Showing posts with label Shailesh Singh. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shailesh Singh. Show all posts
Hansal Mehta to helm a web series on notorious gangster Vikas Dubey
7:33 PM
Hansal Mehta to helm web series on the alleged encounter of UP's ganglord; intends to explore the 'nexus of politics, crime and lawmakers'
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; August 10, 2020)
A large section of the population raised questions over the alleged encounter of Vikas Dubey on July 10. Even as the Supreme Court has ordered a three-member panel to investigate the matter, in Bollywood, the incident has caught the attention of filmmaker Hansal Mehta. The director is set to helm a web series on the notorious gangster, who had earned the moniker 'Gabbar of Bikru'.A day after he was arrested in Ujjain on July 9, Dubey was shot dead while allegedly trying to flee from the custody of the Uttar Pradesh Police after the Special Task Force (STF) convoy met with an accident on the outskirts of Kanpur.
Producer Shailesh Singh, who has acquired the rights to tell his story, says, "I had been following the events closely and thought, why not tell this story to the entire nation and bring out the facts?" It took some convincing for Vikas Dubey's family to agree to part with the story. "It's a recent event, and they are still coping with it. Many people had approached them, but we managed to convince them after much persuasion. They want his story to be depicted with authenticity."
In the 30 years since his first criminal case in 1990, the history-sheeter faced as many as 61 FIRs. He found the national spotlight on him when he killed BJP leader Santosh Shukla inside the Shivli police station in 2001. Dubey's death on July 10 ended the eight-day chase that began on July 2 when his men killed eight UP police officers who had gone to Bikru to arrest him.
Mehta, who has previously offered compelling dramas in Shahid, Aligarh and Omerta, believes there is more to the episode than meets the eye. "It is an important story, which is a reflection of our times where politics, crime and lawmakers form a curious nexus. I see an edgy political thriller emerging from this [material]." The director has yet to zero in on the cast. "I have some thoughts [on who I want to rope in], but let the writing happen first."
Madhur Bhandarkar's Chandni Bar sequel to roll by 2018-end
8:02 AM
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 14, 2018)
Mirror has learnt that 17 years after his National Award-winning Tabu-starrer Chandni Bar, Madhur Bhandarkar is all set to direct part two of the crime-drama that will be produced by Shailesh R Singh.
“Madhur has put in a lot of research on the aftermath of the 2005 ban on dance bars and has set the film around the same time and subject. He has a lot of material ready and work on the script has already begun,” a source close to the development informed, adding that the casting process will begin once Madhur has locked the final draft. The film is expected to roll by the year-end.
Confirming the news, Shailesh told Mirror, “I am really excited to produce Chandni Bar 2 with Madhur as the director once again. I have already acquired the rights to the film and can’t wait to take it on the floors.”
Chandni Bar, which earned Tabu the National Award for Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor for Atul Kulkarni, Best Supporting Actress for Ananya Khare and a National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues, revolved around Tabu’s protagonist, Mumtaz Ansari, who after her family is killed, moves to the Maximum City to live with her impoverished uncle. He forces her to get a job at a dive bar, but tragedy strikes when her uncle rapes her, after which she finds comfort in the arms of Potya played by Atul, a gangster who is smitten by her. However, after they get married and have children, the gangster abandons the family, leaving Mumtaz to fend for herself and the kids. And while she tries her best to give them a better life, they end up in the same world as their parents.
Kangana Ranaut keen to name her next Mental, but will have to acquire its copyright from Salman Khan?
8:01 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; December 18, 2017)
After wrapping up the shoot of Manikarnika - The Queen Of Jhansi next month, Kangana Ranaut will move on to her next project — a whodunit. While the actor is understandably excited about attempting the genre for the first time in her 11-year-career, the Shailesh R Singh-produced film has already hit a roadblock. Turns out, Ranaut has her heart set on a title that, as luck would have it, has been registered by Salman Khan.
A source from the production unit reveals, “Kangana and Shailesh ji are both keen to title their film Mental. They both think that it goes wonderfully with the story. But when the producers contacted Indian Motion Pictures Producers’ Association [IMPPA], they realized that the copyright of the name rests with Salman Khan Films [SKF]. Salman’s team had registered the title a few years back when they were toying with the idea of naming Kabir Khan’s then under-production film, Mental. However, they later changed it to Tubelight.”
