Showing posts with label Shweta Tiwari. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shweta Tiwari. Show all posts
Palak Tiwari doesn’t consider me a father-Raja Chaudhary
10:04 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (July 30, 2026)
Actor Raja Chaudhary, known for his stint in Bigg Boss 2, recently spoke about his strained relationship with his daughter, actor Palak Tiwari, and said that he is no longer involved in her life. The 51-year-old revealed that he does not know about her personal or professional lives, but would be there for her whenever she needs him.
Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, Raja, who has remained distant from his daughter since his separation from ex-wife, actor Shweta Tiwari, said he does not want to know about Palak’s life unless she chooses to share it with him.
“I have no idea where she is, what she is eating, what she is doing, where she is living, whom she’s living with, whom she is working with. I don’t even want to know, unless she comes and tells me, ‘Dad, this is happening’. I’m there for her 24/7, if I’m needed. But I’m not needed in her life at all,” he said.
On rumours of Palak dating actor Ibrahim Ali Khan, he said that it did not affect him because he does not share a close relationship with her.
“I would be bothered if she was a part of my life but she doesn’t consider me a father. It matters to a father if the daughter has maintained a relationship. Ask her mother how she feels about it. Why should I care? I am just a biological father; that’s what I was told. I have nothing to do with her; I was told,” said the actor.
Raja also revealed that he has blocked everything related to Palak on social media: “I don’t want to see their photos, videos because I have done my level of begging. I have justified myself enough, saying how much I miss her. I don’t want to anymore,” he said.
Raja and Shweta got married in 1998, and welcomed their daughter, Palak in 2000. Shweta filed for divorce in 2007, complaining that she faced domestic violence due to his alcoholism. The couple was granted a divorce in 2012.
Vishal Aditya Singh slams marriage rumours with Shweta Tiwari
9:39 AM
Neha Maheshwri (JAIPUR TIMES; January 24, 2026)
Social media is not always a source of credible information and certain posts can distress those involved. A recent Instagram post featuring actors Shweta Tiwari and Vishal Aditya Singh, who worked together in the TV show Begusarai, claimed that the actress had tied the knot for the third time, with Vishal. The post has triggered a sharp reaction from the actor.
Vishal says, “Rumours linking Shweta and me have circulated on social media in the past, but I chose to ignore them. However, now it has gone far too far. Everyone knows I call her ‘mom’, and that needs no explanation. So why post such ridiculous content? I am warning those responsible for posting such gossip... I will be forced to take legal action.”
He adds that the damage caused by such misinformation goes beyond the two of them and affects their families as well. He says, “Why should anyone’s family be forced to answer such questions? My family knows the bond I share with Shweta ji, and so do the people around us. Yet, even those who know the truth have ended up asking my parents whether this is true. It’s really upsetting.”
Speaking about their equation, Vishal shares, “We share a respectful and deep friendship. She is like a mother, sister, aunt and friend rolled into one. I can speak openly about anything in my life with her because she understands me. What frustrates me is having to repeatedly explain our equation to the world.”
This is not the first time such rumours have surfaced. In 2024, morphed wedding pictures of Shweta and Vishal had also circulated on social media. Vishal says, “Enough is enough! If this continues, those spreading fake and defamatory content will be held accountable. Just because we are public figures does not mean we should be treated as fodder for baseless gossip.”
There was privilege but not enough of it-Palak Tiwari
8:38 AM
Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 1, 2025)
Two years after her debut in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Palak Tiwari returned to screens this May with the horror-comedy The Bhootnii. Despite being actor Shweta Tiwari’s daughter, the 24-year-old says she wasn’t seen as a typical star kid in the Hindi film industry.
“I was somewhere in this middle ground. I was like, ‘Oh, these people are calling me a star kid, but I’m not really one. But also, I’m not a normal person who’s auditioning in Andheri’. There was privilege but not enough of it; there was also normalcy, but not enough of it too. It was tough to find my place. In many ways, it was a privilege. But in many ways, I was typecast instantly. I did struggle with that, but I’m still trying to find my place,” she shares.
When asked if she feels she’s living her mother’s dream of being on the big screen, Palak responds, “My mother got multiple chances to be on the big screen, but she was content with television. It has given her and us so much. My life and my brother’s life are comfortable because of television, so I will always respect and honour the medium. My mom was very happy there, and aisa kabhi nahi tha unhe ki wo chhod ke films mein jana hai. She really knows her roots, and she never was greedy in that sense.”
So, with her mother’s legacy behind her, why did Palak choose films over television? “It wasn’t like I didn’t want to do it because I saw it as a smaller medium. TV has given our industry such brilliant, versatile and phenomenal actors. But I felt that because of my mom’s legacy in television, everything that there was to be explored, she had done that. So, there was nothing new for me to discover there,” she explains.
I suffered professionally due to the perception others had of me-Raja Chaudhary
10:53 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 23, 2025)
Raja Chaudhary, who was part of the first season of Tenali Rama, returned to the ongoing season in a new role as Chaudapa Raya. The actor, who was last seen in Kaisa Hai Yeh Rishta Anjaana last year, shares, “I was happy, and it was great to reconnect with the old unit and friends.”
He acknowledges that being open about his personal life - he was earlier married to actress Shweta Tiwari - and past controversies may have cost him work opportunities. He says, “I don’t feel I’ve had the amount of work I truly deserve, possibly due to the negative publicity surrounding me. People who have never even met me assume I am always creating problems. If I really caused problems, why would the makers of Tenali Rama bring me back? Yes, I suffered professionally due to the perception others had of me.”
