals that the veteran filmmaker and his team have locked several iconic locations for the shoot, ensuring a mix of grand cityscapes and scenic countryside backdrops.
The source shares, “Varun and the team will be shooting extensively in London, covering popular spots including Piccadilly Circus among other places. There is an elaborate dance number planned which will be one of the highlights of the film.”
The UK schedule will also include a week-long shoot in the countryside, where the team will film key romantic portions and a chase sequence.
“David Dhawan is keen on bringing a fresh, international aesthetic to the film while maintaining his signature humour and energy,” the source adds.
Varun, who has been juggling multiple projects, will fly to London by mid-May after completing his commitments for Border 2 and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari.
Salman Khan, Madhuri Dixit to reunite for concerts in the UK, to perform on their 90s tracks
9:12 AM
Almost 23 years after their last film Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam, ’90s hit jodi Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit-Nene to reunite for two concerts in the UK
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; February 22, 2025)
Announce a Salman Khan concert, and his fans make a beeline to see him in action. This time, the superstar’s admirers have even more reason to be excited about his upcoming show. Khan will be joined by Madhuri Dixit-Nene as they headline The Bollywood Big One shows that are scheduled to take place in the UK. It will be held at the Wembley Stadium in London on May 4, and at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester on May 5. Performances by Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon, Sara Ali Khan, Disha Patani, Sunil Grover and Maniesh Paul are also part of the line-up.
The shows promise to be a trip down memory lane as Khan and Dixit—last seen on screen in Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam (2002)—will perform to hit numbers from their ’90s offerings. A source says, “They will groove to their chartbusters from Saajan [1991], Dil Tera Aashiq [1993], Hum Aapke Hai Koun [1994], and Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam.”
It turns out their recent recreation of a scene from Hum Aapke Hain Koun on Bigg Boss 17 sparked the idea for the stage show. “In January 2024, Madhuri was a guest on the Salman-hosted Bigg Boss 17 finale. There, the two recreated a romantic scene from Hum Aapke Hain Koun. They have always had great chemistry on screen, and seeing the love pouring in from the audience for the episode, the organisers decided to rope them in.”
The Bollywood Big One shows were originally scheduled for 2023, but were postponed because of logistical issues in the aftermath of the pandemic. The source adds, “Varun, who is currently shooting for Border 2, plans to complete his portions by April and fly out for the show in May.”
Salman Khan to travel to Dubai for Da-Bangg The Tour Reloaded; each artist to have security
8:05 AM
Unfazed by the looming threat to his life, Salman Khan returns with the next edition of his signature tour along with a bevy of film folk; manager Jordy Patel reveals security personnel to accompany each artiste in Dubai
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; October 28, 2024)
Days after mid-day had reported that Salman Khan was set to pursue his film commitments despite repeated threats to his life (Bhaijaan Won’t Be Bogged Down, October 17) comes news that the actor has taken on yet another project. Two years after he set off to Dubai for a tour with the top female stars of Bollywood, Khan is set to return to the country as part of a Middle Eastern tour. His first global performance on the international stage in the aftermath of fresh threats from gangster Lawrence Bishnoi will commence with an act on December 7. Actors, including Tamannaah Bhatia, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonakshi Sinha, Aastha Gill, Prabhudheva, Disha Patani, Maniesh Paul, and Sunil Grover, among others, will be part of this edition of Da-bangg: The Tour Reloaded.
Asserting that Khan wasn’t apprehensive about giving his nod to the international trip, his manager Jordy Patel—who also serves as the show’s organizer, along with Sohail Khan and Adil Jagmagia—says, “Security is arranged well by the Dubai police, and [in] crowded [areas] too. The cops take care of that. We will travel with our own security. Personnel will be appointed for each artiste, including Salman. He has been keeping up with all his professional commitments, and when we approached him for the show, he immediately agreed to be part of it. For Salman, the show must always go on. He has to keep shooting because he is committed to his work.”
In keeping with his past performances on the tour, Khan’s four-hour set is expected to have a blend of music, comic acts, and dance performances. The first act will be held at the Dubai Harbour Experience, which has a capacity of 25,000 viewers, with another show scheduled at Jeddah, where Khan is expected to perform to a 70,000-strong crowd.
