Showing posts with label Manushi Chhillar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Manushi Chhillar. Show all posts
A paper leak isn’t just an administrative glitch, it affects millions of hours of hard work-Manushi Chhillar
10:01 AM
The actor backs students demanding a fair system
Natasha Coutinho (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 25, 2026)
As protests continue over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, actor and former Miss World Manushi Chhillar has spoken about facing a similar ordeal in 2015, when she had to appear for the medical entrance exam twice following a paper leak.
“I remember the uncertainty more than anything else. You prepare for years believing that the exam day is the finish line, and then suddenly you’re told that it isn’t. It’s not just about writing another paper. It’s about reliving months of anxiety, postponing plans, and staying mentally prepared all over again,” she tells us.
Manushi, who had enrolled in medical college before entering the Miss India pageant, says, “I appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main in April after my board exams and the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT), now known as the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), in May. I chose not to take JEE Advanced because I was clear that I wanted to study medicine.”
She adds that while she had the privilege of choosing between fields, many students do not: “For most, NEET is a chance to build a better life. You feel responsible not just for yourself, but for the hopes of everyone around you. By the end of it, most students are exhausted.”
She reappeared for the examination 45 days later and secured a good score, but says the burden of another attempt cannot be overlooked. “Another attempt comes with emotional, financial, and psychological costs that deserve to be acknowledged.”
Supporting students speaking out for a fair examination system, Manushi adds, “A paper leak isn’t just an administrative glitch, it affects millions of hours of hard work. For many families, preparing for competitive exams involves significant financial sacrifices, years of disciplined study, and immense emotional investment. The real damage goes beyond one examination. It erodes trust. Students should walk into an exam hall believing that effort and merit alone will determine the outcome.”
Artistes take a stand
JNU and DU have issued advisories asking students and faculty to stay away from protests at Jantar Mantar, citing safety concerns, possible legal consequences and the impact on academics. The notices drew criticism from Rahul Gandhi and Pooja Bhatt.
The actor backs students demanding a fair system
Meanwhile, comedian-actor Anubhav Singh Bassi (above) postponed his July 25 show at Talkatora Stadium and actor-podcaster Soha Ali Khan cancelled this week’s episode in solidarity with the protesting students. Sonu Nigam (left) also postponed his July 25 concert at Delhi’s Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in solidarity with the students.
Ranveer Singh to join Maddock's horror comedy universe?
8:24 AM
(From left) Ranveer Singh; Manushi Chhillar. Pics/Yogen Shah, Instagram
Sources claim that Ranveer Singh is set to join Dinesh Vijan’s horror comedy universe
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 27, 2025)
It’s definitely more the merrier when it comes to the horror comedy universe. After Rajkummar Rao led the on-screen world’s inception with Stree (2018), he has been joined by Bhediya’s (2022) Varun Dhawan, Munjya’s (2024) Abhay Verma, and Thama’s Ayushmann Khurrana. Who’s next? Ranveer Singh, we’ve heard.
Sources have told us that the superstar is in advanced talks with producer Dinesh Vijan to front a new instalment. A source close to the development revealed, “Ranveer has been in conversations with Dinesh for a while. He was at the Maddock office last week. The makers wanted a fresh energy to drive the next chapter, and Ranveer is keen to explore the genre. The paperwork is likely to be completed soon.”
It’s apparently being developed as a crossover that merges characters and storylines from Stree, Bhediya, and Thama. “The idea is to create an Avengers-style culmination down the road. They are talking dates as Ranveer will wrap up Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar soon. He has allotted some dates to Don 3 as well. This project is expected to roll in early 2026,” the source added.
The buzz is that Manushi Chhillar is the top choice for the female lead.
People are not as negative as they seem to be online-Manushi Chhillar
3:31 PM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (March 30, 2025)
I stopped thinking about impressing people with my fashion choices. I grew up watching those handful of award shows. For us, glamour back then was reserved only for film stars. Today, fashion has become such a big part of my life. Sometimes, it can feel like a task — dressing up, getting photographed... But I have never looked at it as a pressure. I have always enjoyed it.
I come from a family of educated professionals, where you had to do well in your studies. My options changed completely after winning Miss World in 2017. There are three things in life — fame, power, and money. I got fame at a young age, along with power and influence. It changes you a lot. Sometimes, I feel like I missed out on college, but that’s me looking at the glass as half empty.
When I started out, I took social media very seriously. After a while, I took a break from all my accounts, only to realize that the world is a very different place. People are not as negative as they seem to be online. I walk into a shop, it doesn’t matter if I am wearing a cap or anything... people are actually kind, they want to help. One has to realize that many people put out negative things (about celebs) because that gets more traction.
Manushi Chhillar refutes dating Veer Pahariya: "No way; he is a good friend"
9:27 AM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; March 8, 2025)
Beauty queen-turned-actress Manushi Chhillar strutted her catwalk for designer Tarun Tahliani. She donned a bridal look wearing a corset and a lehenga. “It wasn't your traditional bridal Indian wedding couture. It was so modern, so young, it was understated. It had the right balance of couture with comfort,” says Manushi. Fresh off the ramp, Manushi sits down for a chat with Bombay Times, talking about movies and her personal life.