On a personal note, Raja, who battled alcoholism, shares that he has been sober for a while now. “Alcoholism was a major issue in my life, but I realized it much later. I was able to overcome it by focusing on something positive — pickleball. I immersed myself in the sport, which kept me busy and helped me fight my addiction. Thankfully, I’ve overcome it, though it remains a daily challenge. I have to push myself to stay on track. Since 2021, I’ve been living a sober life, and I can think more clearly, stay calmer, and be happier now. Sobriety has given me a broader, more positive outlook on life. When you’re not sober, your mind doesn’t function as it should, and you make decisions that you might regret later.”
He credits his family for being a strong source of support during his recovery. He says, “My parents were uncomfortable with my alcoholism. Ultimately, you live for your family, and when they’re not happy with you, it makes you realize you need to change. Once I acknowledged my mistakes and decided to surrender, I was able to work on myself. My family has been with me through it all, offering their moral support. If I could change one thing about my past, it would be never to have touched alcohol. It disrupted my life, and I didn’t handle situations the way I should have.”
Having gone through two failed marriages — one with actress Shweta Tiwari and another with Delhi-based corporate professional Shveta Sood — Raja is not looking for love or marriage at the moment. He says, “Although I am not averse to love and marriage, it’s not something I’m planning right now. Maybe when it’s meant to happen, it will. Let’s see.”
Regarding his relationship with his daughter, actress Palak Tiwari, from his first marriage, he says, “We stay in touch. She reaches out whenever she gets time from her busy schedule, and I do the same. I’m very proud of her.”
Surgery jisne karvaayi hai uski shakal par dikhti hai-Shweta Tiwari
8:09 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; July 26, 2024)
After being away from television for over a year, Shweta Tiwari, last seen as the protagonist in Main Hoon Aparajita, is set to return to the small screen with Aapka Apna Zakir. The comedy show marks her comeback to the genre 13 years after winning Comedy Circus Ka Naya Daur.
As the only woman in an all-male cast, she shares, “Aise shows mein ladki hona aasaan nahi hai. They often tease you, and there is a lot of leg-pulling. I think it will be fun, though. I have realized that aaj kal ki comedy sirf logon par hassna hai. However, this show is different because Zakir makes jokes about himself and his life experiences. I personally resonate with clean comedy that doesn’t demean anyone. Also, people often think women can’t do comedy and are only there for their looks. I feel I have changed that perception by doing comedy. I don’t think I will be just a pretty face there.”
‘A workout is the best anti-ageing remedy’
In recent years, Shweta has garnered attention online for being one of the fittest actresses in showbiz. She says, “People have started to believe that staying fit is all about looking good. Many focus on achieving perfect abs, often resorting to supplements and steroids, which can be harmful. When I approached a trainer, he asked me what I had in mind.”
Shweta says, “However, my daughter (Palak Tiwari) told him I didn’t have a specific target or wanted to emulate someone else’s physique; I just wanted to be fit.”
She adds, “Women need to make time for themselves. Just working out for an hour a day can make a significant difference. A workout is the best anti-ageing remedy.”
‘I come across bizarre comments on social media every day’
Compliments are often accompanied by trolling, but Shweta remains unfazed by the negativity on social media. She says, “I come across bizarre comments every day, and it amazes me how far-fetched people can be. Logon ka ye sochna ki main gold-digger hoon, shaadi se paise lekar main apni life chala rahi hoon. I read such nasty comments and I know those who post them don’t actually believe them – they just like to add that extra bitterness. I don’t care about what people say, I do what I want.”
‘Many people think one can’t be naturally beautiful anymore’
Talking about how some people think that she has gone under the knife, Shweta says, “People assume I have had surgeries, but that’s not how you stay healthy and fit. Surgery jisne karvaayi hai uski shakal par dikhti hai. If you want to correct something and look a certain way, that’s fine, and I am not against it. But many think one can’t be naturally beautiful anymore, which I don’t agree with it.”
‘I have taught Palak not to let others’ opinions affect her’
Reflecting on her journey spanning two decades, the Kasautii Zindagi Kay actress shares, “One of the most important lessons I have learnt, and something I have taught my daughter, is not to let others’ opinions affect you. People will try to plant doubts, telling you that you can’t do something or that you’re not fit for the job. But you have to believe in yourself first, and eventually, others will come around; they won’t have a choice.”
Revealed: What goes behind-the-scenes in the making of Bigg Boss
8:40 AM
Mid-day takes a look at the behind-the-scenes action to understand the making of the longest-running controversial reality show, Bigg Boss
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; July 9, 2024)
Pick up any season of Bigg Boss, and there is much happening on camera—from tasks to controversies, from flirtations to feuds. But things are equally dramatic off camera too. Do you know what happened after Bigg Boss season 2 contestants Rahul Mahajan and Raja Chaudhary breached the rules and jumped off the set’s outer wall? Or when Imam Siddiqui demanded to walk out of the sixth season? While we’ve seen the on-camera action for many years, this time, we zoom in on the people behind the camera who join forces every year to give us the reality show. From identifying interesting contestants to watching endless hours of footage, from running dummy episodes to setting up more than 100 cameras, they tell us what it takes to orchestrate one of the biggest reality shows.
Inception
Deepak Dhar, Founder and Group CEO, Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India, remembers that he watched the original Big Brother, a Dutch show, on DVD way back in 2005. The international team (of Banijay) had a simple ask—would it be possible to adapt the show in India?
“I was shocked when I watched it because a show like this is highly volatile and risqué. I couldn’t have watched the DVD with my family in the room. It was difficult to even fathom something like this could work in India, but I took it up as a challenge,” shares Dhar.
He pitched the adaptation to several broadcasters until Sony TV first picked it up. To date, Dhar remembers that the first contestant to enter the Bigg Boss house in 2006 was Salil Ankola, after which no one entered the house for over an hour due to a technical glitch. In the meantime, Ankola grew anxious, wondering if he was the only contestant on the show. Dhar laughs, “Salil thought it was a con job!”
