Showing posts with label Palak Tiwari. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Palak Tiwari. Show all posts
Palak Tiwari doesn’t consider me a father-Raja Chaudhary
10:04 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (July 30, 2026)
Actor Raja Chaudhary, known for his stint in Bigg Boss 2, recently spoke about his strained relationship with his daughter, actor Palak Tiwari, and said that he is no longer involved in her life. The 51-year-old revealed that he does not know about her personal or professional lives, but would be there for her whenever she needs him.
Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, Raja, who has remained distant from his daughter since his separation from ex-wife, actor Shweta Tiwari, said he does not want to know about Palak’s life unless she chooses to share it with him.
“I have no idea where she is, what she is eating, what she is doing, where she is living, whom she’s living with, whom she is working with. I don’t even want to know, unless she comes and tells me, ‘Dad, this is happening’. I’m there for her 24/7, if I’m needed. But I’m not needed in her life at all,” he said.
On rumours of Palak dating actor Ibrahim Ali Khan, he said that it did not affect him because he does not share a close relationship with her.
“I would be bothered if she was a part of my life but she doesn’t consider me a father. It matters to a father if the daughter has maintained a relationship. Ask her mother how she feels about it. Why should I care? I am just a biological father; that’s what I was told. I have nothing to do with her; I was told,” said the actor.
Raja also revealed that he has blocked everything related to Palak on social media: “I don’t want to see their photos, videos because I have done my level of begging. I have justified myself enough, saying how much I miss her. I don’t want to anymore,” he said.
Raja and Shweta got married in 1998, and welcomed their daughter, Palak in 2000. Shweta filed for divorce in 2007, complaining that she faced domestic violence due to his alcoholism. The couple was granted a divorce in 2012.
Sara Ali Khan's mother put me through trauma; can't pretend to be friends with her-Orry
9:56 AM
Orry, who has been taking digs at actor Sara Ali Khan and her family, says he has his reasons
Yashika Mathur (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 28, 2026)
Social media influencer Orhan Awatramani aka Orry, has been dominating showbiz chatter lately, following unfiltered social media posts that have openly hinted at tensions with his former close friends, actor Sara Ali Khan and her brother, actor Ibrahim Ali Khan.
In an exclusive interview with us, Orry confirms the feud, saying, “If (Sara and Ibrahim’s mother, actor) Amrita Singh were to apologize, I could maybe see myself letting it go in the future.”
Addressing his decision to unfollow Sara on Instagram, Orry explains, “I unfollowed Sara a while ago, and I haven’t followed Ibrahim in years. Pretending to be friends with Sara means pretending to be okay with the trauma her mother put me through, and I just don’t think I can do that anymore.”
More recently, Orry’s remarks about Sara’s career went viral. However, he remains unapologetic and is not holding back. “I don’t think I said anything wrong about her. I just made a small joke, taking a dig at her career. I highly doubt she even felt bad about it. The whole internet makes fun of Sara’s movies all the time. In fact, her biggest body of work is a series of memes that she’s delivered via movies. People make fun of me being jobless all the time. It’s not that deep,” he ends.
When we reached out to Amrita for comments and clarification, she responded with a folded hands emoji. Meanwhile, attempts to reach out to Sara and Ibrahim were not met with any response till the time of going to press.
Here’s the context of how the ‘Sara’ drama unfolded
Once inseparable on party circuits, Sara and Orry’s friendship has hit a very public speed bump. A source tell us, the tension has been brewing since Sara’s birthday last year. It started with a spat between Orry and Palak Tiwari, Ibrahim’s girlfriend. It intensified when Orry also posted unflattering pictures of Sara in his wish. Now, Orry has been taking direct digs at Sara, Palak and Amrita on social media, leading to everyone unfollowing each other on Instagram.
The ‘worst name’ scandal
In a now-deleted Reel posted last week, Orry was asked to name the “worst names” he knew, to which he said ‘Amrita, Sara and Paalak.’ Fans have interpreted these as references to Sara, her mother, actor Amrita Singh, and actor Palak Tiwari, who is dating Sara’s brother, actor Ibrahim Ali Khan. Following this, both Sara and Ibrahim unfollowed Orry on Instagram.
Sara’s musical response
Although Sara has not reacted directly to the fallout, on Monday she posted a birthday wish for a friend. She used Vikram Sarkar’s Haryanvi song Naam Chale, with the lyrics: Khulle se khate/ na padte hisaban mein/ masti mein rehte hum/ rehte na yadan mein/ Ek life mili baby/ jee rey swadan mein/ talented balak na padte vivaadan mein. Roughly translated, the lyrics speak to living freely, avoiding calculations, and steering clear of unnecessary controversies.
Orry and Palak’s 2024 chat leaked!
Around two years ago, a WhatsApp chat allegedly between Orry and Palak surfaced on Reddit, where Palak is seen texting Orry, “If it’s an apology you want, out of respect for Sara I’m saying it. Sorry.” She was met with a middle-finger emoji in response.
The leaked exchange led fans to speculate that a serious fallout may have occurred between the two during New Year’s Eve that year, possibly triggering the tensions that followed.
A jibe at Sara’s career
On January 26, Orry shared a Reel in which he appeared wearing a micro bikini printed on a T-shirt. Responding to a comment, he joked that the printed graphic on his shirt was “holding together Sara Ali Khan’s hits.”
