Pragya Kapoor; (right) Aliya Curmally

On Thursday, producer-author Aliya Curmally, in a series of tweets, accused producer Pragya Kapoor of plagiarism. Curmally, whose Toxic City is due to hit the shelves next year, alleged that Kapoor lifted the novel’s theme for Maali, a feature film that the latter is presenting. “I would sit and talk about [my novel] every day to her and her husband... Little did I know [they were] sponging [off me] (sic),” read one of Curmally’s tweets.

When mid-day reached out to Curmally, she claimed that she was friends with Pragya and director-husband Abhishek Kapoor until last year. She was also a part of the crew working on Abhishek’s Fitoor (2016). “Earlier, Toxic City was supposed to be a screenplay, which I completed in 2013. But when it was getting too difficult to produce, I decided to turn it into a novel. I would often discuss the novel’s theme with them,” she said.

While the two had a falling-out last year, Curmally was surprised a few days ago when she heard about Maali, which revolves around a young mountain girl who struggles when thrust into the chaotic city life. “I don’t know when the director [Shiv C Shetty] came up with the idea. But Pragya wouldn’t have thought of this, as a concept to present, had she not known me. I don’t know what’s in the film, but there’s enough similarity in the trailer.”

Is she considering taking legal recourse? “Pragya definitely stole my book’s theme. But is the theme copyrightable? No. [I called it out at this stage] to tell people to be careful about the conversations they have, and whom they have them with.”

When contacted, director Shetty said that the film was born out of co-writer Sonali Rana and his experiences. “We started writing Maali in 2019. It took us four to five months to write a draft. The idea originated from what we have experienced in our lives.”

He underlined that Pragya came into the picture only after the movie was made. “We finished the film in mid-2021, and reached out to Pragya in 2022. I’ve admired the work she does with Ek Saath Foundation, and felt she would understand the film.”

Despite repeated attempts, Pragya remained unavailable for comment.

A still from Maali

Filmmakers in India are fast becoming environmentally conscious. After Bhumi Pednekar adopted a no-waste and no-plastic policy on the set of Badhaai Do, the makers of Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui took measures to ensure they had a zero-waste set. “A zero-waste set leaves the least possible waste to go to landfills by reusing the generated waste to its fullest capacity, and minimising the generation of waste,” explains producer Pragya Kapoor.

She admits that the different locations in Chandigarh, combined with expansive set-ups and a large crew of 300, initially posed a challenge. “We streamlined the process and aligned the crew to this novel exercise.”

During the filming of the Ayushmann Khurrana and Vaani Kapoor starrer, the waste generated at the location was divided into three categories — solid, liquid, and PPE. “Once the waste was collected, it was sent for sorting where it was further divided into categories — biodegradable, recyclable, food waste, reject waste and construction waste. The excess food was distributed among the underprivileged families.”

She adds that during the start-to-finish schedule from October 26 to December 21, the set generated 16,138 kilos of waste. Of this, 95.1 per cent was recycled or composted, while 3.6 per cent of non-recyclable waste was sent for co-processing. The remaining 1.3 per cent was handed over to the Punjab municipality as reject waste.

“The biggest concern was the excessive use of water bottles and cutlery. To counter this, we had cutlery made out of compostable material. Reusable sippers replaced the water bottles, and bulk water dispensers were placed across the location to avoid the use of single-use plastic bottles.”

BOMBAY TIMES (February 25, 2019)

Director Abhishek Kapoor’s next, Sharaabi, will mark the first joint production venture of Bhushan Kumar’s T-series and Pragya Kapoor’s Guy In The Sky Pictures.

The film, whose details will be revealed later, is a comic drama about a dysfunctional alcoholic. The casting is underway, with the actor playing the titular role almost finalised. Like all other Abhishek Kapoor films, this one, too, is touted to feature good music.

Says producer Bhushan Kumar, “Over the years, Abhishek has become synonymous with strong content and well-crafted films, all of which have enjoyed success at the box office. We look forward to backing his vision and presenting the audience with a wholesome entertainer.”

