Milap Zaveri reveals that Satyameva Jayate sequel will go on the floors in April with National Award-winning action director-duo Anbu and Arivu designing stunts
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 31, 2019)

Mirror had earlier reported (May 23) that Divya Khosla Kumar will play the leading lady opposite John Abraham in Satyameva Jayate 2. Now, we have learnt that the vigilante action drama, which is currently in the pre-production stage, is going on the floors in April 2020.

According to director Milap Zaveri, the sequel will be bigger in scale. “The first film dealt with corruption, but with Part 2, corruption in all spheres—from the police to politicians, industrialists, the common man—will be tackled,” he says, adding that there will also be elements of humour in the film. “It is situational, in the Dabangg and Rowdy Rathore zone. There are moments in the film where John will play to the gallery.”

The filmmaker goes on to reveal that he has got National Award-winning action director-duo Anbu and Arivu, who worked on KGF: Kolar Gold Fields, on board to choreograph action set-pieces. “We have already started working on the action. I am finding new things for John to tear apart now. He is my Hulk and I believe he can smash anything,” Milap asserts, adding that two songs have been locked, while planning, story-boarding and location-hunt are in progress. “There will be schedules in Mumbai and some other states.”

Next up, Milap plans to make one film in the franchise every two years. “Like Sylvester Stallone has done Rambo, I will keep making Satyameva Jayate with John addressing new issues. He will keep growing older but will continue to fight corruption in the series. His personal aesthetic in films is more in the realistic zone, but he often jokes that Milap’s films are his cheat days,” the writer-director laughs.

After several adult comedies, Milap forayed into the action-drama zone with Satyameva Jayate and followed it up with Marjaavaan. Ask him what led to the shifting of gears and he says, “I have grown up watching Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra films and got a taste of heroism while working as a dialogue writer with Sanjay Gupta on Kaante. After Mastizaade failed, I faced a lot of flak. The only way to fight back was to do something dramatically different. Also, I had to prove to myself that I could do something more.”

On Divya’s acting comeback after 15 years with the Bhushan Kumar, Nikkhil Advani, Monisha Advani and Madhu Bhojwani production, the director says, “There’s a lot of depth and dignity to John and Divya ma’am’s characters. I started my career with a love story and its failure made me take a step back. The confidence to write the tender moments in this story has come from Marjaavaan.”

The actor with Vishal Batra

As he gears up for the next schedule of Shershaah, Sidharth Malhotra reveals he monitored script of Vikram Batra biopic for three years before pitching it to producers
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 21, 2019)

The encouraging opening box-office numbers of Marjaavaan have reaffirmed his faith in his choice of projects. Now, Sidharth Malhotra has trained his focus on what could well be the most defining role in his career so far — Shershaah. "I am hungry to cater to a bigger audience. I feel Shershaah will have a stronger pan-India appeal than Marjaavaan. After all, it's a biopic on an Army hero who fought for the country," reasons the actor.

Malhotra, who is currently gearing up for the next schedule of the film that will bring the valour of the late Captain Vikram Batra — the Kargil martyr who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra — to the big screen, says he has been involved with the story right from its inception. "I have met Captain Batra's family multiple times. They are the ones who approached me to play the part of their son. I knew this was a story I wanted to invest in and tell. I have been working actively on the script for almost three years now. When we finally had a version of the script that we could give to Dharma Productions, they saw immense potential."

The team interestingly shot in Kargil, only days after the abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir earlier this year. "We had a smooth shoot despite so much happening in the state. The Ministry of Defence and the Indian Army helped us out at every step."

Having made a career out of (literally) taking the leap of faith, two stunt doubles tell Sonia Lulla how they can acquire any star's physique in a matter of days
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; November 20, 2019)

Mansoor Khan
Speciality: Body double
Doubled for: Hrithik Roshan for films like Agneepath, Bang Bang, Krrish, Mohenjo Daro and War, among others

With a head full of curls and a physicality that's instantly reminiscent of Hrithik Roshan, it was almost a given that stuntman Mansoor Khan would be attached with the actor for several years, following their first interaction in 2012. Almost eight years later, Khan finds it a seamless task to ape the actor's physical stature, film after film, regardless of the transformation each one requires. "Hrithik sir too says that my body is suited [to be a stunt double for him], but adds that I should ensure I do not acquire a paunch," says Khan, whose Instagram feed is brimming with images both, with the actor, and as him.

"Unless you know your job, how can you do it right?" he questions, matter-of-factly, when we ask him about the extent of gymnastics practice he must take to, to pull off the sequences in cinema that are attached to Roshan's name. "I run a lot, train in gymnastics and martial arts, and may also add in a session of gym training, in the evening. Lifting weights can affect stuntmen in that their flexibility can be compromised. So I must work on that as well. Also, there's something that we refer to as filmy fight, which is distinctly different from judo and karate, which are defence mechanisms. There is a specific training required to pull off fights where a stuntman is not meant to touch a co-artiste when throwing in a kick or punch, but must still look like they've beaten them with an impact. There's a lot of time invested in that too."

Given that the task of looking aesthetically magnificent lies on Roshan's shoulders, Khan acknowledges that it is still the actor, "with his team of trainers and nutritionists", who must still do the heavy lifting — literally. "For me, when I must look bigger, I up the intensity of my routine, executing basic movements that target primary muscles like the biceps, and chest muscles, apart from doing lunges and squats. Losing weight is simpler for me."

Toughest stunt
Those performed for Bang Bang; involved harnesses





Javed Gauri
Speciality: Vehicle-based stunts
Doubled for: Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Tiger Shroff, Prabhas, Sidharth Malhotra, Vidyut Jammwal, Kamal Haasan

Saharanpur-born Javed Gauri's first brush with fame happened as the finalist of stunt-based reality show, MTV Stuntmania, a decade ago. It brought him to Mumbai, and eventually, Bollywood. As someone who has been a stunt double for a number of Bollywood and South Indian film actors, Gauri has trained his body to be malleable to suit different physicalities. "We are usually given a 30-day intimation if we're appointed for a film, and must acquire the physique of the actor within that period. It's easy to bring about a basic transformation within 20 days, if one is dedicated. When I had to double for Salman for Bharat, I had to gain weight, and indulged in a high-fat diet. But when working for a film featuring a young actor like Sidharth for Marjaavaan, I had to increase my running and training component to shed weight, and also watch my diet."

Gauri commences each day with a six kilometre run, which, he says, is an essential to keep his body light and agile to pull off stunts on the bike, especially those that need him to lift it off the ground. Unless he is held up at a shooting schedule, he will complement his runs with a weight-lifting session. "When you have to gain weight for an actor, it becomes harder to pull off sequences. But, since we've been doing it for a while, we get accustomed. However, for sequences that are too dangerous, like those that need us to be submerged under water, we prefer wearing pads instead of gaining weight, so that we can execute it with ease."

Toughest stunt
One for a reality show. Gauri pulled it off after the stuntman who initially attempted it, died in the process

Rakul Preet Singh talks about being a happy person and shares her thoughts on unrealistic standards of beauty set by the industry
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 17, 2019)

The actor is on a roll with her latest release, Marjaavaan, and has, delivered a hit with De De Pyaar De, earlier this year. But for Rakul Preet Singh, success cannot be fathomed by the box office performances of her films. She believes in celebrating life every day. She elaborates, “I’m a spiritual person. I don’t look at the superficial definitions of success. My friends joke and tell me that I’m the 2.0 version of Satguru. I’m very happy doing what I do. Success, to me, means happiness, contentment and being comfortable about who I am. I don’t celebrate the success of a film and I’m not affected by failure. I’m just thankful that I’m getting to live my dream. There are lakhs of people who want to live this life. If people aren’t talking negative things about me behind my back, that’s real success.”