Getting the right players
Early on, the makers figured out that the show was more about emotions than showcasing risqué things. “The minute we see a person with an agenda, we strike him off the list,” asserts Dhar, adding that the idea has always been to rope in people who have stories to tell.
“The fourth season was a standout, where we had Shweta Tiwari, Dolly Bindra, Khali, and Pamela Anderson. That was the turning point of Bigg Boss in the country. It was also the year we got Salman Khan as the host. We even cooperated with the authorities when they wanted to come and monitor if Monica Bedi dropped some evidence,” he shares.
The show’s detractors often speculate that Bigg Boss is scripted. But Tushar Joshi, Editor in Chief (Creative Director), rubbishes the speculation. He notes that often, the contestants provide the drama, while the creative improvises at times, but the makers have never intervened in the proceedings.
“We have never briefed any contestant, or gone in the house,” asserts Joshi, who has been associated with the show from the fifth season. He says the show relies largely on contestants’ personalities and their inter-dynamics.
“If a contestant is my biggest character, I can’t suddenly change my creative. For example, Ankita Lokhande was one of the most talked-about characters in the house. I couldn’t sideline her unless the house decided to sideline her. It’s a chess game between them and us. Whenever we make a move, they will also react.”
The makers also got a few seasons wrong in terms of casting. Abhishek Mukherjee, Head of Project, points to the ninth and 12th seasons. “In the ninth season, 10 out of 16 contestants were failures. So, we pumped up [the show] through various tasks and situations.”
Takes a village to make the show
The crew consists of over 700 people, who are then divided into weekday and weekend teams. “One is the reality team, which handles the episode from Monday to Friday, and the other is the weekend team. Despite being the weekend team, they are expected to watch the entire footage during the week. Then there is another team that takes care of my 24/7 live channel interactivity and the Unseen Undekha section,” explains Joshi.
Let’s make it happen
Which brings us to the most important part: the execution of Bigg Boss. It’s known that the show is shot 24x7 with over 100 cameras. While there are cameras stationed inside the house, there are also cameras placed near all the windows, with cameramen trying to capture the tiniest of actions and conversations. Did you know that when the contestants wash dishes at the sink, smoke in the smoking room, and sleep in the bedrooms, they have cameras directed at them from behind the tinted windows? If the cameraman takes a break, there is always someone to take their place.
Taking us around the set, Sarvesh Singh, Head of Production, says, “Everyone who enters the shooting alley around the house is expected to wear an all-black uniform to avoid reflections in the glass doors and windows. Every window is numbered. That way, when instructions are received from the control room, a cameraman can reach the right window to capture the required content. We have three rotational shifts for every crew member.”
Over 62,000 wires are laid down for every connection inside the house, which is later concealed to avoid monkeys disrupting the shoot. Mukherjee says that the pressure in the PCR (production control room) is tremendous. Ahead of a season, the crew has to undergo mandatory 15-day training, where they produce dummy episodes.
“In the first couple of days, my PCR team is taken through the old episodes, where we tell them how to divide streams, what to follow, and where the story lies,” explains Joshi.
“The next day, [a few crew members] go into the house, and start recording their own stories. In the next stage, we get dummy contestants and produce a few 12-hour episodes; we also do one 24-hour episode. It is not only for the crew, [but to ensure smooth functioning of everything]. Once the contestant enters, everything from plumbing to the smallest light needs to work for 105 days, or 45 days if it’s for the OTT. So, everything needs to be checked, including the pipes, flush, and gas. Sarvesh even instructs them to cook, just so that we can see if the stove is working.”
Everything a contestant carries inside the house is scrutinized by the team. Participants are not allowed to carry medications inside the house. If a person has a prescription for anti-anxiety, diabetes, or any other illness, it is delivered on a daily basis. “Senior journalist Deepak Chaurasia is in the house. He is diabetic and unable to walk, so we put inclines in the house for the wheelchair. Every day, his medicines and insulin shots are delivered,” explains Mukherjee.
Challenges
With a show of this magnitude, the challenges are bound to be tenfold. Singh remembers the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolded when Mahajan and Chaudhary, in the second season, breached the boundary walls, leading the creative team to consider having an early finale.
“They had made a sexist remark, stating that there were no women in the house to cook for them. Bigg Boss told them that they had to make their own food. Rahul removed the mic, and said, ‘I’m not doing anything. If you don’t provide us food, we will jump off the wall.’ We thought he was [bluffing], but they jumped off the wall and started walking towards the main gate. People started capturing them on phone cameras, so we grabbed them, put them in the car, and brought them back.”
Joshi recalls another instance when Siddiqui wanted to leave the show at 3 am. “He said he has a friend in Lonavala and he wants to go to her house. It turned out to be an old bungalow of Smita Patil, which was later bought by Imam’s friend,” shares Joshi.
Shifting from their Lonavala set after season 12 was another challenge. He highlights that despite having a medical team on standby 24x7, they have dealt with problems from “non-declared miscarriages. There were people taking 30 to 40 milligrams of anti-depressants in anger.”
The way ahead
With the world embracing AI, it’s only a matter of time before we have a Bigg-Boss-meets-AI version. Dhar says, “We have started moving in that direction; maybe by the end of the year or early next year, the process will be in place.”
Did you know?
- A season of the Chinese version of Big Brother was shot in India.
- India is the only market globally where Bigg Boss plays out across two platforms (TV and OTT) within the same year.
- The production relocated from Lonavala’s 17-acre set to three acres in Film City.
- Every year, the crucial members of the Bigg Boss team meet their international counterparts worldwide to discuss the previous season.
Stylist on Zeenat Aman-Shweta Tiwari starrer Showstoppers cries foul against non-payment of dues
8:14 AM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 6, 2024)
The upcoming web series Showstoppers, starring Zeenat Aman, Shweta Tiwari and Digangana Suryavanshi, is in the middle of a controversy for non-payment issues against director-producer Manish Harishankar. We’ve learnt from multiple sources that other than Aman, no other members of the cast and crew members has been paid in full.