Adds Abhishek, “Bhushan ji and I have been planning a collaboration for quite some time. We wanted it to be special, and are sure that Sharaabi will be the right concoction of comedy, drama and music to begin this association.” Interestingly, the film’s title reminds one of Amitabh Bachchan’s 1984 classic of the same name. Producer Pragya Kapoor shares, “We are currently in talks for the casting, but it’s too early to talk about it. A formal announcement will be made shortly and it’s definitely going to be special because it’s the titular role.”

The film’s pre-production is on in full swing, and it will go on floors soon.
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Kedarnath director Abhishek Kapoor switches gears, to explore dark comedy about a dysfunctional alcoholic in Sharabi
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 25, 2019)

Two months since the release of his ambitious love saga Kedarnath, director Abhishek Kapoor has trained his focus on his next, Sharaabi. In a departure from his dramas, the director will now tackle a dark comedy that follows a dysfunctional alcoholic.

Wife and co-producer Pragya Kapoor says, "We are still giving final touches to the script. For now, it would be accurate to say that it will be a 2020 release. This time around, Abhishek has attempted a lighter comedic tone to tell the story of an alcoholic."

While his last outing marked the debut of Sara Ali Khan, the filmmaker, in the past, has launched several actors including Sushant Singh Rajput and Prachi Desai. Pragya reveals that the upcoming project too will feature new faces.

"Introducing new talent has always been one of his strengths. There is an originality that fresh talent — be it in acting or technical department — infuses into the creative process."

Quiz her about the learning experience from Kedarnath, and she says, "It was a difficult film on many levels. To shoot the film up there in the mountains and to keep the budget in check without compromising on the scale was a tall order. Gattu [as Kapoor is fondly called] and I now plan to produce a lot more films."

Hiren Kotwani (DNA; November 27, 2018)

The last 12-odd months have been a roller-coaster ride for Abhishek Kapoor. His ambitious project Kedarnath, starring Sushant Singh Rajput and debutante Sara Ali Khan, not only changed hands but the writer-filmmaker also had to go back and forth on its release date.

However, all that is now in the past as the tragic love story, set against the backdrop of the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, opens in cinemas on December 7. Even though its trailer and songs like Namoh Namoh and Sweetheart have garnered an encouraging response, Abhishek is not taking it easy when we meet him at his office. Ask him if he feels ‘ab manzil door nahin’ and Gattu, as he’s fondly called by his family and friends, says, “It’s not over till it’s over. I think I’ll be a little relaxed only after Kedarnath hits the marquee.”

Over coffee and sandwiches, we talk about his pilgrimage, as he calls the making of his movie. Excerpts...

The way you have captured the flood sequence has become the trailer’s talking point. How did you go about it?
The devastation was massive, so we’re just trying to be as true to it as possible. We had to go through many processes like building a massive set, having water tanks coupled with live action and VFX. What we’re trying to achieve is pretty complex. So, we’re doing the best we can, while staying true to the story.

What was your inspiration for it?
The inspiration is the real location’s imagery. It has to be true to its own geography. We’re not trying to imitate a western film, I’m making an Indian movie. When you go to Kedarnath and study about the floods and what happened, you realise that the topography of it is so mammoth. And it’s a real event. So, you study the history and follow what happened, in as much detail as you can and recreate it from scratch.

How did the idea of Kedarnath come about?
As a filmmaker, you’re always looking for a story to tell and my quest has been to not repeat myself. I want to enter a new world with every film. After my last movie, Fitoor (2016), I wanted to travel a bit. I decided to go to places where those people, for whom I want to make my movies, reside. When I went to Vaishno Devi, I noticed that devotees from all strata and various parts of the country go to pay obeisance to their God. Many of the porters who carried the pilgrims to the temple were Muslims. Bahut kamaal ka drishya tha, ki Hinduon ko unke dharmik sthaan par Musalmaan leke jaa rahe they.

Today, when you see the divide being created in the name of religion and politics, elders tell you that 40-50 years ago, such things didn’t happen so much. You realise that love and humanity is still alive in Kedarnath. And I found that fascinating. Moreover, the 2013 Uttarakhand floods saw the loss of many lives. The idea of making this film is to bring a lot of healing, to who we are and also offer shraddhanjali to those who died or went missing. The maximum number of people were poor, and sadly, there was no value for their lives lost.

So, why a love story against the backdrop of Uttarakhand floods?
If I make a film only about the event, I should make a documentary. But participation of the viewer needs a fictional plot. So, why not a love story? I chose the simplest and easiest route to take the viewers there.

