Showing posts with label Neil Nitin Mukesh. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Neil Nitin Mukesh. Show all posts
Neil Nitin Mukesh grieves the loss of Dharmendra: "Dharam ji was the grandfather I never had"
9:02 AM
As told to Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; November 25, 2025)
Dharam ji is the only person who filled the void of me not having met my grandfather [Mukesh] ever. This is something I mentioned to him on day one of the Johnny Gaddaar (2007) shoot. He told me an anecdote that I was not aware of it all up until then. He told me, ‘Neil, your grandfather (Mukesh) sang the first song for my first film, Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere (1960).’ When I informed him that I had not met my grandfather, he told me, ‘Don’t ever say that again. You met your grandfather. I’m right here.’ He was the grandfather I never had.
There’s another moment I can’t forget. Dharam ji’s character Sheshadri finds out that Vikram has double crossed him. There was a moment where he was supposed to slap me on screen. Unfortunately, his hand landed on my cheek. He got so upset.
Now because of the slap, I naturally teared up. But when I looked at him, he had a tear in his eye. The moment the shot was done, he hugged me and said, ‘I’m sorry. I don’t know how that happened.’ I told him, ‘No! This is your aashirvaad on me’.
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S Farah Rizvi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 25, 2025)
Actor Neil Nitin Mukesh fondly remembers late legendary actor Dharmendra, with whom he worked in his Bollywood debut almost two decades ago.
“For me, it’s a loss like losing a family member. I unfortunately didn’t have the opportunity of meeting my grandfather (legendary playback singer Mukesh) ever, as he passed away before I was born. But when I met Dharam ji, he bridged that gap for me completely,” shares Neil.
For Neil, it was life coming to a full circle. “Dharam ji’s debut song was sung by my grandfather, and look how destiny planned my debut with him in the film Johnny Gaddaar (2007). History repeats itself, and how. When he met me, he said, ‘Your grandfather did playback for me, and when I heard you are doing this film, I wanted to work with you.’ I was so emotional back then and still am.”
The actor adds, “Even after the film was out, he met me, pulled my cheeks, and in his charismatic style, said to me, ‘Well done, boy. Well done!’ Seeing him on screen with me was such a pleasure; that moment still gives me goosebumps. When I recently happened to see him in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, it brought tears to my eyes.”
As a fan and having had the chance to work with other members of the Deol family, Neil says, “My heart goes out to them all because they are such a closely-knit family. All his children looked up to him and loved him a lot. I feel their pain because I’ve luckily gotten an opportunity to work with Bobby (Deol) in Players (2012) with Hema ji, and with one of his grandsons behind the screen. For me, they are like my own people.”
We tend to glorify our struggles-Neil Nitin Mukesh
3:57 PM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; February 21, 2025)
Eighteen years ago, Neil Nitin Mukesh debuted as an actor with Johnny Gaddaar. Ask him about the challenges he faced in getting a foot in the door, and he says, “It is ironic that you ask about my struggle from eighteen years ago because the struggle still continues. I am still struggling.” Excerpts from a conversation.
‘TODAY, THE BENCHMARK IS TIGER SHROFF; HOW DO YOU SURVIVE?’
Talking about his struggle, Neil confesses, “We tend to glorify our struggles. My grandfather had his struggle, my father had his struggle, and maybe I’ve just inherited that struggle.”
‘We are in an era where social media has just taken over’
Neil, who recently donned the producer’s hat, is baffled by the social media game. “We are in an era where social media has just taken over. I have been told by producers and filmmakers to up my social media game a little bit because they need actors who have ‘numbers’. When I asked them about the other options they were looking at, I was told that they were people who weren’t even actors. Are you ready to take that risk? You’re demoralizing an actor who’s worked so hard for so many years,” he says.
‘I’ve been told to up my social media game as makers need actors who have the numbers’
Neil, who will be seen in the Telugu film MaayaOne, and is also making his digital debut with GOAT, adds, “There is no dearth of actors. Someone or the other is being launched every week, and they are all brilliant. They are all trained. I come from an era where I’ve seen slightly overweight actors also remain superstars for decades. Now, you need to not only have a body, but you should also be able to dance, do backflips and more. Today, the benchmark is Tiger Shroff (in terms of physicality and fitness). So, in that space, how do you survive?”
‘I don’t feel shy about calling people for work’
Neil admits that he has no reservations about calling filmmakers for work. He shares, “I don’t feel shy about going up to someone whether it’s a casting director, producer or an actor who I know personally and ask, ‘Sir, I’m looking for work. Could you help me?’ Everyone gets so busy setting up their work or being in their comfort zone that sometimes they forget you exist or that they might have worked with you in the past. It is important for me to reach out to them and remind them of my existence.”
‘I DO FEEL THAT I HAVEN’T GOTTEN MY DUE’
Eighteen years and over 20 films later, after working with many National Award-winning filmmakers, does Neil think that he has not gotten his due as an actor?
The Saaho actor replies, “Of course, when you still have to pick up a call and relive every moment of yours from 18 years and put it out there to remind someone what work you have done up until now, you feel that you haven’t got your due. Sometimes, when I sit back alone in my room, I pray and think about it. I’m a very emotional human. I do feel that I have not got my due. However, now, with the kind of opportunities that are out there for actors, the way ahead looks promising.”
Jacqueline Fernandez shoots one of OTT's biggest songs with 200 dancers for GOAT
9:09 AM
Sources say Jacqueliene has shot a larger-than-life dance number with 200 dancers for GOAT, making it among OTT’s biggest songs
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 19, 2024)
Dance numbers are a rare feature in the OTT world that thrives on taut storytelling. Recently, however, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali changed the language of web shows as he showcased larger-than-life songs in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Now, Jacqueline Fernandez will bring a vibrant track to the screen with her maiden web series, GOAT. Sources tell us that the actor recently filmed it with 200 background dancers, making it arguably the biggest dance number in Indian digital entertainment.