“Only a percentage of the actors’ and support staff’s fee was paid by the producer. Besides actors, many crew members have complained,” a source tells us, adding, “The show has gone on halt mode, and the last episode hasn’t been shot yet, so we don’t know how post-production will happen. None of the investors have seen their money return as the show still has not been picked by any OTT platforms. It is likely to get shelved only.”
Confirming on record that he hasn’t got his payments, Krishan Parmar, the official stylist on board tells us, “I was roped in for Digangana’s styling with a per day assured sum. Shweta’s personal stylist also hasn’t been paid; I talked to him but he has given up. My billable amount was Rs. 1.25 lakh but only Rs. 25,000 was paid. Whenever I approach the line producer, Narendra Jani, for the payments, he tells me that they’ve pitched the series to platforms and once it’s sold, everyone’s payments would be cleared.”
Calling Harishankar’s claim that 90% of the payments have been cleared, “lies”, Parmar reveals that several other crew members are going through the ordeal but they are scared to go on record because they fear they might never recover the dues. “I’ve sent the bills numerous times, I have given my account details but there’s no response from him,” he says.
‘I’ve cleared 90% of the payments’
Manish Harishankar, who is directing and producing the web series, says the leads have been paid in full. “For supporting actors, we have to hold 10-15% of the total payment, which is given after dubbing etc. Whatever payment is pending is because post-production is on. From my budget, I have cleared 90% of the payments,” he tells us.
Singham Again: Rohit Shetty films with Ajay Devgn on the streets of Byculla
8:23 PM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; March 8, 2024)
Ajay Devgn’s Singham Again, which went on floors last September, is in its final stages with the leading man and director Rohit Shetty filming some crucial action scenes. On Wednesday, Shetty transformed one of the bustling streets of Byculla into a battlefield of sorts as he canned an elaborate fight sequence that saw the actor take on a gang of baddies. Since the portion demanded a crowd, we hear the unit shot it at night, thus avoiding disruptions in the area.
A source says, “Ajay, who reprises his role of Bajirao Singham, shot through the night. He was joined by Shweta Tiwari and Dayanand Shetty, both of whom play cops in the entertainer. After a part of the sequence was filmed, the shoot moved to Richardson & Cruddas Mill in the vicinity.”
The third instalment in the Singham franchise is slated for an Independence Day release. The film’s editing has begun as Shetty wants to give ample time to post-production. The cop caper also stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone and Tiger Shroff, with Akshay Kumar and Ranveer Singh reprising their roles of Veer Sooryavanshi and Sangram Bhalerao respectively.
When I started my career, mom said ‘Naak mat katana’-Palak Tiwari
8:00 AM
Riya Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; May 30, 2023)
Palak Tiwari, who was in Delhi recently for the Delhi Times Fashion Week, took some time off to chill with us. “I have been to Delhi thrice now. My mom got me here when I was little, but I don’t think that counts. On the other occasions, I’ve been here for fashion weeks, so I don’t really know much. But I know that Delhi is a very pretty and spacious city and I’d love to explore it,” she said.
Talking about how her relationship with her mother (Shweta Tiwari) has evolved over the years, Palak said, “My mom was more strict as a parent when I was younger because I was an extremely haphazard teenager, and I don’t blame her for it. I was a pretty chaotic teenager, so she probably thought she could not trust me. Over the years, I have earned her trust. We reached a middle ground where I was like I may not be the perfect child, but I am also not the worst out there, and she understood it. I think that also helped me a lot.”
MY MOTHER IS THE OPPOSITE OF A CONTROL FREAK: PALAK
Palak added that her mother always knew that she wanted to be an actor. “When I started my career, she told me, ‘Naak mat katana’ and I feel like every time I am doing something, she is like, ‘What are you doing?’ (smiles). A lot of parents struggle with their kids figuring it out on their own. But I feel like my mom is the opposite of a control freak. Everyone in my family is the opposite of a control freak. That’s what I really like. She also figured things out on her own. Even when she does not understand my choices, she never judges me. She is more of my damage control person. If something goes wrong, her answer always is ‘Just relax, it is not the worst thing in the world. Worse things have happened, and people are fine’,” said Palak, who was last seen in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
The actress added that though her mother always knew that she wanted to be an actor, once she realized that Palak was serious, she advised her to have blinders on & keep going.
‘MY FIRST TWO RAMP WALKS WERE A MESS’
My first-ever ramp walk was for the Bombay Times Fashion Week. The first two ramp walks were a mess; there was a lot of trolling. I was a little taken aback, but then I thought that why am I stressing? I could walk like Gigi Hadid and people can still hate it, so whoever has to hate will hate. I go, have fun and come back.
I was 11 that I realized that not everybody’s mothers come on screen-Palak Tiwari
8:26 AM
Ahead of her debut in Salman’s next, Shweta Tiwari’s daughter says star kids should be grateful for their advantageous positions
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; March 16, 2023)
One of Palak Tiwari’s childhood memories involves watching her mother Shweta Tiwari on the small screen, and failing to comprehend that hers was an unusual career. “I discovered that my mother would come on screen, and it wasn’t until I was 11 that I realized that not everybody’s mothers come on screen. I didn’t know this was acting,” she says, admitting that even before she comprehended her mother’s line of work, she was enamoured by beautiful heroines, and knew that she wanted to be an actor.
“I never had to spell it out to my mom. I feel like I was born with that desire,” says Palak, ahead of her big debut with Salman Khan in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
Palak doesn’t hesitate to acknowledge her privilege and admits that she would have found it tough to get her foot in the door had she been an outsider. “I am grateful for the [head-start] I got [as a star-kid]. It makes a big difference when you know how things function in the industry instead of figuring it out on your own. I think God knew that I need a little help here,” she says, adding that children of famous celebrities must acknowledge their luck when nepotism is discussed.