'We don't have the luxury to fail a lot'
Manushi made her debut with the historical drama Samrat Prithviraj in 2022. In the following two years, she had two Hindi movie releases - The Great Indian Family (2023) and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024). All three movies didn’t perform well at the box office.
Ask Manushi about her attachment towards her projects and failure, and she replies, “In life, we don't have the luxury to fail a lot, which is great because if you keep reminding yourself of that, you'll always put your best foot forward. Then I learned to have a certain amount of balance. You need to be attached enough to be able to give it your 100%. When you do a film, it's not about getting passing marks. It's about always giving your 100%. Sometimes, even if you give you 100%, it might not even translate on screen or it might not stitch in well together. It's important to understand that you're one person who's a part of this big process of making a film. So, you must be attached enough to do your best, but beyond that, you need to move on.”
‘How does it affect anyone's life as to what I'm doing in my personal life?’
While she is navigating through her professional life, she is also learning how to react to the keen attention towards her personal life. “I always grew up with a certain kind of attention. I was popular in school, in my area and etc. However, the kind of attention I got after Miss World was another level. While it comes from a lot of love, it did initially surprise me and to a certain extent also annoy me. I used to be like, ‘How does it affect anyone's life as to what I'm doing in my personal life?’ I remember this one incident which was a little too much, where my marksheet from college was on the internet. That was so unnecessary. So, I can set boundaries with what I reveal to the world. And I think certain things are meant to be kept to myself, so I just keep them to myself,” she explains.
'A lot of things written about my personal life have been completely false'
The 27-year-old further opens up about the speculations about her dating life. She reveals, “There's a certain interest people have as to what's going on in your personal life. I have guy and girl friends and I feel if I hang out too much with my girlfriends, does it look like I'm not interested in boys or if I'm hanging out with any of my guy friends, are people gonna think we're dating? But now I think I've reached a stage where I'm okay. This is my life. I'm going to live my life. And if you're so archaic that you don't understand the guy and that a guy and girl can just be friends or share common interests, you can enjoy whatever entertainment you get. It's of no consequence knowing who's doing what in their personal life. I just live with it. Personally, I don't feel the need to (clarify). However, the negative of it is that when you don't reveal too much, then it gives more space for stories to just be formed out of thin air. I can say that a lot of things written about my personal life have been completely false. That's the downside of being a little private.”
'He is a good friend'
So, we ask Manushi directly about the rumours of her dating actor Veer Pahariya. The two were spotted at the last year’s Ambani wedding, which led to the rumours of them dating. “Oh, my God, poor Veer. No way. No (we are not dating), absolutely not. He's a good friend. He was lovely enough to give me company during a wedding where I didn't know anyone. That's pretty much it. That's my only interaction with the boy,” she concludes.
Manushi Chhillar on Bade Miyan Chote Miyan failure: "It took away pressure of doing a big film"
7:58 AM
Eagerly waiting for her next film Maalik, Manushi Chhillar says the box office failure of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan has taught her to focus on being an actor
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; November 24, 2024)
It’s been a busy year for former Miss World Manushi Chhillar, who entered Bollywood with Samrat Prithviraj (2022). Even though the year has not been entirely successful, with two theatrical releases—Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Operation Valentine with Telugu star Varun Tej—being some of the biggest films of her career, Chhillar has taken it in her stride. How did she cope with the non-performance of the Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff-starrer at the box office?
“When a film like that didn’t do well, it took away the pressure of doing a big film and delivering a hit. I realized you could have every ingredient in your soup, but it still might not be what the people want, and I have no control over it. I also realized what I needed to put more effort into. Instead of thinking about theatre, OTT, or box office numbers, I [need to put] my efforts into being an actor. Films will come and go. I want to take up roles where I can also explore [myself] as an actor. Working on your craft and skill set makes you secure as an actor. I learnt action for Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, and that’s a skill set that will come handy for another actioner,” explained Chhillar.
Interestingly, Chhillar’s next action film is the Rajkummar Rao-starrer Maalik, directed by Pulkit. While it’s still unclear if the model-turned-actor will be throwing punches in this, she is thrilled about sharing screen space with the Stree 2 actor.
“I remember watching him in Bareilly Ki Barfi [2017]. The scene of him walking to a paan shop to the background [score] of Badass babua has been ingrained in my head since then,” reminisces the actor, adding that leaving an impression even in a five-minute role is something she admires.
“Rajkummar is someone who is purely focused on the scripts he chooses, and his choices are very good,” says Chhillar, who got the opportunity to perform at the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Being a fan of Madhuri Dixit-Nene and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, dancing was always on her wish list after being trained in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathak.