The makers of the mystery drama have now reached out to Khan’s team, to procure the title. “They have also requested Kangana to have a word with Salman,” adds the source.
A source from SKF indicates that the superstar, known for his generous ways, may not hesitate to part with the title. “At the moment, there’s no project that could use the title. Unless Bhai has something in mind, he will allow Shailesh ji to go ahead with it.”
It may be recalled that Ranaut was one of the first actors approached to play Khan’s love interest in Sultan (2016). However, she had turned it down — she had then reasoned saying, “Sultan was a great character for a girl to play, [but] I didn’t see anything for me in that.” However, this hasn’t dampened the cordial equation the two share.
Singh remained unavailable for comment.
Kangana Ranaut in talks for a whodunit thriller that she'll do after wrapping up Manikarnika?
7:45 AM
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; October 24, 2017)
Looks like it may be a while before we witness the directorial skills of Kangana Ranaut. Before her directorial debut, Teju, goes on floors in mid-2018, the actor may shoot for a whodunit mystery thriller. The yet-untitled movie is essentially a cat-and-mouse chase thriller between two protagonists, with Ranaut’s character having grey shades.
A source close to the actor reveals, “Kangana’s role is nuanced and powerful. She loved the script as she felt it will give her a chance to showcase her acting skills again.”
We hear the actor may shoot for the thriller in February next year after she wraps up Manikarnika: The Queen Of Jhansi. The source adds that Shailesh R Singh, Prernaa Arora and Arjun N Kapoor, who are producing the film, are considering Rajkummar Rao and Ayushmann Khurrana for the male lead.
Singh, who previously collaborated with Ranaut on Simran (2017) and is backing Teju as well, asserts that the thriller won’t hamper the schedule of her directorial debut. “Kangana has not done a mystery thriller so far. That’s why we wanted to bring her on board. We’re currently in talks with her. Teju will require about six to eight months of prep before it goes on floors. So, we want to shoot the thriller in the meantime.”
Kangana Ranaut's directorial debut Teju pushed 2018 due to Simran's debacle?
7:48 AM
Upala KBR (DNA; October 13, 2017)
Months after she announced her directorial debut with a film for children, Kangana Ranaut, we hear, is set to defer its shooting for a few months. The actor, who has already penned the story and screenplay of Teju, was to begin filming in Himachal Pradesh, from December. Shooting, however, will now commence after she wraps up her ongoing Rani Laxmibai biopic, Manikarnika - The Queen Of Jhansi.
While sources suggest that the decision to defer the film was prompted by the debacle of Ranaut-starrer, Simran, co-producer Shailesh R Singh suggests otherwise. "Kangana's project was never meant to start this year. She is working on Manikarnika, which will wrap up by January 2018. She will then prepare for Teju over the six to eight months that follow," says Singh, who also co-produced Simran. He adds that since the adventure-fantasy, which will see Ranaut in the role of an 80-year-old grandmother, will involve VFX. Thus, it will be a tough project to pull off. "This is one of the most challenging and expensive film that can be made in Bollywood. So, it will take time. International technicians are also being roped in."
Shedding light on the film's storyline, a source tells mid-day that Ranaut will harbour special powers. "The ageing protagonist is not ready to leave the world. She uses her superpowers to re-live her life. The film has a message of women empowerment, and caters to children as well. It's an expensive project, with a budget hitting Rs 50 crore, because, apart from VFX, it will also involve the use of prosthetics for Kangana's look," says the source. The film is expected to roll in June 2018.
Singh heaps praise on Ranaut's acting prowess as he quells reports of being apprehensive of working with her again. "If Simran did not do well, Kangana alone is not to blame. She delivered a power-packed performance. I will keep working with her."
Yes, I will play an 80-year-old woman in my first directorial, Teju-Kangana Ranaut
7:48 AM
Actress will play a vibrant veteran in her directorial debut which rolls in the Himalayas in December
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 20, 2017)
"Yes, I will play an 80-year-old woman in my first directorial, Teju,” Kangana Ranaut reveals with a delighted laugh, going on to add that Teju is a woman perched on the threshold of death but not yet ready to leave the world. “She is a warm, vibrant woman, full of life, who doesn’t feel old at all.”
The film rolls in December and is targeting a 2018-end release. The actress who is also scripting it, informs that it will touch on concerns like mortality, what lies beyond and the essence of existence but not in a way that is dark, depressing or boring. “These are questions that all of us ask ourselves and each other from time to time. We will explore them in a light-hearted manner in my film dappled with the sunshine of Teju’s personality,” promises Kangana.
