“It has been uphill,” says Taha Shah Badussha, describing his rise to the national crush status and the audience lapping up his turn as Nawab Tajdar Baloch in Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. “Andar se mujhe yaqeen tha ki ek din log mujhe pasand karenge, but I didn’t realise that it would happen so suddenly,” adds Badussha, gobsmacked about how the number of likes on his posts has shot into lakhs from a few hundred.

The Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial has also spelt a brutal phase of trolling for his co-star Sharmin Segal. “I spoke to her at the success party and she was very happy. Sharmin is a very strong person and she knows exactly what she is doing. She will get through this,” says the 36-year-old, adding, “I’m no one to speak about how the audience perceives something. I have been on the other side, too, but now I have been accepted — so, it’s a journey.”

He also made his Cannes debut at the 77th edition of the film festival, where he launched the poster of his next film, Paro. “Cannes is an animal. Only when you are there, do you realize its magnificence. It’ll be on my list every year,” says Badussha, who is unfazed by the criticism around his accent during his Cannes appearance.

“I was born in Dubai. I studied in the UK, USA and here (India), so my accent is all over the place. I have no single accent and I am an actor; my acting keeps changing. I accept my change and I hope that it keeps changing,” he signs off.

National Award-winning director Mangesh Hadawale on why he chose to rework a Tamil film for SLB as a launch pad for Sharmin and Meezan
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 1, 2019)

The success of Tingya and his short film Chalo Jeete Hain, along with the international acclaim he got for his first Hindi film Dekh Indian Circus, has made Mangesh Hadawale a respected writer-producer-director. That Sanjay Leela Bhansali is producing his next directorial, Malaal, ups the expectations. Excerpts from an interview:

Why Malaal?
It’s strange that despite Tingya, produced by Anand L Rai and Ravi Rai, being a huge hit, I did not get Marathi films, but Bollywood offers poured in. Even Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra admitted that Tingya is among his top 25 films while Aamir Khan texted to congratulate me when both Tingya and Taare Zameen Par were in the running to be India’s entry to the Oscars. Even Dekh Indian Circus was feted globally and bagged four National Awards and even thought it didn’t release in India, never did I doubt myself. I was 25 when I made Tingya, I’m 37 now and wanted to arrive with a bang with a film which had the taste of Bollywood but my essence as well. Malaal is the answer.

How was it working with SLB?
Sanjay sir is a university, his religion is cinema, his passion and energy is contagious. Our filmmaking styles are different, mine more realistic but he gave me complete creative freedom while guiding me.

Sharmin is his sister Bela Sehgal’s daughter while Meezaan is Jaaved Jaaferi’s son. Did their film background ever interfere with your vision?
No Jaaved ji came on the set only a couple of times to wish the team. Ditto Sanjay sir. Sharmin and Meezaan are like my kids, I have a special bond with Sharmin whom I call Shamu. Her being Sanjay sir’s niece never effected the film or our relationship. I’m happy and nervous for them.

Any added pressure owing to the success your previous films?
I practice meditation and don’t fear the outcome if I’ve given my 100 per cent. Imtiaz Ali who co-produced Dekh Indian Circus told me that a director is like an archer who hits target sometimes. The film has already given me so much, whatever comes will be a bonus.

Any plans of re-releasing Dekh Indian Circus?
The political scenario of the country is very different today, also Nawazuddin (Siddiqui) and I have moved on. There’s no plan but after Malaal, who knows...

How similiar is Malaal to the Tamil original 7G Rainbow Colony (left)?
Mahaveer Jain who produced both Dekh Indian Circus and Tingya, gave me a DVD of the Tamil film and told me that we should buy its Hindi rights. We’ve been working together for 11 years without a single argument and I trust him implicitly. He introduced me to Sanjay sir. 7G Rainbow Colony was made with South Indian sensibilities, but the soul is pure. I’ve incorporated 10-12 things from it but the remaining script is mine. So, Malaal is more an inspired film than a remake.

What’s SLB’s contribution to it?
He contributed to the screenplay and decided on the title. I like short titles and this one has a certain irony as it’s a love story and ‘malaal’ means regret. Also, this is the first time he has composed music for another director. He’s a guru. If he hadn’t stood behind me, this film wouldn’t have been what it is.

So, is it like an SLB film?
To make a film like Sanjay sir is difficult. He creates his own world and transports you there. Malaal is very realistic; that’s why he approached me for it.