The thriller, helmed by Abhishek Sharma, is led by Neil Nitin Mukesh and Siddharth Nigam. A source reveals, “Jacqueliene’s song was shot over Wednesday and Thursday at Shiloh Bar in Andheri. She trained with choreographer Ruel Varindani for two weeks before facing the camera. For the number, Ruel has blended different dance genres, including contemporary and hip-hop. The location, where a grand set-up was built, was cordoned off from the public to ensure a smooth shoot.”
It’s not common for OTT shows to include dance numbers, but we hear it is of significance in the Jio Cinema series. The source adds, “It serves as a turning point in the story, bringing the central characters’ journeys at an interesting juncture.”
Jacqueline Fernandez, Neil Nitin Mukesh pitted against each other in upcoming web series
8:42 AM
Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 24, 2024)
Having done OTT films such as Drive (2019) and Mrs Serial Killer (2020), actor Jacqueliene Fernandez is set to mark her web series debut with the show G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time). We have exclusively learnt that the show, which also marks the OTT debut of actor Neil Nitin Mukesh, will have a musical setting, with Jacqueliene and Neil pitted against each other.
A source says, “Jacqueliene plays a dance mentor, while Neil plays a music mentor to the kids. The show will revolve around their rivalry. It is a musical and will feature an ensemble cast, including actors Siddharth Nigam and Sumedh Mudgalkar.”
The project is currently being shot in Mumbai. It holds a lot of importance for Neil, who hails from a musical background, with his dad Nitin Mukesh and late grandfather, Mukesh, being veteran musicians. The source says, “While Jacqueliene is an amazing dancer, Neil comes from a musical legacy. He plays the piano and this is the first time he is getting to honour his musical heritage on screen. He is quite excited.”
Jacqueline Fernandez, Neil Nitin Mukesh bag Abhishek Sharma's web show G.O.A.T.
8:42 AM
Fernandez set to team up with Ram Setu director Abhishek Sharma for her first web series
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 19, 2023)
Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez is poised to make her much-anticipated debut in the OTT realm with a project titled G.O.A.T. for Jio Cinema. A source from the production informed mid-day, “Jacqueline was the first option to do the series. She is headlining the series along with Neil Nitin Mukesh. The show will be directed by Ram Setu director Abhishek Sharma.”
While not much is known about the project, the source further revealed, “Their primary shoot is in Mumbai. We will be shooting in different parts of the city over the next four months.”
With filming scheduled to commence in November, the series promises to captivate audiences with its narrative and cast. The actor was last seen in a cameo role in the Emraan Hashmi-starrer Selfiee and has a film with Sonu Sood titled Fateh in the pipeline.
I’m still figuring out the meme culture-Neil Nitin Mukesh
8:48 AM
Spandan Fulkar (BOMBAY TIMES; October 14, 2023)
Johnny Gaddaar holds a special place in Neil Nitin Mukesh’s heart for numerous reasons, one of which is the fact that it was his debut role. In a chat with us recently, Neil shared that he prays daily, hoping to get a chance to reprise the role.
“Despite my constant efforts, there has not been any progress yet (on a possible sequel). I’ll keep pursuing the team, hoping to convince them that I am still relevant to reprise the role that is synonymous with me and my existence. Let’s hope things work out,” he said.
‘STILL FIGURING OUT THE MEME CULTURE’
Neil has often found himself at the centre of internet humour. While he doesn’t support belittling someone for someone else’s 15 seconds of fame, he shared that he had no choice but to navigate this landscape.
“I never expected this to be the new norm. I do not belong to that school of thought. But then, the legends haven’t been spared, so who am I in comparison? Honestly, I’m still figuring out the meme culture, but have learned to smile it off as long as it makes someone happy,” he said.
LOVE FOR THRILLERS AND GREY CHARACTERS
Neil shared that roles with shades of grey attract him. The actor, who has played a variety of roles in his career, shared, “Roles with shades of grey have attracted me and thrillers are my forte. If the opportunity came by to something in that zone, I’d jump right into it.”
ON REMAKES
I feel one should not mess with classics. That said, if there was one role that I would absolutely love to recreate, it would be Rishi Kapoor's role from Yeh Vaada Raha.
ON RETURNING TO THE BIG SCREEN...
Neil’s last big screen appearance was in 2019 (Bypass Road and Saaho). When asked if he plans to return in a movie soon, he replied, “I’ve never understood the term comeback. As an artiste, there are times one needs to sit back, rehearse, reinvent, but mostly sharpen the axe before getting back in the field. Unfortunately, the pandemic created a bigger gap in this process. The industry and its functioning changed. While offers were coming in, by the time I signed something exciting, it took longer than expected. But production and writing has kept me busy.”
"I lost a family member": Bollywood celebs mourn the demise of Pradeep Sarkar
8:35 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (March 25, 2023)
VIDYA AND I WOULD PLAY PRANKS ON DADA, BUT HE WOULD NEVER GET ANGRY: RAIMA SEN
I still can’t believe the news that Dada is no more! Boudi, his wife, gave me the news. I have worked on numerous ad films with him and in Parineeta. In fact, he was the person who convinced Vidhu Vinod Chopra to cast me in Eklavya. I went to his home to meet him after the lockdown. I shared a beautiful rapport with him where I could walk into his office or home without a prior appointment. Dada used to be super cool on the sets. I remember Vidya and I would play pranks on Dada, but he would never get angry. Food used to play an important role on his sets since he enjoyed eating. Dada will remain with us forever.