She was raised by her great-grandparents because her brother Akshay came along soon after her and her mother found it difficult to look after both babies together. “By the time I was a toddler, my great-grandmother was in her eighties. I grew up around old people and it pains me to see senior citizens largely ignored in any community, society or country,” she sighs.
She asserts that for her it will be a beautiful experience to know how it feels to be 80 when she is still in her thirties. “Teju will be about every old person I know and have loved. It will also be a lot about me as I am older than my years. Today, unless I step out of my comfort zone, challenge myself as an actress, where is the need for me to leave my home, my family and my dog? I can live in comfort by simply cutting ribbons,” she points out.
Kangana goes on to reveal that she is an accidental actress who stumbled into this profession when Anurag Basu spotted her and cast her in his 2006 romantic crime-drama Gangster. She remembers how enamoured she was by her director, who being an actor himself, would simultaneously give cues to his actors, many of whom looked to her like alien entities, clueless in their creative space.
“Anu was the person in charge, discussing music with Pritam and shots with the DoP (Director of Photography). I was just a kid then, around 18 or 19, and more than the actors who were mostly concerned with their hair, costume and make-up, with their lines, phones and how much time before pack-up, I wanted to be like Anu,” reminisces the three-time National Award winner, who waited for over a decade to move to the other side of the camera.
She will be producing the film under her newly-launched banner, Manikarnika Films, jointly with her Tanu Weds Manu 1 and 2 and Simran producer-friend Shailesh Singh. And since like Maria in Sound of Music she is a girl from the mountains, it will be shot in the Himalayas.
As a little girl, Kangana remembers being dazzled by the mountains as much when they were shrouded in the clouds as when they were seen in all their magnificence on a clear spring day. And for her first directorial, she will return to these picture perfect hills and dales of Himachal Pardesh.
“Teju will showcase Himachali life and culture which have largely gone unexplored in our mainstream cinema as filmmakers only use my part of the country as a beautiful setting for their songs. My film will be a visual treat but it will also give you a glimpse into my life before Bollywood, into the real Kangana whom few have known in all these years,” she signs off with a smile.
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‘There are no contracts’
Ketan Mehta has sent a legal notice accusing Kangana Ranaut, whom he had been in contact with since 2015 after approaching her to play the lead in one of his most ambitious projects, the Hindi-English bi-lingual, Rani of Jhansi: The Warrior Queen, of knowingly hijacking the project in collusion with producer Kamal Jain. He has asked for work on her film, Manikarnika, based on the same subject, to stop as he plans to go ahead with his project.
Responding to the allegation that she has unethically sharing 10-years worth of research material with her new team, Kangana says, “There is no similarity in the story and screenplay of Mr Mehta and the story and screenplay of my producer Kamal Jain. He is free to make the film, as is anyone else, based on a revered historical figure, Rani Lakshmi Bai.” She goees on to state, “Our lawyers have sent an interim response to Mr Mehta’s lawyers. There are no contracts or agreements signed with Mr Mehta.”
An analysis of Simran controversy and who said what
7:37 AM
Renuka Vyavahare & Hiren Kotwani (BOMBAY TIMES; May 20, 2017)
The verbal duel between
Simran's writer Apurva Asrani and actress Kangana Ranaut is heating up. A
couple of days ago, Apurva, who has previously written-edited Aligarh,
lashed out at the makers of Simran for giving the actress 'Additional
Story and Dialogue' credit on the film's poster. He accused her of
hijacking the story and claiming credit for some improvisations during
the shoot. The writer was also stumped to see her name being featured
before his on the film's poster.On the other hand, Kangana in a recent interview said that she had actually rewritten parts of the movie that was dark initially, and so, the credit is rightfully hers. After days of maintaining silence, director Hansal Mehta also took to social media to express his views. Meanwhile, Shailesh Singh, one of the producers of the film, says that what appeared on the poster was a printing error, which will be rectified. There are also rumours that Hansal was under pressure to support the actress. Hansal's son, Jai (also an AD on the film) strongly defends his dad and says, “I would be the last one to tolerate such a thing. We are supporting Kangana because she is speaking the truth.“
Some sources close to the film are baffled at this controversy, and are left wondering where the problem exactly lies since everyone concerned has got their due credit.