Any regrets personally?
I am what I am because of my father who was beside me when I received National Awards for Tingya and Dekh Indian Circus. He passed away when Malaal was in prep, so I cannot share this film with him. 

Priyanka Chopra showers praise on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's niece Sharmin Segal after watching rushes of her debut vehicle, Malaal
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; June 29, 2019)

A visit to the country to shoot for the last leg of The Sky Is Pink doubled up as an opportunity for Priyanka Chopra Jonas to play mentor to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's niece Sharmin Segal. Chopra, who developed a fondness for the youngster following their collaboration on Mary Kom (2014) and Bajirao Mastani (2015), decided to watch the rushes of her debut vehicle, Malaal.

During their interaction, the young actor, we hear, even taught Chopra the hook step of her track, Udhal Ho. Evidently impressed by Segal's performance, Chopra tells mid-day, "I am proud of Sharmin. As an assistant director on Bajirao Mastani and Mary Kom, she worked closely with me. I saw how hardworking and sincere she is. These are traits that will help her grow as an actor. I've seen how committed she is towards turning her dream of becoming an actor into reality."

This isn't the first time that the star — who counts Bhansali amongst her closest friends in the industry — has extended a helping hand to the debutant. Having learnt that Segal's appearance in Udhal Ho was similar to her Marathi mulgi act in Pinga, Chopra recommended that she work with the same makeup and fashion artist who had designed her look in the song.

SLB’s niece Sharmin Segal says to be directed by the filmmaker is a privilege one must earn, asserts she won’t misuse her filmi background
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 25, 2019)

After Ananya Panday, Karan Kapadia and Pranutan Bahl, Sharmin Segal, who also hails from a film background—she is the daughter of film editor Bela Segal and the niece of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali—is gearing up for an acting debut. Titled Malaal , the film also marks the acting debut of Jaaved Jaaferi’s son, Meezaan. Excerpts from an interview:

What’s it like to be launched by Sanjay Leela Bhansali?
Even though he’s related to me, it’s an unreal feeling because he decided to invest time and money in me.

Did you always want to become an actor?
I always wanted to be a doctor, but while doing stage shows in school, I noticed that people were reacting positively to my characters. I realised that this is the only profession that lets you experience different lives in one lifetime. When I was an assistant director on Bajirao Mastani, the purpose was to understand a film set. Sanjay sir was aware that I wanted to be an actor, but I didn’t speak to him formally until after returning from acting school in the US. Obviously, he was never going to direct my first film; one must earn that privilege and I don’t deserve to work with him yet.

Did you audition for the role?
Sanjay sir auditioned both Meezaan and I, and then put us under Mangesh sir’s (Hadawale, director) guidance, categorically telling him, “You don’t have to take them if you don’t want to,” but Mangesh sir liked our audition.

And what about the prep?
Mangesh sir made us write a back-story for our characters to help us understand them better. There were acting workshops and he took us around Mahim and Dadar to show us Maharashtrian culture.

Not much was known about the film when it was under production…
I agree with Sanjay sir’s logic that we shouldn’t be over-exposed before the release. He believes that if people like your work, success will follow.

Your take on nepotism?
It does exist, and it is easier to become an actor or a director if you know people in the industry. But nepotism exists everywhere—be it law, business, or medical professions. If you had it easier than your peers, you must do your job with integrity. The nepotism debate is not going to stop me from following my passion, but I’ll make sure to not misuse the opportunity. It’s a grey area and that no-one can control.

Any memories of visiting a SLB set?
I remember going to the sets of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. I moved all the props around during the shoot (laughs). I even cut my birthday cake with the entire cast. And of course, Bajirao Mastani; watching him work on that film changed my perspective on things.

How was it working with Meezaan?
We have been friends for over seven years. I am glad that I’m making my debut with him because we came on the sets with a certain amount of comfort level.

What next after Malaal?
There are no offers yet. Even if there were, I’d rather wait for Malaal to release first. I don’t want to misuse the opportunity just because I am Sanjay sir’s niece. 

Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; June 17, 2019)

When it comes to the factors that went behind her praise-worthy act in Bajirao Mastani, a close second to Priyanka Chopra Jonas's acting prowess would be her apt resemblance to a Maharashtrian woman. It's only fitting then that the actor recommend makeup artiste Uday Shirali when she heard that Sanjay Leela Bhansali's niece would acquire a similar look for her debut vehicle.