In the interim, when the film ran into rough waters, what thoughts crossed your mind?
Those were difficult times. I was halfway through the film but I had to do what I had to in order to secure it. It’s not easy to attempt a movie like this. The kind of location I went to shoot in, the kind of film I’m making and the story that I’m telling is my calling, it’s a pilgrimage of its own. Kedarnath has a lot of purity and heart. I’ve immense faith and love in Bholenath. Making this film has brought me closer to him. If I’m going through hard times, I know the force that Lord Shiva gave me while helming this movie, will see me through it.

Who was your support system at that time?
Halfway through the film, my wife (Pragya) was about five months pregnant. It was a tricky time and I had taken the film upon myself. So, I had to protect it. She was the one who supported me, came on board and did the entire production for me. In the bargain, I got a great producer. You realise that people have certain qualities and strengths, you didn’t know existed; and how you perform under stress is what defines you.

What has been the biggest takeaway for you from this experience?
I learnt that one has to be prepared in life for any circumstances. Making a movie is not an easy task. I’m still going through the process as I haven’t finished the film yet. There will be time for introspection and retrospection. Right now, my focus is on taking the movie to theatres.

Was Sushant Singh Rajput your first choice?
Yes. He suited the role perfectly. He has the mental and physical strength to play this part. Moreover, he brings a lot to the table as a performer as he has his own way of crafting his character. What’s also important is that he has managed to retain his innocence, which is important while essaying different characters.

Did you think of Sara Ali Khan because roping in a star kid creates some curiosity about the film?
I needed a fresh face as I was making a young love story. In the film, the girl’s role was quite strong, so I needed someone young and special. While an industry connection helps, that alone can’t be the criterion for casting. The person has to be the best for the role. Sara’s name kept popping up during various conversations. I got in touch with one of our common friends, designer Sandeep Khosla who introduced me to her. We met and I realised that she’s a bright girl who has a mind of her own. However, as she didn’t have any prior acting experience, she had to start from scratch. Also, as she was sharing screen space with actors like Sushant and others, she had to raise the game to that level. She has worked really hard and played her part with conviction.

You sued Sara’s agency for giving away the dates allotted for Kedarnath to Rohit Shetty’s Simmba. Her father Saif Ali Khan, too, met you to sort out the issue... 
It’s unfortunate that it happened. When we got into a bit of a problem, it seemed we had got delayed and Sara was concerned. When Rohit’s (Shetty) offer came about, I told him that she is great and he should consider her. He was like, ‘No, your film should come first’ and I told him that we’re both making movies. It didn’t matter to me whose film came first. And if he wanted to, he should work with her. Sara’s management agency assumed that I may not be able to pull through and they gave her dates away. I had no choice but to resolve the matter in court.

Kedarnath’s release date, too, saw many changes. Did you have to rush through your post-production to meet that deadline? 
I had many dates in mind, but we never took our foot off the pedal. Now with us hitting the marquee on December 7, it looks like we’re racing to meet the deadline, but the post-production has been at the same pace.

Have you thought what you’d like to make next?
I’ve not decided on anything yet. I’m still busy with the post-production. Right now, I’m focussing on completing the film and releasing it on December 7.

Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; November 5, 2018)

After courting controversy, production delays and casting challenges, director Abhishek Kapoor’s Kedarnath is finally gearing up for a release at the box office. But the filmmaker knows he can’t take it easy just yet. With the first song of the film, Namo Namo, releasing today, Abhishek is in the midst of wrapping up the film’s post-production. He spoke to BT about his experience of working on one of the most challenging films of his career. Excerpts…

Kedarnath has had quite an eventful journey. You’ve faced controversies, delays and just about every other production challenge possible. How does it feel that the film is about to release?
Once the film starts playing in theatres, and does well for itself, maybe then I will be relieved. Frankly, it wouldn’t have affected me much even if Kedarnath would have released in 2019. But I’m happy that 2018 gave us this wonderful opportunity to put the film out there. On a personal level, I feel good that after going through such a tumultuous journey, the film has entered its conclusive phase. The promotions have begun. I am not taking it easy. There is a lot of ground that needs to be covered. We’re ready to fire on all cylinders now.