APURVA SAYS THAT HE WROTE AN ENTERTAINER AND HE HAS PROOF
“I have never opposed Kangana's additional writing credit. People who contribute, should get recognised. Just like I contributed to the writers work in Shahid, she has contributed to my work in Simran. Kangana should gracefully accept the additional writing credit, and not go about claiming that she rewrote some dark script of mine. I wrote an entertainer, and I have proof of the same. Filmmaking is a collaborative effort and we need to give each department its respect.“
KANGANA SAYS THAT THERE'S NO CLARITY ON WHAT APURVA NEEDS FROM THEM
“It was Apurva who requested me that I take the credit for additional story and dialogue and not as the co-writer of the film. I agreed to that, following which we all signed legal documents. In fact, the matter was settled months ago. He is credited as the main writer of the story, screenplay and dialogue. There is no clarity on what else he needs from us on that front.“
HANSAL MEHTA'S STATEMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA:“Yes, I am guilty of crediting individuals who contribute to making my films very special. Call me as many names as you want. But in your desperation to seek attention and gain sympathy, do not try to harm my film. My spine is whatever it is, weak or strong, it is only for my film and nothing else. I am not driven by any blackmail or any noise on social media where dignity is perceived as weakness and conversation is replaced by allegation. I don't owe anybody an explanation except to those colleagues who work with love, respect and are genuine stakeholders in our efforts to make films. And some free advice to those that jump the gun just to be relevant - go, get a life. Do some work that you can genuinely own. Endure the pain that comes with making an entire film and make that journey on your own. Then give yourself all the credits in the world.“
SHAILESH SINGH (PRODUCER)
I don't understand what Apurva wants. Whatever he wanted has been documented legally. Surely, he read the papers thoroughly before signing them. He should stop raking up the issue and let people watch the film for what it is. As for his credit coming after Kangana's, I spoke to him and clarified that it was a mistake and I will correct it. But he didn't want to wait and made a noise about it. Kya galat hua hai? Apni khud ki history dekh lo. He has a habit of blackmailing. That won't work anymore. It will stop here. I can't do anything more. If he wants to continue, it's his wish. The chapter is over from our side.
JAI MEHTA (HANSAL'S SON AND ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, SIMRAN)
No one is denying that Apurva is the writer of the story, screenplay and dialogue of Simran. Nobody is taking his credit away. However, it's a fact that Kangana did not just improvise but gave her inputs by actually writing the script for about two-and-a-half months in the US, which is why she was given the 'additional story and dialogue' credit for the film. It was collaboration. Why is it so hard for people to believe that an actor can be a good writer? There are characters, songs and montages in the film, which are totally her creation. Apurva wrote nine drafts for the film and it wasn't working out as Kangana and Hansal were constantly revising it. Simran releases on September 15 and we will release the last draft of Apurva's script online on 14th night so that you can tell for yourself the difference.
As far as the perception of Kangana being a star who is taking away Apurva's credit and arm-twisting my father is concerned, I would be the last one to tolerate such a thing. We are supporting her because she is speaking the truth. Apurva is no longer the editor of the film. We will rope in a new editor to start from the scratch.
Simran producer Shailesh Singh slams Apurva Asrani, alleges that he is publicity hungry
9:28 AM
Simran producer on the Kangy writing credit saga
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 18, 2017)
It all started with mid-day’s April 26 report on Kangana Ranaut being credited as a co-writer in her next, Simran. The actress had told us, “When Hansal (Mehta, director) came to me with the script of Simran, I was intrigued. It was essentially a dark, gritty crime thriller. Together we sat down and tweaked the script to make it a slice-of-life comedy. It is gracious of them (Hansal and co.) to credit me as a writer for the film.”
That remark didn’t go down well with Apurva Asrani, who has scripted Simran along with Hansal’s earlier works. Over the past few weeks, he has been expressing displeasure on social media over the “lie”. Ruing “why Kangana would snatch the hard earned work of a writer”, Apurva was furious that Kangana was “claiming credit” as co-writer. Worse, Kangy’s name precedes his in the film poster.
After he poured his heart out in a Facebook post yesterday, we reached out to Simran producer Shailesh Singh to set the record straight. He says, “I have worked with Apurva on two of his biggest films — Shahid (2013) and Aligarh (2016). Apurva has a legal document in his possession signed by all parties — Kangana, Hansal, the producers and himself — wherein he agrees to the credits given by us.”
