Showing posts with label Surveen Chawla. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Surveen Chawla. Show all posts
We’re still not writing parts like they do for someone like Meryl Streep-Surveen Chawla
9:46 AM
Set to feature in Criminal Justice 4, Surveen Chawla says Indian storytelling for women still lacks the depth seen in global cinema
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 27, 2025)
Surveen Chawla has been in showbiz since 2005, long before streaming changed the game and strong female parts became the boardroom buzzword. Today, she brings fearlessness to every project, whether it’s the layered emotional terrain of Criminal Justice season 4, the textured world of Rana Naidu, the unpredictable energy of Mandala Murders, or the horror realm of Andhera. “If I don’t feel butterflies when I read it, I don’t do it,” she tells us as we sit down for a chat.
“When I read a script, it’s not just about the story on paper, it is about the people involved. Filmmaking is like cooking a great dish. You need the right ingredients, temperature, and timing. The same goes for a good project; it’s about all the little pieces coming together. The writing was strong in Criminal Justice. It has romance, depth, and a strong sense of justice,” says the actor, acknowledging that the show has a legacy — “especially given how rare it is for Indian shows to even make it to a season two — let alone season four.”
Working with Pankaj Tripathi was the bonus for Chawla, who has long been a fan of the actor. “Getting to work so closely with him was surreal. Just being validated by someone you admire is a dream come true.”
There are two kinds of actors — those who learn on the job, and those who train at film schools. Chawla has learnt on the job, while someone like Tripathi hails from NSD (National School of Drama).
“Both paths have their strengths. Pankaj ji brings the method and discipline of a film school, a proper process to his craft. Whereas those of us who’ve learned on the job bring rawness and spontaneity to the screen. We constantly pick up things from our seniors and co-actors who are trained. I often question if I’m good enough,” she shares.
Remembering being intimidated by Nawazuddin Siddiqui in Sacred Games, she adds, “[It was] not because I lacked belief in my own craft, but because of his background and training. It overwhelmed me at first. But you learn. You realise it’s really about honesty. Between ‘action’ and ‘cut’, it’s how present and truthful you are. That doesn’t need a degree.”
This year marks two decades in front of the camera for Chawla. After doing everything from iconic TV shows like Kahiin To Hoga (2003), to series like Haq Se (2018), India’s first Netflix original Sacred Games (2018), and more, she has seen a seismic shift in how female characters are written. Is she happy with the progress made?
“They’ve gotten better, but yes, just about better. We are still far from where we need to be. Sometimes, I feel we’re trying to emulate the 1960s version of Hollywood. We’re still not writing parts like they do for someone like Meryl Streep. That said, even globally, patriarchy is deeply ingrained. The struggle isn’t exclusive to our industry. The grass always seems greener on the other side, but I’m sure female actors in Hollywood are talking about their own hurdles too. The first step is to not be in denial about that reality. I’ve been lucky to be working with the most amazing men, who do not have a gender bias towards who is speaking up. I had to break the shackles to be able to speak up. Because we do hear, and it’s very real, when a woman speaks up on set, [it is said that] you’re difficult and opinionated, and that is a problem. I [know] what I bring to the table,” she asserts.
Chawla, who has a packed year, says that the work she is getting now is exciting. “What’s thrilling for me is that every show and character is different from the other. As excited as I am, I’m also incredibly nervous and curious about how these roles will be received. I feel like a kid waiting for exam results!”
I don't experience mom guilt when I am working-Surveen Chawla
11:00 AM
Jaspreet Nijher (BOMBAY TIMES; May 23, 2025)
Surveen Chawla plunged head-on into work a year after her daughter was born amid the pandemic. The actress never experienced mom guilt for leaving her young one behind because of the “family support I have, which includes a balanced understanding from my partner too.”
She adds, “Guilt for what? For keeping my passion first? No, I wouldn't do that and people can see it whichever way. When I'm at work, sometimes I am so engrossed that I barely speak to my daughter. And that's fine because she's fine. She's at home with family members.”
Says Surveen about balancing work with being a parent She adds, “Kids adapt fast to their environment. Besides, when I'm home, I'm 100% with her and work doesn’t take away my attention from her.”