After Fitoor (2016) released,you had apologized on social media for disappointing moviegoers. Do you feel nervous about the reactions to Kedarnath?
No. I’ve had a few successes, and now, some failures, too, which is a good balance. I have understood that failure teaches you so much more; success just feels good. Failure teaches you the art of introspection. When you introspect, you don’t just figure your weak points, but also put everything you’ve understood into your work. Eventually, you see your creativity grow and your horizons expand. The experience rejuvenates you and puts you on track. Every movie is made with a lot of love. Sometimes, films don’t receive the love they seek, but that doesn’t have to be taken negatively. For that matter, critics should not be taken negatively either. Some of them really offer you insights into what could have made your film better, while others gauge your current work on the basis of your repertoire. Also, not every critic is a lighthouse, so you have to absorb the necessary inputs in the right spirit.

You’ve set a Hindu-Muslim love story against the backdrop of the cloud burst that flooded Kedarnath. What drew you to this incident in particular?
It was a massive calamity and thousands of people lost their lives and livelihood. I have been to Vaishnodevi several times. The pilgrimage and the journey you make to catch a glimpse of the deity struck a chord with me. I wanted to tell a story about that side of India. Our cities are competing with the best of the world, but a visit to pilgrim sites like Kedarnath and Vaishnodevi shows you a more religious side of India. We are one of the only countries where people trek long and difficult terrains, carrying fragile and old people on their backs, to seek blessings from God. I decided to revisit what happened in Kedarnath because I wanted the audience to understand the magnitude of the calamity and feel the pain of those who braved it. As a community, Kedarnath forms the epicentre of our beliefs. It’s so strange that the temple stood unaffected, despite so much water gushing in with exceptionally high force. One of the layers of my story is about keeping one’s faith alive in the face of difficulties.

Casting Sara Ali Khan and Sushant Singh Rajput as the lead pair made headlines. While one is a debutante, the other has not had a happy run at the box office in the last two years. Does that put added pressure on the project?
No, I don’t think so, because I have not made a film to launch anyone. Today, I don’t feel any pressure whatsoever because I have a film with a compelling story which must reach people. Without that, you can’t have the drive to make a film while facing adversities, right? If your agenda is clear, nothing can pressurise you or put you in a corner. Yes, I know that there was talk about which film Sara will eventually debut with — Kedarnath or Simmba. I never set out to make a launch film for her. I met her, spoke to her and felt she has it in her to breathe life into this character. I think it’s more important to see whether she’s good in the film, which I think she is and I hope people agree with my thought. As for the toss-up between Simmba and Kedarnath, the sentiments are the same on both the sets, and Rohit Shetty and I want her to shine in both our films. As for Sushant, every actor has his share of ups and downs; that doesn’t take away from his performance or an impactful story.




A few months ago,when Kedarnath was caught in a legal tussle and the shoot came to a halt, what was the reaction from the team and the actors?
Let me set the record straight — the production of Kedarnath didn’t halt for as long as it was reported. We had trouble with our business partners and we were in the midst of a hurricane, but we moved on with the film, all guns blazing. Today, we’ve put that entire episode behind us and moved on. So, I don’t want to talk too much in detail about what happened. In that phase, there was nothing we could do, except finish our work and hope for the best. Trust me; we have been through a lot as a team. We could only emerge from that with self-belief and faith in our project. There was nothing else that could have given us the energy to keep the film on track. I have gained the experience of a lifetime. Besides that, I think the battle is not over yet. The real teachings of that phase will become evident once the film releases.

Saif Ali Khan, in his interview to BT, had said that he felt bad for what you went through and thanked God that Rohit Shetty and Karan Johar had sheltered his daughter Sara during the phase. What’s your reaction?
I completely understand his concern as a parent. I also understand what Amrita Singh must have felt during that phase. It was my sole responsibility to hold on to my film and bring it out well, because I was the only one who could do that. Not everyone would have understood what I was thinking then. As a producer and director, I couldn’t lose track of Kedarnath, come what may. I would not be here if I didn’t hold on to my film. It was a daunting situation and one that could have shattered my project completely. For Sara’s parents, it looked like their daughter’s debut was in jeopardy. They had to find their way around the situation and they did what they could do best for her.