Salman Khan is like a father on the set-Palak Tiwari
8:26 AM
Initially nervous about working with Salman on Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, Palak says superstar’s nurturing ways put her at ease
Priyanka Sharma (MID-DAY; March 11, 2023)
The set of one’s debut film can evoke mixed feelings. While there is the joy of facing the camera for the first time, a sense of nervousness creeps in too. Fortunately, Palak Tiwari felt at home on the set of Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. The idea of shooting with Salman Khan may have been daunting initially, but she says the superstar created a healthy environment to “nurture” the artistes.
“He is one of the pillars of Bollywood. I assumed that being on the same set with him would be daunting, and that I would be nervous all the time. But he is like a father on the set,” she states.
Palak, who is the daughter of television actor Shweta Tiwari, says Khan made sure that the cast — including Venkatesh, Pooja Hegde, and Shehnaaz Gill — had meals together on time. “He ensured that we are well-fed, and that we also follow our diet,” she laughs.
The Eid release went on floors in May 2022. Palak says that her actor-mother was at ease about her Hindi film debut, knowing that she was “in the right hands.”
“She would never call me when I was shooting because she knew I would be taken care of. Salman is almost omnipresent on the set. He knows everything that’s happening.”
Farhad Samji’s directorial venture is a remake of the 2014 Tamil movie, Veeram.
My heart was always stuck on Bollywood-Palak Tiwari
8:25 AM
Set to share the screen with Salman Khan in her Bollywood debut, actor Palak Tiwari is hoping to repay fans’ faith in her
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 16, 2023)
Looking forward to a new chapter in her life and career this year, actor Palak Tiwari admits that the anticipation mounting around it comes with quite a bit of pressure. “I am truly exhilarated about starting my Bollywood journey. It is like everything in my life has been about reaching this point. This is all I have ever waited for. I’m truly thrilled about it,” says the 22-year-old, adding that she is working hard and giving her projects “her absolute all”.
Ever since she burst onto the scene in 2021 with her song Bijlee Bijlee, sung by and also starring Harrdy Sandhu in the lead, Palak’s film debut has been looked forward to with much enthusiasm by fans. She is all set to team up with actor Salman Khan for Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
While many supposed that Palak might follow in the footsteps of her mother, actor Shweta Tiwari, and start her acting journey with TV, she maintains that Bollywood is what was really on her mind. “My heart was always stuck on Bollywood. I owe everything that I am and everything that my family is to television, but my heart and eyes were always on Bollywood,” gushes Palak.
With acting in the family and her own successful screen debut that’s gained her the ‘Bijlee Girl’ moniker, there are expectations too. “It (acting opportunities) comes with all the pressure in the world — pressure that could crush you. I’m trying to make sure it doesn’t wear me out. On the other hand, it comes with this overwhelming sense of joy and gratitude. I’m trying to focus on the positives right now,” she shares.
The focus is on not letting down those who’ve believed in her. “I am thankful for everything anybody’s ever done to get me where I am today. I want to make everyone proud and not disappoint anybody,” she concludes.
I don’t believe in the institution of marriage. In fact, I even tell my daughter not to get married-Shweta Tiwari
8:13 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; September 11, 2022)
Shweta Tiwari, who was last seen in Mere Dad Ki Dulhan, is returning to the fiction genre after a two-year gap with Main Hoon Aparajita (MHA). The show revolves around Aparajita who raises her family of three daughters single-handedly. Quite like the character, Shweta, too, has braved many storms as a single parent. In an interview with BT, the actress opens up about her thoughts on the institution of marriage, identifying with strong characters and being friends with her children, Palak Tiwari and Reyansh. Excerpts...
With MHA, you are returning to daily soaps after two years. Do you consciously take breaks from the fiction genre?
I have been offered several TV shows in recent times, but it’s a conscious effort to wait for a character that touches my heart. People assume that if Shweta Tiwari is not acting, she would possibly not be getting work. And when I decline an offer, they feel ek toh kaam nahi hai, upar se akad kitni hai ki mana kar rahi hai. They don’t understand that I have declined the offer because I don’t want to play characters that are not substantial. As an artiste, I don’t want to seem monotonous on screen, because if a daily soap works, it runs indefinitely. So, I wait for good projects and I have the luxury to wait. I can wait for another four years without worrying about my finances.
Much like your character in the new show, you have been a single parent for a long time. How difficult has the journey been for you?
A confident woman is often mistaken for being aggressive and arrogant. Dekho kaise tadaak se bol diya, bahut tez aur ladaaku hogi. People don’t realize that she talks back because she can tell the good from the bad. People think that I am doing it because I am a public figure. Yes, it’s true. However, having said that, it’s a double-edged sword. A lot of people criticize me for two failed marriages. There are many, who have been divorced three or four times, but no one talks about them because they are not in the limelight. Toh hamaara jitna positive hai usse zyada negative hai. People accuse celebrities more. The only support I have ever had is that I never stopped working and I am financially independent. I have money to take care of myself and I don’t have to go to my husband or a partner for any kind of help to survive. I have been able to make my decisions because I am independent. I thank God that I am a working woman.
You have been through a lot, including two failed marriages, and have emerged stronger from them. What saw you through these challenges?
The one thing I did is I never blamed myself. I was well aware of the mistakes I made. Aaj jo main bhugat rahi hoon kis galti ki wajah se bhugat rahi hoon. I goofed up despite seeing the red flag. Now, I can either keep sulking over those mistakes and blame God for adverse circumstances or find a way out. I have realised that nothing is permanent. Good and bad times are like day and night. So, when your time is good, don’t let it go to your head. The bad phases are inevitable, but nothing can happen if you are prepared for it. My daughter is also like that, she is prepared for both good and bad.