With Bhansali's Malaal seeing Sharmin Sehgal acquire the look of a Maharashtrian in the song Uddhal, Chopra suggested artiste Uday Shirali enable her to slip into the part. A source says, "Uday, who has worked with Priyanka for many years, was suggested for the young actress. Sharmin sports a navari saree and nathni. Asha Ganpat Malpekar had earlier created the traditional drapes for Priyanka during Bajirao Mastani, and has also dressed Sharmin in this song."

Sehgal, who has worked as an assistant director on Chopra-starrers Mary Kom and Bajirao Mastani, says, "[Uday] knew how to provide the best look for this song. The saree is similar to the one Priyanka wore in Pinga, and in the film Kaminey." The debutante finds comfort in the fact that she is being mentored by Bollywood's most successful actor. "There are countless things that she has guided me through."

Meena Iyer (DNA; June 12, 2019)

He has a female fan following across various segments of society. She is the niece of one of India’s best filmmakers. When we meet Sharmin Segal (niece of Sanjay Leela Bhansali), we know she’s a feisty 24-year-old with a mind of her own. Our focus then shifts to Meezaan, Jaaved Jaaferi’s tall, wheat-complexioned, drop-dead gorgeous son and we immediately understand how he has managed that enviable Instagram following.

Trolls may have labelled them gareebon ke Priyanka (Chopra) and Ranveer (Singh), but these two, who are making their debut on July 5 in Malaal, have their heads held high because they’re sure they have what it takes to be stars.

Over to the two newcomers:

Are you all set? How do you feel?
Meezaan: Excited, nervous, it’s a mix of everything.
Sharmin: Earlier, he was nervous, now he’s channelling the nervous energy (laughs).

So, the two of you always wanted to be actors?
M: Not at all. It was more of Sanjay sir’s belief and trust in me that really put me on the path. I wanted to do something in the film business, that’s why I was studying filmmaking in New York. I met him through Sharmin. He told me that I should act in movies and said that he wanted to launch me. I thought it was a golden opportunity and I shouldn’t let go of it.

With your looks, one would think you always wanted to be an actor...
M: I never thought that way. There were people who told my parents (Jaaved and Habiba), ‘Arre, aapka beta toh hero hai. Isko hero bana do’ and stuff like that. But, I always wanted do something in music or sports. However, when this opportunity came, I grabbed it with both hands.
S: (Cuts in) He didn’t grab it. He went back to college. He was pestered to come back and grab it.

And Sharmin, you were also in Los Angeles with Janhvi Kapoor, right?
S: Yes. Before that, I had worked with Sanjay sir. Janhvi and I hung out with a photographer friend in LA. Even when I was there, I didn’t know I would get into acting. I was never doing photo shoots, I was only preparing myself, physically and mentally, rather than going with an assumption that I would come back and act in movies.

Aren’t both of you fortunate to start with a Sanjay Leela Bhansali production?
M: Yes, yes, yes (smiles).

You must have done some good karma...
S: We’re pinching ourselves ki yeh ho raha hai. While shooting, he would call us in the morning and ask us, ‘Are you feeling good about working today?’ ‘Are you feeling good about working on this song?’ He neither likes to call nor message. But he made an exception for us. I must say we’re very lucky.

What kind of reactions did you get after the trailer launch?
M: Initially, only my family and friends were reacting. Later, we went through the comments online. And it felt great. I got a good response from everyone. Even people from the industry called and said encouraging things.

It’s not an average newcomer promo; there’s a lot of emotion. So, you were required to come up to a certain level?
M: While making the film, Sanjay sir and director Mangesh Hadawale said,  never think that it’s your debut, think as if it’s your 10th movie.
S: People have said stuff like, ‘It’s not like a SLB film.’ ‘Bikharion ke Ranveer, Priyanka, amiron ke ghar se..’ You have to be like Priyanka Chopra and you have to be like Ranveer Singh. Sanjay sir has set those expectations and pushed us to try and reach there. We know we are not there, but we might get there. Mangesh sir believes he’s launching Aastha and Shivam (our characters in the film). Sanjay sir is like I’m launching Sharmin and Meezaan. That’s the distinction between them and their approaches in making our career, pushing us to do our best in their own respective ways.
M: It’s the perfect balance of the best of both worlds.
S: Till 17, I was like mujhe doctor banna hai. Then I switched to doing theatre in school. Sanjay sir was like yeh kar payegi ki nahin... I didn’t know how to do make-up, hair.. that is the knowledge Sanjay sir shared with me. He is known to launch heroines. He was like, you can’t look like that, being my niece and now trying to become an actor.
M: He boosted our confidence. He told us, ‘I believe in you, so you should believe in yourself.’
S: Sanjay sir really pushed us a lot... Hopefully, it translates..