“This edition will mark the third show of Da-Bangg in Dubai, and will be held at a beautiful outdoor venue overlooking the Dubai skyline. Only premiere international shows happen here, and an Indian concert like ours will take place here for the first time. While the Middle Eastern tour kicks off in Dubai, we will also announce shows in Qatar, Bahrain, and Doha, when we have the dates of the other artistes. We are trying to cover all the cities in the Middle East,” he says, adding that with 40 shows behind them, the team attempts to match international acts while delivering every new performance.
“Apart from paying attention to the visuals, sounds, and graphics, we keep changing the line-up of artistes so that Salman [performs] with someone new every time. We plan to add more shows in London and the USA in May and June next year,” he says, adding that tickets for the shows are already on sale.
Considering the multiple projects he has in his kitty, Khan, however, will need to deftly fill his date diary. The preferred days by the international organizers, says Patel, are Fridays, when the actor is required in Mumbai to shoot for the ongoing reality TV show, Bigg Boss.
“On December 7, he will not shoot for the reality show. But, on other days, he will go back and forth, and be part of the tour as well as Bigg Boss.”
Birthday letters from my kids are the most special-Maniesh Paul
8:30 AM
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 3, 2023)
Every year, Maniesh Paul looks forward to his birthday for a very special reason — handwritten notes from his loved ones. The actor-host, who turns 42 today, shares, “My mum writes a letter to me on my birthday every year and that has been the most precious gift. And now, my kids — Saisha (12) and Yuvann (7) — do it, too. I feel so special reading what they write... like I am the best father!”
While his kids have learnt this from their grandmother, Paul credits his wife, Sanyukta, for ensuring the ritual is carried forward. “She makes the effort and pushes our children to write something nice every year. Gifts toh koi bhi de sakta hai, but aise personalised letters sab nahin dete,” the actor, seen recently in Rafuchakkar, gushes.
Handwritten notes, Paul adds, have always had a special place in his heart: “I have a collection of around 200 letters. Sanyukta once got a book made for me, which had letters from all my friends. Not just that, she got me letters from my school teachers and principal, too!”
While Paul admits that the childlike excitement around birthdays isn’t there anymore, he says his kids make up for it. “My family is always very excited. Every year, they do something special, and I sense something this time, too. I have been told not to go to certain rooms and not open any parcels if they arrive!” he quips.
All actors fear gaining weight. I was worried about being unable to shed it-Maniesh Paul
8:49 AM
From indulging in sweets to gain weight for Rafuchakkar, to living on grilled chicken to lose it all, Maniesh Paul on the journey
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; July 19, 2023)
For someone who has adhered to a high-octane exercise regimen for a major part of his career, taking on the task of getting “out-of-shape” for a web series was significantly daunting. “I was petrified,” says Maniesh Paul, who gained 10 kilos for the show that sees him as a simpleton accused of being a con man.
“They wanted me to gain weight to come across as someone who [could not be a con man]. All actors fear gaining weight. I was worried about being unable to shed it. Also, in recent times, there is a fear of the things that are happening to people while exercising at the gym,” says Paul, adding that, considering the “mental state that I am in”, he was willing to take on challenges for his cinematic acts.
“I’d rather become the character than look good [on screen]. If the part needed me to gain or shed weight, or go bald, I’d be okay with that.”
As is with actors who are tasked with piling on several kilos, Paul put his cardiovascular and weight-training regimen to a standstill, and hit pause on his monitored meal plans to enjoy a phase of indulgence. “My calorie intake increased significantly and I began to eat everything that I should not. It was amazing; I had meetha, makhan, and other desserts. Since my body reacts quickly to exercise, I barely trained during this phase.” But while his palate continued to be satiated, Paul grew fairly uncomfortable with his paunch.
“Because I am not used to carrying it, I couldn’t even wear my shoes. I started wearing loose clothes so that nobody would know. They’d say, ‘You’re becoming bigger [more muscular]’. But, they couldn’t see my paunch. When they saw it on screen, it served as an element of surprise.”
Evidently then, Paul was eager to return to routine when he had to torch the additional fat. “When I had to return to train, I’d wake up at 4:30 am, and be in the gym at 5:30. My meals were professionally monitored so that I could shed fat and gain [muscle mass]. When I am on a regimen, my meals are taken care of [by a chef], who meets the requirements set by my trainer. He even dictates how much water I must have. When it comes to training the body, I believe it is made in the kitchen. As a Dilli ka ladka, [it was tough to be told] to not eat more than 2,500 calories. But, if a goal is set, I will stick to it,” says the actor, who also stopped consuming sugar for three months.