Kedarnath also seems to have taken a toll on your relationship with your cousin Ekta Kapoor, your former partner on the film…
My film is my biggest priority right now. From the time Ekta and I parted ways on the film, I have surged far ahead with the project. I haven’t had the time to look behind and assess what the collaterals have been for me. Once the film is out, I will take time out to go back and understand what the implications have been, if any, on my personal equations with people.

While you braved the professional ordeal, on the personal front, you also welcomed your second baby. How did your wife Pragya handle the pregnancy and pressure of the film, as she, too, is a producer?
In the course of making this film, I understood so much more about Pragya. It’s only during testing times that certain hidden aspects of people’s personalities come to the fore. We were right in the middle of a difficult film like this when she was pregnant. I was divided between the film and her, but I was also beaming with pride to see just how well she operates under tremendous pressure.

You started the film by visiting the Kedarnath shrine. Do you plan to visit the temple again before release?
I don’t think I will make it to the temple before it closes for winter, but when it opens again, I will be at its doorstep with my faith intact.

BOMBAY TIMES (October 30, 2018)

One of the most anticipated films of the year, Kedarnath, is all set to hit cinemas on December 7. The story, set against the backdrop of the 2013 ‘Himalayan Tsunami’, which left thousands dead, is touted to be a blend of love and religion, passion and spirituality. It revolves around a 14-km pilgrimage from Gauri Kund to Kedarnath (the 2,000-year-old Shiva temple), during the course of which Mansoor and Mukku, played by Sushant Singh Rajput and Sara Ali Khan respectively, fall in love.

Mansoor, a reserved and reticent Pithoo (porter) who lives with his widowed mother in a hamlet called Rambara, helps pilgrims on their journey towards the temple town. His world turns upside down when he meets the beautiful and rebellious Mukku, who sucks him into a whirlwind of intense love.

This afternoon, as the producers (RSVP and Guy In The Sky Pictures) launch the teaser, audiences will get a glimpse of the chemistry between Sara and Sushant.

Says Abhishek Kapoor, “Kedarnath is an epic tale of love set against an ancient and divine landscape. Yet, it narrates a compelling story for contemporary times, and draws in the viewers’ attention towards the powerful message conveyed. The cast and crew are fervent believers, and the integrity of their efforts resonates in every frame of this film. I have always been drawn to challenges beyond entertainment. Pushing boundaries takes you beyond the clutter; that’s my comfort zone or as I’d like to term it, ‘my sweet spot’. Making this movie has been a personal pilgrimage.”

Ronnie Screwvala adds, “At a time when there seems to be a dearth of original and relatable love stories in Indian cinema, Kedarnath is a breath of fresh air. It’s a love tale set against one of the biggest natural disasters our country has seen. Abhishek has created magic along with the lead pair — Sushant and Sara, who is making her debut.”

Pragya Kapoor shares, “Kedarnath touches upon topics, themes and values that are relevant to all of us, yet has remained unspoken. Set against the backdrop of nature’s fury, it’s not an everyday love story. Shooting on a virgin and undeveloped terrain was as thrilling as it was draining. It’s all thanks to the invaluable contributions of the entire cast and crew and above all Ronnie, who has been like a rock throughout this journey.”
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As director Abhishek Kapoor reschedules Kedarnath release to December 7, Sara Ali Khan to be launched with his project, not Simmba
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; October 30, 2018)

There has been much conjecture around the Bollywood debut of Sara Ali Khan. When reports about Abhishek Kapoor's Kedarnath being pushed to March 2019 emerged last week, it appeared that the star kid would be launched under the able guidance of Karan Johar and Rohit Shetty in Simmba that hits screens on December 28. However, Kapoor's love saga has once again been rescheduled — the Sushant Singh Rajput starrer will open on December 7, thus becoming Khan's launch vehicle.

Says a trade source, "The teaser of Kedarnath will be launched today, with the film eyeing a December 7 release. Abhishek was keen that Sara foray into the movies with his project and is glad that things have fallen into place. Three weeks after Kedarnath, the youngster will have her second outing in Simmba."

Set against the backdrop of the 2013 floods that wrecked the temple town, Kedarnath sees Rajput play Mansoor, a porter who helps pilgrims make the arduous journey to the temple. His world changes when he falls in love with Mukku, played by Khan.