It will. That’s how it goes..
S: It can be a little scary because anything creative like art is highly subjective. You can’t have just one opinion. You don’t have any idea what the acceptance level is going to be. It’s really daunting. But that’s the path that will make you strive, work harder and expect less too..
M: Also, the problem is that here, a lot of people judge the book by its cover. So, they should wait and watch the movie. Then, I will be more than welcome to take criticism.
S: I want the audiences to see my first film, so that I know where I have to work to meet the expectations of the audience.

Sharmin, why do you call him Sanjay sir and not ‘Mama’?
S: I worked with him as an AD on Bajirao Mastani. But that’s not the reason. I call him sir even when we’re sitting together for a family dinner. At the age of four, I used to watch Devdas at the trials. I didn’t understand anything as I was a kid. But after I worked with him on Bajirao Mastani, I had newfound respect for him. Since then, I’ve been calling him sir.

Speaking of age, Meezaan and you are almost the same age?
S: We’re like 14 days apart and we’re friends forever..
M: We were in school together..
S: He used to date my best friend and make fun of me for being fat.

That’s not true, is it Meezaan?
M: That was my indirect way of motivating her. See, it has worked. She’s perfect today.

How well-versed are the two of you in Hindi cinema?
M: I’m obsessed.
S: He is more obsessed than me. As a kid, every Friday, I was like, I have to go to the theatre, whichever film it may be, whether it has a big star or not... I’d go for the 9 pm show... I would take whoever was at home with me, whether it was my grandmother or my staff. I was not allowed to go alone as a kid.. When I was in college, I used to go alone in New York...

What is your favourite genre in cinema?
M: When it comes to Bollywood, it’s drama, romance and comedy.
S: Courtroom drama.

Who are your favourite filmmakers?
M: Apart from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films, I love Yash Chopra’s movies. Those are the films I really connect to, like Veer-Zaara (2004). I like it when it has a musical album. I liked Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dil Chahta Hai. I watch a lot of Priyadarshan’s films when I’m bored; especially those with Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal. I love those.
S: I don’t know in what genre can you categorise Zoya Akhtar’s movies. She is in her own league. I want to have that Farhan Akhtar-Priyanka Chopra relationship from Dil Dhadakne Do. There’s a cute energy going on. I love the old films of Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan.
M: With me, for some reason, I memorise the dialogue.
S: When we were in school, Meezaan and his friends had learnt the dialogue of Welcome. And their responses to anything anyone said was a Welcome dialogue. I was like, I don’t understand you.
M: I have recited Welcome to Anees Bazmee and challenged him that I know the script better than him.

Who’s a better dancer between the two of you?
S: He is much better than me. I’ve decided to work on my awkwardness.

Which SLB song do you admire?
S: Pinga. In our movie, there is a song in which I’m wearing a nine-yard sari. While filming it, I would constantly think about Pinga because we had shot it over 10 days. Priyanka’s feet were bruised. I thought to myself I need to work a lot harder to get to that level and deliver. Both PC and Deepika (Padukone) put in a lot of hard work into their performances.

Has the equation between the two of you changed from school to being co-actors?
S: We’ve changed so much. We graduated in 2013 and started working together in 2018...There are 100 people on the set. You’re expected to deliver in the space.. Somewhere, our friendship made it possible for us to be there for each other and feel comfortable in that space. There were times when I wanted to cry. Meezaan helped me.
M: You are so busy doing your work that you don’t have time for friends. When you are shooting, you lose connection with not only your close pals but also your family. After the shoot, I would go home and sleep.
S: I was so used to leaving home at 7 am and returning at 11 pm, since the time I used to work as an AD that I wouldn’t see anyone for days. We shot Malaal for a year-and-a-half. People on the set become your friends.

She wasn’t privileged because she is SLB’s niece.
S: I’m an under-confident person. I will get uncomfortable with entitlement.