There was privilege but not enough of it-Palak Tiwari
8:38 AM
Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 1, 2025)
Two years after her debut in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Palak Tiwari returned to screens this May with the horror-comedy The Bhootnii. Despite being actor Shweta Tiwari’s daughter, the 24-year-old says she wasn’t seen as a typical star kid in the Hindi film industry.
“I was somewhere in this middle ground. I was like, ‘Oh, these people are calling me a star kid, but I’m not really one. But also, I’m not a normal person who’s auditioning in Andheri’. There was privilege but not enough of it; there was also normalcy, but not enough of it too. It was tough to find my place. In many ways, it was a privilege. But in many ways, I was typecast instantly. I did struggle with that, but I’m still trying to find my place,” she shares.
When asked if she feels she’s living her mother’s dream of being on the big screen, Palak responds, “My mother got multiple chances to be on the big screen, but she was content with television. It has given her and us so much. My life and my brother’s life are comfortable because of television, so I will always respect and honour the medium. My mom was very happy there, and aisa kabhi nahi tha unhe ki wo chhod ke films mein jana hai. She really knows her roots, and she never was greedy in that sense.”
So, with her mother’s legacy behind her, why did Palak choose films over television? “It wasn’t like I didn’t want to do it because I saw it as a smaller medium. TV has given our industry such brilliant, versatile and phenomenal actors. But I felt that because of my mom’s legacy in television, everything that there was to be explored, she had done that. So, there was nothing new for me to discover there,” she explains.
Actors aren’t trying to steal models’ jobs-Palak Tiwari
8:36 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; April 26, 2025)
In recent times, stars who walked the ramp as showstoppers for fashion designers have been facing a lot of backlash on social media. There is an ongoing debate about whether it is fair for movie stars to take the spotlight on the runway that once belonged to models and supermodels.
When we brought this up with Palak Tiwari, who walked the ramp at the Bombay Times Fashion Week, the actress shared her perspective on it.
‘Celebrity showstoppers have to face a lot of judgement’
Palak says, “People need to understand that we are not claiming to be professional models, nor are we trying to take away their jobs. Some people think we, actors, believe that we’re superior. Celebrity showstoppers have to face a lot of judgement and pressure. We’re very aware that models are superior at walking the ramp — they do this for a living. Designers are kind enough to invite us. People should know we’re not professionals; we’re simply doing our best. I really hope for more kindness.”
‘We’re there to support the designer’s vision’
The Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan actress further adds, “A fashion show is about the designer’s vision coming to life. When a designer envisions an actor as a showstopper, we’re there to support that vision. If they choose me, I aim to walk in a way that makes them proud.”
I suffered professionally due to the perception others had of me-Raja Chaudhary
10:53 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 23, 2025)
Raja Chaudhary, who was part of the first season of Tenali Rama, returned to the ongoing season in a new role as Chaudapa Raya. The actor, who was last seen in Kaisa Hai Yeh Rishta Anjaana last year, shares, “I was happy, and it was great to reconnect with the old unit and friends.”
He acknowledges that being open about his personal life - he was earlier married to actress Shweta Tiwari - and past controversies may have cost him work opportunities. He says, “I don’t feel I’ve had the amount of work I truly deserve, possibly due to the negative publicity surrounding me. People who have never even met me assume I am always creating problems. If I really caused problems, why would the makers of Tenali Rama bring me back? Yes, I suffered professionally due to the perception others had of me.”
On a personal note, Raja, who battled alcoholism, shares that he has been sober for a while now. “Alcoholism was a major issue in my life, but I realized it much later. I was able to overcome it by focusing on something positive — pickleball. I immersed myself in the sport, which kept me busy and helped me fight my addiction. Thankfully, I’ve overcome it, though it remains a daily challenge. I have to push myself to stay on track. Since 2021, I’ve been living a sober life, and I can think more clearly, stay calmer, and be happier now. Sobriety has given me a broader, more positive outlook on life. When you’re not sober, your mind doesn’t function as it should, and you make decisions that you might regret later.”
He credits his family for being a strong source of support during his recovery. He says, “My parents were uncomfortable with my alcoholism. Ultimately, you live for your family, and when they’re not happy with you, it makes you realize you need to change. Once I acknowledged my mistakes and decided to surrender, I was able to work on myself. My family has been with me through it all, offering their moral support. If I could change one thing about my past, it would be never to have touched alcohol. It disrupted my life, and I didn’t handle situations the way I should have.”
Having gone through two failed marriages — one with actress Shweta Tiwari and another with Delhi-based corporate professional Shveta Sood — Raja is not looking for love or marriage at the moment. He says, “Although I am not averse to love and marriage, it’s not something I’m planning right now. Maybe when it’s meant to happen, it will. Let’s see.”
Regarding his relationship with his daughter, actress Palak Tiwari, from his first marriage, he says, “We stay in touch. She reaches out whenever she gets time from her busy schedule, and I do the same. I’m very proud of her.”
Imagine you are running for life as someone is chasing and trying to kill you; isn’t that most glamorous thing ever-Orry
6:36 AM
Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; October 31, 2024)
Last year, Orry (social media star Orhan Awatramani) threw a Halloween bash at his home in Mumbai, and this year, B-town’s favourite boy is celebrating Halloween week, where he will be donning a variety of looks. Orry, who believes the occasion gives you a chance to express yourself through your outfit, will also be doing multiple Aamir Khan looks from his films including Taare Zameen Par and Ghajini.
‘I identify with the Grand High Witch’
Contrary to the quirky outfits he’s flaunting this Halloween, Orry invited Bombay Times home, as he slipped into some gory getups to celebrate the spookfest. “Nothing is more glamorous than scariness. Imagine you are running for life, barefoot, someone is chasing you and trying to kill you... isn’t that the most glamorous thing ever, as seen in films. I would love to be running for my life as long as I don’t die,” he says.