Glad that his labour of love is ready to be shared with the audience, Kapoor says, "What made the process of making this film fulfilling is the fact that the cast and crew have been keen believers. They worked with immense dedication and honesty throughout, which is showing in the final product." Stating that the director has "created a work of art", co-producer Ronnie Screwvala says, "We are ecstatic to introduce Sara Ali Khan at the movies on December 7."

Pragya with newborn son Shamsher; Abhishek and Isana (below)

Abhishek and Pragya Kapoor welcomed their second son in the early hours of Tuesday
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 29, 2018)

Filmmaker Abhishek Kapoor and his actress-filmmaker wife Pragya became parents to a baby boy who was born at 3.38 am on Tuesday at a suburban hospital in Mumbai. Speaking to Mirror about his second son, Abhishek admitted that a child’s birth is “an overwhelming experience that you are never prepared enough for”, all praise for his better half, a “strong girl” who was in control through the nine months. Pragya had gone on a babymoon to Bali with Abhishek and their first-born, Isana, earlier, telling Mirror (June 30) that she wanted to make more films and babies and plans are afoot in the direction.

The couple has named their newborn son Shamsher. “It’s fitting since he is reflection of his mom. Meanwhile, Isana has already taken charge of being a responsible big brother and is looking forward to taking his long-awaited sibling under his wings,” laughs Abhishek.

Having grown up in the small Swedish town of Karlskrona, Pragya had come to Mumbai in search of her roots. An event management job brought her modelling offers and Abhishek, who had just started work on his third directorial, Kai Po Che!, then, into her life. They met at a concert and after a year he asked her out. It was then, that Pragya knew instantly that he was the one for her. The couple tied the knot on May 4, 2015 and welcomed their first baby six months later.

The writer-director informs proudly that he has never needed to take paternity leave and even worked through his wedding, Isana’s birth and now Shamsher’s. “Pragya wouldn’t have it any other way and had everything figured out on her own,” asserts Abhishek, who is busy with the post-production of the Sushant Singh Rajput and Sara Ali Khan-starrer Kedarnath. Is the nursery ready? “With Isana getting ready to start school soon, Shamsher is the lord of his own nursery,” he quips.

August is Abhishek’s lucky month. He celebrated his 47th birthday on August 6 and today his National Award-winning film, Rock On!!, featuring the band of boys, Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal, Purab Kohli and Luke Kenny, completes a decade. Will he return to the franchise to direct Part 3? “Rock On!! brings back lots of good memories. To answer your question, I live by a simple principle: You’re either there or you’re elsewhere. It will always be my baby and an equal among its siblings,” the proud father signs off with a smile.

Abhishek Kapoor who chose to ring in his 47th birthday on Monday by being a part of one in Amsterdam
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 7, 2018)

How did the idea of walking in the Pride Parade in Amsterdam on your birthday come about?
It happened spontaneously. Close friends in Mumbai and Amsterdam were prepping up for it and it sounded like a lot of fun. My wife Pragya prodded me to go experience this incredible movement. Sexual orientation should not be a reason for discrimination, but unfairly it is. Pride Parades are expressions of freedom and a celebration of life over everything else. This spirit, attitude and spunk is worthy of respect.

Tell us about your interactions during the Parade?
I met the most amazing people across the spectrum and the energy was unbelievable! The people of Amsterdam are the best brand ambassadors for their city. Inclusiveness is a way of life there and they take it most seriously. Streets, canals, balconies and even rooftops were overflowing with people who were cheering with love, joy and compassion.

Any other plans for the vacay?
I needed a break after the crazy year I’ve had filming Kedarnath. I needed to chill, re-charge my batteries, soak in some inspiration and experiences. Now, I’m looking forward to home and family; the most fitting end to the birthday.

When do you get back?
I’m spending a couple of more days in Europe but I can’t wait to get back and finish the film, which is neck deep in post-production. Technically, we’re having two babies, back to back.

How are you prepping up for Baby No. 2?
Pragya makes it so effortless, I simply follow her lead and do as I’m told. For the first few months I know I’ll be treading on eggshells.

Anything you’ve learnt with your son Isana that will come in handy?
The first thought is “burp the baby”, and the huge relief when my little one burped. Isana is a lovely boy who has trained us both very well.