She adds, “Managing her has also not been difficult because my husband is very supportive. There's no gender bias about which parent should manage the child in our household. It’s like when your partner goes out to work, his line of work could be different, and his timings are different too. While my work functions differently where I'm gone. I'm gone for quite a few days and even when I am shooting in Mumbai traffic that keeps me from reaching home in time to even meet my daughter sometimes. So, it's hard that way. But I think family your partner’s support makes the job much easier and vice versa. I think it's equal responsibility to both parents.”
Professionally, Surveen is soaking in the OTT space for now. “It is no surprise that Bollywood films are not doing well since few years, because they are doubting the intelligence of the audience who's today watching global content,” she says, adding, “It is about business, and you can't separate this passion from the business aspect of it. But currently Bollywood is only seeing the business side of it, hence scripts are not up to the mark. They have to be mindful of that because nobody's going to theaters when they have such good content at the push of a button at home. Even I don't remember the last time I saw a good film in the theater.”
However, Surveen is also saddened by the censor being levied on digital platforms. “Strangely, all the burden of morals and preachiness fall upon the film industry, which is so strange. We understand they want to have a system for showcasing age appropriate content, so make a smart interfaces where you can choose age appropriate content only. Find ways being so sensitive. The Indian sentiment in itself is so strong and hard when it comes to politics or religion. I think that kind of takes over creativity and craft and which I think is so unfair,” she says.
The actress who also acted in Punjabi films after debuting on TV with shows like, Kahiin Toh Hoga, is currently not eyeing this region’s industry. With her last Punjabi film being Hero Naam Yaad Rakhi (2015) with Jimmy Sheirgill, Surveen is not satisfied with the etching of roles for actresses in Punjab.
“Some of the stuff that was coming up was not really up to the mark as far as the kind of work that I’m looking to do,” she says, adding, “But if ever there film that has a killer’s role written for an actress, maybe yes. But so far, I don’t know where Punjab is right where women are concerned. That becomes challenging for me. I can work anywhere, and for me it’s just my craft. And I would love to do any language whether it’s a good Telugu film, or Hindi, Punjabi, but my part has to be exciting and challenging enough. I am not somebody who would want to go on a set which doesn’t excite me every morning. And till a female actor’s parts are not going to be as good as they are being written for them on OTT, I’m very happy in the web space only.”
As Gauahar Khan is trolled for losing 10 kgs in 10 days, her industry colleagues jump to her defence
8:41 AM
With fans questioning Gauahar Khan’s weight loss, friends in the industry ask how it is anyone’s business
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 26, 2023)
Actor Gauahar Khan, 39, who gave birth to her son in May, recently revealed she shed 10kg of her post-delivery weight in just 10 days. After she posted a picture of herself on Insta, many fans called it unhealthy and said it set unrealistic standards for new mums. Coming to her defence is actor Surveen Chawla, who believes it’s nobody’s business how or when a new mother loses her pregnancy weight.
The 38-year-old says, “It’s bizarre to discuss a person’s weight. Motherhood has just hit them and whether you lose 10kgs in 10 days or 100 days, it has nothing to do with that.”
The actor, who herself became a mother in April 2019, stresses that a “woman’s body undergoes a lot of changes during pregnancy and as they enter a new phase in life”. This isn’t the first time an actor’s post-pregnancy weight gain has become a topic of conversation as actors such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Neha Dhupia have faced trolling as well.
The Rana Naidu actor believes people need to be more sensitive towards new mums before judging their bodies. She says, “As actors, we can influence the world, but people need to understand that social media is far more influential than us. You can criticize us, our work and relationships, it’s fine, because we are in the public eye. But [talking about] a woman’s body, at a time when she has gone through an unfathomable change, is stooping to a new low.”
‘I’m sure Gauahar didn’t starve herself’
Mother to two toddlers, actor Debina Bonnerjee says, “Gauahar was able to lose weight because her body allowed her to shed fat easily. I’m sure she didn’t starve herself to achieve it. We’re in no place to criticize a woman if they’ve lost weight or haven’t been able to. You won’t understand what their journey is until you’ve experienced it. I was badly criticized when I couldn’t shed my pregnancy weight as I had a different pregnancy and recovery. People need to understand and respect that.
‘Let’s not criticize a woman’
Actor Charu Asopa, mum to a one-year-old girl, says, “There’s no harm in losing weight if you can achieve it through healthy ways. Uske liye crazy ho jaana is not good. Moreover, it differs from person-to-person, because we all have different body types. For me, it wasn’t easy, but for someone else, it might be. But this topic doesn’t require a discussion. We can’t be criticizing anyone for losing or gaining weight.