IT FEELS LIKE I HAVE LOST A FAMILY MEMBER: RANI MUKERJI
I am shocked by the news of Dada’s passing away. I, in fact, spoke to him just the other day when I had gone to Amritsar, to the Golden Temple, where he had called me telling me about my film so we had a long chat. He was insisting on a video call, but the network was not good, so I was unable to do that. We were planning to meet this week… but this is just so unexpected. I had a great connection with him, we’ve done a lot of work together over the years, so it’s literally like losing a family member. I will hold on to my last memory of him being so happy and excited for me when he had called me to share the feedback he was getting for my film and me from all over.
HUGE LOSS TO THE FILM & AD WORLD: RIDDHI SEN
This a huge loss to the film and advertising world, but I will miss Pradeep Sarkar the human being the most. He was one of the most passionate, honest and empathetic people I’ve known, a person with an incredible sense of humour and a heart of gold.
DADA, YOU WILL BE MISSED: KAJOL
Dada, you will be missed. Your sense of humour, humility and all the work you put into your films will always be remembered. RIP
‘A BRILLIANT FILMMAKER FULL OF LIFE, ENERGY, AND POSITIVITY’
AJAY DEVGN: The news of Pradeep Sarkar’s demise, ‘Dada’ to some of us is still hard to digest. My deepest condolences. My prayers are with the departed and his family. RIP Dada (sic).
SWANAND KIRKIRE: Filmmaker and dearest friend Pradeep Sarkar the mad man left us this morning. Dada your passion for the art of cinema will stay in your works! Duniya bhar ki mitti ikatthi karte the ab jannat ki mitti dibiya mein bharna. Thank you for loving me and my words (sic).
ABHISHEK BACHCHAN: Terrible news to wake up to. Rest in peace, Dada. Thank you for the love and for making me a small part of your life. Will miss you. #PradeepSarkar (sic).
RITUPARNA SENGUPTA: I am one of the privileged ones who had an opportunity to work with you in two ad films. You have always made us proud, you have left us too early. My condolences to the entire family (sic).
NEIL NITIN MUKESH: In my heart and in my fond memories of him, Dada will always be remembered as that grownup child with the vision of a genius. He was full of life, energy, and positivity. A brilliant husband and brother. He loved eating chalk, and I would always tease him for that.
RAJEEV KHANDELWAL: That I spent some time with him... that I got the opportunity to know him... that I knew I was close to him... that I knew he loved me too is enough for me to cherish his life. When I crossed that line of professionalism and developed that emotional bond with him the only worry was his health. Those innumerable lectures of trying to shake him from his complacency on the health front and those innumerable ‘I know you love me’ smiles on his face as the response. My short-lived journey with him will be large enough for me to miss him for life. If I could reach him, I would say... thank you, Dada, for giving me those moments. You will remain special forever (sic).
TAHIR RAJ BHASIN: I will always remember Pradeep Dada with eternal gratitude as the man who trusted me with Mardaani. I remember being extremely nervous on day one of the shoot. It was a production-heavy day, we were holding up traffic, and there were 100 junior artists on set — an intimidating environment for a first-timer. After my first take, I waited with bated breath as he watched the monitor. After what seemed like an eternity, he yelled out for the entire set to hear, “that was great!”. That validation still rings in my ears when I walk onto a set to this day. He was a visionary par excellence and ahead of his time. He lives on in the films he created.
— With inputs from Renuka Vyavahare & Ruman Ganguly
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HINDUSTAN TIMES (March 25, 2023)
Hansal Mehta: Pradeep Sarkar. Dada. RIP.” Sharing Mehta’s tweet, actor Manoj Bajpayee also condoled his death and wrote, “Ohh! That’s so shocking! Rest in peace Dada!! (sic).”
Ajay Devgn: “The news of Pradeep Sarkar’s demise, ‘Dada’ to some of us is still hard to digest. My deepest condolences (flower bouquet). My prayers are with the departed and his family. RIP Dada (sic).”
Kajol: “Dada, you will be missed. Your sense of humor, humility and all the work you put into your films will always be remembered :pray: RIP (sic).”
Abhishek Bachchan: “Terrible news to wake up to. Rest in peace Dada. Thank you for the love and for making me a small part of your life. Will miss you (sic).”
Nimrat Kaur: “Had the great pleasure of being on his set a few times in my modeling days. His hearty laughter and relentless perfectionism will forever be etched in my heart. Deepest condolences to his loved ones. Rest on Dada…the heavens above are a happier place. #RIPPradeepSarkar (sic).”
Today, those who initially mocked me are patting my back-Neil Nitin Mukesh
8:34 AM
Syeda Eba Fatima (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 11, 2023)
Neil Nitin Mukesh surprised everyone with his body transformation pictures on Instagram, where he’s seen flaunting his chiselled physique. The actor reveals that the journey of over a year has been challenging. “Some of my close friends were upset about me giving up alcohol and not being able to party with them as I was focused on getting back in shape. Some even mocked me, saying things like, ‘You are looking so frail. You are losing weight. Are you not getting food at home?’ But nobody understood what a transformation period is like,” says Mukesh.
In his social media post, the 40-year-old mentioned becoming socially distant during the transformation phase. The actor explains, “My friends’ comments did hurt me initially and I became very defensive. In fact, I would often fight back. Maybe they were just joking, but I learned, to each their own.”
For the Saaho (2019) actor, it was only about being disciplined and having the willpower and confidence to fulfil his dream. “I wanted nothing to come in the way of the goals I had set. And today, those who initially mocked me are patting my back,” Mukesh says with pride.
The actor admits that he lost control of his lifestyle and became complacent during the pandemic. “I would tell myself that the moment work starts again, I will push myself to get back in shape. There was worry because I have a family history of obesity and I did not want to look the way I was looking. My biggest motivation came while playing with my daughter. I realized that I needed to work on myself,” recalls Mukesh, adding, “I have been off alcohol for a year and a half. I have been off gluten and dairy. I was vegan for almost six months, following a regimented food diet.”