Ask him which horror character he identifies himself with, and he says, “Grand High Witch (Anne Hathaway’s character from The Witches, the dark fantasy comedy horror film).”
‘Last year, I dressed up as Saif Ali Khan from Go Goa Gone’
Orry, who enjoys participating in Halloween bashes as it tests his creative skills as he plans the whole look himself, shares some of his favourite looks from the parties he has attended. He says, “One of my first parties I attended was when I was in boarding school in Kodaikanal. I became a squid. I had blue makeup on my face, wore a blue outfit and on my head, I had a giant squid with its tentacles coming down on my body. In college, I dressed as Miley Cyrus and my friend was the Wrecking Ball. At Sussanne Khan’s party last year, I dressed as Frankenstein.”
Does Orry believe in ghosts?
While he loves all things spooky, Orry shares that he doesn’t believe in ghosts. “In boarding school, I thought I had paranormal encounters, but then I realized there was a scientific explanation to it.
Orry’s Halloween must watch movie list
Scream
Friday the 13th
Sorority Row
Prom Night
A Nightmare on Elm Street
Raaz
Halloween Rapid Fire: Name a celeb who you think can nail these spooky characters
Witch: Sara Ali Khan. I think she can be a sexy witch
Nun: Ananya Panday. She can pull off this look well
Chucky: Palak Tiwari. She looks like Chucky
Zombie: Navya Naveli Nanda because I feel zombies have heavy eye makeup, and Navya with big smoky eyes can nail this look
(Halloween props sourced from: Mota’s Party Kingdom, Bandra)
Surgery jisne karvaayi hai uski shakal par dikhti hai-Shweta Tiwari
8:09 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; July 26, 2024)
After being away from television for over a year, Shweta Tiwari, last seen as the protagonist in Main Hoon Aparajita, is set to return to the small screen with Aapka Apna Zakir. The comedy show marks her comeback to the genre 13 years after winning Comedy Circus Ka Naya Daur.
As the only woman in an all-male cast, she shares, “Aise shows mein ladki hona aasaan nahi hai. They often tease you, and there is a lot of leg-pulling. I think it will be fun, though. I have realized that aaj kal ki comedy sirf logon par hassna hai. However, this show is different because Zakir makes jokes about himself and his life experiences. I personally resonate with clean comedy that doesn’t demean anyone. Also, people often think women can’t do comedy and are only there for their looks. I feel I have changed that perception by doing comedy. I don’t think I will be just a pretty face there.”
‘A workout is the best anti-ageing remedy’
In recent years, Shweta has garnered attention online for being one of the fittest actresses in showbiz. She says, “People have started to believe that staying fit is all about looking good. Many focus on achieving perfect abs, often resorting to supplements and steroids, which can be harmful. When I approached a trainer, he asked me what I had in mind.”
Shweta says, “However, my daughter (Palak Tiwari) told him I didn’t have a specific target or wanted to emulate someone else’s physique; I just wanted to be fit.”
She adds, “Women need to make time for themselves. Just working out for an hour a day can make a significant difference. A workout is the best anti-ageing remedy.”
‘I come across bizarre comments on social media every day’
Compliments are often accompanied by trolling, but Shweta remains unfazed by the negativity on social media. She says, “I come across bizarre comments every day, and it amazes me how far-fetched people can be. Logon ka ye sochna ki main gold-digger hoon, shaadi se paise lekar main apni life chala rahi hoon. I read such nasty comments and I know those who post them don’t actually believe them – they just like to add that extra bitterness. I don’t care about what people say, I do what I want.”
‘Many people think one can’t be naturally beautiful anymore’
Talking about how some people think that she has gone under the knife, Shweta says, “People assume I have had surgeries, but that’s not how you stay healthy and fit. Surgery jisne karvaayi hai uski shakal par dikhti hai. If you want to correct something and look a certain way, that’s fine, and I am not against it. But many think one can’t be naturally beautiful anymore, which I don’t agree with it.”
‘I have taught Palak not to let others’ opinions affect her’
Reflecting on her journey spanning two decades, the Kasautii Zindagi Kay actress shares, “One of the most important lessons I have learnt, and something I have taught my daughter, is not to let others’ opinions affect you. People will try to plant doubts, telling you that you can’t do something or that you’re not fit for the job. But you have to believe in yourself first, and eventually, others will come around; they won’t have a choice.”
Tug of war is underway between celebs and paps about zooming in on their behind
11:09 PM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 26, 2024)
The culture of the paparazzi is growing more and more prevalent every day. Stars are always popping up on our Insta feeds, wherever they go — from airports to gyms, courtesy popular pap pages. However, when female stars’ “zoomed-in” body parts appear on pap pages, these so-called “spotted images” become the target of criticism from both celebs and fans. Currently, a number of stars are refusing to be photographed, especially from behind, worrying about being “zoomed-in pictures”. We spoke with paps to learn the reality.
Actors say
Nora Fatehi, in an interview with News18, accused the paps of ‘zooming in’ on inappropriate places: “I guess they’ve never seen a bu*t like that before. It is what it is. The media doesn’t just do it to me but to other female actors as well. Maybe they don’t zoom into their bu*t because it’s not exciting, but they zoom into their other body parts unnecessarily. Sometimes, I think that there’s nothing to zoom into, so what are they focusing on?”