Kedarnath is finally complete. What was the shoot like?
It’s the toughest shoot I’ve been on. The terrain and the weather were both daunting, and taking a crew of 150 on a trek for a month to shoot is not an easy task. The actors also gave their best. I don’t think anyone other than Sushant (Singh Rajput) could have done what he has in this film.

What changes did Ronnie Screwvala coming ín as a producer after Prernaa Arora’s exit, bring into the project?
He got me out of the mess we were in. Ronnie stuck an arm out for me and I can never forget that. He is a visionary, an exemplary leader; I continue to learn a lot from him. His work ethics and discipline are motivating and inspiring. I couldn’t have asked for anyone better. I guess someone up there is watching over me

Your thoughts on Sushant Singh Rajput and debutante Sara Ali Khan?
Sushant is special. We have an unspoken connection which translates into crackling chemistry on the sets. He is an evolved human being and the most dedicated professional. Sara is equally evolved, and possesses her own brand of maturity; when the camera comes on, it’s like some higher inner power takes over. Together, they share an on-screen bond that’s unusually captivating and effortlessly fresh.

Actress-turned-filmmaker Pragya Kapoor, who turned 28 on Friday, discusses welcoming her second child with husband Abhishek Kapoor in September, taking charge of his home banner and feeding off his creativity, and plans to produce comedic content
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 30, 2018)

Actress-turned-filmmaker Pragya Kapoor, who turned 28 on Friday, discusses welcoming her second child with husband Abhishek Kapoor in September, taking charge of his home banner and feeding off his creativity, and plans to produce comedic content

Filmmaker Abhishek Kapoor and his wife Pragya are looking forward to welcoming their second child in September. The mom-to-be, who celebrated her 28th birthday on Friday with an intimate family lunch and their two-and-a-half-year-old son, Isana, cutting the cake for her, says that she plans to have more babies soon. “I want to make more films and babies,” she laughs. “Abhishek and I have been together for eight years now and he surprised me with a beautiful pair of solitaire earrings for my birthday,” she adds. Having grown up in the small Swedish town of Karlskrona, Pragya arrived in Mumbai to trace her roots.

But an event management job brought her modelling offers and she soon found herself dating writer-director Gattu who at the time, was to begin working on his second directorial, the 2013 film Kai Po Che. Meanwhile, she went on to land a role in Amole Gupte’s Hawa Hawaai. “I didn’t want to become an actress. I was curious about my culture, so I packed my bags and moved to Mumbai. I didn’t know anyone here,” she says. “I had known Abhishek for a year when we met at a concert. He asked me out and I knew from the beginning that he was the one... He needed a little more time,” she reminisces.

The couple tied the knot on May 4, 2015 and welcomed their baby boy six months later. According to the model-actress, her parents had no reservations about her marrying a Bollywood filmmaker who was 18 years her senior. “They are incredible parents who’ve always let me do what I want,” she says.

With Kedarnath, Pragya is turning producer, working round-the-clock to facilitate a smooth release for the film that has been in the pipeline for the last two years. “Once we are done with Kedarnath, we will go on a holiday. I think it’s well-deserved,” she says, alluding to a “tough year” she and Abhishek have had. “We put everything else aside because we knew that we were fighting for the right thing. Producing Kedarnath has definitely been hard but it has made us stronger. The film is almost complete now and our fight has yielded good results,” she asserts. She is all praise for debutante Sara Ali Khan, who was rumoured to have given her dates to Rohit Shetty’s Simmba — her second Bollywood film — right in the middle of the Kedarnath schedule. “Sara is very sincere. I’m sure she will go a long way,” Pragya says.

She also reveals that she is in charge of her husband’s home banner, Guy In The Sky Pictures. “I try not to get into Abhishek’s way creatively because he is the Captain of the ship but I make sure that he gets what he wants. He discusses everything with me and I learn from him a lot. I am overseeing the edits and working closely with him. Production is a tough job, there are a lot of business decisions to make. But Abhishek’s creativity is contagious. I am looking forward to a large slate of films that we will be working on next,” she reveals.

As a film buff, Pragya has her favourites — Rajkummar Rao, Vicky Kaushal, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt figure at the top of her list. “In terms of genre, I have keen interest in producing comedies and dramas,” she adds.