It’s a wrap for Rajkummar Rao’s first full-fledged actioner Maalik with Manushi Chhillar
1:50 PM
Rao’s two looks in Maalik—bearded (right) and clean-shaven (left)
A source reveals, “Rajkummar Rao rigorously worked out to build a lithe physique. Jigra’s action director Vikram Dahiya was roped in to design the action set-pieces"
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; November 17, 2024)
Four releases in 2024 have kept Rajkummar Rao busy, but he is in no mood to slow down. Last week, the actor wrapped up the shoot of Maalik in Kanpur. What makes the Pulkit-directed film special for the leading man is that it marks his first out-and-out action entertainer.
Exploring a genre for the first time requires intense prep. Sure enough, Rao started prepping for the action fare as soon as he wrapped up the shoot of his last offering, Vicky Aur Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, in April.
A source reveals, “Raj rigorously worked out to build a lithe physique. Jigra’s action director Vikram Dahiya was roped in to design the action set-pieces, and helped the leading man in his prep. While the actor has flirted with the genre earlier in Hit: The First Case [2022], this is the first time he will be seen doing action on such a massive scale. The film rolled in Lucknow in the last week of August, and since then, it was a straight three-month schedule as the unit filmed in Lucknow, Benares and Unnao. They shot a grand Diwali celebration scene in Brahmavart Ghat, lighting thousands of diyas. Their last leg was in Kanpur where they shot the protagonist’s wedding sequence, before calling it a wrap three days ago.”
Maalik, also starring Manushi Chhillar, marks Rao’s second collaboration with Pulkit. If the actor-director duo’s maiden project was the historical drama, Bose: Dead/Alive (2017), their next outing hails from a different school of cinema.
The source elaborates, “It has been designed as a massy offering. Rajkummar sports two looks in the movie—a clean-shaven one, and the other is a rugged, bearded look. His character transforms from a ruffian to a gangster. He has shot several action set-pieces that include using weapons as well as performing hand-to-hand combat.”
Bengali superstar Prosenjit plays Rao’s mentor in Maalik.
With Operation Valentine, I was mentally ready for the brief of a supportive wife-Manushi Chhillar
8:22 AM
With action films offering limited scope to heroines, Manushi thrilled to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with hero as a radar controller in Operation Valentine
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 26, 2024)
As a generation that has grown up on Top Gun (1986), Bollywood movie fans have often desired a desi counterpart. Similarly, actors like the idea of fronting a story about the Indian Air Force (IAF)—from Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in Fighter, to Manushi Chhillar in the upcoming Operation Valentine. Chhillar says it was the glory of the men and women in the uniform that drew her to the Varun Tej-led action thriller, even though she was initially told the role was of an Air Force officer’s wife.
“My agent told me, ‘She is an Air Force officer’s wife waiting for him to come back home.’ As I read the script on a flight, I kept turning the pages wondering where the wife was, but she was [so much more],” laughs the leading lady, before adding, “A film centred on the air force is always about action. But Operation Valentine is also a poignant story about human relationships and the officers’ camaraderie.”
By design, films about the Armed Forces offer little scope to their female characters. But the actor was delighted to see that director Shakti Pratap Singh Hada had developed a strong arc for her part, making her a radar controller.
“I was mentally ready for the brief of a supportive wife. But in the script, I met a wife who goes along with her husband to war. I am a DRDO [Defence Research and Development Organisation] kid, and my uncle is in the army. I grew up around these families. It is a fact that many women, who work in the Armed Forces, get married to the men in the profession. That dynamic is beautifully reflected in the film. Also, now, we have many more women in the force. A year ago, we had the first female fighter pilot of the IAF. Things are changing, and that is shown in our movies.”
In her second film after Samrat Prithviraj (2022), the actor is proud to portray a strong-willed woman. “My character, Wing Commander Ahana Gill, is inspired by a real-life officer who was on set with us. As a radar controller, my character has to make rational decisions, within milliseconds, [that will determine] whether her pilot will be alive or not.”
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan: Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff shoot four songs in 12 days across Jordan
10:30 PM
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan maker Jackky decodes how Akshay-Tiger, after rigorous rehearsals, shot four songs in 12 days across Jordan
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; February 9, 2024)
At a time when tentpole movies are ruling the box office, director Ali Abbas Zafar is readying his action extravaganza Bade Miyan Chote Miyan with arguably the best people for the job, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff. With the film almost wrapped up, the cast and crew recently headed to Jordan to focus on the songs. The actors, along with leading ladies Manushi Chhillar and Alaya F, shot four numbers over 12 days across different locations of the country.
We hear the unit’s first stop was in Jerash, where they kicked off the shoot on January 22, followed by the filming of a party track along the Dead Sea beach.
A source reveals, “A top Bollywood leading lady features as a surprise element in the pool party number. It sees the four lead actors in swimwear, shaking a leg to the catchy beats. Wallah Habibi, a romantic track, was the last to be filmed in the deserts of Wadi Rum and sees the cast and over 100 background dancers in Arabic costumes and accessories.”