I’ve turned 40 but feel I’m 4, thanks to my daughter Nurvi-Neil Nitin Mukesh
8:15 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; January 15, 2022)
It’s a momentous day for Neil Nitin Mukesh, who turns 40 today. While he had earlier planned to bring in his landmark birthday in a special way, today he looks at a toned-down celebration with his immediate family members at home. Neil says, “I have turned 40, but I feel like a four-year-old! Thanks to my daughter, Nurvi, who I enjoy spending time with. It feels refreshing to disconnect from the world and play puzzle games and watch cartoons with her.”
As he looks back at the past four decades, Neil says, “I am grateful to the almighty. He has given me a great set of parents and siblings. I am blessed to have carried on my father (singer Nitin Mukesh) and grandfather’s (singer Mukesh) legacy.”
Reflecting on his journey in the industry, Neil, who has been a part of films like Johnny Gaddaar, New York, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and Saaho, among others, shares, “Before I got into films, I used to think that even if I get to do half a dozen films I would be happy. I consider my journey successful. Ups and downs are a part of everyone’s life.”
One of the major milestones in his career has been turning producer with Bypass Road (2019), made under his banner NNM Films. It was written by him and directed by his brother Naman. Neil, who also acted in the film, says, “The company that my brother and I started four years ago is doing well. We have developed some projects out of which two films are already greenlit. I feel it is going to be an exciting phase professionally. ”
My parents were upset with my choice, but today people recognize me for Johnny Gaddaar-Neil Nitin Mukesh
8:11 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; September 7, 2021)
Neil Nitin Mukesh has always opted to do things out of his comfort zone. The actor admits he never chose to do a typical Bollywood masala film at the start of his career and has now interestingly, created a space for himself in the thriller-action genre. Being in the industry for more than two decades, Neil who recently turned producer shares his thoughts on BO success and why he had to choose a different path in Bollywood. Excerpts:
You turned producer and screenplay writer with Bypass Road (2019). After acting for almost two decades, how does it feel to wear the producer’s hat?
I feel there are many factors that contribute to the success of a film. Individually, I can’t take credit or discredit for the success of a film. Before my film, there were two films clashing at the BO — Ujda Chaman (which released on November 1, 2019) and Bala (which released along with Bypass Road on November 8). We were juggling dates for the release of our film. The distributors decided to push our dates between these two films. Somehow our film got between two big films, and we were not prepared for that. It was an inevitable situation and we had to accept the fate of the film and move on. I put two years into the film. My job is to work hard and make a good film, but distribution is not my forte. When you are clashing with titans, you have to be somewhat prepared for the fall. But, I am happy that the film was received well.
You started your career with Johnny Gaddaar and have continued to play hard-hitting roles in New York, Jail, Lafangey Parindey, Tera Kya Hoga Johny, 7 Khoon Maaf, Players and more recently, Saaho. It seems that thriller is your favourite genre as an actor.
Seventy per cent of my career is filled with thriller films, I must have done more than 30 films in that genre. And now, when I write a film, naturally I like to write in the same genre. I have grown up watching fiction, make-believe cinema and I like to venture into a larger-than-life space.
When I was younger, I used to get influenced by people’s opinions and never understood my forte or passion, but after facing many rejections at auditions, I realised that I have to do something different. Many people did not want to accept a singer’s grandson or son as an actor, and they treated me politely because of my legacy. They even felt I should sing and give up on acting. That was not encouraging. But, thanks to the late Jhamu ji (Sugandh, producer) who offered me two films — Johnny Gaddaar and Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na. I had seen Sriram Raghvan’s films and loved Ek Hasina Thi. So, even though Jaane Tu… was a love story, I decided to opt for Johnny Gaddaar and the gamble paid off. I opted for this film because it was a hard-hitting role, and it would consolidate my position as a good actor from my first film. My parents were upset with my choice, but today people recognize me for Johnny Gaddaar.
And soon after that, I deliberately started choosing films like 7 Khoon Maaf, New York, Players, Jail and Wazir, which were hard-hitting roles. I wanted people to sit up and notice me because many felt a singer’s son cannot act. So, in that context, I am not in the rat race. I also feel that we need to bring back strong characters in our cinema.
Do you feel that even after doing some of the toughest roles in your career, your best films did not meet with the kind of success expected from them?
There were many factors that contributed to some of my films not working at the BO, in spite of them being critically acclaimed. Like I said, sometimes distributors might not do justice to it. Johnny Gaddaar was stuck for two years, Jhamu ji passed away and then it was released after it got a new producer. On the other hand, New York was padded well, and it got the success it deserved. But, having said that, I have a Saaho which was a big success, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Tamil film Kaththi and Telugu film Kavacham — all these films made good money. In Wazir, I had a five-minute scene, but it was so crucial to the film that Vidhu Vinod Chopra named the film after my character. Every time I worked hard for a film and it didn’t work, people said, ‘Arre aapka role toh itna accha tha, what happened?’ My role in Jail was the toughest ever, I went into depression because of it. I don’t want to blame the audience, they are intelligent and the rest is the fate of the film.
You come from a film background, yet one has not seen you socialise as much with the movie fraternity or align with any camps in the film industry?
No, I don’t think going to parties or being part of popular camps helps actors land roles. It is unfair to say that just because you are part of popular camps you will find a role. Today, if I am comfortable working with someone, obviously I will choose to work with him or her in my future projects. I am blessed that many big production houses have given me many good opportunities and they have shown willingness to work with me in future projects. To say that groupism or partying helps, it is unfair to all those big production houses. They have been making good films and giving opportunities to many talented people in the industry.
Finally, one sees a lot of your videos with your daughter Nurvi on social media. How has fatherhood changed you?
Suddenly, I realise that I have become very selfless as a father. The world is not about what I want, it is all about Nurvi and her mother’s happiness. She is a great stressbuster. I enjoy doing her hair, reading poems to her and following a certain discipline. She is also growing up around her grandparents because we have all moved into a new home recently. I am happy that she does riyaaz with dad (singer Nitin Mukesh) and puja with my mother. I am enjoying this time with her.