As far as the order of credit goes, Singh calls it a printing error that will be rectified in the next poster. “I have conveyed this to Apurva. We could have chatted in person before he took the issue to social media.”
Word is that Kangana was supposed to get sole story credit, with Apurva being given screenplay credit. It was later decided that the credits would be shared.
Singh says, “He seems to be doing this for publicity. If this is about him versus Kangana, I want to clarify that to please an actress, I’d have paid her more. Why be unfair to him? Once the film hits screens, we will release the script online for the world to judge.”
The last we spoke to Apurva, he said he had no intentions of taking up the matter legally. We also reached out to Kangana, who refused to comment on the story.
I choose subjects that touch the audience's hearts-Shailesh Singh
7:48 AM
The producer of films like Tanu Weds Manu and Madaari talks about his 10-year journey in Bollywood
Sonil Dedhia (BOMBAY TIMES; August 10, 2016)
The success story of
Shailesh Singh, an independent producer in Bollywood, is nothing less
than a movie script. He kick-started his career as an apprentice and
followed his dream to present content that not only entertains viewers
but also prompts them to think. Over the years, he has backed films like
Bas Ek Pal, Tanu Weds Manu, Shahid, Aligarh and Madaari. Shailesh, who
completes a decade in the Hindi film industry this year, says, “I try to
choose subjects that have an interesting storyline and touch the
audience's hearts.“However, the entrepreneur's journey has been replete with trials and tribulations. Hailing from a small town in Jaunpur, he came from an academically-inclined family as his father and grandfather were school principals. But Shailesh wasn't too keen on studies and divided his time between his twin passions - cricket and movies. A fan of Amitabh Bachchan and Mithun Chakraborty, he says, “I'd travel 12 to 15 kilometres to watch a film.“ He adds, “When I got home, my parents would be angry with me.“ One day, he finally decided to take a leap of faith. With a sports magazine in hand and Rs 400 in his pocket, he ran away from home when he was 15 and came to Mumbai to pursue a career in cricket. He headed straight to Shivaji Park and started training in cricket for more than two years.
A young Shailesh soon realised that he had to earn money to survive and cricket wasn't a feasible option. So he went back home and after another few years, returned to Mumbai to work as an apprentice with director Mansoor Khan on Akele Hum Akele Tum. Later, he also assisted Joy Augustine on Tere Mere Sapne and tried his hand at television by writing a few episodes of shows like Mehndi Tere Naam Ki, Rishtey and Choodiyan. Unhappy with the remuneration, he decided to become a television producer. “I wrote and produced my own show in 2001 and followed it up with a few other serials until 2005,“ he adds. In 2005, he met Onir and decided to produce his first venture, Bas Ek Pal, under his banner Paramhans Entertainment. He explains, “Onir and I instantly connected. I loved his idea and decided to produce it. He showed a lot of faith in me.“ Shailesh's fortune changed after he decided to present director Aanand L Rai's Tanu Weds Manu in 2011. He continues, “No one wanted to back that film. I decided to produce it. Since then it has been a wonderful journey.“
Praising the producer, produce it Aanand says, “Shailesh is like my brother and we often bounce off ideas to each other. He is focused about the kind of films he wants to make.“ Hansal Mehta, who collaborated with him on Shahid and Aligarh, states, “He is passionate about cinema. I've been privy to his amazing journey and filmmakers like me owe their freedom to producers like him.“
Nishikant Kamat, who helmed Madaari, couldn't agree more. He adds, “Shailesh has the instincts to back content-oriented films. He listens to the narration and makes his decision instantly.“
Meanwhile, Shailesh has already started working on a handful of eclectic projects. Besides teaming up with Hansal on Praful Patel, starring Kangana Ranaut in the lead, he's working with Aanand on Manmarziyan. “I'm excited to collaborate with Mira Nair on a film that marks her nephew Ishaan Nair's directorial debut. I'm also producing Bejoy Nambiar's next with Dhanush in the lead,“ he signs off.
Irrfan Khan, Nishikant Kamat come together for Madaari
7:58 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (March 10, 2015)
Having produced both box
office hits and critically acclaimed films like Tanu Weds Manu and
Shahid, Shailesh Singh is on a roll. He has managed to get two very
talented people together again for Green Light Entertainment, Dore Films
and Saptarishi Cinevision Productions' Madaari that is being
presented by Bharat Shah. Irrfan will be essaying the lead role in this
film, which will be directed by Nishikant Kamat. The last time this
actor-director duo worked together was on Mumbai Meri Jaan, a film that
not only went on to win notices, but also set a perfect chemistry
between the actor and director.