You have taken to social media a couple of times to clear the air around you and Abhinav Kohli (her estranged husband) and his accusations. How do you deal with toxicity and trolling on social media?
I never read the comments. These negative comments are mostly posted from fake accounts. Fake wohi hai jinhe khud ki identity se satisfaction nahi hai, so, these comments hold no weight. I don’t need anyone’s advice or judgment and don’t intend to become an inspiration to anyone either. Everyone’s struggle is different. I just want to tell them that I am able to face challenges because I am financially independent. If they can get inspired by this and become independent, it’s good enough. If I tolerate bad behaviour and insults fearing that people will say ki iski doosri shaadi bhi nahi tiki, it will be a bad influence on my kids. They will mistake it for a norm and think agar aapko life chalaani hai toh yeh aapko sehna padega. I want to tell them that it’s not okay. Your self-respect is paramount. You can compromise for a day when you are visiting someplace as a guest, but zindagi bhar compromise nahi ho sakta.
Did you fear being judged and trolled for the failure of your second marriage?
Honestly, I did try to save my first marriage, because that was my upbringing ki sab samajh kar chalna chahiye. However, I didn’t waste time in my second marriage. Mujhe pata tha kharaab ho gaya hai toh kharaab hone hi wala hai, no matter how much I try to salvage it. After a point, I decided to finish it. Not even for a moment did I think about what people will say. As far as I am able to buy my own bread-and-butter, I am fine with it. People can keep getting entertained with my personal and professional lives. When you don’t give a damn about what others think, they don’t dare come and ask you anything.
What are your thoughts today on the institution of marriage?
I don’t believe in the institution of marriage. In fact, I even tell my daughter not to get married. It’s her life and I don’t dictate to her how to lead it, but I want her to think well before taking the plunge. Just because you are in a relationship, it doesn’t have to culminate into marriage. Life mein shaadi karna bahut zaoori hai aur shaadi ke bina zindagi kaise chalegi yeh nahi hona chahiye. Having said that, not every marriage is bad. I have many friends who are happily married and I am happy for them. But I have also seen some of my friends stay in a compromised marriage, which isn’t healthy for them or their children. So, I want to tell my daughter to do what makes her happy, but don’t give into societal pressure. You can’t leave it to chance kyunki jo abhi theek nahi hai, woh tab bhi theek nahi hoga aur worse bhi ho sakta hai.
Do you miss having a partner?
Not at all. Does it seem that way when you look at me?
Main Hoon Aparajita will see you reuniting with your Kasautii Zindagii Kay co-star, Manav Gohil. What kind of equation do you two share?
Manav and I hardly met after Kasautii Zindagii Kay (which ended in 2008), but we’ve always shared a good bond. I respect him as an actor. I am sure that he has evolved as an actor by leaps and bounds since we last shot together. Life experiences also make you a better artiste. I look forward to working with him. I am sure our chemistry will rock.
I could have had many advantages in the television industry, but TV isn’t my cup of tea-Palak Tiwari
7:46 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 29, 2022)
Palak Tiwari is all set to make her debut in Bollywood with Rosie: The Saffron Chapter. She is unfazed by the comparisons with her mother – television actress Shweta Tiwari — that are bound to happen. In a chat with BT, the young actress gets candid about wanting to do films instead of television, her family, and making peace with her father, actor Raja Chaudhary. Excerpts…
Most newcomers make their debut with a quintessential romantic film. Why did you choose a psychological thriller?
Initially, I, too, wanted to make my debut with a typical Bollywood potboiler. However, at this point as a newcomer, I would love to discover new things. When Rosie was offered to me, the very fact that it was not a conventional film to debut with is what made me want to do the project. I want to do things that challenge me and allow me to show my capabilities early on in my career.
Your mother is a popular actress on television. Did she put in a word for you?
I could have had many advantages in the television industry, as my mother has many contacts there. I have turned them down because TV isn’t my cup of tea. In fact, my mother has always told me that she wants to help me more, but I want to make it on my own. Everything in my life that I have is because of my mother. This is one place where I want her to just relax and not worry about me (smiles).
Are you disillusioned about love and marriage after seeing your mother go through two failed marriages (first with Raja Chaudhary and then with Abhinav Kohli)?
Not at all, because I have always seen my mother be a good wife. I have also seen my naani. So, I know that love exists, and my idea of love and marriage has not been tainted. But I have also realised that one should not rush into marriage. If you feel something is wrong with the person, it’s better to leave him at that moment. Women struggle with that the most and I have seen that with not just my mother, but women from around the world. We keep justifying things for our partners because we want to see the good in people. It’s a great quality, but it will come back to bite. That’s not love or at least that’s not the kind of love I want — not now, not ever.
How do you deal with the nasty comments and stories that surface about your mother? Do you ever feel like clearing the air for her?
We don’t spend a lot of time convincing people about our side of the story. My mother’s priority has been to make sure that the family is protected. That’s what I have focused on as well.
In an interview with BT, a few months earlier, your father (Raja Chaudhary) had said that he met you on a couple of occasions and things have become better between him and you. How is your equation with him?
After going through sobriety, he is finding himself again and is in a really good place. It’s been a fresh start for us. Also, people expect us to go back to being the perfect father-daughter duo, but that’s not how it works. We have spent a fair amount of time apart from each other because he was dealing with his issues and I was growing up. Now that we are getting to know each other, it’s from scratch.
Coming back to your life, what about matters of the heart and romance? You were recently spotted with Ibrahim Ali Khan...
It’s rubbish and rumours are just rumours. At the risk of sounding clichéd, I think I am too young for love, at least the kind I have grown up watching, which is Bollywood (laughs!). That love is so intense and profound. At this point, I don’t think I am capable of loving someone beyond my family, like that. So, love is not on cards anytime, soon.