Actors Palak Tiwari and Mrunal Thakur recently refused to give a backpose to the paps. Thakur shook her head on the red carpet, saying, “Aapke cameras pahunch hi jayengey.” Tiwari, on the other hand, requested the paps not to click her from the back, “Peechhe ka matt lena,” but when the paps present didn’t listen, she reprimanded them.
Photographers say
PALLAV PALIWAL
No one wants to zoom in on the body parts. Nora continuously gives a back pose, then turns and waves. As for what Mrunal Thakur and Palak Tiwari said, the new trend of ‘Guess who?’ is on the rise. If they are at an event where cameras are placed, they will invariably end up shooting them from both the front and the back.
MANAV MANGLANI
Some people do zoom in for the views they will get. But I don’t think these people are paps; they are from YouTube and do it to increase their visibility. This is wrong. If someone from my team shoots such videos, I shout at them and don’t send them to my clients. We don’t even publish it on our social media pages.
VARINDER T CHAWLA
We don’t zoom in on body parts — not just my team, but the other pap teams too. Star ko kaise pata chalega shoot karne wala pap hai ya fan? They go to several public places. On the other hand, there are also certain celebs who do it deliberately for us to click. But we still refuse to publish these videos.
When I started my career, mom said ‘Naak mat katana’-Palak Tiwari
8:00 AM
Riya Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; May 30, 2023)
Palak Tiwari, who was in Delhi recently for the Delhi Times Fashion Week, took some time off to chill with us. “I have been to Delhi thrice now. My mom got me here when I was little, but I don’t think that counts. On the other occasions, I’ve been here for fashion weeks, so I don’t really know much. But I know that Delhi is a very pretty and spacious city and I’d love to explore it,” she said.
Talking about how her relationship with her mother (Shweta Tiwari) has evolved over the years, Palak said, “My mom was more strict as a parent when I was younger because I was an extremely haphazard teenager, and I don’t blame her for it. I was a pretty chaotic teenager, so she probably thought she could not trust me. Over the years, I have earned her trust. We reached a middle ground where I was like I may not be the perfect child, but I am also not the worst out there, and she understood it. I think that also helped me a lot.”
MY MOTHER IS THE OPPOSITE OF A CONTROL FREAK: PALAK
Palak added that her mother always knew that she wanted to be an actor. “When I started my career, she told me, ‘Naak mat katana’ and I feel like every time I am doing something, she is like, ‘What are you doing?’ (smiles). A lot of parents struggle with their kids figuring it out on their own. But I feel like my mom is the opposite of a control freak. Everyone in my family is the opposite of a control freak. That’s what I really like. She also figured things out on her own. Even when she does not understand my choices, she never judges me. She is more of my damage control person. If something goes wrong, her answer always is ‘Just relax, it is not the worst thing in the world. Worse things have happened, and people are fine’,” said Palak, who was last seen in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
The actress added that though her mother always knew that she wanted to be an actor, once she realized that Palak was serious, she advised her to have blinders on & keep going.
‘MY FIRST TWO RAMP WALKS WERE A MESS’
My first-ever ramp walk was for the Bombay Times Fashion Week. The first two ramp walks were a mess; there was a lot of trolling. I was a little taken aback, but then I thought that why am I stressing? I could walk like Gigi Hadid and people can still hate it, so whoever has to hate will hate. I go, have fun and come back.
People think, let’s make her miserable now that she is entering Bollywood. But that’s not going to happen-Shehnaaz Gill
8:25 AM
Claiming that she is battling increased negativity as she forays into movies, Shehnaaz traces her journey from Bigg Boss 13 to Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; April 22, 2023)
Shehnaaz Gill’s candour, coupled with her chirpiness, made her popular on Bigg Boss 13. But as we sit down to talk about her Bollywood debut, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (KKBKKJ), it doesn’t take long to note that her mood influences her conversation. Tired after back-to-back video interactions, Gill chooses to be curt, even if candid. Perhaps being constantly in the public eye hasn’t prepared her for an interaction when no one is watching her.
She begins, “I have always been in the public eye. So, it hasn’t been too hard for me [to be a public figure]. I love that people love me. What else does an actor want?”
Gill has been one of the biggest success stories to come out of a reality show. After being adjudged the second runner-up on Bigg Boss 13, she bagged endorsements and music videos. Her next stop — Bollywood. However, she had to endure a long process of “grooming” before foraying into movies.
“When I came out of Bigg Boss, I understood that I needed to work hard on myself. The most difficult part was to lose weight. Then, I had to work on my styling. A lot of people used to tell me that I had to lose weight [for a Bollywood career], but I did it only when I felt the need to.”
Today, she has a promising debut vehicle in the Salman Khan-led KKBKKJ. The superstar has been unflinching in his support towards Gill since her reality show days. She, however, emphasizes that Khan is protective towards everyone around him. “It’s not just me or Palak [Tiwari] that he is protective of. He takes care of everyone, even those who are older than him.”
In her short run in showbiz so far, Gill has received not only immense love, but also brickbats. From being trolled for her closeness with Khan, to being accused of moving on ‘too quickly’ after Sidharth Shukla’s demise, she has seen plenty. The negativity doesn’t affect her, she asserts.
“Now, more eyes are on me. People think, let’s make her miserable now that she is entering Bollywood. But that’s not going to happen. It can’t affect me.”