Producer Jackky Bhagnani, who recently returned from the extensive schedule, indicates that it all worked out smoothly because the Royal Film Commission of Jordan provided support to the production team and facilitated the necessary permits. With the songs currently at the edit table, he is happy with the way they are looking.
“The Bade Miyan Chote Miyan title track was filmed in Jerash, an ancient city with a beautifully preserved Roman theatre. One romantic song was shot in the modern city of Amman. We also set a [party] song at a stunning man-made white sand beach,” he says.
Bhagnani knew that prep would be crucial to filming these tracks at a brisk pace. That’s why choreographer Bosco Martis conducted extensive rehearsals with the cast in Mumbai before they flew out. The producer adds, “All aspects, from costumes to fittings to props, were organized in advance, within a span of 15 to 20 days. To ensure precision, Bosco even conducted a reference shoot in a Mumbai studio, to make sure he knew exactly what he wanted for the final product.”
On the sets of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan in Jordan
8:41 AM
mid-day brings all the dope from Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’s Jordan shoot as Akshay-Tiger wrap up movie with a colourful number in Wadi Rum’s sand dunes
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 3, 2024)
Why would the makers of a big-budget tentpole movie, starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, decide to shoot it in the middle of nowhere? That was our first thought when we landed on the set of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan near Wadi Rum in Jordan, on the last day of the shoot. The term ‘in the middle of nowhere’ is not being used lightly here—wish we could show you images from the shoot; unfortunately, they are under embargo. But picture this: dramatic clouds against the blue sky, unending desert and rugged mountain ranges as far as the eye can see.
From Mumbai, it took us two flights and a four-hour drive from Amman to reach Wadi Rum. From there, Mohammed, also known as Michael Schumacher, drove us down to the location for another 30 minutes as we battled gusts of cold wind and three degree temperature. Then, there was a trek to the spot where the unit was shooting. Enough to make a fellow scribe joke, “Only Akshay and Tiger are cut out to do this every day.” He was right.
Soon, there was respite as we heard some Hindi in the air. Sure enough, we had reached the set —a 250-people unit shooting a song with Kumar, Shroff and leading ladies Manushi Chhillar and Alaya F. On this day, choreographer Bosco Martis was running the set, discussing steps with director Ali Abbas Zafar for the final okay.
While we shivered underneath our two jackets, Shroff was practicing his steps shirtless. “I’m loving the warmth of the sun,” he told us enthusiastically. This is perhaps the passion that goes behind making an action extravaganza —actors, director and the crew going to any lengths to give you the big-scale feel. The big-screen magic comes at a price.
Though in Jordan, the price is significantly less. In the past few years, the country has been the site of some major productions, including Dennis Villeneuve’s Dune (2021) and John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023).
Producer Jackky Bhagnani explains that the local crew is trained, cheap and easily available. It’s inexpensive to shoot here with the rebates the government offers, even allowing 10 months of shoot without any additional taxes. What lures Zafar though is the stunning visual palette, from the sea to the mountains, from the rustic to the grand.
After an eight-hour shoot, we all headed to the film’s wrap-up party, where we watched the action thriller’s making. If the teaser was action-packed, the film promises much more—tanks, a helicopter, some cars being blown up, all of which Jordan has in surplus supplies. The country’s military has helped the Royal Film Commission of Jordan maintain replicas and real weaponry from as far as World War I. For the Indian audience, Zafar and Bhagnani have found untapped locations. What helps is the seamless functioning since the locals have an undying love for Hindi movies.
We experienced it first-hand as we headed to Aqaba, Jordan’s coastal city, on our last day of the visit. Aqaba is marked by a strange confluence; to its south is Saudi Arabia, to its west Egypt and not too far away is Israel. As we had coffee at a waterfront, the owners played the song, Bole Chudiyaan, for us.
Evading talk of how the region has been a hotbed of activity in recent times, they discussed how they can’t get enough of Bollywood. A shopkeeper at Petra, which is barely a two-hour ride from Aqaba, even offered us a few freebies since we come from the land of Kareena Kapoor Khan, making us realize that Bollywood is bigger than we think.
Check out Vicky Kaushal with Amitabh Bachchan on the sets of Kaun Banega Crorepati
7:36 AM
In conversation with Vicky on KBC, Amitabh Bachchan walks down memory lane, discusses time spent with Kaushal’s father, Sham Kaushal
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; September 15, 2023)
Sharing screen space with megastar Amitabh Bachchan on his long-running show, Kaun Banega Crorepati is a defining moment for every young actor. However, for Vicky Kaushal, the chance to sit opposite Bachchan on the hot seat was special for another reason—Bachchan and Kaushal’s father, ace action stunt coordinator Sham Kaushal’s association goes back 40 years.
“Few know that the legendary actor had written a beautiful note to Sham praising Vicky’s performance in his debut film, Masaan, the night after its release,” says a source, adding, “After Vicky’s marriage, when Big B spotted Sham at Mehboob Studio, he was excited. He yelled, ‘Badhai ho’, from a distance, and hugged Sham.”