Actor Bikramjeet Kanwarpal succumbs to COVID-19
7:51 AM
THE TIMES OF INDIA (May 2, 2021)
Mumbai: Actor Bikramjeet Kanwarpal (52) who has appeared in films such as ‘Page 3’ and ‘2 States’ as well as television show ‘Adaalat’ died due to Coronavirus-related complications on Saturday morning. He is survived by his parents.
“He was admitted to the Seven Hills Hospital 10 days ago. He was later shifted to the ICU as his condition worsened. He passed away this morning around 5 am,” said Kanwarpal’s friend Himanshu Dadbhawala.
After retiring from the Indian Army, Kanwarpal made his acting debut in early 2000. His other movies include ‘Rocket Singh: Salesman Of The Year’, ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’, ‘Aarakshan’ and ‘The Ghazi Attack’. On TV, some of his noteworthy performances include Anil Kapoor starrer ‘24’, ‘Diya Aur Baati Hum’ and ‘Yeh Hai Chahatein’. He was last seen in the web series ‘Special Ops’.
Several cine personalities took to Twitter to pay tribute to a most “disciplined, energetic and positive man”.
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BOMBAY TIMES (May 2, 2021)
Bikramjeet Kanwarpal, who has been a part of many films and TV shows, passed away yesterday due to COVID-19 complications. The 52-year-old former army officer began his acting career in 2003 with the movie Page 3. Later, he was seen in films like Paap, Hijack, Murder 2, Hate Story 2 and The Ghazi Attack, among others. He has also featured in shows, including 24, Diya Aur Baati Hum, Yeh Hai Chahtein and Dil Hi Toh Hai. He was last seen on TV in Tenali Rama. His colleagues, directors and friends from the film fraternity took to social media to express grief.
Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt said, “Major Bikramjeet Kanwarpal passes away. Taken from us by the cruel pandemic. I have done a lot of films with him and this doesn’t get closer home. The days are turning into one long obituary and yet each life that we lose cannot be just a number. We cannot allow it to become a number. Each a special friend. May his soul rest in peace (sic).”
Rohit Bose Roy wrote, “The happiest, most gentlemanly, always positive and smiling Major Bikramjeet... RIP.”
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MUMBAI MIRROR (May 2, 2021)
Bollywood mourned the demise of actor Bikramjeet Kanwarpal due to Covid-related complications. He was 52.
Born in Himachal Pradesh, Bikramjeet played supporting roles in films and television serials, last seen in the 2020 Neeraj Pandey directorial thriller series, Special OPS. He also played prominent roles in the thriller crime series Illegal-Justice, Out of Order and Aapke Kamre Me Koi Rehta Hai.
He was the son of an Indian Army officer, Dwarka Nath Kanwarpal, who was awarded the Kirti Chakra in 1963. In 1989, he was commissioned into the Indian Army. Bikramjeet retired as a Major in the Indian Army in 2002. In 2003, he made his Bollywood debut and went on to act in films like Page 3, Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year, Aarakshan, Murder 2, 2 States, The Ghazi Attack.
“Extremely sad news . I’ve known Major Bikramjeet for so many years. He and I have worked on so many films together. The last being Bypass Road. Such a fantastic, encouraging and energetic human being he was and will always be remembered as. #RIP My dear friend will miss you,” wrote Neil Nitin Mukesh.
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, who has worked with him, wrote, “Saddened to hear demise of Maj. Bikramjeet Kanwarpal a talented actor who had acted in my films Heroine, Page 3, Corporate & Indu Sarkar. Will miss our conversations on Indian Army and his dream project film on Siachen.”
Arjun Rampal, Neil Nitin Mukesh test positive for COVID-19; Katrina Kaif, Bhumi Pednekar recover
8:08 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (April 19, 2021)
Arjun Rampal and Neil Nitin Mukesh shared on social media that they have tested positive for COVID-19. Arjun urged all those who came in contact with him to take necessary precautions. “I have tested for COVID-19. Even though I am asymptomatic, I have isolated myself and home quarantined, getting the needed medical care. I am following all protocols as is required of me,” he wrote adding, “To all those who have been in contact with me in the past 10 days, please take care and take the necessary precautions. (sic).”
Neil, in his post, informed people that besides him, members of his family, too, have tested positive for Coronavirus. “In spite of all necessary precautions, including staying home, unfortunately, members of my family and I have tested positive for COVID-19. We are all home quarantined, following the essential protocols, and taking medication as prescribed by our doctors. We thank all of you for your love and good wishes. Take care and stay safe (sic),” he wrote. He further added, “Need all your love and blessings. Please do not take the situation out there lightly (sic),” Neil added.
Meanwhile, Bhumi Pednekar and Katrina Kaif have recovered and tested negative for COVID-19. In her social media post, Katrina thanked all those who checked on her, while Bhumi wrote, “Am — but super + about life (sic).”
Images: Bollywood fraternity bids adieu to Rajiv Kapoor
8:15 AM
MID-DAY (February 10, 2021)
Family, friends and several Bollywood personalities bid adieu to actor-director Rajiv Kapoor, son of celebrated filmmaker-actor Raj Kapoor, as he was cremated yesterday. Rajiv, the youngest among five siblings died after suffering a heart attack. He was 58.
Randhir Kapoor and nephew, actor Ranbir Kapoor led the funeral procession. Actor Neetu Kapoor arrived with son Ranbir at the late actor’s residence. Aadar Jain, son of Rajiv’s sister Rima Jain, along with Tara Sutaria, and Alia Bhatt were spotted. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan, actors Sanjay Kapoor, Chunky Pandey, Sonali Bendre, and Neil Nitin Mukesh were also in attendance at Rajiv Kapoor’s residence.