“When I am on a regimen, I usually consume six meals a day. I had a lot of grilled chicken to shed the weight. If I am working on a project, I turn to salads. I love eggs, and will increase its intake as well. I enjoy vegetable juices too.” Over four days of weight-training sessions each week, Paul focusses on lifting moderately heavy weights, because “if I can see results while lifting 20 kilos alone, I am happy with that”.
A fair share of free-hand exercises, including pull-ups and push-ups, make up his training sessions. “On the other three days, I take to cardio exercises.” He credits his wife Sanyukta for enabling him to keep up his peak performance. “My wife gets worried, because I am always hyper. She ensures I undergo a blood test regularly. In fact, I don’t even know when the concerned person will arrive for the test. Every five months, she will schedule one. There’s no heroism in saying, ‘Nothing will happen to me’, because, after COVID-19, a lot has changed with people’s health.”
Paul’s top fitness tips
- Cardio is important. You don’t need to run, but, a 45-minute walk is [important]. It’s the best thing that you can do for yourself. You may not be able to lift, but you can walk. My father is 76-years old, and he continues to do it.
- Monitor your intake of sweets. You can’t even [comprehend] how detrimental sugar is.
- Health check-ups are important.
Maniesh Paul would feel claustrophobic in the prosthetics-Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk Nishandar
8:17 AM
With Maniesh known for his comic timing, Rafuchakkar’s makers on casting him against type as a serious conman in his OTT debut
Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; June 9, 2023)
When it comes to host-actor Maniesh Paul, most of us expect a laugh a minute. His maiden web series Rafuchakkar then comes as a refreshing change of pace. Creative duo Arjun Singgh Baran and Kartk Nishandar say they were certain about casting Paul as a remorseless conman swindling the rich and corrupt. Nishandar explains, “Maniesh is known for his comic timing on reality shows. People would expect him to do comedy, so it was a great casting [choice] as he is doing a serious show in his first OTT venture.”
In Ritam Shrivastav’s directorial venture, the actor will be seen in different avatars — from a 70-year-old villager, to a gym trainer and a Sardar — as his character pulls off one con after another. Shooting with prosthetics was a challenge for Paul, says Nishandar. “Maniesh would feel claustrophobic in the prosthetics. So, he took six days to get used to them. He had to gain 15 to 20 kilos to play a villager, and then lose the excess weight, and attain a ripped physique to essay the part of a gym trainer.”
The creative duo, who have previously made Naxalbari (2020) and Raktanchal (2020), consider the nine-part Jio Cinema series among the toughest offerings they have worked on. Baran reasons, “What makes the genre of con dramas difficult is that we can’t have any loops open. So, we spent about a year-and-a-half only to write it.”
Kartk Nishandar and Arjun Singgh Baran
Sanjay Dutt’s USA tour, which was cancelled in August due to logistical reasons, to be held in March 2023
8:30 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; October 12, 2022)
Beginning with a concert in Toronto on August 19, Sanjay Dutt was to headline gigs in Dallas, Atlanta, Washington and New Jersey as part of his tour, titled Sanju Baba Chale Amerika. The actor, who was the main draw of the tour across the USA and Canada, was to be joined by Arshad Warsi, Shehnaaz Gill, Maniesh Paul, and Neeti Mohan, among others.
However, in August, mid-day had reported that the shows were abruptly cancelled (It’s a no-show, Aug 28). While some stated that the makers faced logistical issues after block dates of the artistes couldn’t be matched, others blamed it on poor ticket sales.
At the time, while the organizers issued refunds to the ticket holders, Dutt flew back to India and utilized the dates to shoot his actioner Baap. Now, it is learnt that the organizers are planning to conduct the shows next year. A source says, “The team has decided to move the tour to March 2023. Prep for the shows will start well in advance.”
When mid-day contacted the organisers, Mehboob Haider, president, Splendid Global Entertainment Inc, said, “There are rumours about the show being cancelled; these are completely false. The show is definitely on track, and has been moved to March. They will be held in the US and Canada, as planned.”
Maniesh Paul donates to workers who cleaned nine beaches after Cyclone Tauktae
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Actor-host Maniesh Paul donates ration kits to BMC workers who cleaned up nine Mumbai beaches post the cyclone
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 1, 2021)
In mid-May, Cyclone Tauktae not only wreaked havoc in Mumbai but also brought tonnes of trash — that had been callously thrown in the sea over the years — back to its beaches. In the following days, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) workers cleared over 153 metric tonnes of garbage from the beaches.