Kaushal senior and Bachchan have worked on films like Mard (1985), Bhoothnath (2008), and Ribhu Dasgupta’s series, Yudh (2014).
On the Sony TV show, Bachchan and Vicky discussed their love for cricket. “They discussed playing the sport with the crew on set, when shoots would get postponed. Bachchan also revealed that he would play cricket with Sham during outdoor shoots in the picturesque locales of Kashmir. Vicky told Bachchan that gully cricket had been an important part of his life. He also shared that in his society, the sport is played throughout the night on the eve of January 26.”
Vicky turned up on the show with his The Great Indian Family co-star Manushi Chhillar. His film follows an Indian family, and celebrates the diversity of our country.
I realized that going back to college was not possible because you lose anonymity-Manushi Chhillar
8:24 AM
Manushi Chhillar explains what kept her away from pursuing a career in medicine after winning Miss World 2017
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 4, 2023)
She won the Miss World title in 2017 and then became an actor. But Manushi Chhillar’s original plan was to clear the medical entrance test and become a doctor.
“After winning Miss World, I worked really hard to clear my medical entrance in college. I always wanted to become a doctor and use the medical degree and my experience as Miss World to work on social causes. But life had other plans,” says Chhillar, who marked her Bollywood debut with Samrat Prithviraj (2022), co-starring Akshay Kumar.
The 26-year-old, who will soon be seen in Tehran, alongside actor John Abraham, says one can’t really prepare for life-after-fame, but she isn’t complaining, “I was three when (actor) Priyanka Chopra Jonas became Miss World. I never knew how winning the title changes your life until I experienced it myself. I realized that going back to college was not possible because you lose anonymity. There’s a certain amount of privacy and anonymity you want as a student. When you become popular, your life changes,” shares Chhillar.
Talking about her career trajectory changing from modelling to acting, Chhillar says, “People wanted to launch me [as an actor]. That’s when I learnt that the only thing that’s certain in life is uncertainty. In the end, everything worked out in my favour.”
Celebs often say that the biggest downside of belonging to entertainment industry is that your personal life isn’t private anymore. Having spent six years in showbiz, has she learnt to deal with that?
“The key is to not take it too seriously,” she says, adding, “When I became Miss World, 90% of the stuff that was written about me was all fiction. There were random stories about me that even I read or heard for the first time (laughs).”
I am happy to see more representation from India at Cannes-Manushi Chhillar
8:22 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 15, 2023)
She was crowned Miss World in 2017. Now, actor Manushi Chhillar is all set to represent India once again on a global stage — at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
“I didn’t realise the representing bit!” she tells us, adding, “If you talk about the film industry, there was a time when you would only have a few Indian actors go for these festivals (like Cannes). It is good that the numbers have been growing and there is more interest in this part of the world. I’m happy to see more representation from India.”
Chhillar made her big screen debut last year with Akshay Kumar-starrer Samrat Prithviraj, but it did not perform too well at the box office. However, the film helped her bag work. She will be seen alongside actor John Abraham in Tehran and may team up with Kumar for Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. But, no official announcement has been made yet.
“After Prithviraj, things have started rolling. There was a big pause because of the pandemic; we couldn’t shoot. So, I made my acting debut after a long wait. I’ve been fortunate to have got fame even before the film released, because of Miss World. My work generally was slow because of the (Coronavirus pandemic) situation, like everyone else’s. There’s so much you learn after your first film releases,” she says.
“Your first film chooses you, but you choose your second film. That’s really tough,” adds Chhillar, who turned 26 yesterday. “I have taken a small break to spend time with my family. I am a private person, but big on birthdays,” she laughs.
Manushi Chhillar dating Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath?
8:12 AM
Nikhil Kamath and Manushi Chhillar at Rishikesh
Vinay MR Mishra (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 21, 2022)
Former model, beauty pageant winner and actor, Manushi Chhillar, isn’t single. We have exclusively learnt that Chhillar, 25, is dating businessman Nikhil Kamath, 35. From what we have gathered, the two have been seeing each other since 2021.
The lovebirds, who have kept their affair under wraps, often go on trips together — Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) being their most recent one.
A source close to the two shares, “The two have been going quite strong. They have even moved in together. Currently, Manushi is focused on her Bollywood career, thus she doesn’t wish to talk about her love life as it might take away the attention. Their friends and family are well versed with each other and the two wish to keep it low-key.”
Kamath, the co-founder of Zerodha, had an intimate wedding with entrepreneur Amanda Puravankara on April 18, 2019, in Florence, Italy. But within a year, the couple separated.
From what we have learnt, the two are divorced since last year.
Chhillar, on the other hand, has been in the limelight since 2017. However, not once have reports of her dating someone made headlines. She made her Bollywood debut earlier this year with the Akshay Kumar-starrer Samrat Prithviraj, where she played Sanyogita.
Despite repeated attempts, Chhillar and her team didn’t respond to our query. Meanwhile, Kamath’s team refused to comment on the matter.