Rajiv made his acting debut with 1983 film Ek Jaan Hain Hum, but made first appearance as a leading man in blockbuster Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985), which was Raj Kapoor’s last directorial venture. He went on to feature in films like Aasmaan, Lover Boy, Zabardast and Hum To Chale Pardes.
Rajiv’s last film as a hero was 1990’s Zimmedaar. He then made a switch to production and direction with films like Henna, Aa Ab Laut Chalen, and Prem Granth respectively.
He was set to make a comeback to the screen with the sports drama Toolsidas Junior, starring Sanjay Dutt.
Neil Nitin Mukesh to have a low-key birthday bash, with friends and close relatives
8:09 AM
Shreya Mukherjee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 15, 2021)
Every year, his quiet birthday dinners eventually turn into a party. But this time, actor Neil Nitin Mukesh will ring in his special day with just his close relatives and friends.
“The biggest celebration this year would be of keeping good health and staying close to family,” he continues, “Some close relatives and friends might come over, but the celebration will be low key, following guidelines. Because of papa (singer Nitin Mukesh), we are not entertaining a lot of people. He’s diabetic and above 70 years of age, so we are taking precautions. In fact, work wise, papa and I haven’t picked up much, deliberately. We want to wait a little longer.”
The one who’ll make the most of his birthday, the actor says, is his daughter, Nurvi. “For her, every cake that comes to our house is her birthday. She loves blowing the candles,” he adds.
Busy with writing and pre-production of two films and a web series for his production house, Neil, who turns 39 today, says they’re eager to be back on set soon. “Both our films are thrillers. I’ve finished the final draft of one and the second draft of the other. The web series is ready,” he says, adding that he may act in one of them, while the other would have a “much bigger star”.
Talking about the offers coming his way, he says, “I’ve not received as many offers in the last two years as I did in the last eight months. But, it’s always about quality. Every day I read about a new film and I’m like, ‘Oh God, I should start soon’, but I also look at the pros and cons of associating with the right project.”
The Saaho (2019) actor goes on to say that he’s waiting for his share of “fantastic films”. “There’s no insecurity. I’m getting web offers too, but if it’s my debut, I’ll take up something worth every bite,” says Neil, who has also recorded his debut single. “Coming from a family of two generations of massive names as far as singing is concerned, I don’t want to make a mockery out of it,” he signs off.
Image: Neil Nitin Mukesh and family bring in Ganesh Chaturthi in new 8-bedroom apartment
8:26 AM
They moved into the 8-bedroom apartment 3 months ago, in the midst of the pandemic
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 29, 2020)
Three months ago, in the midst of the ongoing pandemic, Neil Nitin Mukesh moved into his new home in Lower Parel, an eight-bedroom apartment his father Nitin Mukesh and he had invested in long ago. “It was a long-pending dream for the Mukesh family,” reveals the actor, adding that they got possession only last year. “Till then, I lived in Andheri while my father stayed put in our ancestral home on Nepean Sea Road. We were wondering whether to rent this one out or move in together. After five years of staying separately, we had got comfortable living on our own. But I didn’t want my parents to miss out on my daughter Nurvi’s growing-up years. So, in June, we decided we’d live together as a family again.”
The actor admits that it was difficult convincing his papa to get out of one house, sit in a car and move to another. The doctors, too, were sceptical about Nurvi and him being close, given that at not-yet-two and 70, they were the most susceptible to the Coronavirus. “To ensure that everyone was safe, we completed Nurvi’s round of vaccination, kept her isolated at home for 14 days, before moving into the new flat,” informs Neil, admitting that the shift required lots of planning as they had to inform the housing societies, stock provisions, including his father’s medication, but at the same time carry along only what was absolutely necessary. “I brought only three Tees and three boxers, a pair of jeans and a jacket for myself.”
The initial plan was to just move in for two days to bring in his father’s 70th birthday on June 27. “It’s been three months and when I told papa recently that I’ll be resuming work soon and asked when we should plan to return to our own homes, he said that he wants us to stay together till the year end,” Neil smiles, elated to see his wife Rukmini and his mother together and his father looking after Nurvi. “My daughter keeps both my parents on their toes, this feeling is absolutely priceless!”
With the family together, Ganpati celebrations are also more fun with Nurvi as the in-house pandit and an eco-friendly 18-inch idol instead of the usual five-feet one. “We have taken permission to drain the water after visarjan in our garden downstairs. The decorations are from the previous year’s celebrations, Nurvi and I put them up together. All the decorative clothes have been handstitched by my mother,” relays Neil, who has a degree in art and used it to good effect to apply henna on his wife’s hands since they couldn’t call a professional this year. “Mom liked the design so much I had to apply henna for her too.”
The actor also clears speculations around a digital debut. “That’s not happening. But I start shooting for a feature film; a thriller, by September end. I have a new look and have been given around 40 days to prep,” he signs off.
I was asked to choose between Johnny Gaddaar and Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na-Neil Nitin Mukesh
8:40 AM
As told to Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 19, 2020)
I’m fortunate to have got two first shots in my career. As a child, I was cast as the young Rishi Kapoor in Yash Chopra’s Vijay. I had to jump into the hotel pool during the song “Akkad Bakkad Bambe Bo” for my first turn in front of the camera. I didn’t know swimming then, but I dove in excitedly and went under. Somebody had to jump in to save me. I swallowed a lot of chlorinated water and was terrified I’d drown. So, when I was called to do the shot again, I refused. Yash uncle, who was like a father figure, managed to cajole me into doing it. He bought a box of chocolates and sat next to me, counting them. By the time he reached 100, I’d agreed.Despite the scare, I loved being on the set and realised this was what I wanted to do when I grew up.