Ask her what kept her away from Hindi films and she says with a laugh, “I didn’t know I had to live in Mumbai to get work here.” She further adds, “I’m happy with my journey. I came with nothing. Everything has been an upward graph since then. But I’m constantly striving to do better.”

The Yaariyan (2014) actor reveals that she comes from a non-film background and owes her knowledge about films to the ’90s. Talking about her love for the era, she explains, “Back then, there used to be heroines and not actors. We aspired to be like them. Their beauty was unattainable and stardom, unachievable. They were quintessential divas. I haven’t watched too many films in the ’70s and the ’80s because I was in high school and my father was an army man. We used to live in border areas and didn’t have cable connections. I gained my knowledge about cinema from the ’90s.”

Rakul doesn’t subscribe to the unrealistic standards of beauty set by the film industry. “I look like a mess after my yoga sessions. I always wonder how people have perfectly curled hair post their workouts. It’s a lot of added pressure but it’s about how you take it. I’m thankful that my gym doesn’t allow paparazzi. Because of social media, we can influence a lot of people and they feel that actors always look good. It’s wrong to give them that impression. There’s a team that makes us look a certain way. It’s okay to not always look your best. You’ve got to embrace your true self,” she concludes. 

Recently trolled for her choice of outfit, Marjaavaan actor Tara Sutaria on learning to deal with the pitfalls of stardom
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 16, 2019)

The past few months have gone by in a flash for Tara Sutaria -- a dream launch in a Karan Johar production has been swiftly followed by her second release, Marjaavaan. She may have been part of showbiz for close to a decade, but Bollywood, she says, is a different ball game.

"This is all new for me. Sometimes, I feel lost when I am asked about competition or insecurities. But then, this year has also been about finding myself and focusing on the quality of work," she smiles, adding, "Acting is made out to be all about gloss. But it's a job at the end of the day. I am often asked about being an outsider, but how does that matter? Look at how the West functions, all that matters is your work."

As much as she is enjoying navigating the world of fame and films, Sutaria is also learning to take the pitfalls in her stride. The youngster's wardrobe has often garnered unnecessary attention -- if her sequinned saree at the Diwali bash became much talked about (above), she also received flak for her recent appearance in a tube top and skirt (below). "I got a lot of nasty comments. People can be hurtful with their remarks. I have chosen to be in the public eye, so this is a part and parcel of the job. My parents read all these [comments] and have a hearty laugh about it."

Meanwhile, Sutaria has her blinders on, with her focus being solely on work. She is keeping her fingers crossed for Marjaavaan. "It is a melodramatic film that demands a certain kind of acting, but I have tried to balance it."

Marjaavaan is a complete masala entertainer that is solely targeted to the single screen audiences. There’s absolutely nothing for the multiplex viewers and it works in it’s favour and also goes against the film. On the positive side, a few action and confrontational moments are excellent. The film gets better in the second half especially in the last 30 minutes. And there’s never a dull moment in the film. On the flipside, the film could have gone on a high but that doesn’t really except for one or two places. It’s predictable and some scenes are too over the top. Audiences are now not used to such kind of cinema and hence it takes a while to understand the zone of the film. And some dialogues are powerful and clapworthy while a few of them fall flat. Sidharth Malhotra gives his best but the outcome is a somewhat weak performance. Tara Sutaria is sweet and would be loved for her character. Rakul Preet Singh has a supporting part and does a fine job. Riteish Deshmukh is the best actor of the film and brings out the evilness very well. That he’s just three feet in height also gives a nice touch. Shaad Randhawa is quite over the top while Ravi Kishan and Nassar are decent. All in all, Marjaavaan is a timepass 90s style flick and do watch if you are craving for a complete single-screen fare. And try watching it in a single screen amidst seeti-taali audiences!

My rating - *** out of 5!

WILL MARJAAVAAN EMERGE AS YET ANOTHER SUCCESS FOR MILAP ZAVERI?

One of the biggest surprises of 2018 in terms of opening has to be Satyameva Jayate. The trailer had worked among the masses but no one was prepared for the fact that it’ll take a mindboggling opening of Rs. 19.65 crore! In fact, even Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Zero didn’t have such an opening as its first day collections were Rs. 18.78 crore! One can reason that Satyameva Jayate released on Independence Day, unlike Zero that came on a non-holiday Friday. However, Satyameva Jayate clashed with Akshay Kumar-starrer Gold and yet managed such a record start. The lead actor John Abraham got accolades for it but the other person to emerge as a star was it’s director Milap Zaveri. In his words, he was perceived to be finished after his sex comedy Mastizaade bombed. The way he bounced back and showed that he knows the pulse of the audiences hence was a premiere success story of 2018!

And now Milap Zaveri is back with another film for the seeti-taali crowd, titled Marjaavaan. It releases tomorrow and stars Sidharth Malhotra, Riteish Deshmukh, Tara Sutaria and Rakul Preet Singh. The trailer as expected promises a hardcore masala film, replete with dialogues in 70s style. Riteish is also a highlight and he plays a three-foot-long menacing villain. The trailer gives a bit of a déjà vu of Riteish-Sidharth’s earlier film, Ek Villain. But the team has assured that Marjaavaan is quite different. Interestingly, the release date changed multiple times. It was to release on October 2 and clash with War. But it was then moved from November 22 to November 8 and finally settled on November 15.

Marjaavaan however has plenty of challenges. Sidharth Malhotra suits the part but it remains to be seen if he has done justice. Also, his track record hasn’t been impressive; he has given 5 flops in a row. Songs also haven’t become chartbusters. Satyameva Jayate also had the hype due to ‘Dilbar’ song. Marjaavaan has couple of catchy songs but they haven’t really worked well. Due to all these factors, the opening won’t even be in double digits. A Rs. 6-7 crore first day is expected and it might go a bit higher if mass centres open well.

The other major release is Motichoor Chaknachoor, starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Athiya Shetty. It seems like a sweet romcom and the trailer has really surprised. Athiya especially looks in fine form. The excitement for the film is hardly there and this will affect its opening and also its overall prospects. Last week, Satellite Shankar too had no buzz but an opening of Rs. 50-60 lakhs was expected. However, it shockingly opened at Rs. 10 lakhs! It proved that viewers would just not go for a film if they aren’t interested. In this regard, the opening of Motichoor Chaknachoor won’t be more than Rs. 25-30 lakhs.

WHICH FILM WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE AND WHY? DO LET ME KNOW!

Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; November 13, 2019)

It’s been 16 years since Riteish Deshmukh entered Bollywood, but despite his experience spanning more than a decade-and-a-half, the actor says that the new generation is keeping him on his toes. Ahead of the release of his next, director Milap Milan Zaveri’s Marjaavaan, he talks to BT about what’s stopping him from producing a Hindi film, why he has no plans to enter politics and how he is happy with the opportunities he is getting. Excerpts...

You play a dwarf in Marjaavaan. In Indian cinema, many actors have previously portrayed vertically challenged characters — Kamal Haasan in Appu Raja (1989), Anupam Kher in Jaan-E-Mann (2006) and Shah Rukh Khan in Zero (2018). Who among them was your inspiration while playing this character?
I didn’t have any inspirations as such, but each of these actors have been revolutionary in their approach to their movies. Almost 30 years ago when Kamal Haasan did Appu Raja, it was seen as something innovative. I am also thankful to Shah Rukh Khan. In fact, we were shooting Marjaavaan at the same time when Zero was being shot, and Shah Rukh was gracious enough to show us certain VFX shots from his film. He had the best equipment available and the production was also on a higher scale. Sometimes, budget can be a limitation and at such times, it is all about how smartly you pull it off. As a director, I think that Milap has shot intelligently.