Ask Irrfan his views on working with Nishikant, and he says, “During Mumbai Meri Jaan, I developed a deep bond with Nishikant. Since then, I've been eagerly awaiting for an opportunity to work with him. Hence, when a good subject like Madaari came up, I instantly agreed.“
Nishikant adds, “Irrfan and my association goes back a long way; we actually did TV together first. Post Mumbai Meri Jaan, we had to wait for the right script to work with each other again. Apart from being a friend, he is a legendary actor and I have definitely learnt a lot from him.“
Shot across the length and breadth of India - Mumbai, Shimla, Dehradun, Delhi, Jaisalmer and Hyderabad, among other places - this Irrfan-Nishikant film is a hard-hitting social thriller, with a strong emotional connect. It also stars Jimmy Sheirgill and has an enviable ensemble cast.
Shailesh Singh, who apart from being a producer on Madaari is also co-producing Hansal Mehta's next, Aligarh, says, “It's exciting that we have two talented individuals coming together for Madaari. We had a blast shooting the film and full credit goes to my co-producers Irrfan, Shelija Kejriwal, Sandeep Singh and Anil Patil. We'll commence post production shortly and are aiming for a July-August 2015 release.“
Ask Irrfan his views on working with Nishikant, and he says, “During Mumbai Meri Jaan, I developed a deep bond with Nishikant. Since then, I've been eagerly awaiting for an opportunity to work with him. Hence, when a good subject like Madaari came up, I instantly agreed.“
Nishikant adds, “Irrfan and my association goes back a long way; we actually did TV together first. Post Mumbai Meri Jaan, we had to wait for the right script to work with each other again. Apart from being a friend, he is a legendary actor and I have definitely learnt a lot from him.“
Shot across the length and breadth of India - Mumbai, Shimla, Dehradun, Delhi, Jaisalmer and Hyderabad, among other places - this Irrfan-Nishikant film is a hard-hitting social thriller, with a strong emotional connect. It also stars Jimmy Sheirgill and has an enviable ensemble cast.
Shailesh Singh, who apart from being a producer on Madaari is also co-producing Hansal Mehta's next, Aligarh, says, “It's exciting that we have two talented individuals coming together for Madaari. We had a blast shooting the film and full credit goes to my co-producers Irrfan, Shelija Kejriwal, Sandeep Singh and Anil Patil. We'll commence post production shortly and are aiming for a July-August 2015 release.“
Irrfan Khan defaults on a payment to a broke real estate agent suffering from cancer?
7:35 AM
Gaurav Dubey (MID-DAY; October 20, 2014)
Irrfan Khan, who recently bought a flat in the suburbs, has reportedly defaulted on a payment promised to a real estate agent. The agent, Vikas Gupta is now battling cancer and is struggling to meet the expenses of his treatment.
A source says Vikas cracked the deal for Irrfan six months ago but the actor is yet to pay the broker’s fees, which is to the tune of Rs 8 lakh. “Shailesh Singh, a producer, had facilitated the meeting. However, once the deal was struck, Vikas could not reach them. A series of e-mails were exchanged and Irrfan promised to speak to Shailesh and get things sorted out. But he has not paid up so far. Vikas has to go for chemotherapy every month and urgently needs money,” adds the source.
Vikas says his pleas to Irrfan over the last six months have been ignored. “I had also e-mailed Irrfan ji’s wife and told her about my health condition. She asked me to collect the money on October 15 but when I tried to get in touch with her last week, she did not respond. If he doesn’t clear my dues, how will I manage to pay for my treatment?” Vikas questions.
Irrfan’s wife, Sutapa Sikdar says, “It’s a baseless claim. As the agent had insisted, I went through the builder to clear his dues. Now he is harassing us.”
Irrfan Khan-Kangana Ranaut's Divine Lovers is India's answer to French love stories
7:47 AM
Roshni K Olivera (BOMBAY TIMES; September 20, 2014)
Director Sai Kabir's
upcoming film, Divine Lovers, National Award winners starring Irrfan
and Kangana Ranaut, is one of the few projects from all over the world
that Film France (the French Film Commission) is associating itself
with. Film France, that helped set up this partnership between Paris
and Mumbai companies, has made sure that the film is on track to be an
official Indo-French co-production and therefore, could be eligible for
French Qualification when its production starts. It may thus receive a
mainstream cinema release in France and the rest of Europe, which is a
rare occurrence.