Maniesh Paul, in a mark of support, donated an undisclosed amount to the selfless workers who cleaned up the nine beaches, including Juhu, Versova, Mahim, and Girgaon. Not only that, the actor-host provided the team with ration kits that included a month’s supply of rice, lentils and other essentials.
Chinu Kwatra of Khushiyaan Foundation that organised the donation drive, shares, “It is heartening to witness people like Maniesh coming forward to help the BMC safai karamcharis, who had been toiling hard on the beaches to clear up the waste spewed by the sea. He provided ration kits to the families as a mark of respect and admiration for their hard work towards society.”
I was positive and aur kitna positive hota. Moreover, I am a positive person-Maniesh Paul
8:01 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 30, 2020)
Two days after he tested negative, Maniesh Paul was back on the sets shooting for his next film, JugJugg Jeeyo. The host-actor had tested positive for Coronavirus and had quarantined himself in Mumbai.
Paul admits that he wasn’t happy about testing positive and says everyone who tests positive, deals with Covid-19 in his or her own way. “One has to take it in stride. I spoke to my doctor and made sure to follow all instructions. It didn’t affect my morale and neither did I feel sad or upset. I was positive and aur kitna positive hota. Moreover, I am a positive person (laughs)! Jokes apart, I was worried about the number of people I had met before testing. Thankfully, everyone was safe and sound. Things have been good since I tested negative. I didn’t have any symptoms, just a bit of sore throat which is okay now,” he shares.
Paul reveals that he didn’t have any mantras or a particular routine that he followed when he was quarantining but as his family, too, tested positive, all of them were in quarantine together and they did household work and took care of each other. “I want to tell people, who test positive to not feel sad or dejected. It’s going to be okay. Make sure you follow the doctor’s instructions. Don’t work or exert your body in any manner. Just take it easy and apna khayal rakho. Everything else can wait. When I see people not wearing masks or wearing it on the chin, I want to request them and everyone else to please not let their guard down. Please follow all the protocols. Sanitise hands, wear a mask when you step out of the house, and maintain social distance. Abhi Covid khatam nahin hua hai. We all have to be careful till it is all over,” he says.
Back on the sets of JugJugg Jeeyo, Paul calls the experience of shooting for it “wonderful”. “The director and my co-stars are great. It is a happy set and we are having fun shooting for the film. I was back on the set, two days after I tested negative. This is my happy place and I love working. I love to entertain people,” he signs off.
The Coronavirus experience has taught me to be extra careful-Maniesh Paul
7:56 AM
Riya Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; December 26, 2020)
Earlier this month, Maniesh Paul tested positive for Coronavirus. He then took to social media to inform his fans about contracting the virus. The actor, who has now recovered, shares, “I was shooting for JugJugg Jeeyo in Chandigarh, and when I came back, I took a test and got to know I was positive. I only had a sore throat, but as a precautionary measure, I keep getting myself tested since I travel and shoot a lot. When I tested positive, I got my family checked as well. They also tested positive. So, my wife, both kids and I were together at home. That was like a blessing in disguise, and we were all taking care of each other.”
Maniesh adds that he followed everything his doctors asked him to. “They have been really good to me. And I want to tell others that don’t take it lightly, but don’t get scared either. It is okay if you test positive, but also don’t take it like ‘kuchh nahi hai, theek ho jayega’. Just follow what the doctors are saying, and everything is going to be fine,” he adds.
Recovering from COVID-19 has taught Maniesh to be more cautious. He says, “I have always been careful, but one has to be extra careful,” He mentions that his family in Gurgaon was also worried. “My mother was really worried and she wanted to be with us. She would video call me every day and cry saying, ‘Main aa nahi paa rahi’ you know how mothers are! But jaise hi report aayi that we were all COVID negative, there was a celebration,” he shares.
Maniesh, who is already back on the sets, says, “My message to everyone for New Year’s is that I know we all really want to party, but be careful. Follow all the norms, that is very important. Whatever the authorities are saying, please follow that.”
Varun Dhawan, Neetu Kapoor recovering from Coronavirus; Anil Kapoor, Kiara Advani to resume JugJugg Jeeyo's shoot?