What’s the toughest part of playing a vertically challenged person?
The most challenging part is shooting with the VFX. Of course, VFX has made it easy to a great extent. For example, actors no longer have to tie their legs behind and wear shoes on their knees to portray such characters. But still, it can be a daunting task. When two actors perform, one of them playing a dwarf, it’s important to maintain the right eye level. Though both actors would be standing while enacting the scene, they can’t look each other in the face. This means that they can’t see each other’s facial expressions. There were times when I used to check out how Sidharth (Malhotra) reacted to my lines on the monitor. And then, I would be like, ‘Achcha, tune aisa expression diya hai, toh mujhe mera expression change karna padega.’ Also, to achieve the desired result on screen, we used to give five different takes of the same shot.

Given that you play a vertically challenged character in Marjaavaan, were you apprehensive that it could turn out to be gimmicky?
No, I thought that the role was great. Imagine, someone comes to you and says, ‘I have a role for you. You are the villain, but you are vertically challenged’. I was like, ‘Wow!’ The character is not gimmicky, as he thinks too highly of himself. He might be all of 2 feet and 5 inches, but he thinks ki poora zaamana uske saamne dedh foot ka hai. He might be looking at people with his head up, but in his head, he is actually looking down on them.

For a long time, you were associated with comedies and romantic films. And then, you played the villain in Ek Villain (2014). Now, Marjaavaan, too, features you as the antagonist. Is this a deliberate attempt to change your image?
I am happy that new opportunities are coming my way. I am thankful, especially to Ekta Kapoor and Mohit Suri, as Ek Villain was a big turning point in my career. Today, I have got a similar opportunity and I am happy and thrilled about it.

Marjaavaan reunites you with your Ek Villain co-star, Sidharth Malhotra. Once again, you are pitted against each other on screen...
Sidharth and I met after five years for this film. I see a lot of maturity and poise in him. There’s also Tara Sutaria, who’s marking her second outing with this movie. I haven’t seen her debut film, but when I saw her on the set of our film, I was impressed with her confidence. That makes you wonder what you were thinking when you were just two films old. Today’s generation is well-prepared, and they keep you on your toes. It is inspiring to work with them. To perform without dialogues (Tara plays a mute character) and communicate with sign language is credible.

Taking off from your last answer, what was Riteish Deshmukh like when he was just two films old?
I didn’t want to be an actor when I started off. I was called to meet a few people, who were looking for a new face. After the first meeting, they asked me to fly down to Hyderabad, and when I went there, they offered me a film. I didn’t have any understanding of what a camera is, or what lighting is. I had to learn everything on the job. During the initial years, the critics had panned me. But, I see all those people as my teachers. I didn’t know that I would love being an actor so much. Else, I would have come better prepared. That way, I could have been better at my work when I started off. But God was kind, and the audience was kinder that they accepted me with all my flaws.

From acting to turning producer, you have come a long way. You have already produced two Marathi movies, when will we see you backing a Hindi film?
Hindi cinema is exploring a lot of interesting subjects these days. The content is so good that you get confused about which one to produce. I want to pick up the right script and plunge into Hindi film production soon.

Last year, your wife Genelia (actress Genelia Deshmukh) did a cameo in your Marathi production, Mauli. When will we see her making a comeback to Bollywood?
I hope she does it soon, as she is such a fine actor. She keeps reading scripts. She was interested in a couple of films, but they didn’t work out because of time constraints. She is getting offers from Telugu and Kannada films, and over the years, Genelia has picked up Marathi really well from my mother. So, she can definitely act in a Marathi film, too.

Do your sons Riaan and Rahyl watch your movies?
Not at all. I don’t think they know what an actor is. They only see dance videos online, and think that everyone’s parents dance in them. I remember Riaan visited the set of Housefull 4 one day. This was his first visit to a film set, and we were shooting for the song, Bala. He found it too noisy and just walked out. He told Genelia, ‘You told me that baba is working, but I didn’t see him working. He was only dancing.’ So, he doesn’t think that I work (laughs!).

You come from a family with political background and even campaigned for your brothers (Dhiraj amd Amit Deshmukh). Have you ever thought about entering politics yourself?
Politics is not like a restaurant, ki acting ke saath woh bhi chala liya. It is a full-time commitment. You need to actively participate in it, right from the grassroot level. Having said that, I never knew that I would be an actor. One day, an opportunity presented itself and I took the plunge. I am enjoying what I am doing right now. My brothers are doing well in politics, and I am totally aware of what’s happening in my country and the state.

Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 13, 2019)

Earlier this year, she bagged a dream Bollywood debut (with Student Of The Year 2; SOTY 2). The film put Tara Sutaria’s career on the fast track. As she admits: “The start has been great. The bonus of being part of Karan Johar’s production house is that they give you the best beginning and a fantastic platform to start off with. Then, it’s totally up to you how you take it forward.”

Now, Tara is readying for her second outing, Marjaavaan which, she says, is “very different from my first film”. “But the nervousness and excitement will be there with every film. It’s something that will never go away. So, there’s a lot to look forward to and a lot that people will see that they didn’t in SOTY 2.”

Unlike the “very young, fun, light and easy” film SOTY 2, Tara calls Marjaavan “a very emotional, dramatic, serious, tragic love story”. “I think I am very lucky to be able to do such a film as my second movie. It’s also exciting to play a character that can showcase so many different emotions, especially considering she is mute. She can hear, but can’t speak. I don’t think any other actor is doing such a part. So, it feels unique and rare, and it’s a great opportunity to show expressions and emotions without having any dialogue,” says the actor, adding: “Also, I have never died in a film before (laughs). That too was kind of exciting actually.”

However, the 23-year-old doesn’t feel any pressure, at least for the time being as she is “still very new to this whole game and understanding of the commercials and numbers”. She adds: “I only try and pay attention to the creative aspects of movie-making.”

Next up for Tara is Sajid Nadiadwala’s RX 100 remake. “I think it’s a very exciting time for women in every sphere including showbiz. There is no better time than now to multi-task and perform many roles. Among other things, I am definitely going to be singing in my films, and I am looking forward to it. It may happen in RX 100 remake or mostly, the film after that,” says Tara, adding that she hopes to create a niche for herself as an actor-singer.

“I feel Ayushmann (Khurrana) has done it beautifully, and I am sure others can, too. I would like to be the first person (female actor) who always sings her own songs,” says Tara, adding that she has grown up watching musicals and musical theatre. “I have performed a lot on the stage and always sung for myself,” she signs off.

Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; November 12, 2019)

While most of Sidharth Malhotra’s films have had him playing a dapper dude, his next outing, Marjaavaan, sees him in a rugged avatar, full-on Bollywood style. The film, which is an out-and-out massy fare, showcases him as a larger-than-life hero, who is likely to remind the audience of the leading men from 70s, 80s and 90s. In a chat with Bombay Times, the actor spoke about playing the quintessential Bollywood hero, working with another ‘student’ Tara Sutaria, his equation with Karan Johar and more. Excerpts...

Marjaavaan is a typical masala movie, where you are doling out seeti-maar dialogues and fighting goons in filmi style. In today’s time, when films and characters are all about being real, you took this turn to play a typical hero?
It feels great to play a hero who is so powerful. Those who dream of becoming an actor, often envision themselves doing larger-than-life heroic things on the screen. In my seven-year career, this is the first time that I am playing a quintessential hero, and that’s what attracted me to this film. Through this movie, we want to present an intense, action love story, with flavours of the 70s and 80s. I was born in the mid-80s and grew up watching 90s cinema. This was my opportunity to live in that era. Milap (Zaveri, director) is convinced that there’s an audience for this kind of cinema. I think in the South, they make this kind of cinema really well and even blend in social messages and relevant issues. Here, fewer filmmakers explore this genre.