I was 21 when I left my job as an assistant director and enrolled for a year of acting classes. At 23, I was knocking on the doors of every producer for work. They all agreed to meet me because of my last name, but held out no hope or promise. One day, I was at an event representing my father, who wasn’t in the city, standing by the bar and feeling frustrated, when someone nudged me. He asked if I was Nitin Mukesh’s son who was looking for work everywhere. I nodded, thinking here was another person who had come to lecture me, but it was Jhamu Sughand, who invited me to his office the next day.
I reached at 9 am sharp, and he offered me a choice between two films — Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na (JTYJN), which eventually got made with Imran Khan, and Johnny Gaddaar. I was on a flight to Delhi later that evening with my mother for my cousin’s wedding. When I told her about the offer, she wanted me to opt for JTYJN because it was a love story. But I was inclined towards Johnny Gaddaar. She read the script to me on the flight and I was hooked, but she was doubtful because I was just 24 and the film required me to kill five people onscreen. She insisted I read the JTYJN script, which I did on reaching Delhi. But my gut instinct told me to go with Johnny Gaddaar as it would give me a chance to explore a side to my personality that was drastically different from my upbringing, while JTYJN was actually me in real life.
When I went back to Jhamu sir’s office, I asked him if I could do both films. He told me I’d have to choose between the two as he wanted to start both the films in the same year. I said “yes” to Johnny Gaddaar and he put me on a six-month prep with director Sriram Raghavan, telling me I had to work with him daily.
I met Sriram the same day. He sent me to the set of Parineeta where Anurag Kashyap took my audition in front of almost 100 people. Then, started the workshops. I didn’t know if I was in the film until Sriram came knocking on my door the night before the shoot. He had a box of pedas with him and congratulated me. Till then, I had believed he thought of me as his assistant, but later, I realised it was his way of teaching me the craft.
My first shot required me to go to a chemist shop and ask for a bottle of chloroform. My excuse was that my cat was gravely ill and I needed the chloroform to put him to sleep. The scene comes at a point in the film when the plan has already been put into action. We were in Aram Nagar and the shot was okayed in one take. In fact, the whole shoot went by in a flash. It was my bad luck that Jhamu ji suddenly passed away and the film was stuck for almost two years. A lot of people told us no one would go to see a long-delayed film. But we believed in it and once it released, well, the rest is history.
I’m a daddy’s boy; I worry about him-Neil Nitin Mukesh
8:00 AM
Neil Nitin Mukesh hasn’t met father Nitin Mukesh in over two months due to lockdown; daughter Nurvi, two scripts have kept him occupied
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 4, 2020)
Since the Coronavirus-triggered lockdown was announced, residing in his Mumbai apartment with wife Rukmini, daughter Nurvi and a nanny, Neil Nitin Mukesh’s work-day begins after he is done playing with his year-and-a-half-old moppet. “After lunch, it is time to resume writing,” the actor says, pointing out that since his 2007 debut with Johnny Gaddaar, he has had at least two releases every year. “But I don’t know about 2020, unless Firrkie comes directly on OTT.” The film, co-starring Jackie Shroff and Karan Singh Grover, was to arrive in cinemas this year.Work-related uncertainties aside, Neil is happy to be home with Nurvi. “I was away on a 45-day shoot of Bypass Road when Rukmini’s due date was approaching. And although I made it back just in time for the delivery, I always felt that there was a gap to be bridged,” he admits, adding that the toddler is quite attached to him now. “Whenever I wear a mask, she realises I am going downstairs and starts crying.”
Nurvi herself is amassing a fan-following with videos of her dancing, which routinely pop up on her actor-father’s social media. “She is very energetic and had started running just before the lockdown happened. I feel bad that there are no open spaces for her to run right now. But one day, I noticed her responding to music and now, she dances twice a day to expend all the energy,” the actor shares, adding that Rukmini and he used to join her in the beginning but not any longer.
Neil misses his veteran singer-father Nitin Mukesh. Despite being in the same city, they haven’t met in two-and-a-half months. “He was advised to live separately as he is a senior citizen but we’re constantly in touch over the phone. On Saturday nights, the whole family connects virtually to jam together. I am a complete daddy’s boy. Since Chintu (Rishi Kapoor) uncle’s demise, he has been feeling low. I am trying to keep his spirits high. We’re each other’s anchor, I worry about him on a daily basis,” the actor confides.Steering back to the writing, Neil informs that he has finished penning a web series and is on the final draft of two stories—a murder mystery and a thriller. “The latter will be directed by my brother Naman. I have written all the scripts keeping myself in mind but I am not averse to having other actors play the parts if need be,” he says.
On the acting front, he was to start work on two projects, set in London and Goa respectively, which have been pushed. “Now, we aren’t sure if we will even get permission to shoot there,” he sighs. Nonetheless, Neil is happy with his body of work and points out a unique feat. “I may be the only actor to have worked with two generations of several families—Dharam ji (Dharmendra in Johnny Gaddaar) and Bobby (Deol in Players), Abhishek (in Players) and Amitabh Bachchan sir (in Wazir), Shakti Kapoor sir (Vijay), as a child actor and Shraddha (Saaho), and Anupam Kher (Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and Indu Sarkar) and Sikander (Players),” he points out, adding that he has also worked with almost 12 National Award-winning directors, including Yash Chopra (Vijay), Abbas-Mustan (Players), Sooraj Barjatya (Prem Ratan Dhan Payo), Pradeep Sarkar (Lafangey Parindey), Sriram Raghavan (Johnny Gaddaar), Kabir Khan (New York), Sudhir Mishra (Tera Kya Hoga Johnny), Vishal Bhardwaj (7 Khoon Maaf) and Madhur Bhandarkar (Jail, Indu Sarkar), in his career.
He forayed into South films with A R Murugadoss’s Kaththi, which will soon get a Hindi remake with Akshay Kumar. Has he been approached to reprise his part? “We have been discussing it. Considering the current situation, I will request them to take me so that I find some work to do,” Neil laughs.