Are you tired or exhilarated with all the hectic promotional activity?
M: Not really. I know how important this one month is. I just want to give my extra 1,000 per cent now. I know if I don’t do it, no one will. I have to go out of my way to get things done. For me, it’s not my film alone, it’s everyone’s film.
S: I’ve not done this before. I haven’t shown you my work, yet. But this is my space. So, I am like, when the trailer is out or when the song is out, then tell me how you think I am. I don’t know middle ground.
M: I believe in all-out promotion, that’s my view.
S: He is more confident of putting himself out there. I’m not.


Sanjay Leela Bhansali flanked by Sharmin Segal and Meezaan

Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 10, 2019)

He was initially inclined towards music, having played the piano and the guitar. He’s also played basketball at the state level and was studying business in New York when a chance meeting with Sanjay Leela Bhansali changed the course of his life. Meet Meezaan, veteran actor-comedian Jagdeep’s grandson and Jaaved Jaaferi’s son…

A film debut backed by SLB must be a dream come true. How did you land the part of Shiva in the Mangesh Hadawale directorial, Malaal?
I had met my co-star Sharmin back in 2011 and since then we have been best friends. She was working as a costume assistant on Sanjay sir’s Bajirao Mastani. One day Ranveer sir (Singh, leading man of the film) wasn’t available, so when she asked me, I tried out his costumes for the team. That’s when I met Sanjay sir for the first time. At the time he had no idea who my father was, yet told me that he wanted to launch me.

I was studying business in New York and had some interest in direction. But his faith in me made me take up acting. I still remember after the meeting, I went back to my car and just sat in it for 15-20 minutes trying to process what had just happened. It was unbelievable!

You went on to assist him on Padmaavat. He’s been known to mould his proteges in a certain way, share the process with us…
Initially, it’s just a basic understanding of Sanjay sir’s school of filmmaking, his vision for the film and the actors. I learnt from him both as an assistant director and an actor. We’d watch recorded performances of other actors and sir would guide us on the correct approach and technique. For my character in Malaal, Mangesh sir and Sanjay sir ensured I got under the skin of Shiva.

Go on…
Shiva is the complete opposite of Meezaan. He’s a Maharashtrian boy so I had to start with understanding his culture and learning his language. Thankfully, Mangesh sir is a Maharashtrian himself and helped me a lot. Since Shiva lives in a chawl, I visited a few and dressed like the residents, travelled in local trains, would sip chai at tapris, chatting with other customers in Marathi. It was a year-and-half of prep, including several workshops and readings.

Your hair reminds one of Ranveer Singh in Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela. Was it the requirement of the character or SLB’s fixation with Lochinvar locks?
My hair is actually quite straight, but for Shiva we curled it a bit. It would take me an hour every day to style it before the shoot. I guess, because of my hair and beard, all these comparisons with Ranveer Sir, even Ranbir Kapoor sir are coming up. But we’re all completely different. Ranveer sir is one of the biggest stars, so being compared to him is a compliment.

Shiva goes through a tumultuous relationship in the film. Have you been through one?
Not like Shiva who is loud and extreme. I am more practical. I never had a relationship like his but I have friends grappling with problems and heard things from both the girl and and boy’s perspective.

Buzz is, you’re dating Navya Naveli Nanda...
(Laughs) We’re from the same friends’ circle, she’s my sister’s bestie and a really good friend. I’m not in a relationship with anyone.

How did your father Jaaved Jaaferi react to SLB’s offer?
(Laughs) Mom started crying while dad was really happy and proud. My mother told me this, as my family doesn’t believe in praising me much as they are afraid it will go to my head. Dad keeps telling me to stay humble, true to my roots and treat everyone equally.

I discuss the craft more with my grandfather (veteran actor Jagdeep) who, having worked with Guru Dutt, Bimal Roy and Mehboob Khan, among others, tells me how these filmmakers thought an actor and a director should behave. That helps me understand how I should conduct myself.

You may have bagged the film on your own merit but you won’t be spared the nepotism debate.
At the end of the day people know that my dad is Jaaved Jaaferi and I cannot deny that I am a celebrity’s son. So yes, maybe I was one step ahead of another guy but eventually, we all have to go through the same grind and look to the audience for acceptance. Nepotism exists in every field.

Any chance of the dance reality show Boogie Woogie making a comeback and you collaborating with your dad and uncle Naved?
Like other kids, I grew up watching Boogie Woogie and I am trying to push my dad to bring it back. With the digital boom, there are many big platforms available. I think they will kick it off soon.