For Tehran's shoot, I ended up with 15 sleepless nights, but I was satiated as an artiste-Manushi Chhillar
8:07 AM
Former Miss World Manushi on how shooting nights for Tehran was tiring yet satisfying
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; October 14, 2022)
Manushi Chhillar has wrapped up her second project, Tehran, which sees her opposite John Abraham. If her debut venture Samrat Prithviraj taught her about the hard work that goes into creating a period drama, she has learnt the rigour of night shoots, thanks to the upcoming geopolitical thriller. For the final schedule in September, director Arun Gopalan lined up a fortnight-long night shoot in Delhi. The former Miss World says that the stint was as stimulating as it was tiring.
“Shooting for Tehran was an enriching experience. I learnt something new every day. In the run-up to the film’s wrap, I was only shooting nights. So, I might have ended up with 15 sleepless nights, but I was satiated as an artiste because I got to understand the craft so differently,” says the actor.
Little is known about the thriller that is said to be inspired by true events, and marks the directorial debut of ad filmmaker Gopalan. The film’s first look was unveiled in July, and saw Chhillar in a gun-toting avatar. Glad that her second offering sees her in a dramatically different role, she says, “I want to learn with every project, and evolve into an actor who is powerful in her craft.”
The movie has been shot across Glasgow, Mumbai and Delhi.
I love Akshay Kumar's professionalism. He doesn’t take work-related stress home-Manushi Chhillar
8:11 AM
Stating that hour-long meeting with Aditya was first step to bagging Prithviraj, Manushi discusses the prep that went into making her Bollywood-ready
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 27, 2022)
We hear elaborate tales from young actors about how they, since childhood, wished to see themselves on the big screen. Manushi Chhillar’s isn’t that story. “I come from an academic-oriented family. But destiny had different plans,” she starts.
Bollywood has been the destination for many beauty queens. But the 2017 Miss World winner, who will be launched with Akshay Kumar-starrer Prithviraj, says her entry into the movies is accidental. “The film happened by chance. I met Adi sir [Aditya Chopra, producer] for a 10-minute meeting that lasted an hour. [After that], I did a series of auditions. But the fact that I was the leading lady didn’t sink in until the first day on the set. In the eight months in between, I trained at YRF Studios for eight hours every day — [learning classical] dancing, doing acting workshops, and perfecting the language.”
Director Chandraprakash Dwivedi’s period drama sees Chhillar as Princess Sanyogita. According to ancient texts, the 12th century princess defied her family to marry Prithviraj Chauhan. Chhillar believes women will identify with her part. “She was courageous, someone who could declare her love in public. She called out society’s hypocrisies, and had conviction in her beliefs that made her go against her father. Women will resonate with her spirit because she fights for the power to choose.”
There has been much discussion about the glaring age difference between Kumar, 54, and Chhillar, 25. Does the age gap perturb her? “I have to convince people that I am Princess Sanyogita. She was 18 at the time, which isn’t my age. But an actor’s job is to play all ages. That my co-star is older than me or vice versa is irrelevant. All that concerns me is that I should look the character’s age.”
She has deep respect for Kumar who taught her life lessons. “I love his professionalism. He doesn’t take work-related stress home. Our industry [festers] anxiety, which can burn one out soon. He makes a conscious effort to enjoy. I learnt a thing or two about not tiring myself out.”
Manushi Chhillar learnt in her first film what I did by my 25th-Akshay Kumar
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Noting that Prithviraj isn’t an easy subject to debut with, Akshay praises Manushi for her commitment to the role
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 21, 2022)
In Prithviraj, the spotlight may be on Akshay Kumar, but the film is equally crucial for Manushi Chhillar. The historical drama, after all, marks the Bollywood debut of the former Miss World. Holding one’s own in front of seasoned actors like Kumar and Sanjay Dutt is no mean feat, and the superstar applauds Chhillar for bringing alive the character of Sanyogita.
“Manushi is a natural actor. A film like Prithviraj is not an easy debut for anyone. She is paying tribute to one of the most memorable personalities in Indian history, Princess Sanyogita. So, she is expected to have grace, and deliver a powerful performance,” says Kumar.
Soon after she was roped in for Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi’s directorial venture, Chhillar began prepping for the period piece — from reading about the ancient texts dedicated to the princess of Kannauj, to understanding her headstrong nature. With her first film being among the many projects delayed by the pandemic, it taught the debutante the uncertainty that accompanies this profession.
Proud of how she took the setback in her stride, Kumar adds, “She learnt in her first film what I learnt probably by my twenty-fifth. I was taken aback by how prepared she was to do this role. She knew she had a responsibility towards the role, and essayed it beautifully. For her to be this assured of her craft speaks volumes about her hunger to deliver on screen.”
These debutants will grace the screen in 2021/2022
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Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 4, 2021)
Every year, Bollywood is deluged by talented new actors. But 2020 was an unusual year and many actors’ dream of their much-awaited debuts remained unfulfilled. Now, with things slowly getting back on track and films slated for release on the big screen, many up-and-coming talents are set to be introduced in tinseltown. Here is an introduction of all those who are set to enter the Hindi film industry this year.