Divine Lovers is a love story set in the heartland of India and deals with the lives of the lower middle-class. Says Sai, “The film will also star French technicians. It's an attempt at making an authentic Indian film, with French technical and philosophical support.“
Irrfan is producing this film along with Shailesh R Singh, who has previously produced films like Tanu Weds Manu, Dil Kabaddi and Shahid, among others. Their French partner, co-producer Leonard Glowinski has headed StudioCanal and Pathé and produced movies like Oliver Stone's Alexander, Alain Chabat's Astérix & Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre and Julian Schnabel's The Diving Bell And The Butterfly.
Says Glowinski, “What I appreciate is that this film deals with complicated subjects with a comic tone, which will prove effective.“
Adds Kangana, “It's exciting for me as an artiste and as an actor. It will be India's answer to edgy love stories that world-cinema viewers enjoy .“
The film that goes on floors March next year, will be shot at various locations across India.
Divine Lovers is a love story set in the heartland of India and deals with the lives of the lower middle-class. Says Sai, “The film will also star French technicians. It's an attempt at making an authentic Indian film, with French technical and philosophical support.“
Irrfan is producing this film along with Shailesh R Singh, who has previously produced films like Tanu Weds Manu, Dil Kabaddi and Shahid, among others. Their French partner, co-producer Leonard Glowinski has headed StudioCanal and Pathé and produced movies like Oliver Stone's Alexander, Alain Chabat's Astérix & Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre and Julian Schnabel's The Diving Bell And The Butterfly.
Says Glowinski, “What I appreciate is that this film deals with complicated subjects with a comic tone, which will prove effective.“
Adds Kangana, “It's exciting for me as an artiste and as an actor. It will be India's answer to edgy love stories that world-cinema viewers enjoy .“
The film that goes on floors March next year, will be shot at various locations across India.
Taapsee-Irrfan in Sunderkand, a love story inspired by real life cops
7:40 AM
Ankur Pathak (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 5, 2014)
Taapsee Pannu, who is yet to wrap the final schedule of Neeraj Pandey's Baby opposite Akshay Kumar, has already signed her next. This time, she will romance Irrfan Khan on screen.
Mirror has learnt that former creative head of a TV channel, Priya Mishra, will make her feature film debut with Sunderkand, a gritty love story set in Uttar Pradesh. It will be produced by Shailesh Singh, who had bankrolled Tanu Weds Manu.
Revealed a source close to the project, "The film is about two cops, played by Irrfan and Taapsee, who fall in love in the crime-infested state. The film will go on floors in the first week of October. However, the makers are yet to lock on the town where they will shoot it."
Confirming the same, Priya told Mirror, "The story is inspired by my brother and his wife (name with held on request), who are still with the police force. I toyed with the idea for a long time and finally got down to writing it. Taapsee and Irrfan were the ideal choice."
Taapsee added, "After Baby, it was important that I choose the right film. When Sunderkand came to me, I knew I could not let go of such a beautiful story. I play a cop, which is something I haven't attempted in the past."
Vinod Bachchan to now file criminal complaint against Tanu Weds Manu 2 makers
8:23 AM
Vickey Lalwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 5, 2014)
The producers of Tanu Weds Manu sequel have been slapped with a legal notice by Vinod Bachchan, who collaborated with Sanjay Singh and Shailesh R Singh on the original. Bachchan claims that director Aanand L Rai and the studio backing him, Eros International, have no right to go ahead with Part 2 since the rights officially belong to him.
Rai however shrugs off the notice, saying, "The studio has all the papers in place to take the project forward. Besides, Vinod was just one of the producers of the original film. Let him do what he wants."
Surprisingly, Shailesh is not siding Vinod either. Says Shailesh, "Vinod doesnt have any rights to the film."
The studio in question had issued a statement in 2011 stating that it was producing Tanu Weds Manu 2. When contacted, the company's official spokesperson then had confirmed that studio was on board. But this time they chose not to respond to our text.
While Vinod remained unavailable for comment, his lawyer Raja Thakur said: "I'm shocked that neither Rai nor the studio has responded to our notice so far. We will now be filing a criminal complaint on Tuesday."