Meezaan with Navya Naveli Nanda

Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; June 10, 2019)

Sharmin Segal, who will make her Bollywood debut with Malaal, knows that she is lucky to have her uncle Sanjay Leela Bhansali guiding her as she makes her foray into the world of cinema. Her mother and the filmmaker’s sister, film editor Bela Segal, too, has been part of the movie business for many years. The newcomer, who has kept away from public glare on her mama’s advice, spoke to BT about her big break, how she had never wanted to be an actress and how being an assistant director helped hone her talent. Excerpts...

You are all set to make your Bollywood debut, and the industry has already extended you a warm welcome. Shah Rukh Khan recently tweeted about you and sent you best wishes on social media. Do gestures like these boost your confidence? Also, has acting been always your dream?
I was a little girl when Shah Rukh Khan shot for Devdas (2002). For me, he personifies romance and I see him as the ultimate Bollywood romantic hero. Though I grew up in a filmi environment, I never wanted to become an actress. Till the age of 17, my dream was to be a doctor. Then I participated in a play at school and that’s when I realised that I wanted to become an actress. What I love about acting is the fact that it’s the only profession that allows someone to live a thousand lives in one lifetime.

Tell us about Aastha, your character in Malaal. This being your acting debut, how challenging was it to step into the part?
Aastha is a girl who comes to live in a chawl and falls in love with Shiva, a guy living there. Though they are poles apart, it’s their innate goodness that binds them together. Aastha is a girl everyone will be able to connect with, but for me, the biggest challenge was to switch off when the director called ‘cut’. I remember how the first time I cried on screen, I couldn’t stop even after the director shouted ‘cut’.

This film will see you sharing screen space with another debutant, Meezaan. In fact, he says you introduced him to Sanjay Leela Bhansali…
I have known Meezaan for 17 years now and he is my best friend. We have also done theatre together in school. Talking about introducing him to Sanjay sir, it was not like I introduced him to feature in a film. One day, when I was assisting Sanjay sir for Bajirao Mastani (2015), he wanted someone to try out Ranveer Singh’s costumes. However, Ranveer was not on the set that day and I asked Meezaan to come over and help me. He was with us for five days and Sanjay sir liked him. That’s how he ended up assisting him on Padmaavat (2018).

Among other things, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for the way he presents his heroines on screen. Did you draw inspiration from any of his previous heroines for Malaal?
This film is directed by Mangesh Hadawale, and for me, the biggest inspiration or challenge was to fulfil his vision of Aastha. Malaal was more about what Mangesh sir wanted. Sanjay sir has of course invested in the film, but I am yet to earn a film that is directed by him. Also, my biggest inspiration in Bollywood is Priyanka Chopra Jonas. She spoke to me about my work at length. I feel it’s an honour and privilege to have someone like her advising you about the dos and don’ts. She has asked me not to misuse opportunities and make the best of what life offers.

You talked about being an assistant director on Mary Kom (2014) and Bajirao Mastani? How much did this experience as an AD help you to face the camera?
Being an AD trains you in many things — be it the camera angles, being a team player, or taking care of the smallest details that go into the making of a film. For example, I was assisting on costumes during Bajirao Mastani and I remember how Sanjay sir wanted some out-of-season flowers for Priyanka Chopra’s hair. I managed to source them, somehow. At one point, I even stitched ghungrus on a red velvet cloth because sir wanted something similar to what Madhuri Dixit-Nene had worn for Kahe Chhed Mohe (Devdas). These experiences came handy during Malaal. I knew how to stitch Meezaan’s chappals when he got blisters on his feet and even fixed his costumes.

Gulshan Kumar and Sanjay Leela Bhansali present Malaal. The film, produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bhushan Kumar, Mahaveer Jain and Krishan Kumar, releases on July 5.

Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; June 9, 2019)

Meezaan, veteran actor Jagdeep’s grandson and Jaaved Jaaferi’s son, is gearing up for his big Bollywood debut — Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Malaal. The young actor, who worked as an assistant director on Padmaavat, spoke to BT about his filmi family, having a godfather in Bhansali and gearing up to step onto the silver screen.

Coming from a family of actors, was a career in movies a natural choice for you?
A filmi family influences you because you have grown up watching films of your grandfather and father. My childhood years were spent visiting my father on the sets. Obviously, it is natural for anyone to be attracted to this profession. My father wanted me to finish my studies and then think of a career in films. In fact, during my first year in the US, when I was pursuing a business degree, I realised that I wanted to switch to a course in filmmaking. My father felt that it was important to finish my studies, because if a career in films did not work out, I would have a back-up plan.