8:43 AM
While Varun Dhawan, Neetu Kapoor and director are on the road to recovery from COVID, sources say, Anil Kapoor, Kiara Advani and crew to resume JugJugg Jeeyo shoot later this week
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 14, 2020)
It has been almost 10 days since the shoot of JugJugg Jeeyo ground to an abrupt halt in Chandigarh after Varun Dhawan, Neetu Kapoor and director Raj Mehta tested positive for COVID-19. Initially, rumours suggested that the shoot had been called off for three weeks, allowing the trio to recover from the virus. However, it has now been heard that those in the crew who have tested negative — including lead stars Anil Kapoor and Kiara Advani — have been requested to report to the set on December 17.
"After the film hit a roadblock, it was becoming difficult to get the combination dates of actors again. So, Anil, Kiara and Prajakta Koli are likely to begin filming their portions by later this week. The team of assistant directors, under the able guidance of producer Shashank Khaitan, are eyeing to kick off the shoot by Thursday. Varun, Neetu and Raj are on the road to recovery. Once they test negative and are given the clean chit by their doctors, they will resume work," reveals a source. Maniesh Paul, who had tested positive on returning to Mumbai, too has some scenes remaining.
mid-day reached out to Khaitan and Dharma Productions' spokesperson. Both remained unavailable for comment.
Varun Dhawan, Neetu Kapoor, Raj Mehta positive for Coronavirus; JugJugg Jeeyo shoot stalled for three weeks
8:28 AM
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 5, 2020)
“All three are showing only mild symptoms and are currently isolated in Chandigarh. Anil and Kiara’s reports are negative; he returned to Mumbai last evening, while she flies back today,” said a source, assuring that they will follow all safety protocols as suggested by the government.
It was a 40-day long marathon schedule and they were to shoot till December 24. But given this development, they will have to take a break of 10-14 days now. “Varun, Neetu and Raj will take a repeat test and once everyone tests negative and recovers, the shoot will resume, hopefully, by mid-December,” the source informed. The team had filmed a wedding sequence a couple of days ago with some crowd and believe that’s how the trio contracted the virus.
JugJugg Jeeyo is Raj Mehta’s second directorial after the 2019 hit Good Newwz. It revolves around two married couples, Varun and Kiara and Varun’s parents Anil and Neetu. The film marks Neetu’s comeback, eight years after Besharam, which had featured her alongside her late husband, Rishi Kapoor and son Ranbir.
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Varun Dhawan, Neetu Kapoor, Jug Jugg Jeeyo director in isolation after testing positive; Maniesh Paul shows symptoms on return to Mumbai
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 5, 2020)
A source from the unit tells mid-day, "The hotel was immediately disinfected, and Varun, Raj and Neetu ji were put in isolation in their respective rooms. Their symptoms are mild so far, and are being monitored by doctors."
Anil Kapoor and Kiara Advani, who also feature in the relationship dramedy, tested negative yesterday. However, they will be required to undergo another screening in a few days. It is heard that the actors will head back to Mumbai after they complete the necessary quarantine in the north Indian city.
Meanwhile, Maniesh Paul, who was part of the unit till earlier this week and returned to Mumbai two days ago, has developed symptoms. "The actor has fever and is experiencing loss of smell. He will practice home-quarantine after running a test," says a source. While the makers had initially planned a start-to-finish schedule in Chandigarh, the shoot has been stalled for three weeks due to the recent development.
I stand by Bharti Singh, she has my unconditional support-Krushna Abhishek
8:14 AM
Krushna Abhishek extends support to comedienne Bharti Singh, who found herself involved in the ongoing NCB drug probe recently
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; December 1, 2020)
‘NO SUCH DECISION HAS BEEN TAKEN BY THE CHANNEL’
We asked Krushna if the reports hinting towards Bharti being dropped from TKSS are true, and he said, “Bilkul aisa nahi hai. I haven’t heard of any such discussion or development from the channel’s end. Even if something like this happens, I will support Bharti. She should get back to work. Jo ho gaya woh ho gaya. We stand by Bharti and both Kapil (Sharma) and I are with her. She has my unconditional support.”
When prodded about the shoot, which took place on November 27 in which Bharti was conspicuous by her absence, Krushna said, “I think Bharti was unwell. She herself didn’t want to shoot or else she would have come. We are like family.”
‘OUR EQUATION GOES BEYOND OUR PROFESSION’
For the actor-comedian, Bharti is like his sister. Krushna said, “I met Bharti and Haarsh soon after their release. We go back a long way. Our equation goes beyond our profession. I have seen Haarsh from his days of struggle. Mere saamne date karna shuru kiya tha dono ne and I even hosted their wedding.”