You said that you are a fan of the Hindi films of the 80s and 90s. Which actors have you drawn inspiration from?
While growing up, I had a cassette of Hum (1991) at home. I loved Amitabh Bachchan’s style. The way he would come on the screen, ruffle his hair that had a white streak, and scream ‘Bhaktaaaaawaaaaar…’ I would love it. I was a kid back then, and for a long time, I thought ‘Bhaktawar’ is an abuse. I would scream it out loud just like Bachchan saab did. My parents would laugh at that. In this film, we have drawn references from Amitabh Bachchan of that era, Sunny Deol from Ghayal (1990) and Ghatak (1996), and Sanjay Dutt from his films from the 90s.

While actors of the earlier generation were accepted in larger-than-life roles, today, actors opt to play characters that the audience can relate to. Do you think they will be able to accept you in this avatar?
Well, the senior actors have a huge body of work, but I am sure they, too, had their firsts. It is all about taking the initiative. I am in that zone, where they were some years ago. I worked hard to get that rugged look, for which I had to gain weight and grow my hair. We also worked on the character’s style, and to give him a grunge vibe, I wore a bandana and a jacket. Even though I don’t smoke in the film, you will see a matchstick in my mouth. I have taken the plunge, so now, let’s see what the audience thinks. If the audience likes me, I would like to do more of such films.

The film reunites you with your Ek Villain (2014) costar Riteish Deshmukh. This time around, too, you are pitted against each other. He plays a dwarf in the film; how did shooting for scenes with him pan out?
We have used chroma effect to do these scenes. While shooting, Riteish would stand, or sometimes sit on his knees. The latter was easier because when he stood up, I had to maintain my eye level and say my dialogues looking at him waist down (laughs!).

You started your career with Student Of The Year (2012) directed by Karan Johar, while Tara Sutaria starred in the second film of the franchise, Student Of The Year 2, directed by Punit Malhotra. How was it working with a ‘student’ from a different batch?
I met Tara for the first time at a Diwali party, which was much before we started shooting for Marjaavaan. I remember asking her whether the campus of Saint Teresa College (from Student Of The Year) has become bigger and cooler? Later on, we realised that we are neighbours. I was very excited to know that she’s a trained singer. In this film, however, she plays a girl who is speech impaired.

How is your equation with your mentor, Karan Johar, today? There were rumours of a fallout between the two of you. Is there any truth to it?
No, there’s no truth to it. I have immense respect for Karan Johar. The production house has given me everything. In fact, Shershaah is being produced by them. It’s a project that I took to them, and they really liked it. It’s exciting to work with them again. We just shot in Kargil for 50 days and are almost done with the shoot. About our equation, we all have matured and branched out, and that’s a natural progression. This will happen in the future as well because we all have to find our own path. Eventually, it is my journey. With Karan, it’s more like a friendship now. Whenever I meet him, it is like meeting a senior person from the industry.

Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; November 11, 2019)

Milap Milan Zaveri, who turned director with Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai (2010), after writing a string of successful sex comedies, is now looking forward to the release of his next directorial venture — Marjaavaan — which he says is an out-and-out massy film. However, his journey has been marred by several setbacks, with people writing him off after his directorial venture Mastizaade (2016), an adult comedy, was pronounced a dud. The resurrection wasn’t easy, but the filmmaker bounced back with the success of Satyameva Jayate (2018) and believes that the upcoming film will add to his repertoire as a successful masala film director. Excerpts from an interview:

Of late, there has been a lot of conversation around realistic cinema and most filmmakers and actors are tilting towards stories with relatable characters. However, Marjaavaan seems like a film straight out of the 70s, with a larger-than-life hero. Did you have any apprehensions about it suiting the current scenario?
Marjaavaan is a hardcore massy, commercial film, harking back to the 70s, 80s and 90s kind of heroism. The kind of films Mukul Anand sir, Manmohan Desai sir, Prakash Mehra sir and Rajkumar Santoshi made. I hope to hear whistles and claps in the theatres. I got an opportunity to explore that zone with Satyameva Jayate, in which a hero was fighting for a cause. He lived by the sword and died by the sword — the kind of anger that was seen in the 70s’ films; the kind Salim-Javed (Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar) made with Amit ji (Amitabh Bachchan).

I feel that anger has never abated; it’s still there in our system. Marjaavaan taps into the same. I believe that if you are honest to the genre, the film will work. It’s a problem when you are confused and trying to please everyone by doing a bit of everything. If you are making a massy film, be unabashed about it. You may succeed or fail, but at least you stood by your conviction. For Sidharth (Malhotra), Marjaavaan was a tough film to understand, because he has not done something like this before. The closest he came to being massy was in Ek Villain (2014), for which I wrote the dialogues. I drilled it into him that Marjaavaan is a massy film and he has to own it, or else it will reflect on screen. To his credit, despite being a city boy, Sidharth surrendered himself.

Sidharth has delivered hits in his career, but his recent films have underperformed at the box office. Was that a concern when you were casting him?
By that logic, John Abraham should have never done a Satyameva Jayate with me, because as a director, none of my previous films had worked. I always say that John is my real-life hero. In a very filmi way, he is my Ram and I am his Hanuman. After Mastizaade tanked, I was not only in the wilderness, but people said, ‘Bury him without leaving a marker on the grave. Let someone find and dig him up (laughs!)’. People behaved as if I had committed treason after Mastizaade. They didn’t want to give me another chance or meet me. John was the only person who had the courage to say, ‘I see something in this boy. I have faith in him and I will do this film (Satyameva Jayate) with him’. He has given me a new life as a filmmaker. Satyameva Jayate turned me into a mass director overnight. Now, no matter what happens in my life, I will always have a hit film to my name that struck gold and will now spawn a sequel. If Satyameva Jayate has been life-changing, I hope Marjaavaan will turn out to be life-defining for me.

How different are your sensibilities as a writer and a director, especially in the case of Marjaavaan, for which you are donning both the hats?
Nikkhil (Advani) always laments that the dialogue writer overpowers the director in me. It’s very difficult for me to separate the two because I have been primarily a dialogue writer. It also helps when I direct a film because sometimes you have to adapt to some unforeseen circumstances on the set. If an actor improvises a scene, you should have the ability to gauge whether it will affect the plot or his character. It becomes easier to take those decisions as a writer. Like in Satyameva Jayate, some scenes weren’t part of the script, but were played out on the set. In Marjaavaan, too, there are many such instances. The writer in me allows the director in me to take these liberties.

Nikkhil Advani is the producer of this film, and he is also a successful director. When you have a filmmaker backing your project, is there a possibility of him imposing his vision on you? Was there any such clash between the two of you?
There is no interference, but he certainly gives me his point of view. Though we are radically different as directors, we have the same sense of emotion and drama. The only thing is that I will push the envelope as far as the filminess goes, while he will hold back. There are times when he advises me technically, since he is an expert in that department. But to his credit, he always gives in to my conviction. I pull his leg saying that there are so many flashes of me in his directorial Batla House. If he incorporated a remixed version of the Saki Saki song, I had Dilbar in Satyameva Jayate. Similarly, while John crushed a phone in Batla House, in my film he ripped a tyre apart. I would like to believe that we have both rubbed off a bit on each other. That’s a great relationship and a partnership, wherein two different individuals love each other and co-exist.

You have been a dialogue writer for long, what made you take up direction? Was it the desire to have a greater say in the way you wanted a film to shape up?
Yes, because then you are the captain of your own ship. Whether that ship turns out to be the Titanic or reaches the shores safely is up to the audience. But it’s your baby and you are involved in every process and aspect. Every decision — good, bad or ugly — is yours, and so, the onus of the repercussion — success or failure — is on you, too. It’s a huge responsibility. As a writer, you do your job and someone else takes over. It’s like you do kanyadaan and give your daughter away to someone else.