It was Sharmin (Segal), my co-actor in Malaal, who is also my batchmate and best friend, who introduced me to Sanjay sir and I got the opportunity to assist him on Padmaavat. After working with him, I got this golden opportunity to play the lead role in his next film.

Everybody knows Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s penchant for perfection. For a newcomer, it must be a challenging as well as a good opportunity...
I would say that Sanjay sir is someone who is very involved in his work, wants to perfect everything and that’s why it stands out. It was a great learning experience when I first assisted him and later when I worked on Malaal.

You play a Mumbai boy who lives in a chawl. What was the biggest challenge in enacting this role?
My character, Shiva, is in complete contrast to what I am in real life. He is a simple guy, who has his own set of struggles. It was challenging to venture out of my comfort zone and observe how people in the chawls live. I learnt to speak Marathi for the film, observed the mannerisms, hobbies of the people who live in chawls, and understood the fact that they don’t really have any privacy. I am thankful to my director, Mangesh Hadawale, who helped me portray the character. The film is shot in the chawls of Mahim, Parel and Sewri. Also, when you are acting, you shift from one emotion to another, and that itself is quite a challenge.

Your father (Jaaved Jaaferi) is known for his dance moves. Do you think you’ve been able to match his moves in the song Aila Re from the film?
The song is choreographed by Ganesh Acharya. It has a lot of energy and shooting for it was great fun. Knowing that my father had pioneered some interesting dance moves in the past, Ganesh sir incorporated challenging steps for me, too (laughs). I don’t think I dance as well as my father, but I hope that my dad feels proud when he sees me dance on screen.

With new actors coming in, do you feel the pressure to make a mark and get it right in your first film?
I am enjoying the challenges and pressure. When people like Sanjay Leela Bhansali invest in you, you have to live up to the challenge and do a great job. Sanjay sir is a one-man army. I am blessed that he has launched me. Nobody has a green run here and even a star son has to perform and prove his worth. It’s the audience that decides who makes the cut.

Unlike other newcomers, you have consciously stayed away from social media…
I definitely feel that your work should speak for you. It does not make sense for people to take pictures with you, unless you have a body of work to show. That kind of exposure does not add to your career. I consciously stayed away from social media because our film’s trailer had not released. This platform has become so huge. It even gives you visibility globally. I did not want to put out images of me dancing or performing out there before the audience actually saw me in the film’s trailer and songs.

Gulshan Kumar and Sanjay Leela Bhansali present Malaal. The film, produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bhushan Kumar, Mahaveer Jain and Krishan Kumar, releases on July 5.

BOMBAY TIMES (May 18, 2019)

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who had launched Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor in Bollywood with Saawariya (2007), is all set to introduce two new promising talents, Meezaan and Sharmin Segal. The filmmaker’s Bhansali Productions will collaborate with T-Series on the film Malaal, a love story that will be directed by Mangesh Hadawale.

Meezaan, son of actor Jaaved Jaaferi and Sharmin Segal, Bhansali’s niece, maybe sharing screen space for the first time, but they have known each other since childhood. From being schoolmates and later assistant directors on Bajirao Mastani, to facing the camera together as the lead pair in their debut film, they have come a long way. SLB has groomed the debutants well and prepared them to step on the silver screen.

Malaal, produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bhushan Kumar, Mahaveer Jain and Krishan Kumar, releases on June 28.

DNA (May 17, 2019)

Tomorrow, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali will introduce the two new talents from his production house. Meezaan (son of Jaaved Jaaferi) and Sharmin Segal (SLB’s niece), who make their debut in his production, Malaal, helmed by Mangesh Hadawale.

Unlike other debutants, Meezaan and Sharmin, who spent over two years prepping for the love story, have been kept away from the media glare. What’s more, they even shut down their social media accounts, lest any aspect of them or their big debut is leaked online.

Inside sources reveal that Bhansali has been personally involved in the grooming of Meezaan and Sharmin, right from the start, in preparing them for their silver screen outing.