Shooting a song with Salman Khan is truly a once in a lifetime experience-Palak Tiwari
8:25 AM
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; April 9, 2023)
Palak Tiwari was often wowed by song and dance sequences in cinema. But, not even in her wildest dreams did she imagine that so early on in her career, she would bag the chance to shake a leg with Salman Khan. With Yentamma in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Tiwari’s dream was fulfilled.
“The experience was larger than life. Wherever I looked, there were dancers. We were in Hyderabad and it was being shot on a grand scale. Whenever Salman sir would arrive, there would be pin-drop silence, because people would be busy staring at him in awe. The silence would be followed by cheer and so much affection for him,” says Tiwari.
Khan’s songs usually go on to become chartbusters, with the choreography being designed such that the masses can follow suit. Was she nervous to be part of such a film?
“No. Salman sir’s songs are notoriously known for being chill and fun. The reason why his songs have been smashing hits is because you can conspicuously tell that he is having a blast in it. When a person listens to the song, or dances to it, they can dance without inhibitions. Sir’s vibe is fun. Shooting a song with him is truly a once in a lifetime experience,” she says of the song that was choreographed by Jani Master.
I dropped everything for a chance to work with Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt-Palak Tiwari
8:21 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 3, 2023)
There has been a lot of curiosity around Palak Tiwari, actress Shweta Tiwari’s daughter, who has chosen to take a slightly different route for her Bollywood launch. The 22-year-old is making her debut soon with the ensemble film — Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (headlined by Salman Khan) and will follow it up with The Virgin Tree (starring Sanjay Dutt). She agrees that it’s not a leading part, but when you get to share screen space with massive stars like Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt at the start of your career, it’s a rare opportunity you can’t turn down.
Ask her if she ever feared getting lost amidst other established names in the ensemble pro-jects, and she says, “I think the whole purpose of an ensemble, when done and executed correctly, is that nobody gets lost. I feel both films and their stories are being executed with that belief,” she replies, adding, “With the kind of people I am working with, my aim is not to compete for screen space, but to learn and absorb. I have just been a sponge on the set. The one thing that you can learn from Salman sir and Sanjay sir is that when somebody has to shine, they can do it even when there are thousands of people on screen.”
Palak says, “Salman sir told me I don’t need to worry about the number of people on screen, but how I do my job because that is what will make a difference to a scene.”
The budding actress goes on to add that she feels extreme gratitude for having got this chance to learn from Salman and Sanjay. “I feel an overwhelming amount of gratitude for being able to work with such bonafide superstars at such an early stage. They have so much in common – it’s not just about themselves; they give so much to a scene. They go out of their way to make everybody comfortable. They also stand behind the camera to give the cue to other actors. If there is anything that I have learnt from them, apart from their passion for the craft, it’s how they are so kind towards everybody on the set.”
Palak, who came into the spotlight with the video of the single Bijlee Bijlee, where she featured with Harrdy Sandhu, says she’s in no hurry to take up quintessential films or a solo-heroine project. She elaborates, “I have my whole career ahead of me to do that – be it a solo-heroine project or a romantic film. These are opportunities that will come my way all the time. However, I won’t get a chance to work with Salman sir or Sanjay sir every time. So, I dropped everything and grabbed the chance.”
Instead of worrying about the competition she will face from her contemporaries making their debut or waiting in the wings for their launch, the debutante believes this is a great time in cinema for new talent to thrive.
She says, “I don’t think of them as adversaries or contemporaries. Call me delusional, but I think this is such a beautiful time in the industry when the careers of so many people are prospering, and so many dreams are coming true. It’s like a cycle, and we are truly in such a beautiful place in this cycle as the whole industry resets with the new generation of newcomers. I feel thrilled to be a part of this boom of newcomers in the industry. There is no competition from my end whatsoever.”
What about matters of the heart? Palak has often been spotted hanging out with Saif Ali Khan’s son, Ibrahim, sparking linkup rumours. So, are the two seeing each other? “Shooting for two films has kept me very busy and content in life. It’s my sole focus, and it is an important year for me,” she says, dismissing the rumours.
“I don’t pay heed to these rumours as it is a part of the profession that I am in. I’d rather focus on my work. While love can never be calculated or predicted, at this stage, work is in first gear for me. Professionally, it’s a crucial time, so I am focusing my energies on that,” she shares.
I was 11 that I realized that not everybody’s mothers come on screen-Palak Tiwari
8:26 AM
Ahead of her debut in Salman’s next, Shweta Tiwari’s daughter says star kids should be grateful for their advantageous positions
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; March 16, 2023)
One of Palak Tiwari’s childhood memories involves watching her mother Shweta Tiwari on the small screen, and failing to comprehend that hers was an unusual career. “I discovered that my mother would come on screen, and it wasn’t until I was 11 that I realized that not everybody’s mothers come on screen. I didn’t know this was acting,” she says, admitting that even before she comprehended her mother’s line of work, she was enamoured by beautiful heroines, and knew that she wanted to be an actor.
“I never had to spell it out to my mom. I feel like I was born with that desire,” says Palak, ahead of her big debut with Salman Khan in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
Palak doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge her privilege and admits that she would have found it tough to get her foot in the door had she been an outsider. “I am grateful for the [head-start] I got [as a star-kid]. It makes a big difference when you know how things function in the industry instead of figuring it out on your own. I think God knew that I need a little help here,” she says, adding that children of famous celebrities must acknowledge their luck when nepotism is discussed.