Tanu Weds Manu 2 row: Now Sanjay Singh slaps legal notice on Aanand
7:50 AM
Rachana Dubey (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 22, 2014)
While director Aanand L Rai hunts for a Kangana look-alike for his, Tanu Weds Manu sequel, the film has hit a roadblock.
Reportedly, Aanand has been slapped with a legal notice by Sanjay Singh, one of the three producers of Tanu Weds Manu, the other two being Vinod Bachchan and Shailesh R Singh. The supposed legal notice states that the director doesn't have the rights to make a sequel without their consent.
Aanand L Rai counters these reports, saying "Vinod, Shailesh and Sanjay only have rights over the first film. They don't have the rights to sequels and prequels. So, why can't I make a sequel to Tanu Weds Manu?" questioned Aanand, adding, "Eros International is the producer of the sequel. They have all the papers in place to take this project forward. And I've already started work on the film. As for their legal notice, I'm yet to receive one from any of them. I can only comment on it after I have seen it."
When contacted, Vinod furiously retorted, "Shailesh, Sanjay and I are the producers of the first film and are keen to make a sequel. My legal notice is being drafted right now while Sanjay has already sent a notice from his end. Aanand is trying to damage our brand. If he was so keen to make the sequel, why didn't he seek our permission or choose to work with us?" he rants, adding, "If he was so keen to work with Eros International, why didn't he start a sequel to Raanjhanaa or his first film Strangers? We have our papers in place."
Eros International had issued a press statement back in 2011 stating that they were producing Tanu Weds Manu 2. When contacted, the company's official spokesperson confirmed they are still on board as the producers of the film.
When informed about this, Vinod insisted that the sequel cannot be made without the consent of his co-producers and him.
When we last checked, Aanand hadn't received a legal notice from Sanjay or any of the other co-producers. Aanand said, "If Vinod, Shailesh and Sanjay can prove they have the rights to make the sequel and/or a prequel, I will direct it for them. In any case, their legal notice should be addressed to Eros, not me."
How can Aanand make Tanu Weds Manu 2, without my consent?-Vinod Bachchan
8:14 AM
Hiren Kotwani (BOMBAY TIMES; May 21, 2014)
History seems to be repeating itself with Tanu
Weds Manu. After the original, the film's sequel is also running
into legal troubles.However, unlike the 2011 movie, which was disputed among its co-producers, Tanu Weds Manu 2 has got embroiled in a legal tangle between director Aanand L Rai and the producers, after Rai announced the project.
Producer Vinod Bachchan, who had gone to
court over the sale of rights of the first movie - he now holds 51%
share after the settlement -is preparing to send a notice to Rai.
Meanwhile, Sanjay Singh, who holds 24.5% share via his agreement with
co-producer Shailesh Singh (who holds 24.5% share), sent a notice (of
which Bombay Times has a copy) to Rai on Tuesday.Says Bachchan, "Aanand is just the director. Tanu Weds Manu is my property . How can he make my film's sequel without my consent?" Sanjay adds, "Aanand is aware of my contract with Shailesh. He knows we are equal owners of the IPR of Tanu Weds Manu. Four months ago, he had tried to negotiate with me, but it was inconclusive. How can he talk about a sequel? I've sent a notice to him."
After several calls and text messages, Rai finally sent us an SMS saying he was “in a narration“. He didn't clarify his side till the time of going to press.
Prateik not in right frame of mind to shoot after Issaq debacle?
7:57 AM
Hiren Kotwani (BOMBAY TIMES; April 25, 2014)
Prateik’s career seems to have hit a speedbreaker. The actor, who was working the second time around with producer Shailesh Singh (Issaq), was reportedly shown the door from Rum Pum Posshh, their next collaboration. That too, after shooting for about a week. He has been replaced by model-actor Shaswat Seth, who was seen in the last season of Khatron Ke Khiladi.
Sources suggest that Prateik gave the film’s team a tough time. “Sometimes, he simply wouldn’t be around for the shot. After about a week of dealing with his erratic ways, the makers decided to opt for someone else,” a source says.
When contacted, Shailesh conceded that the actor was feeling low after the debacle of Issaq, but he wasn’t shown the door. He added, “Prateik shot barely two days and it was more of a look test. He wasn’t in the frame of mind to shoot and it wouldn’t have been right to make the director and cast wait for four-five months.”
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