Any plans for turning director? “I will definitely do it, but I can’t set a deadline. If I feel a story needs to be told, and I need to direct it, I won’t hold back. For now, I have two-three stories that I will start developing soon,” the actor signs off.
Irrfan Khan’s colleagues share memories of the man and the actor - Part 2
8:37 AM
Actor Irrfan Khan dies of cancer at 53. Film industry, friends and fans in deep mourning over the loss of one of the finest actors Hindi cinema had ever seen
HINDUSTAN TIMES (April 30, 2020)
DIMPLE KAPADIA
Irrfan was truly one of the greatest actors not just of his generation but the industry as a whole has ever seen. I knew right from the moment we worked together in Drishti, 30 years ago...it was an absolute privilege to have worked with him in his last film. He may have passed, but there is no doubt that his work will live on forever.
SHILPA SHETTY KUNDRA
Irrfan was great from the word go. I worked with him 14 years ago in Life In A... Metro (2007). He had a great sense of humour. We didn’t have too many scenes together but his brilliance shone.
DEEPAK DOBRIYAL
I am yet to process the news. I am quite speechless and still in shock.
MAHIE GILL
He just lost his mother a few days back and now he is also gone. I remember when I was working with him in Paan Singh Tomar (2012), I was new to the industry and he was very helpful and encouraging. The worst part is we couldn’t even go and see him one last time.
NEIL NITIN MUKESH
Just the other day I was remembering moments on sets of New York (2009). My first day of shoot was with him. I was both nervous and excited, he broke the ice. We bonded like family.
SAKET CHAUDHARY
The thing you would most remember him by is this craft and how incredible an actor he was. When you worked with him, you came out not only as a better director but also as a better person.
NIMRAT KAUR
I started my career with him, in The Lunchbox (2013). He had a love for life. I was in touch with him via email the last two years. I can’t believe I am talking about him in the past tense.
ANURAG BASU
Irrfan created a space for himself in films on his own merit. He had started on his journey in Hollywood but timing got the better of him. He always said he was made for something bigger.
DIVYA DUTTA
I did four films with Irrfan. I’ll always remember him for his smile, his expressive and intense eyes. It was a delight to be in the same frame with him. His nuances were unparalleled.
VISHAL BHARDWAJ
I feared that he will be gone much before his time, but I didn’t expect that it will be so devastating and ravaging to me personally. It feels as if I am torn into two parts. A part of me has died with him.
RADHIKA MADAN
He was one of the strongest people I knew, a fighter. So are Sutapa ma’am, Babil and Ayan. I’m just grateful that our paths crossed in this lifetime. A legend.
MITHILA PALKAR
We lost a gem today and I don’t think this void can ever be filled. I hope his family finds strength to cope with this loss. His mere presence on the set was like attending an acting school for me.
Neil Nitin Mukesh makes his web debut
8:28 AM
With his second act as an antagonist, actor forays into digital entertainment with an untitled film
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; February 16, 2020)
In his second outing as an antagonist after Saaho, Neil Nitin Mukesh will play a con artiste accused of murder, kidnapping and identity theft, in Zee5's next. Making a debut in web entertainment with the currently untitled project, Mukesh says he gives his nod to projects based on three factors, "the director, [the story of] my character, and the platform."
Mukesh tells mid-day the story "is based on one of the biggest prison breaks in India" and that his character will have multiple personalities. Prawaal Rawal's directorial venture, he says, "challenges me as an actor". "I was excited to be part of a one-hour short film. This was the perfect [film] to debut with on the OTT, before I [took up] a web series," adds Mukesh.
The Johnny Gaddar actor had already expressed his interest in the project when Rawal was only toying with the idea. "Prawaal was making a film on a similar subject earlier and I wanted to be part of that film, but things didn't pan out. I feel it's almost karmic to get a call from him when he was tackling the same subject for the web. My character is multi-dimensional. After doing films like, 7 Khoon Maaf [2011], David [2013] and Wazir [2016], I kept wondering if there ever will be another shade of grey. I wanted something challenging and this is a step further. I will be playing seven shades of grey with one character."
Nurvi loves her papa a lot and I hope it stays this way. I spoil her rotten-Neil Nitin Mukesh
7:42 AM
Neil Nitin Mukesh says that fatherhood is treating him well and his toddler, who is his ‘stress buster’, has changed his life for the better
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 24, 2019)
Having recently marked his debut as a film producer and screenplay writer with his home production, Bypass Road, Neil Nitin Mukesh is in a happy state of mind. But what has truly changed his life is his daughter, Nurvi, who turned one recently. “Fatherhood is blissful,” he says, adding, “Nurvi is such a mischief-maker. She constantly keeps us on our toes. I was very tired for the last one-and-a-half year as I’ve been working non-stop. But amidst all the anxiety, stress and the butterflies in my stomach, I kept waiting to go back home so that I could disconnect with everything and be with Nurvi.”
Neil says that he loves pampering his child to bits. “When I see her, I feel so secure and warm, that all my exhaustion vanishes away. She’s her papa’s baby. She loves her papa a lot and I hope it stays this way. I spoil her rotten. She’s the apple of all our eyes,” he says with a smile.
The Johnny Gaddaar (2007) actor goes on to share an anecdote about his daughter. “These days, whenever she sees me on television, she immediately looks at me in a rather surprised way. I remember this instance when I was watching something on television and they were playing Tune Jo Na Kaha from New York (2009). Nurvi is quite inclined to music and she really liked the song. She sat up straight and went, ‘Papa! Papa!’ I was so surprised that she recognised me. She had this question mark on her face and she couldn’t look away from me. Then she came crawling to me and started touching my face as if to figure if I was the same person who she saw on TV. Now, Rukmini (Neil Mukesh; wife) keeps showing my videos to her,” he concludes with a laugh.
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