Were people apprehensive about your ability to handle serious films as a director, given your background as a writer of adult comedies?
The first film I directed was Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai, which was a light love story and then I did Mastizaade, a sex comedy. I didn’t think that anyone would let me do a thriller because as a writer my comedies, like Masti (2004) and Housefull (2010), have been bigger hits. But after Mastizaade, I realised that I had to change myself dramatically. I had failed as a director in that genre of comedy twice. As a writer, nobody was giving me work anymore. Everyone was wary of me because they felt that since I wanted to be a director, I won’t give them enough time. However, it was a short film, which tipped the scales for me. I got overwhelming critical acclaim for it and the best reviews of my career. I am a jovial person. So, people always thought that I am a happy-go-lucky guy aur yeh toh sirf comedy hi karega. They didn’t know the anger that was brewing inside me till the short film released. The anger was directed at no one but myself for allowing myself to dig a hole, bury myself and for not living up to my potential. I wanted to prove first to myself that I am capable of doing more than that.

Do you regret writing those sex comedies?
I don’t regret anything in life. I had a great time and I made some good friends. Some of the films were hits. But yes, I won’t do it again now. I am exhausted with that genre. I will not write or direct a sex comedy anymore.

Riteish with brothers Dheeraj and Amit Deshmukh

Riteish Deshmukh on why he’s not interested in rajneeti despite being Vilasrao Deshmukh’s son, what he finds fascinating about the Tanaji chapter in history, and fourth instalment of Dhamaal
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 11, 2019)

His mood is as cheerful as the red jacket he is wearing. With the sun on his back and the calming blue of the sea before him, Riteish Deshmukh sits back to take our salvos. And this time, he is not three-and-a-half foot, but all of five feet and nine inches tall. Excerpts from an interview:

Your last release, Housefull 4, was panned by all the critics as abysmal in its efforts to raise laughs. Did that worry you?
We knew what we were getting into with this franchise. May be the critics didn’t like it. But from its first Monday, the audience took over and then, there was no stopping it. Sometimes, we get carried away by what people are saying on the social media, but it is equally important to see what is happening on ground. People in large numbers have enjoyed and one must acknowledge that.

You once said that the adult comedy genre had reached its saturation point. Do you fear the same happening with family entertainers like Housefull?
It reached a saturation point from the perspective of the audience. The kind of material that I was offered at one point had nothing new to offer, it was all so monotonous. As far as comedies, there is still a lot of scope. For example, Housefull 4 was about reincarnation. And I would like to be a part of films which explore new dimensions in this genre.

You have another film with Sajid Nadiadwala, Baaghi 3, in which you play Tiger Shroff’s cop brother.
We were half way through the Housefull shoot when I got a call from Sajid. He wanted me to hear the script of Baaghi 3. I was surprised by the offer, but when I heard the narration, I discovered it’s an extraordinary story and was on board immediately.

This Friday, you have another release coming up in Marjaavaan and writer-director Milap Zaveri describes your character, Vishnu, as the Raavan of his plot. Would you agree?
(Laughs) Milap calls me the Raavan of his life. It’s a synonym for evil… the ultimate obstacle in one’s path. Gabbar was the Raavan of Sholay, likewise, Vishnu is the Raavan of Marjaavaan.

Did you take on the film for the challenge of playing a three-and-a-half foot baddie?
It all came together as a package. Yes, the role is challenging and blended well with the narrative. It doesn’t work when you have a great character in a bad script. I had to do every shot five times and act against the green screen. When I spoke my lines, I couldn’t look my co-star in the eye because our eye-lines didn’t match. Though technology helped, we didn’t go the whole hog like Zero (SRK’s space drama) due to budget constraints.

Do you think Ek Villain opened new avenues for you as an actor. Before that you were mostly cast in comedies?
That was off-beat casting at the time and I agree that it opened new doors.

Marjaavaan initially was perceived as a sequel to Ek Villain.
Was it? But when you see the film, you will realise that it is a distinctly different story. Calling Marjaavaan, Ek Villain 2 is like calling Ram Balram a sequel to Sholay because both films featured Amit ji (Amitabh Bachchan) and Dharmendra ji.

Mohit Suri is spinning a sequel now…
(Shrugs) Well, I died in the first film, so I can’t be a part of the sequel. But I am looking forward to it.

You have announced a film on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj…
We have reworked it a bit and should lock the script soon. With a subject like this, it’s a huge responsibility to get everything right which is why the scripting took longer than expected but we should go on the floors next year.

Ajay Devgn’s Tanhaji is about his commander-in-chief, Tanaji Malusare, who fought various battles alongside Shivaji Mahara j. Won’t there be an overlap?
It’s a great chapter from our history and I am looking forward to Ajay’s film. In school text books, there’s just a paragraph on Tanaji. So it’s important to know what he stood for, learn about his bravery, his love for his land and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. I am fascinated with this chapter.

Despite coming from a family of politicians, you have managed to keep yourself away from rajneeti…
I am my own person and while I respect everyone’s views, my job is to act in films, and that’s what I am doing. I leave politics to my brothers.

But weren’t you ever attracted to power?
I have seen it all my life, so power has never really been attractive. I am happy acting, that’s power for me.

Has your script selection changed after becoming a father? What are the dining table discussions like with your wife (Genelia D’Souza)?
My script selection is still the same. As far as dining table discussions go, we discuss everything that a husband and wife do—from what our kids eat to what happened at their schools and our gym. We even read scripts together.

Finally, is Housefull 5 and a Dhamaal 4 in the works?
It’s too early to think about Housefull 5, but I hope it happens. And we have discussed an idea for Dhamaal 4. I am sure Indu ji (director, Indra Kumar) is working on it.

Attempting a masala entertainer in Marjaavaan, Sidharth Malhotra on why he won't be bogged down by the fate of his last few releases
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 11, 2019)

It is not easy to associate Sidharth Malhotra with over-the-top, dramatic films considering he has shown a proclivity towards urbane roles, so far. "But I am an actor," smiles Malhotra, arguing that his next, Marjaavaan — a masala entertainer at its core — is a necessary step. "I grew up watching Sunny Deol and Sanjay Dutt, and I was happy Marjaavaan has that flavour which hasn't been explored by me. It's my job as an actor to do something that makes me uncomfortable."

When the film's trailer dropped online, netizens pointed out similarities with Malhotra's hit flick, Ek Villain (2014). "That's just because both movies star Riteish [Deshmukh] and me. The sur of this film is different. This is a classic good-versus-evil story. The comparison doesn't bother me because Ek Villain gave me a lot. I hope this film is able to do the same."

The action drama arrives at a crucial juncture in his career — his last five outings have failed to strike gold at the box office. Ask him if it makes him insecure, and he chooses to be pragmatic. "In the past seven years, I have experienced it all — the highs and the lows. So, I am not fearful. Now, I focus on being a working actor, who wants to bring in a larger audience. I have consciously not allowed the fate of my past films to affect my current choices."

Instead of being disheartened by failures, Malhotra views them as learning lessons. "I'm not insecure about my failures. Thomas Edison, who invented the bulb, got it right at the 180th attempt. Similarly, I am learning how not to make a bad film. Every time a film hasn't worked, I have tried to understand why — was it the release date, or the wobbly script? This learning matters. At the end of the day, I am still working because filmmakers see [potential] in me."