‘I DON’T KNOW ABOUT THE WORLD, BUT I AM STANDING BY BHARTI’
He added, “Bharti has stood beside me through thick and thin. She was the first person to meet me when my father was unwell and also when he passed away. She was the first person to call me when I had my twin boys. I fell sick while hosting an award function with Maniesh Paul, but Bharti filled in for me without batting an eyelid. Kaun karta hai kisi ke liye aisa. That’s the bond we share. So, I had to meet her at any cost after she was released. I don’t know about the world and others, but I am standing by Bharti.”
‘RAJU SRIVASTAVA NE TOH BOHOT HI BAKWAAS KEE HAI’
Krushna firmly believes that everyone deserves a second chance. He is particularly irked about fellow comedian Raju Srivastava’s statement on Bharti.
In an interview soon after her arrest, Raju had expressed his anger towards Bharti after she admitted to consuming drugs. He said that he didn’t think taking any form of drugs helped improve one’s ‘creativity’, ‘energy’ or ‘concentration’. “I’m not sure under whose influence she did this. Not only am I shocked, I’m angry,” he reportedly said.
Krushna said, “Raju Srivastava ne toh bohot hi bakwaas kee hai. What he said was shocking. Usne lifetime ke liye relationship kharaab kar liya hai sabke saath. Poori team hamaari naraaz hai usse for the comment he made.”
Maniesh Paul heads to Chandigarh for JugJugg Jeeyo shoot
8:22 AM
Host Maniesh Paul joins Varun Dhawan-Kiara Advani for a month-long schedule of JugJugg Jeeyo in Chandigarh
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 25, 2020)
Actor-host Maniesh Paul is the latest addition to the cast of Jug Jug Jeeyo, featuring Varun Dhawan and Kiara Advani. The actor headed to Chandigarh yesterday to join the unit that has been shooting over the past week.
"While most of his scenes are with Kiara, Maniesh will kick off his stint tomorrow with a sequence featuring Anil Kapoor, Varun and him. He has assigned his dates till December 24 to the project," reveals a source close to the actor. The team, led by director Raj Mehta of Good Newwz (2019) fame, is eyeing to wrap up the film by Christmas.
The romantic drama will see Neetu Kapoor — who joins Anil in playing parents to Dhawan's character — return to the big screen after Besharam (2013). "The opportunity to share screen space with Anil and Neetu Kapoor was a big draw for Maniesh," adds the source.
We have to be masked till the camera rolls-Maniesh Paul
8:23 AM
Maniesh Paul, the host of a kiddy talent hunt contest, explains the new normal
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 14, 2020)
Over the weekend, Maniesh Paul returned to the sets as the host of Zee TV’s singing reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa: L'il Champs. The actor admitted it was wonderful to be back in action, even though a lot has changed. “It’s not about the warm welcomes, hugs and handshakes anymore,” he pointed out.Prod him on changes in the process of shooting and he informs that there are two-three entry points and they have to go through the sanitisation tunnel every time. “We have a doctor to check our oxygen levels and temperature at the entrance. One has to wash hands before entering the vanity van, as it’s sanitised before use,” Maniesh reveals, adding that it is mandatory for the team of judges and hosts to wear PPE kits all the time. “And we have to be masked until the camera rolls. The saddest part for me is that there’s no live audience anymore.”
The show is judged by Alka Yagnik, Himesh Reshammiya and Javed Ali. In the opening episode, the makers decided to pay tribute to real-life Coronavirus warriors. Maniesh shares, “We had an ambulance driver who had not gone home for the last three months and a doctor who had lost her doctor-husband to the dreaded virus. A couple donated all the money they had saved for their wedding to procure oxygen machines and beds. It’s inspiring to have such ‘warriors’ on the set. We all should be out there helping people.”
Being the host, it was difficult for Maniesh to maintain social distancing. He points out that he has the habit of meeting contestants with warmth but has to keep his jhappis in check now.
He will be shooting every week and while he admits they were all a little scared earlier, he is reassured now that all the precautions are being taken. “It’s not easy being on the set right now but the show must go on. I was happy that now some of my crew members will be able to earn a steady income again. I hope I can spread some happiness,” he signs off on a positive note.