Shweta Tiwari’s bra statement controversy: case registered in Bhopal; actor apologizes
8:21 AM
THE TIMES OF INDIA (January 29, 2022)
Bhopal: Bhopal Police on Thursday evening registered a case against actor Shweta Tiwari over a controversial comment she had made during the promotion of a web series. She apologized for her remark on Friday, saying it was “misconstrued” and it was never her intention to hurt anyone.
Shyamla Hills Police have registered a case against Tiwari under IPC section 295A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) on the basis of a complaint from a man who was present at the press meet on Wednesday evening where the actor made the controversial remark, DCP (Zone-3) Riyaz Iqbal said. The complainant alleged that Tiwari had deliberately said the words.
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Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 29, 2022)
During the promotion of an upcoming web series in Bhopal, actor Shweta Tiwari landed in a controversy for allegedly referring to God while making a statement about her undergarment. Soon, Madhya Pradesh Home Minister, Narottam Mishra, directed the police to investigate her remark.
Director and writer Manish Harishankar says, “We had a press conference for our web series, Showstopper, in Bhopal. Through the show, we want to create awareness around the profession of a bra fitter, a relatively untouched territory in India. While Shweta plays a fashion designer, Saurabh Raaj Jain (actor; below) will be seen as a bra fitter.”
Harishankar further explains that Jain, who played different deities in various mythological TV shows, was questioned by the media about now playing a bra fitter. “That’s when Shweta made a statement, ‘Mere bra ki size bhagwan le rahe hain,’ and the statement went viral. Her statement was a joke,” he adds.
Tiwari, too, issued a statement claiming that what she said “has been taken out of context”. She added, “When put in context, one will understand the statement in reference to ‘bhagwan’ was in context with Saurabh Raaj Jain’s popular role of a deity.” She added that as the statement “hurt feelings of people”, she’d like to “humbly apologize” for the same.
My abs are defined for two days and I am bloated for the next four-Shweta Tiwari
8:16 AM
After her defined abs drew attention on social media, Shweta Tiwari says fitness is a continuous process to achieve desired results
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 18, 2022)
She has always been fit, but of late, actor Shweta Tiwari has been giving her fans fitness goals by flaunting her ripped body on social media. Of late, her physique has garnered a lot of attention, especially her abs.
“It is lovely to hear compliments,” says the 41-year-old, adding, “But I don’t look like the way I am in those photos every day. I shouldn’t be saying this, but people need to know that it is not just a fit body but the lights, camera angle and pose that also helps you look a certain way in the photos. The truth is my abs are defined for two days and I am bloated for the next four.”
Tiwari states fitness is a continuous process and adds, “Your body won’t be ripped always, it needs work every day. People want to attain a ripped body in two months, which is not possible. Daily workouts will give you results.”
Other than weight training and cardio, there are days when Tiwari is unable to devote an hour for workout, but she has fixes for those times, too. She elaborates, “During the pandemic, we all realised the importance of fitness and to stay fit. Even when we are at home, we need to keep moving. I do something or the other, be it jogging or walking or skipping at home. You should move your body every day. For me, fitness is not just abs, but overall health. Body hamesha fit nahin rehti. If you are not unwell, don’t lose breathe or get tired while walking or running, then you are fit.”
The actor admits that she didn’t workout in her 20s or 30s. “Good results” motivated her and her dietician helps her stay on track.
Ask her if she is happy with the way she looks today and she replies, “Yes, absolutely! Sure, I put on weight at times and there are times when I get tired of diet restrictions and I want to eat whatever I feel like having. Last year, when I was unwell, I ate what I wanted to, but after a while, I wanted to get fitter. I have changed as a person and don’t want to stray off my diet much. I have cheat meals and cheat days, but only once a week.”
Shweta Tiwari happy with the custody of son; Abhinav Kohli says "not permanent"
8:06 AM
Tiwari says she never stopped her son and estranged husband Abhinav Kohli from talking but he “painted me as a bad mother”. Latter’s thankful for visitation rights
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 2, 2021)
There’s respite for actor Shweta Tiwari, because the High Court has granted her the custody of her five-year-old son, Reyansh. The verdict was passed in a habeas petition filed by her estranged husband, actor Abhinav Kohli, alleging that she kept him away from his son. In his petition, Kohli cited that Tiwari is a busy actor and doesn’t have enough time for Reyansh. The court dismissed the petition and ordered in favour of Tiwari, while granting Kohli visitation rights for a brief period. He can meet his son for two hours, twice a week, in their building premise, as both Tiwari and Kohli live in the same building in Mumbai.
“I am happy for now,” said Tiwari in a statement. “Abhinav would follow me everywhere I went in the last two years and create ruckus. It was mentally exhausting for both, me and my child. He would not stop at that and would create a scene at my doorstep anytime,” she added, mentioning that she never stopped her son and Kohli from talking.
“I allowed him the right to visit Reyansh. In fact, as per the previous court order, he was only supposed to speak to Reyansh on a video call for half an hour but I never stopped them from talking more, because I understand. I work to give my family a good lifestyle, what’s wrong in that? But he kept using that against me,” Tiwari adds.
On the other hand, Kohli is glad that at least the judgement gave him rights to visit his kid. Talking to us, he says, “It is a relief. It has been 11 months since I met my son. I met him just once for 45 minutes.” He adds, “It would have been wonderful if I could meet him everyday. It would have been better if we had joint custody. But this is more than enough for now.”
Kohli also asserts that it is not a judgement for final custody of the child. He says, “The court has said that if proceedings are initiated for custody in the future, the family court will decide the same, without being influenced by this current decision.”
Just because Shweta Tiwari is busy does not mean she cannot look after her minor son-Bombay High Court
8:11 AM
Rosy Sequeira (THE TIMES OF INDIA; October 1, 2021)
Mumbai: Upholding actor Shweta Tiwari’s custody of her minor son, the Bombay High Court on Thursday said just because she is busy does not mean she cannot look after him.