“There is also a lot of intrigue and curiosity surrounding Meezaan and Sharmin’s first media interaction as they have been kept under wraps so far. The wait is finally over as the big reveal will take place this week,” says our source, adding, “SLB will unveil the trailer of Malaal and introduce the two debutants this weekend. So, everyone will get to see the effort the two newcomers have put in to earn their spot in the limelight.”

Mahaveer Jain, who arranged for the meetings, has made a short film on Narendra Modi and is a producer on film about Balakot air strike
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 1, 2019)

Mahaveer Jain has been in the news recently for arranging several meetings between B-town biggies and prime minister Narendra Modi to discuss the various challenges faced by the film industry. The first of these interactions took place last year in October in the Capital at which Aamir Khan, Siddharth Roy Kapur, Aanand L Rai and Ritesh Sidhwani among others were present. In January he once again flew down with Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, Ayushmann Khurrana, Karan Johar, Ekta Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, Bhumi Pednekar, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, Rajkummar Rao and Rohit Shetty to meet the PM. The filmmaker reveals there are more to come.

“This is the first time that the government and the film industry have come so close and on top of our agenda is building more cinema halls. China has over 50,000 screens and our PM wants the two and three-tier cities to have many more screens, a vision our film industry shares,” informs Mahaveer.

He comes from a business family which primarily deals in textiles. A passion for cinema, along with entertaining and educative Aamir Khan-starrers like Taare Zameen Par and 3 Idiots brought him into show business. “I have been lucky to meet good people along the way,” smiles Mahaveer who turned producer in 2011 with Mangesh Hadawale’s children’s film Dekh Indian Circus. It bagged four National Awards. Last year, he made a short film based on the early life of Modi, Chalo Jeete Hain, also directed by Mangesh. He is now collaborating with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bhushan Kumar and Abhishek Kapoor to produce a film on the recent Balakot air strikes which will be directed by Abhishek.

“Our film is a tribute to our brave soldiers who risk their lives for the country, it’s a story very close to our hearts. Abhishek and his team are presently working on the script after which we would begin casting. Presenting it right is a huge responsibility,” he admits.

He is producing another film with SLB which will launch the latter’s niece Sharmin, and Jaaved Jaaferi’s son Meezaan and is once again being directed by Mangesh. “Sanjay ji is a little reserved but I’ve got to know him closely over the years and realised that he has a heart of gold. I’m hoping to collaborate with him again,” says Mahaveer who is also backing a slice-of-life entertainer. “We have finished 70-80 per cent of its shoot. Sonakshi’s (Sinha) character is trying to realise her dreams with Varun Sharma as her brother. He will remind you of Choocha from Fukrey. We are also exploring the idea of getting Sonakshi and Badshah to sing a song,” Mahaveer signs off. 

BOMBAY TIMES (February 28, 2019)

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is all set to present a new face in Bollywood with his yet-untitled upcoming production. The filmmaker has personally groomed and trained the debutante, Sharmin Segal, to face the camera.

Sharmin says, “When I decided to become an actor, what excited me the most was the idea that I would be able to feel and experience things that I wouldn’t normally have otherwise. I’m happy that this launch has allowed me to do that, making it a difficult but still fulfilling experience.”

Prerna Singh, CEO, Bhansali Productions Pvt. Ltd, adds, “At a time when character roles are more mainstream and the audience is craving for the pure pleasure of a good story, launching and promoting new talent felt right, as newness is the only change. With Sharmin’s launch, we at BPPL are being true to SLB’s vision, and we have signed her on for three films.” 

BOMBAY TIMES (August 24, 2017)

Incidentally, Sanjay’s two nieces Sharmin and Simran are yoked to the film fraternity from both sides of their family
Subhash K Jha (DNA; December 26, 2016)

2017 will see the first acting talent from the illustrious Bhansali family.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is all set to launch his sister Bela Sehgal’s elder daughter Sharmin as the leading lady in a film to be directed by Mangesh Hadawale, whose first feature film Tingya in Marathi in 2008 had fetched him huge critical and commercial success.

Incidentally, Sanjay’s two nieces Sharmin and Simran are yoked to the film fraternity from both sides of their family. While their mother Bela Sehgal and uncle Sanjay Bhansali are well-known filmmakers (Bela has edited a majority of Sanjay’s films) Sharmin and Simran’s father Deepak Sehgal is the son of prolific and popular director Mohan Sehgal, who discovered Rekha for his hit film Sawan Bhadon.

While Sharmin will be launched as an actress by her illustrious uncle, while Simran is learning filmmaking in the US.