Today, when I look at my passport, it feels like a mere diary-Maniesh Paul
8:17 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; May 14, 2020)
Even as he is concerned about the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the world at large, actor-host Maniesh Paul is grateful that the lockdown has allowed him to spend quality time with his children and wife. These days, he is taking piano lessons from his nine-year-old daughter, Saisha, and reading books to his three-year-old son, Yuvann. He tells BT, “There is so much to do. I am reading books, watching movies and seeing my kids grow, which I don’t get to do otherwise. I’m also spending time with my wife, Sanyukta. The highlight of the day is learning piano from my daughter. I am taking online classes for it, too, but Saisha loves teaching me. The joy on her face when she does so is priceless. So, yes, I am trying to focus on the positive side of the lockdown.”
The Pauls indulge in a Ludo ‘championship’ every day as well. “Ladaai-jhagde wala contest hota hai; we are all competitive,” he laughs, adding that he’s also learning to cook. Ask him what his greatest learning from the lockdown has been and he replies, “I think we all needed to slow down because we were running aimlessly. This phase has taught me to consciously make more time for my loved ones. I know for a fact that I will now make time to play Ludo with my family, cook for them, play the piano with my daughter and read to my son.”
On the work front, Maniesh, like his colleagues, is battling uncertainty. He says, “I am a workaholic and I love to travel. But today, when I look at my passport, it does not feel like anything more than a mere diary. Everything is uncertain. I had so many international shows lined up, which have all been postponed. The impact of the pandemic is stronger on people who are less privileged than I am, so I thank God for what I have.”
Colors TV plans memorial concert for Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor, called Dard-E-Dil: A Tribute To The Legends
8:25 AM
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 7, 2020)
Last week, the Hindi film industry lost two icons, Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor. After a barrage of tributes on TV and the social media, Colors has planned a memorial concert — Dard-E-Dil: A Tribute To The Legends—to be aired this weekend. Artistes from TV and films will unite to celebrate the lives and achievements of the duo, with pre-recorded videos from home.The line-up includes comedienne Bharti Singh, singers Sukhwinder Singh, Aditya Narayan, Abu Malik, and TV actors Hina Khan and Devoleena Bhattacharjee. The ex-contestants of the live singing reality show, Rising Star, will also be a part of the concert which will be hosted by Maniesh Paul. “Aditya will croon ‘Suit Suit Karda’ from Hindi Medium while Hina has recorded ‘Teri Umeed Tera Intezaar’ from Deewana. Arjun Bijlani will sing and perform to another Rishi chartbuster, ‘Om Shanti Om’ from Karz among other acts,” revealed a source.
Meanwhile, Manisha Sharma of Viacom18 pointed out that owing to the lockdown, fans could not give an appropriate farewell to their favourite stars. “We wish to give them an opportunity to do so through this special episode. They left an everlasting impression on our minds with their films and songs. That’s how we wish to remember them, through art and music,” she said.
TV industry unites for a video to cheer up people amid the lockdown
8:11 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; April 24, 2020)
Following the footsteps of artistes from Bollywood and other film industries, members of the television fraternity have also come together to make a video to cheer people and urge them to stay at home, during the nationwide lockdown following the Coronavirus outbreak.Curated by Ekta Kapoor, several artistes and creative people from the TV industry have pitched in to create the engaging video from their homes. It features Sidharth Shukla, Mouni Roy, Shailesh Lodha, Anita Hassanandani, Rohitashv Gour, Maniesh Paul, Karishma Tanna, director-choreographer Remo D’Souza, Divyanka Tripathi, Erica Fernandes, Parth Samthaan, Shabir Ahluwalia, Shehnaaz Gill, Sriti Jha, Karan V Grover and Aasif Sheikh, among others.
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Taking a cue from Bollywood's music video, Ekta Kapoor ropes in top television actors for a special video to encourage people to stay indoors
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; April 24, 2020)
Well aware that they enjoy an unparalleled reach across India, Ekta Kapoor has brought together top television stars for a special video to highlight the importance of staying indoors amid the pandemic. Bigg Boss 13 winner Sidharth Shukla, Mouni Roy, Anita Hassanandani, Karishma Tanna and Maniesh Paul are among the many actors who have shot their portions at their respective homes."The video is a collective effort by the television producers' association of our country. The current scenario calls for us to be united more than ever, and entertainment is the common language across the country," says Kapoor, the brain behind the initiative. By offering a peek into the daily lives of the actors, the video shows how one can utilise the stay-at-home period productively. "We [roped in] top television stars so that it resonates with people across the country. This is our endeavour to encourage everyone to stay home," adds Kapoor.