Salman Khan is like a father on the set-Palak Tiwari
8:26 AM
Initially nervous about working with Salman on Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Palak says superstar’s nurturing ways put her at ease
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; March 11, 2023)
The set of one’s debut film can evoke mixed feelings. While there is the joy of facing the camera for the first time, a sense of nervousness creeps in too. Fortunately, Palak Tiwari felt at home on the set of Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. The idea of shooting with Salman Khan may have been daunting initially, but she says the superstar created a healthy environment to “nurture” the artistes.
“He is one of the pillars of Bollywood. I assumed that being on the same set with him would be daunting, and that I would be nervous all the time. But he is like a father on the set,” she states.
Palak, who is the daughter of television actor Shweta Tiwari, says Khan made sure that the cast — including Venkatesh, Pooja Hegde, and Shehnaaz Gill — had meals together on time. “He ensured that we are well-fed, and that we also follow our diet,” she laughs.
The Eid release went on floors in May 2022. Palak says that her actor-mother was at ease about her Hindi film debut, knowing that she was “in the right hands.”
“She would never call me when I was shooting because she knew I would be taken care of. Salman is almost omnipresent on the set. He knows everything that’s happening.”
Farhad Samji’s directorial venture is a remake of the 2014 Tamil movie, Veeram.
My heart was always stuck on Bollywood-Palak Tiwari
8:25 AM
Set to share the screen with Salman Khan in her Bollywood debut, actor Palak Tiwari is hoping to repay fans’ faith in her
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 16, 2023)
Looking forward to a new chapter in her life and career this year, actor Palak Tiwari admits that the anticipation mounting around it comes with quite a bit of pressure. “I am truly exhilarated about starting my Bollywood journey. It is like everything in my life has been about reaching this point. This is all I have ever waited for. I’m truly thrilled about it,” says the 22-year-old, adding that she is working hard and giving her projects “her absolute all”.
Ever since she burst onto the scene in 2021 with her song Bijlee Bijlee, sung by and also starring Harrdy Sandhu in the lead, Palak’s film debut has been looked forward to with much enthusiasm by fans. She is all set to team up with actor Salman Khan for Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
While many supposed that Palak might follow in the footsteps of her mother, actor Shweta Tiwari, and start her acting journey with TV, she maintains that Bollywood is what was really on her mind. “My heart was always stuck on Bollywood. I owe everything that I am and everything that my family is to television, but my heart and eyes were always on Bollywood,” gushes Palak.
With acting in the family and her own successful screen debut that’s gained her the ‘Bijlee Girl’ moniker, there are expectations too. “It (acting opportunities) comes with all the pressure in the world — pressure that could crush you. I’m trying to make sure it doesn’t wear me out. On the other hand, it comes with this overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude. I’m trying to focus on the positives right now,” she shares.
The focus is on not letting down those who’ve believed in her. “I am thankful for everything anybody’s ever done to get me where I am today. I want to make everyone proud and not disappoint anybody,” she concludes.
I don’t believe in the institution of marriage. In fact, I even tell my daughter not to get married-Shweta Tiwari
8:13 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; September 11, 2022)
Shweta Tiwari, who was last seen in Mere Dad Ki Dulhan, is returning to the fiction genre after a two-year gap with Main Hoon Aparajita (MHA). The show revolves around Aparajita who raises her family of three daughters single-handedly. Quite like the character, Shweta, too, has braved many storms as a single parent. In an interview with BT, the actress opens up about her thoughts on the institution of marriage, identifying with strong characters and being friends with her children, Palak Tiwari and Reyansh. Excerpts...
With MHA, you are returning to daily soaps after two years. Do you consciously take breaks from the fiction genre?
I have been offered several TV shows in recent times, but it’s a conscious effort to wait for a character that touches my heart. People assume that if Shweta Tiwari is not acting, she would possibly not be getting work. And when I decline an offer, they feel ek toh kaam nahi hai, upar se akad kitni hai ki mana kar rahi hai. They don’t understand that I have declined the offer because I don’t want to play characters that are not substantial. As an artiste, I don’t want to seem monotonous on screen, because if a daily soap works, it runs indefinitely. So, I wait for good projects and I have the luxury to wait. I can wait for another four years without worrying about my finances.
Much like your character in the new show, you have been a single parent for a long time. How difficult has the journey been for you?
A confident woman is often mistaken for being aggressive and arrogant. Dekho kaise tadaak se bol diya, bahut tez aur ladaaku hogi. People don’t realize that she talks back because she can tell the good from the bad. People think that I am doing it because I am a public figure. Yes, it’s true. However, having said that, it’s a double-edged sword. A lot of people criticize me for two failed marriages. There are many, who have been divorced three or four times, but no one talks about them because they are not in the limelight. Toh hamaara jitna positive hai usse zyada negative hai. People accuse celebrities more. The only support I have ever had is that I never stopped working and I am financially independent. I have money to take care of myself and I don’t have to go to my husband or a partner for any kind of help to survive. I have been able to make my decisions because I am independent. I thank God that I am a working woman.
You have been through a lot, including two failed marriages, and have emerged stronger from them. What saw you through these challenges?
The one thing I did is I never blamed myself. I was well aware of the mistakes I made. Aaj jo main bhugat rahi hoon kis galti ki wajah se bhugat rahi hoon. I goofed up despite seeing the red flag. Now, I can either keep sulking over those mistakes and blame God for adverse circumstances or find a way out. I have realised that nothing is permanent. Good and bad times are like day and night. So, when your time is good, don’t let it go to your head. The bad phases are inevitable, but nothing can happen if you are prepared for it. My daughter is also like that, she is prepared for both good and bad.