“In our view, the issue of welfare of the minor cannot be determined on the sole parameter of the work commitment of one parent and availability of ample time with another. The fact that the respondent is a busy actress cannot be construed to unfavourably judge her suitability to have the custody of Master R,” said a bench of Justices S S Shinde and Nijamoodin Jamadar.
They, however, allowed Abhinav Kohli (39) virtual access for minimum 30 minutes on weekdays and 2 hours physical access on weekends. “Before parting, we hope and trust the petitioner and respondent, who claim to be adept at playing characters in reel life, act in the best interest of Master R in real life,” Justice Jamadar wrote for the bench.
The verdict was passed in a habeas petition by Tiwari’s estranged husband Abhinav Kohli to produce the child she has “absconded” with since October 2020 and to transfer custody to him. Both live in different wings of the same apartment. They married in July 2013 and their son was born in November 2016.
Kohli’s petition said Tiwari is extremely busy with her professional commitments and has no time for parenting. In contrast, in 2019 he decided not to take up professional work and devote his entire time, effort and attention to bringing up his son. Tiwari’s reply referred to police complaints that Kohli has proven to be a threat to her, her family members and, particularly, the child.
Kohli’s advocate Swapana Kode argued that the child’s welfare can be improved by a change in custody. Tiwari’s advocate Hrishikesh Mundargi countered that only custody of a mother can be said to be proper custody during tender age.
The judges said in determining custody, the paramount consideration is the welfare of the minor and not the legal rights of the parents. Also, considering the child’s age, the tender years rule, which has statutory recognition, is brought into play. They noted that while allegations of neglect and lack of care attributed to Tiwari are in the realm of disputed questions of facts, there is an equal body of counter allegations against Kohli. They also said the issue of Tiwari’s work commitments putting hindrance in the development of the child is again an argument that needs to be adjudicated.
“In the light of the material on record, we are of the view that there are no exceptional circumstances which would warrant departure from the tender years rule. Nor is there such material which prima facie indicates that custody with respondent (Tiwari) is detrimental to the welfare and development of Master R,” said the judges, declining to direct a change in custody. Kohli has been allowed to move the family court.
Projects are stuck but money is necessary to pay off EMIs and bills-Shweta Tiwari
8:10 AM
Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 12, 2021)
According to Shweta Tiwari, financial security is needed to survive and fight the Coronavirus pandemic. The actor feels one has to step out for work while taking all precautions.
Explaining further, she adds, “Protocols must be followed, but one has to work. If you fall ill and need medical care, you need money. People are not working, projects are stuck but money is necessary to pay off EMIs and bills. I can’t wait for the pandemic to end. No one knows if it is a pandemic or an endemic,” she says adding that we should be careful and prepared for the third wave.
Tiwari admits she needed money to survive and take care of her family which is why she chose to shoot for a reality show abroad. She feels lucky to have got an opportunity and had made arrangements for her family to be taken care of. “Since last year, everyone wants to get back to work but many don’t have that option. So many people lost their jobs, but there are businesses that are making millions and taking advantage of the situation. The pandemic has taught us the value of health, family, and nature,” the Mere Dad Ki Dulhan actor concludes.
Me and my kids sleep with our video calling app switched on so that we can see each other every time we wake up-Shweta Tiwari
8:25 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 7, 2021)
The actress is shooting for the show in Cape Town, away from her children — Palak and Reyansh. She tells us that she misses them a lot and they are in constant touch with each other virtually. She shares, “At night, we sleep with our video calling app switched on so that we can see each other every time we wake up. We talk at every opportunity. I talk to my daughter before every stunt and after it to tell her how I have fared. My son wants me to get him a hippopotamus, which he calls ‘hippomonatus’ from South Africa to India for him. So, if in an episode I get to meet a hippopotamus, I am going to take him home, because my son wants it (laughs!).”
While many are struggling to find work, Shweta feels fortunate to be getting work during these challenging times. She says, “It has indeed been a difficult time for all of us. While I am grateful for the quality time spent with my children and family, I realised ki kaam karte rehna kitna important hai. Agar kaam ruk jaaye toh sab kuch ruk jaata hai. Your income may stop, but expenses don’t. You have to pay the EMIs and other expenses. So, it was very important to work. I thank my stars that today I have work and I can look after my kids.”
Post Khatron Ke Khiladi, she plans to get back to the fiction genre provided the concept is good and shows her in a never-seen-before avatar. “Whenever I am offered a show, I look at the graph of my character to ensure that it’s interesting so that I am not bored before the show has ended. If something interesting comes my way, I’ll take it up, be it a negative or a positive character, naagin ho ya daayan ho. I am a daily soap actress.”
On the personal front, Shweta has in recent times been in the news for her ugly public spat with her estranged husband, Abhinav Kohli. The latter has accused her of not allowing him to meet their son and leaving him alone amid the pandemic while she has gone abroad to shoot for the reality show.
Refusing to comment on her personal life, Shweta says, “Look, everyone faces some problem in their life. Ups and downs are a part of life. But if you keep your goals, priorities and responsibilities aside and run after those problems or those creating those problems, then you will feel lost in life. My priority is my kids. I will focus on them and keep working because only that’s going to help me in the long run. I don’t owe any justification or clarification to anyone because I know what’s good for my children. No one knows it better than me. I know how to keep my kids physically and mentally healthy, give them a better life and take care of them. Logon ke sahi ya galat se meri zindagi nahi chal rahi hai. Meri zindagi mere sahi, galat aur jisme mere bachhon ki bhalai hai, uss se chal rahi hai. I am fully dedicated to my kids and my work, which is why I keep working and forging ahead. If people want to forget their responsibilities and problems and make me the centre of their lives, they are most welcome. But meri zindagi mein aur kisi ke liye koi jagah nahi hai siwaai mere bachhon and meri family ke.”
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