Roy, who features in the video that drops online today, believes one must use the time to pause and reflect. "I remember reading that it would be sad if we came out of this experience unchanged. The need of the hour is to stay in, take care of yourself and your families, and maintain social distancing."
Positivity is key to tackling the crisis, says Sonali Jaffar, who conceptualised the feature. "We may not be able to control the events, but we have the power to not get reduced by them. The television fraternity has come together to abide by what is considered the new normal," she says.
Sidharth Shukla, Mouni Roy and Anita Hassanandani
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Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 24, 2020)
Inspired by the Salman Khan-hosted reality show, Bigg Boss, a soon-to-release music video, the brain child of Ekta Kapoor, encourages people to stay indoors during the lockdown. The TV czarina has roped in all the top names from the small screen, including Mouni Roy, Divyanka Tripathi, Anita Hassanandani, Erica Fernandes, Parth Samthaan, Sidharth Shukla, Manish Paul, Shabir Ahluwalia, Shehnaaz Gill, Sriti Jha, Karishma Tanna, Reem Sameer Shaikh, Karan V Grover, Aasif Sheikh and Karan Jotwani.“An initiative by the TV producers’ association, the video was planned over several conference calls and is a team effort, encouraging people to stay home,” Ekta asserts. Remo D’souza features as the Big Boss, ordering inmates to complete tasks. “It was fun to be a part of this project,” says the choreographer-turned-filmmaker who is working on a few scripts. “There is a lot of reading, brainstorming and writing happening.”
J D Majethia, Chairman, IFTPC (Indian Film and Television Producers Council), is ecstatic to have the industry rally behind the cause. “One message from Ekta on the (TV producers’ texting) group and we have an entertaining multistarrer, titled Quarantined, made without having artistes under one roof,” he gushes.
Akshay Kumar wants a ‘Comedy Avengers’ for Housefull
8:14 AM
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 28, 2019)
The team of the fourth instalment of the Housefull franchise introduced the trailer of the upcoming reincarnation comedy on Friday afternoon. Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Bobby Deol, Kriti Sanon, Kriti Kharbanda and Pooja Hegde were dressed in their characters from 1419. Reminiscing about his friendship with Sajid Nadiadwala who is producing the film with Vijay Singh of Fox Star Studios, Akshay informed that they had studied in the same school, taking the same bus, and even today, live in the same building.“We have been together since 1975, our kids were born in the same hospital room,” the filmmaker quipped, adding with a laugh that back then, he’d paid for their bus tickets and now was investing in their films. “Inki wajah se hi to mera kitchen chalta hai,” Akshay added in the same vein, setting the tone for the evening.
The two Kritis, Sanon and Kharbanda, then teased him, reminding Akshay about the Kirti-Kriti mix-up during the Mission Mangal promotions that had upset Kirti Kulhari. “I will say it right today,” Khiladi Kumar joked in response. Interestingly, though Maniesh Paul was the designated host for the event, Akshay soon took over. When asked about doing a comedy after a slew of films on socially relevant subjects, the actor explained, “Whenever I want to have a vacation, I call up Sajid and tell him to make another Housefull.” The three leading ladies agreed that the shoot had been like an extended holiday.
On being told that it was being reported that the project had cost more than Bahubali, Akshay argued that wasn’t possible as they wrapped up filming in 65 days to which Riteish remarked, tongue firmly in cheek, “If you deduct his fees, our movie’s budget is much lesser than Bahubali’s.”
It wasn’t all fun and laughs though. The interaction began on a serious note, when Akshay was asked about the changes in the industry in the wake of the #MeToo movement that exploded midway through the shoot of the film, leading to the exit of former director Sajid Khan and cast member Nana Patekar, who were replaced by Farhad Samji and Rana Daggubati respectively. “Production houses are being cautious and thoughtful about sexual harassment incidents and ensuring security for women at the workplace,” he pointed out. When asked if he’d collaborate with Sajid Khan in future, Akshay retorted, “If he is acquitted, then maybe,” adding that even though Sajid has shot 60 per cent of the film, the decision of not giving him any credit is the “producers’ call”.
On a lighter note, Akshay proposed the idea of a Housefull reunion given that a lot of actors have been a part of the franchise. “I’ve even spoke to Sajid about a film which has all the characters returning. It will be our own ‘Comedy Avengers’,” he smiled.
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