You have taken to social media a couple of times to clear the air around you and Abhinav Kohli (her estranged husband) and his accusations. How do you deal with toxicity and trolling on social media?
I never read the comments. These negative comments are mostly posted from fake accounts. Fake wohi hai jinhe khud ki identity se satisfaction nahi hai, so, these comments hold no weight. I don’t need anyone’s advice or judgment and don’t intend to become an inspiration to anyone either. Everyone’s struggle is different. I just want to tell them that I am able to face challenges because I am financially independent. If they can get inspired by this and become independent, it’s good enough. If I tolerate bad behaviour and insults fearing that people will say ki iski doosri shaadi bhi nahi tiki, it will be a bad influence on my kids. They will mistake it for a norm and think agar aapko life chalaani hai toh yeh aapko sehna padega. I want to tell them that it’s not okay. Your self-respect is paramount. You can compromise for a day when you are visiting someplace as a guest, but zindagi bhar compromise nahi ho sakta.
Did you fear being judged and trolled for the failure of your second marriage?
Honestly, I did try to save my first marriage, because that was my upbringing ki sab samajh kar chalna chahiye. However, I didn’t waste time in my second marriage. Mujhe pata tha kharaab ho gaya hai toh kharaab hone hi wala hai, no matter how much I try to salvage it. After a point, I decided to finish it. Not even for a moment did I think about what people will say. As far as I am able to buy my own bread-and-butter, I am fine with it. People can keep getting entertained with my personal and professional lives. When you don’t give a damn about what others think, they don’t dare come and ask you anything.
What are your thoughts today on the institution of marriage?
I don’t believe in the institution of marriage. In fact, I even tell my daughter not to get married. It’s her life and I don’t dictate to her how to lead it, but I want her to think well before taking the plunge. Just because you are in a relationship, it doesn’t have to culminate into marriage. Life mein shaadi karna bahut zaoori hai aur shaadi ke bina zindagi kaise chalegi yeh nahi hona chahiye. Having said that, not every marriage is bad. I have many friends who are happily married and I am happy for them. But I have also seen some of my friends stay in a compromised marriage, which isn’t healthy for them or their children. So, I want to tell my daughter to do what makes her happy, but don’t give into societal pressure. You can’t leave it to chance kyunki jo abhi theek nahi hai, woh tab bhi theek nahi hoga aur worse bhi ho sakta hai.
Do you miss having a partner?
Not at all. Does it seem that way when you look at me?
Main Hoon Aparajita will see you reuniting with your Kasautii Zindagii Kay co-star, Manav Gohil. What kind of equation do you two share?
Manav and I hardly met after Kasautii Zindagii Kay (which ended in 2008), but we’ve always shared a good bond. I respect him as an actor. I am sure that he has evolved as an actor by leaps and bounds since we last shot together. Life experiences also make you a better artiste. I look forward to working with him. I am sure our chemistry will rock.
Palak Tiwari bags Salman Khan’s Bhaijaan
8:11 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 11, 2022)
Salman Khan’s upcoming film, Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali, which is now titled Bhaijaan, is in the news for more reasons than one and especially for its cast. The makers roped in Shehnaaz Gill, who has become a popular name ever since her participation in the 13th edition of Bigg Boss.
We have now learnt that Palak Tiwari, daughter of TV actress Shweta Tiwari, is the latest to be brought on board to join the cast. Contrary to the rumours that Shehnaaz will be paired opposite singer-actor Jassie Gill, we can tell you that it is Palak who has been cast opposite him.
A unit hand informed us, “Palak has been handpicked by Salman. She will be seen opposite Jassie and has an amazing track in the film. She has joined the shoot.”
Incidentally, Palak worked as an assistant director in Salman Khan and Aayush Sharma’s film, Antim: The Final Truth. She also shared the stage with Salman in an episode of Bigg Boss 15. Bhaijaan, which is helmed by Farhad Samji, also features Venkatesh, Pooja Hegde, Raghav Juyal and Siddharth Nigam. Despite repeated attempts, we could not reach Palak for comment.
I could have had many advantages in the television industry, but TV isn’t my cup of tea-Palak Tiwari
7:46 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 29, 2022)
Palak Tiwari is all set to make her debut in Bollywood with Rosie: The Saffron Chapter. She is unfazed by the comparisons with her mother – television actress Shweta Tiwari — that are bound to happen. In a chat with BT, the young actress gets candid about wanting to do films instead of television, her family, and making peace with her father, actor Raja Chaudhary. Excerpts…
Most newcomers make their debut with a quintessential romantic film. Why did you choose a psychological thriller?
Initially, I, too, wanted to make my debut with a typical Bollywood potboiler. However, at this point as a newcomer, I would love to discover new things. When Rosie was offered to me, the very fact that it was not a conventional film to debut with is what made me want to do the project. I want to do things that challenge me and allow me to show my capabilities early on in my career.
Your mother is a popular actress on television. Did she put in a word for you?
I could have had many advantages in the television industry, as my mother has many contacts there. I have turned them down because TV isn’t my cup of tea. In fact, my mother has always told me that she wants to help me more, but I want to make it on my own. Everything in my life that I have is because of my mother. This is one place where I want her to just relax and not worry about me (smiles).
Are you disillusioned about love and marriage after seeing your mother go through two failed marriages (first with Raja Chaudhary and then with Abhinav Kohli)?