Manushi Chhillar
(first from top) The former Miss World is making her acting debut with period film, Prithviraj. She will be seen alongside Akshay Kumar in the film directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi and which is based on the life or Prithviraj Chauhan. She is playing the role of Prithviraj’s love interest Sanyogita in the period drama.
Ajey Nagar
(second from top) He enjoys massive popularity in the online space, and is known to his army of fans by the name CarryMinati. He is now all set to enter Bollywood with Ajay Devgn- Amitabh Bachchan starrer MayDay.
Shalini Pandey
(third from top) The actor, who rose to fame after starring in Telugu film, Arjun Reddy, is all set to step into the Hindi film industry with Ranveer Singh starrer Jayeshbhai Jordaar. The film is being helmed by debutant writer-director Divyang Thakkar.
Ahan Shetty
(fourth from top) The son of Suniel Shetty is all set to make his presence felt on the silver screen with Tadap. The Milan Luthria-ditected film is the remake of 2018 Telugu film RX 100 and also stars Tara Sutaria.
Lakshya
(extreme right) The TV actor, known for his shows Adhuri Kahani Humari, Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya, Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil and Porus, is making his entry in Bollywood with Dostana 2. The Karan Johar-prodoced film also stars Kartik Aaryan and Janhavi Kapoor.
Isabelle Kaif
(right; on top) After years of speculation, the younger sister of actor Katrina Kaif is finally being launched by Salman Khan in Kwatha opposite Aayush Sharma. Isabelle She had made her acting debut in a 2014 film called Dr. Cabbie starring Kunal Nayyar, Vinay Virmani, and Adrianne Palicki. She also played a small role in this Indo-Canadian production co-produced by Salman Khan.
Ahaan Panday
The cousin of actor Ananya Panday is reported to make his debut this year with a superhero film which stars Ajay Devgn. The film being directed by Shiv Rawail, grandson of the legendary H.S. Rawail and son of Rahul Rawail, is being planned as a franchise with Pandey as a superhero and Devgn as a super-villain.
Krystle DSouza
(middle; below) The TV actor known for her shows Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, Ek Nayi Pehchaan and Brahmarakshas, is graduating to films and will be seen in Chehre. The Rumi Jaffery-directed film also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Emraan Hashmi, and Rhea Chakraborty.
Sharvari
The actor, who was seen in web series ‘The Forgotten Army- Azaadi Ke Liye, is making her Bollywood debut with Bunty Aur Babli 2. Sharvari will be paired opposite Siddhant Chaturvedi in Bunty Aur Babli 2, which revolves around two con couples - Siddhant-Sharvari, and Rani Mukerji-Saif Ali Khan. The sequel will take a leap of 10 years, from where the original ended.
Rashmika Mandanna
(extreme right) The actor has starred in Telugu, Kannada and Tamil films, is headed the Hindi film industry way. She will be seen in Mission Majnu. The film stars Sidharth Malhotra as a RAW agent.
Samantha Akkineni
The actor, who works in Tamil and Telugu films, will be entering the Hindi entertainment industry with web show Family Man season 2 with Manoj Bajpaayee, Priyamani, and Sharad Kelkar.
Manushi Chhillar, Vicky Kaushal start shooting for Vijay Krishna Acharya's next
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Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 21, 2020)
Mirror had previously reported (September 3) that Vicky Kaushal and Miss World 2017, Manushi Chhillar, are teaming up for a comedy, and that the Vijay Krishna Acharya-directorial will flag off by the first week of November. On Wednesday, Vicky posted a picture from his vanity van and captioned it “Shubh Arambh”, hinting at new beginnings. The yet-untitled film is being shot in a first, 18-day schedule at a Mumbai studio.
“Contrary to speculations, it is not being filmed at YRF as that studio is blocked for Shah Rukh Khan’s Pathan,” revealed a source close to the development, adding that the urban comedy is a new genre for both Vicky and Manushi. “It’s a film that speaks about equality and celebrates the unity in diversity in Indian cultures. It’s a frothy entertainer, with lots of laughs and a social message.”
Before starting the film, Manushi wrapped up the Akshay Kumar-starrer Prithviraj, in which she portrays the character of Samyukta, the princess of Kannauj.
Manushi Chhillar and Vicky Kaushal's next directed Vijay Krishna Acharya to go on floors in October
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Duo has started prepping for the yet-untitled situational comedy to be directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 3, 2020)
Miss World 2017, Manushi Chhillar, has bagged a second film even before the release of her first. A situational comedy directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya aka Victor, it has Vicky Kaushal opposite her. “It is yet to get a title, but prep is on in full swing as the team wants to roll with it by October in Mumbai. The genre is a first for both Manushi and Vicky, as also their director,” informs a source, adding that it will be among the first films to commemorate the studio’s golden jubilee celebrations. “The script demanded a fresh pair and after lots of auditions and discussions, the team zeroed in on Manushi and Vicky. It also has a formidable ensemble cast which is currently being finalised.”