Sidharth Malhotra says thanks to the highs and lows he faced in his career so far, he is ‘fearless and confident’ now
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 10, 2019)

It’s more than palpable in actor Sidharth Malhotra’s demeanour that he is kicked about playing a “quintessential Bollywood hero” in his next, Marjaavaan. “It’s been a great experience, something that excited me a lot,” says the actor, who has been going through a lull of sorts, in terms of his box office standing. But the Delhi boy isn’t worried as he puts things in perspective. “Nobody knows the formula for a successful, hit film,” he says, as he talks about completing seven years as an actor. He also talks about his love life, saying he only wants the audiences’ love now. Excerpts from an interview:

This year, you completed seven years in the industry. How have things been?
I won’t say I am satisfied. I am still very hungry. In my head, I feel it’s just the beginning. I am grateful for the start I got because not many get that, especially since I come from a non-film background. I think during my initial years, I was just following the trends or going wherever I was getting pushed [around] in terms of films. Now, of late, when things are getting difficult, I feel challenged and so, I am becoming more independent and following my instinct.

From the outside, it looks like you have had a roller coaster ride…
Yes, I’ve had some amazing highs and lows, which moulded me as a person and an actor. I’ve pretty much gone through all emotions in the industry. At this point, I’m not thinking about the past — be it my hit or flop films. That has made me calmer and more aware of how this industry functions. I’m more charged, focused, and hungrier for work than I ever was. From now on, the attempt is to make films for a larger audience, for the middle class film lovers who are emotional people. If I can entertain them and create a niche, that would be great for me as an actor.

Talking of Marjaavaan, it looks totally different from what you have done till now?
I’d like to keep changing the zones and [kind of films] films that I do. Every time somebody says, ‘what you are doing is different’, I feel great that I look fresh, and am not repeating myself. With Marjaavaan, I go back to the zone of Ek Villain (2014) and Brothers (2015), but in a much larger-than-life way, with lots of action and dialogue-baazi. For the first time, I play a quintessential Bollywood hero like the ones I grew up watching — be it Sanjay Dutt, Sunny Deol or even [Amitabh] Bachchan saab’s films. It’s for the first time that I have been presented like a hero, who is beating up 50 people for love. Now, I am looking forward to the audiences’ response.

After a great start in the industry, things didn’t seem to go your way when your last few films didn’t do well at the box office. What does that do to you as an artiste?
Honestly, I feel it was important for me to experience the highs as well as lows in my career — from being praised to partly written off. For someone like me, who is not from a film background, it gives me immense strength as I have enjoyed the highs and also overcome the lows. Now, I know how both feel. Nothing is alien to me anymore. I feel the biggest fear is the fear of the unknown. When that fear is not there, I look at things positively ke, ab kya darna hai, I have experienced everything. Now, there’s nothing unknown to me and that kind of relaxes me.

So, are you saying that failures have only emboldened you?
Yes, now, I am more fearless, confident. Also, there’s something that people like about me, which is why I am getting work. Producers are not my uncles and aunts who are putting money on me. I think the trick is to not look back. No major actor can say that all his/her films went their way. The ratio to hits and flops is off that way, and I am no different. But now, I am used to films that don’t go my way. The idea is to not let that fear dictate your present work and choices.

Your new film, Marjaavaan reminds a lot of the cinema of the ’70s-80s with heavy-duty dialogue-baazi etc. Was it interesting for you as an actor?
It was a totally new experience for me. I am a fan of that kind of cinema from the bygone era that would have larger-than-life heroes. And I certainly enjoyed this experience for the first time in my career. Our film that is a love story — despite being set in today’s day-and-age — will give you the flavour of the ’70s and ’80s. I feel that kind of cinema is actually the base of modern-day Indian cinema. Essentially, our film is an intense love story, wherein it was exciting for me to see one lover kill the other. But the big question is: how and why? And that’s why you have to see the film (smiles).

Also, till date, you haven’t had many stints with ‘massy’ movies…
In a way, Marjaavaan is an answer to that because in the film, I play to the gallery and appeal to the ‘mass’ audience. I hope that they come in [huge] numbers, like this kind of cinema and open up a completely new avenue for me. I have worked in Brothers and Ek Villain in the past too, and I feel I want to explore this zone even more, may be once a year.

By now, you have seen successes as well as failures in your career. Do you feel your highs and lows have enriched you as an actor?
You know, the other day, I was telling a friend that jab yeh light bulb invent hua tha toh Thomas Alva Edison ne kam se kam 170 times attempt kiya and he got it right the last time. When he was asked how he kept up despite being unsuccessful so many times, Edison said: ‘I learnt how not to make a bulb that many times, and figured out how to make it only on the final attempt.’ Likewise, there is no formula for hit films, but I believe in the concept of learning — in every department of filmmaking — from your failures. I have also learnt the importance of story-telling, writing, release dates, production and having a correct team etc. That’s the experience I take away from a film.

In the future, do you see yourself trying your hands at other aspects of filmmaking?
I want to produce [movies] in the future and will then use all the experiences that I have gathered from my films to — hopefully — make a smooth, correct and better product. Sometimes, you do spot certain alarming things in a film, which gives you an indication that it’s not correct, but as of now, I am only involved in my films as an actor and don’t have much control over things. But as an actor, I am still up for trying new things. So, looking forward is the only way. And the idea is to work harder, and try to entertain different people as much as possible, in different ways. That’s why I am equally excited about Shershaah as well, which is a biopic [of Kargil War hero, late Captain Vikram Batra].

You are an outsider in the industry. So, when you face setbacks, do they become difficult to handle? How do you keep your sanity intact?
I think it’s about learning from other people’s journeys. I remember going online and looking up big superstars and their big releases. I saw how Mr [Amitabh] Bachchan had biggies such as Zanjeer (1973), Deewar (1975) and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978) in the ’70s but there was a lull before that and even after that. Even Shah Rukh Khan faced it towards the late ’90s. So, I feel every actor goes through such a phase, and I am no different. That gives me some kind of a semblance that I’m not the only one, who this is happening to. It has happened to the biggest of stars. Anyway, this is a highly unpredictable profession.

By now, you must have got used to the link-up tales? Or do you still get bothered?
You know, I come from a family where people are salaried, and for whom security at work is very important. I think a part of me is longing for that kind of acceptance at work and that’s consuming most of my personal time as well. I have nothing against all the beautiful women [that I am linked with], but not everything that you read is true. Right now, I’ve the platform and opportunity to create stuff and be remembered for that. Fortunately, I have the understanding also to modify my craft, scripts and stories. That’s taking most of my time and I am enjoying that part of my journey, wherein I am focusing on myself, my craft, my professional life, and my movies.

Of late, you have been linked with Tara Sutaria and Kiara Advani…
Right now, the only thing that I am longing for is audiences’ love. I have had my relationships in the past but they are part-and-parcel of our profession. I genuinely feel that at present, I am more hungry and focused than I was even when I was launched or was struggling as an actor. I am single and am only mingling with people professionally. I think of late, my personal life has taken a back seat as I am being written about only for my professional stuff. You can say that I want love from not just one girl but all my female fans and audiences in general (laughs).

Playing a vertically-challenged antagonist in Marjaavaan, Riteish Deshmukh on how the film was physically demanding
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; November 10, 2019)

His filmography may be dominated by comedies, but Riteish Deshmukh likes to throw a curveball when you least expect it. After a spate of comic turns, the actor will be seen as the villain in Marjaavaan, which also stars Sidharth Malhotra.

Remind him how his psychopath killer turn in Ek Villain (2014) won him much acclaim, and Deshmukh states that the two antagonists are poles apart. "Rakesh Mahadkar [his character in Ek Villain] is, the boy next door, easily forgotten in a crowd. But Vishnu in Marjaavaan is a 180-degree turnaround from that. He is vertically challenged, but larger-than-life, arrogant and brash," he says, adding that empathy is the key to portraying troubled characters. "I try to find the emotional core. I need to understand why he is the way he is."