Not at all, because I have always seen my mother be a good wife. I have also seen my naani. So, I know that love exists, and my idea of love and marriage has not been tainted. But I have also realised that one should not rush into marriage. If you feel something is wrong with the person, it’s better to leave him at that moment. Women struggle with that the most and I have seen that with not just my mother, but women from around the world. We keep justifying things for our partners because we want to see the good in people. It’s a great quality, but it will come back to bite. That’s not love or at least that’s not the kind of love I want — not now, not ever.
How do you deal with the nasty comments and stories that surface about your mother? Do you ever feel like clearing the air for her?
We don’t spend a lot of time convincing people about our side of the story. My mother’s priority has been to make sure that the family is protected. That’s what I have focused on as well.
In an interview with BT, a few months earlier, your father (Raja Chaudhary) had said that he met you on a couple of occasions and things have become better between him and you. How is your equation with him?
After going through sobriety, he is finding himself again and is in a really good place. It’s been a fresh start for us. Also, people expect us to go back to being the perfect father-daughter duo, but that’s not how it works. We have spent a fair amount of time apart from each other because he was dealing with his issues and I was growing up. Now that we are getting to know each other, it’s from scratch.
Coming back to your life, what about matters of the heart and romance? You were recently spotted with Ibrahim Ali Khan...
It’s rubbish and rumours are just rumours. At the risk of sounding clichéd, I think I am too young for love, at least the kind I have grown up watching, which is Bollywood (laughs!). That love is so intense and profound. At this point, I don’t think I am capable of loving someone beyond my family, like that. So, love is not on cards anytime, soon.
Me and my kids sleep with our video calling app switched on so that we can see each other every time we wake up-Shweta Tiwari
8:25 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 7, 2021)
The actress is shooting for the show in Cape Town, away from her children — Palak and Reyansh. She tells us that she misses them a lot and they are in constant touch with each other virtually. She shares, “At night, we sleep with our video calling app switched on so that we can see each other every time we wake up. We talk at every opportunity. I talk to my daughter before every stunt and after it to tell her how I have fared. My son wants me to get him a hippopotamus, which he calls ‘hippomonatus’ from South Africa to India for him. So, if in an episode I get to meet a hippopotamus, I am going to take him home, because my son wants it (laughs!).”
While many are struggling to find work, Shweta feels fortunate to be getting work during these challenging times. She says, “It has indeed been a difficult time for all of us. While I am grateful for the quality time spent with my children and family, I realised ki kaam karte rehna kitna important hai. Agar kaam ruk jaaye toh sab kuch ruk jaata hai. Your income may stop, but expenses don’t. You have to pay the EMIs and other expenses. So, it was very important to work. I thank my stars that today I have work and I can look after my kids.”
Post Khatron Ke Khiladi, she plans to get back to the fiction genre provided the concept is good and shows her in a never-seen-before avatar. “Whenever I am offered a show, I look at the graph of my character to ensure that it’s interesting so that I am not bored before the show has ended. If something interesting comes my way, I’ll take it up, be it a negative or a positive character, naagin ho ya daayan ho. I am a daily soap actress.”
On the personal front, Shweta has in recent times been in the news for her ugly public spat with her estranged husband, Abhinav Kohli. The latter has accused her of not allowing him to meet their son and leaving him alone amid the pandemic while she has gone abroad to shoot for the reality show.
Refusing to comment on her personal life, Shweta says, “Look, everyone faces some problem in their life. Ups and downs are a part of life. But if you keep your goals, priorities and responsibilities aside and run after those problems or those creating those problems, then you will feel lost in life. My priority is my kids. I will focus on them and keep working because only that’s going to help me in the long run. I don’t owe any justification or clarification to anyone because I know what’s good for my children. No one knows it better than me. I know how to keep my kids physically and mentally healthy, give them a better life and take care of them. Logon ke sahi ya galat se meri zindagi nahi chal rahi hai. Meri zindagi mere sahi, galat aur jisme mere bachhon ki bhalai hai, uss se chal rahi hai. I am fully dedicated to my kids and my work, which is why I keep working and forging ahead. If people want to forget their responsibilities and problems and make me the centre of their lives, they are most welcome. But meri zindagi mein aur kisi ke liye koi jagah nahi hai siwaai mere bachhon and meri family ke.”
It is Shweta’s bad luck that her second marriage also didn’t work out; she has been a good mother and wife-Raja Chaudhary
8:14 AM
Akash Wadhwa (BOMBAY TIMES; May 21, 2021)
Did you contact Abhinav, as claimed in reports, to inquire about the problems between Shweta and him?
Yes, I had messaged Abhinav, not now, but last year after reading about the harassment allegations against him by my daughter Palak Tiwari. As a father, I was concerned for Palak and wanted to know what exactly had happened. After hearing his side of the story, I didn’t dwell further on the topic. As a father, I think I had a right to reach out to him given the gravity of allegations against him.
The pattern is the same and that is why people are questioning Shweta. There is no doubt that Shweta is an excellent mother and a very good wife. It is just a sheer coincidence and her bad luck that history is repeating itself with her and her second marriage, too, hasn’t work out. It doesn’t make her wrong or a bad person.
So, are you able to assess what the real problem between Abhinav and Shweta is?
Well, I can’t comment on that, but yes, one thing I would like to say is that Shweta should allow Abhinav to meet his son. She needs to understand that as a couple no matter what the problems might be in a relationship, a father will not harm his own son or daughter. Rest, whatever is happening between them, I don’t want to get into that at all.
You met your daughter Palak after several years two months ago and were planning to meet her again. Did that happen?
No, we haven’t met yet because of the prevailing situation in the country. There is a lockdown in many places because of COVID-19, but I am in touch with her.
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