Given that we are still in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, the lead pair is prepping independently. But since it’s a first-time pairing, Vicky and Manushi will go through some workshops and November, is being helmed by National Award-winning director Chandrapraksh Dwivedi and is rooted in Indian history, with Akshay Kumar as the Rajput warrior-king Prithviraj Chauhan and her as Samyukta, the Princess of Kannauj. While that’s all intense drama and multiple script reading sessions with Victor to get their onscreen chemistry going. The source was quick to point out that it’s a jump of genres for the actress, who won the Femina Miss India title in 2017, and then went on to be crowned Miss World at the finals of the international beauty pageant in Sanya, China, on November 8 of the same year, the sixth Indian to bag this honour. Her debut film, which went on floors last romance, with lots of heavy duty action, her second film is a frothy entertainer which promises a lot of laughs.
Victor’s next will be the first film to go on floors in the midst of the still prevalent coronavirus threat, for both Vicky and Manushi. But they have been assured that all the SOPs will be strictly followed and every aspect of production will be carefully looked into in these Covid-19 times to ensure everyone’s safety.
I am sending Akshay Kumar the pictures of all my preparations of Ganesh Chaturthi-Manushi Chhillar
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Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; August 22, 2020)
Miss World 2017 Manushi Chhillar, who hails from Haryana, came to Mumbai nearly three years ago, to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. For the first time this year, she has brought Lord Ganesha home to participate in the state’s most prominent festival. Manushi, who will be making her Bollywood debut opposite Akshay Kumar soon, has opted for an eco-friendly murti, and even the decoration follows a similar theme. In an interview with Bombay Times, she talks about the festivities, how she is missing her family and more. Excerpts:
This is the first year you are bringing home a Ganesha idol. What inspired you to host a five-day celebration?
I came to Mumbai almost three years ago to take part in the Femina Miss India beauty pageant. At that time, along with a few suitcases, I carried a small Ganpati idol with me. When I was competing in the Femina Miss India pageant, my parents and my friends, too, had gifted me a small Ganpati idol. When I set off for my Miss World journey, even at that time, I was given a Ganesha idol for luck and prosperity. During all the important occasions of my life, Lord Ganesha has always been there with me. After being in the city for nearly three years, I have closely seen how Maharashtrians celebrate this festival. This year, as I was home due to the Coronavirus pandemic, I thought that I could devote a lot of time for the preparations and rituals.
Though you are from Haryana, you have also spent many years in Bengaluru and Delhi. What are your early memories of Ganesh Chaturthi?
Although we are originally from Haryana, due to my father’s job in the DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) we travelled a lot. I spent seven years of my early life in Bengaluru, and we also lived in Delhi. I was always surrounded by a cosmopolitan crowd and army kids. We did celebrate the festival then, but the way we did it was different from how it is celebrated in Maharashtra. This is very new for me. I am very excited about it, but due to the pandemic, I can’t invite people, and I’m doing it in a humble setting. It is such a lovely tradition, and I wish to continue to do it year after year.
Tell us about the preparations at your home for the festival...
I have been staying with my dad here. I miss my siblings and my mother, who are away. I wish they were a part of the celebrations, too. My dad and I set this up on our own. The theme is eco-friendly. We have a lot of plants at home, so the décor has been done using plants and a lot of genda phool (marigold flowers). Also, the murti is a tree Ganesha, which is eco-friendly. The visarjan will be done at home as the murti will dissolve in water, and later, blossom into a beautiful plant. Due to the pandemic, I have invited only my neighbours, the rest of my relatives and friends will do the darshan over video calls. As far as my colleagues are concerned, Akshay Kumar is busy shooting. I am sending him the pictures of all my preparations. I am happy that I managed to pull this off. Talking about sweets, both my father and I have a sweet tooth, and we are excited that during these five days, we will be getting to eat a lot of them. My all-time favourite is Kaju Katli and Motichoor Laddoos. Honestly, I come from a family of halwais. My great-grandfather used to own a sweet house in Delhi.
How did you keep yourself busy when work came to a standstill during the pandemic?
When I realised that the city was going in for a lockdown, I took stock of my paints and canvases. I enjoy painting and that kept me going. I am also utilising this time to finish my studies. I have enrolled for an online course in English literature. Luckily, I had my father here with me. I think if there is anyone in my life, who has influenced me and inspired me to think big, it’s my father.
Were you disappointed that the lockdown came at a time when you had just started your journey in Bollywood?
I think this period was tough not only for those who were starting out, but everybody at large. In fact, it felt like a small break, and now, it’s time to get back to your routine. A lot has happened in the last three years. Imagine, this was a city that I had never visited before I landed here for the Femina Miss India beauty pageant. From being an unknown city, I happily refer to it as home now. I still don’t feel that I have begun my journey in movies, maybe once I see myself on the big screen, I will realise that.
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