Understanding the psyche of a grey character can be challenging. But Deshmukh points out that shooting as a vertically-challenged character was equally arduous. "We had to film every shot from five different angles. Besides being on my knees all the time, I had several restrictions. I remember shooting for a sequence that comes right before the intermission in which I am required to stand in the muck. Once the director said cut, I was covered in muck, right from my knees to the thighs. I had to wait in that state for my next shot. In such scenarios, the performance is not the challenge. But, sitting in dirty, wet clothes for three nights becomes difficult and irritating."

Up next, he has an actioner in Baaghi 3. Having spent 15 years in the industry, Deshmukh says he only greenlights projects that "excite" him. "Even when attempting a comedy, I ask myself, if I can do something different [from what I did the last time around]."

The actress's special appearance will not feature in the Sidharth Malhotra-starrer upcoming action-romance but is expected to release as an independent single in the next few months
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 9, 2019)

Mirror had earlier reported (June 28) that Sidharth Malhotra and Nushrat Bharucha are teaming up to shoot for a special dance number for Milap Zaveri’s romantic action drama, Marjaavaan. Titled “Peeyu Datke”, the track was shot at Vasai Fort and in a Mumbai studio. Inspired by a Rajasthani folk song, it is sung and composed by Honey Singh. “It’s a party track with a desi vibe but also an underground feel which makes for an interesting contrast,” Nushrat had told Mirror. Now, we have learnt that the song is no longer a part of the film.

According to a source close to the development, Milap and his creative team felt that the song hampered the pace and decided to edit it out. The decision was taken after several meetings with producers Bhushan Kumar and Nikkhil Advani, along with Nushrat, Sidharth and Milap. “Nushrat had no issues, she understood the intent,” the source shared, adding that given the effort and the money that has gone into it, the song should be released as an independent single after a few months.

While this dance number did not make the cut, the makers have retained another special number, a recreation of Jaanbaaz chartbuster “Pyaar Do Pyaar Lo”, featuring Nora Fatehi.


WHERE DID THEY GO?

A look at past instances when actors shot for cameos which failed to make it to the final cut

Varun Dhawan
Varun Dhawan flew to Abu Dhabi to film a pivotal scene over two days for Bharat alongside Salman Khan. It was snipped to keep the length and narrative in check.

Alia Bhatt
While the actress did make a special appearance in Shah Rukh Khan’s space-drama, Zero, buzz is, she had also filmed a recreated version of “Chaiyya Chaiyya” from Dil Se. The remix was sung by the original’s singer, Sukhwinder Singh, and featured SRK in his dwarf avatar of Zero.

Sonakshi Sinha
Sonakshi was to feature in a song with Salman and the cast of Race, and shot for almost a week in Abu Dhabi. That’s the last anyone heard of the track.

Sidharth Malhotra also plans to set up his own production house
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 8, 2019)

According to Milap Zaveri, the director of your upcoming film, Marjaavaan, your character is modelled on the heroes of the ’80s and ’90s, including Amitabh Bachchan from Deewar. What are your memories of the ’75 action-drama?
Well, yes, Marjaavaan is an intense love story of today, with the flavour of those decades in its drama, dialogue, action and larger-than-life characters. I grew up watching video cassettes of films featuring Sunny Deol, Sanjay Dutt and Bachchan saab. I saw Deewar much later, but I recall Hum, whose climax had Bachchan saab holding the rope anchored to Anupam Kher who’s in a helicopter whirring at high speed. Also, of him hollering, “Bakhtawar”. I was around six then, and thought “Bakhtawar”, which was the name of the film’s baddie Danny sir (Denzongpa), was a gaali and I’d run around the house shouting it at my cousins. Bachchan saab’s characters from Shahenshah to Coolie, have all been iconic, with flair and style. We’ve incorporated some of that in my Raghu, from the long hair and the leather jacket to the simmering anger. Hopefully, it will bring back some retro trends.

It’s been a decade in showbiz for you…
(Cuts in) More like seven years as an actor, though it would be close to a decade if you count back to when I came to the city.

How has the journey been so far?
When I started out, it was all about early morning call time and sleepless nights, long days taking care of a 100 people in the background and lots of physical exertion. As an assistant director on My Name Is Khan, I was seeing stars like Shah Rukh (Khan) and Kajol in person and finding out that they had family lives too. It was all very new and exciting, but exhausting too. But since I was a lowly assistant, I wasn’t paid too well and had to model part-time to pay the rent. Then, I landed Student Of The Year and with the opportunity to be in the movies, the excitement doubled as did the nervousness. Karan (Johar) is a prolific director and I was debuting with a big film with lavishly-mounted sets and songs. I felt lucky and blessed, totally in awe of the camera which I was facing instead of toiling behind the scenes. My introduction, my song, my close-up, there was so much happening…

And then?
Then, there were more films which brought not just excitement but anxiety too, over whether they’d work. But having pretty much seen all the highs and lows, there’s less fear of the unknown now. I’ve understood that even mega stars go through this, and since the success-failure ratio is so uneven and unpredictable, there’s only so much an actor can do.

So, what advice would you give a new ‘student’ like Tara Sutaria, who’s paired with you in your next?
I don’t think any actor needs advice today, and someone like Tara definitely doesn’t. She’s been performing on stage since she was a child. She’s a trained singer and has dabbled in TV too. What can I tell her? Our schools, St Teresa’s, may have been the same, but our teachers were different. Punit (director Punit Malhotra) is much younger than Karan. And for a new student, Tara did a fab job.

What’s the next five-year plan?
To make films which cater to a larger pan-India audience, like Marjaavaan and SherShaah. I’d have loved to produce the latter, the biopic of Kargil martyr Vikram Batra. I worked on it for two-and-a-half years. In the next five years, along with challenging myself as an actor, I want to set up my own production company.

What kind of movies would you like to produce?
I’d like to spin a superhero franchise and act in it too. I am a big fan of the Marvel series. This is one genre that intrigues me, more so because we have so much existing material in our country’s mythology.

Many actors have moved to the digital space, with even movies premiering there. Will you make the transition too?
At the moment, it doesn’t interest me. As an actor, I want to experiment with different genres and when I’m already getting enough variety in the movies, why look elsewhere. Even the numbers on the digital platforms aren’t as big in India as compared to other countries. It’ll take a few more years for them to increase.

When Marjaavaan was first announced, many believed that it was Ek Villain 2, following Milap’s tweet, “Get ready for a new kind of villain as Riteish plays a 3.4 feet dwarf/midget.” Now, Mohit Suri is scripting a sequel to his 2014 action thriller. Excited about returning as Guru?
I don’t wish to speak about the future. Let’s stay in the present and enjoy Marjaavaan.

Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 8, 2019)

The year 2018 was a year of “rebirth” for filmmaker Milap Milan Zaveri. His directorial outing, Satyameva Jayate (2018), brought the genre of massy entertainers back. His upcoming release, Marjaavaan, is the next step in that direction. With the Sidharth Malhotra starrer, Milap intends on paying another tribute to yesteryear filmmakers such as Mukul Anand, Subhash Ghai, Rajkumar Santoshi, Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra, whose films he has watched growing up. “After Mastizaade (2016), there was a complete lull. I was written off and people refused to even meet me. It was as if I had committed treason. I had to fight and convince people to prove that I can also make an angry film or a drama. I’m enjoying this phase a lot, where my films are all about action, drama, masala and dialogue baazi,” says Milap.

Ask him about the inspiration behind Riteish Deshmukh’s character of a devious dwarf in Marjaavaan and he says, “Years ago, I had heard that Subhash Ghai sir was doing a film with Amitabh Bachchan called Deva, which got shelved. Lilliput sir (M M Faruqi) was supposed to be the villain in the film. I thought that having a midget villain would be so unique!”

Talking about the women in Marjaavaan, he elaborates, “The women have a lot to do in Marjaavaan. I agree with the criticism that Satyameva Jayate had. Unfortunately, Aisha (Sharma) didn’t have a very strong part. But Marjaavaan has two very strong female protagonists — Tara Sutaria and Rakul Preet Singh. Tara is the heart of this film. Rakul in Marjaavaan is like Rekha in Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978) or Tabu in Jeet (1996). She has a very powerful role with dramatic dialogues and scenes.”

For Milap, repeating the success of Satyameva Jayate with Marjaavaan is even more significant because he wants to deliver a hit film for Sidharth. “He hasn’t given a successful film in almost five years. His last hit was Kapoor & Sons (2016), but it was an ensemble film. He hasn’t had a big opening. I sometimes wonder why he’s doing the films he does. Two of his biggest openers were Ek Villain (2014) and Brothers (2015), both of which were massy, action-oriented and had angry characters. I wanted to bring back that Sidharth to the screen,” Milap signs off.

Tara Sutaria fields questions on rumoured beau Aadar Jain, her sequinned sari, letting go of films that became hits & going from glam to girl-next-door
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 5, 2019)

When it comes to star-studded house parties, Tara Sutaria sure knows how to work the cameras and then some. Barely two months after reports emerged that she could be dating Aadar Jain, the Student Of The Year 2 debutante arrived at the Bachchan Diwali party with the actor, draped in a sari which has, incidentally, been spotted on Karisma and Kareena Kapoor (Aadar’s cousins) earlier. Presumably to contemporarise it further, Tara paired it with a décolletage-flaunting satin blouse. Online, the look found takers and haters in equal measure, depending on whether you’re listening to a millennial copywriter or a seasoned blogger.

“Manish (designer Manish Malhotra), very sweetly, designed that look for me. I love his sequin saris, they are famous,” the actress shares as she sinks into a comfortable chair at a suburban five-star. For this turn, she has opted for a pair of denim shorts, white sneakers and a Gopi Vaid jacket made of traditional prints, trims and embroidery.

She is relatively less forthcoming on the topic of her date, who had, not long ago, accompanied her to Malaika Arora’s birthday bash as well. “It’s important to say this, we enjoy going out and spending time together. Aadar is special to me and both of us are foodies, so we are going to be spotted at restaurants. We met for the first time last Diwali and have a lot of mutual friends.” But are they dating? “Well, we really enjoy each other’s company,” she reiterates evasively.

Previously, there had been link-up rumours with her Marjaavaan co-star, Sidharth Malhotra. Tara is quick on the uptake, saying, “Such rumours, and not just with Sid, started even before SOTY 2. They are annoying because they’re not true and there is nothing you can say to clarify. Now, I understand this comes with the job, so I take them with a pinch of salt. I got to know Sid because of Marjaavaan. Before that we had only met at parties. We realised that we were neighbours and had so much in common as we are both ex-Students and come from non-filmi families.”

Speaking of the ex-Students’ first film together, the actress will be seen in a de-glam avatar after a teenybopper turn in her debut “I connect with Zoya more than with Mia (SOTY 2), she is passionate about music and so am I,” she explains.

The film’s release date has been moved around a few times but Tara is unfazed. “I am new in the industry, so I don’t really understand numbers yet, but I am happy that it is releasing around my birthday,” she beams, going on to share that she was planning a prom-themed party for her 24th birthday on November 19. “But now I am leaving for Mussoorie on the 15th for my next film (RX 100 Hindi remake). Ahan (Shetty, co-star) is already there.”

She is excited about portraying her first grey character in the film. “Everyone wants to play safe when they are young and starting out. I never thought I would do the things I am doing in this film,” she gushes.

Tara was offered Sandeep Vanga’s Kabir Singh which could have been another South remake for her besides RX 100. Ask her if she’s glad she didn’t do the film considering the flak it received for its blatant misogyny and she says, “I don’t think I agree with that (the film’s misogynistic tone). It’s not a true story and I think everyone has the artistic right to show what they want in their film. Having said that, I also understand and respect everyone’s opinion. I couldn’t do Kabir Singh as I was shooting for SOTY 2 and had signed Marjaavaan at the time, but I loved Shahid (Kapoor) and Kiara (Advani) in it.”

Tara also had to let go of the role of Princess Jasmine in Guy Ritchie’s live-action adaptation of Aladdin featuring Will Smith as Genie.

Ask her if she wonders whether it would have been a better launch pad and the answer is a resounding ‘no’. “I have three films coming out in my first year in the industry. That wouldn’t have happened if I had done anything else. There is a lot to be grateful for with SOTY 2. People expected it to do crazy numbers, which I understand it didn’t, but it still did well. It will always be special for me as it’s my first film,” she asserts.

Rakul Preet Singh explains why screen time is inconsequential to her, promises more releases in the coming year and talks about being single in the city
Hiren Kotwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 5, 2019)

Marjaavaan is your fourth film since your debut in Yaariyan five years ago. What makes you so selective?
I moved to Mumbai after the Miss India contest and landed Yaariyan. Two days after wrapping that, I rolled with my first Telugu film. Yaariyan took a year to release by when I’d signed three-four more Telugu films. Being young and naïve, I didn’t know I’d to live in Mumbai to get work here. I was to do M S Dhoni - The Untold Story, but the dates changed because of the length of Sushant’s (Singh Rajput) hair. Neeraj sir (Pandey, producer-director) offered me Aiyaary, before that opened, I’d got De De Pyaar De and before that released, I’d landed Marjaavaan. I moved to the city after De De Pyaar De and have already bagged four films.

Isn’t Marjaavaan a special appearance?
Milap (Zaveri, director) sold it to me saying, “This is my Rekha of Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, my Chandramukhi of Devdas.” Aarzoo is a tawaif of the ’90s with nazaaqat and shayari. I’ve grown up on characters like her but haven’t seen them lately. Arzoo has raw sex appeal as opposed to De De Pyaar De’s girl-next-door Ayesha. Plus, there are Milap’s bhaari bharkam dialogues. As for screen time, Rekha ji didn’t have a full-length role, neither did Tabu in Jeet. Even Chandramukhi was a supporting role. Yet, they are all remembered. I’d rather see a role for what it is than compare it with what it is not.

Didn’t you want Tara Sutaria’s lead role?
Both roles are great and different. If offered Zoya’s role, I’d have done it.

Buzz is, you’ve signed up Attack opposite John Abraham.
I’ve signed four films which will be announced by the month-end.

And you’ve started Shankar’s Indian 2 with Kamal Haasan...
Shankar sir is a visionary, always calm and knows exactly what he wants. Kamal sir is one of the finest actors, I feel blessed to work with them in a film.

When the first Indian released, you must have been six years old?
(Laughs) I saw it much later, after I started working in Telugu films. When I was a kid, Kamal sir’s Chachi 420 was a favourite. When working with those who know so much, you end up learning a little too, without much effort.

How nervous were you?
If it had been my first or second film, I’d have been nervous but now I’m more excited. I always wanted to do big films with big actors. I’m greedy, give me better co-stars, and I will do better.

It also has Kajal Aggarwal...
Kajal is in the flashback portions with Kamal sir. I’m with Siddharth, who plays the younger guy in the present.

Do you have a secret man tucked away?
In the last five years, I’ve been busy with 30 films, there was no time for romance. Had I met the right guy, I wouldn’t have turned him away, saying “Now, is the time to work.” Even my parents are complaining, “The whole world knows you’re single.” This Diwali, my mom told me to go party and find a guy for myself.


Rekha in Muqaddar Ka Sikandar; Rakul in Marjaavaan