Inputs by Syeda Eba Fatima
I cover up my insecurities with some excuses-R Madhavan
8:09 AM
Madhavan, who plays a self-centred writer in Decoupled, discusses his insecurities as an actor — from wanting six-pack abs to finding age-appropriate roles
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; December 20, 2021)
At first, Arya Iyer can be quite a handful, almost unlikeable, as he rants about the barricades on city roads or emphasises his right to walk in the buff in the men’s locker room. But trust R Madhavan to lend his innate charm to the role and bring it alive in Decoupled. “I wanted to see how I could make Arya acceptable without making him a jerk. He is one of those guys who say things as they are; he does not have any filters,” says the actor.
The Manu Joseph creation, also starring Surveen Chawla, revolves around a married couple on the verge of separation. Not wasting its time on maudlin display of emotions, the Netflix series instead studies two individuals, who have grown apart, through the lens of humour. “You realise there is nothing wrong between Arya and Shruti [Chawla’s character] — there is no infidelity or abuse. They have become two different people over a period of eight years.”
The actor, married to Sarita for 22 years, knows the secret to a rock-solid marriage. “When we were getting married, I thought I am the rockstar and she is the sweet girl [in the marriage]. Within two years, I learnt it was the opposite. She seems to have 40 hours in a day, and gives me the freedom to pursue my lazy career. I have immense admiration for women because of people like Sarita, my mother and my sister.”
While the actor has enjoyed a flourishing career in Tamil and Hindi cinema over the past 20 years, he admits to battling his share of insecurities. “Whenever I see an actor put up a [picture] of his six-pack or eight-pack abs, I am like, ‘What the hell are you doing, Maddy? How did you even survive here?’ When I see them acting with phenomenal heroines like Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma, I think, ‘Tu kab aisi picture karega?’ Such insecurities are there. I cover them up [by telling myself] that I have to do age-appropriate roles, and I don’t want to do anything silly. My excuses keep me sane, but some of my excuses also make me lazy,” he says, before joking, “I need to work on my six-pack one of these days.”
One shouldn’t have to repress themselves-Surveen Chawla
8:24 AM
New mother Surveen Chawla on how she evaded post-partum depression and whipped herself into shape in six months
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 8, 2019)
Flooding her Instagram feed with pictures in a swimsuit, new mommy Surveen Chawla has been making a pertinent point about returning to a healthy lifestyle, post delivery. "I practised yoga, and took to cardiovascular activity, and sometimes did both in the same day. I ate only home-cooked food, and fortunately, did not crave outside meals. I had put on 18 kilos, and now, six months post delivery, have only five to lose," says the actor, who ate small portions every two hours.
In the months that led to her delivery, Chawla had heard so much about post-partum depression, that she had actively taken steps to evade it. "Since I am expressive, I could vent. I am not diplomatic, and am also lucky to be blessed with a partner who shares everything with me. One shouldn’t have to repress themselves. [Depression] starts from a single instance, but becomes a larger problem. Throughout my pregnancy, I kept myself in an emotionally-sound place. I had knowledge about what was going on with me, and the baby. There were days when my emotions were all over the place. But, I did my best to stay centred, and share [my feelings] with my partner. I reminded myself everyday that I was doing the best I could."
Chawla relied on a generous appetite of vegetables, eggs and nachni rotis to whip herself into shape. "Snack included fruits, dhoklas or pastas. Dinner would usually be eaten late because we would be tending to our baby."
TV is out for me. It’s not satisfying at all-Surveen Chawla
8:29 AM
Smita Poojary (DNA; September 9, 2019)
Surveen Chawla, who played Jojo Mascarenhas in a web series headlined by Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, won praises for her performance. She played a shrewd, headstrong woman who didn’t fear Ganesh Gaitonde (played by Nawaz). “The character added an interesting arc and a graph to the series. Apart from it being directed by Anurag Kashyap himself, it had great writing,” says the actress about the show. The chemistry between Surveen and Nawaz became a talking point. “Doing scenes over the phone was difficult, but I think the volatility of the equation between Jojo and Gaitonde is the most interesting part about them.”
About the Manto actor, she says, “He is a very easy person to work with and is one of the finest actors that we have. When I went on the set for the first time, I thought he would be intimidating, but it wasn’t like that.” After Ugly and a short film Chhuri, the web series marked the third collaboration between Anurag and Surveen. “Reuniting with Anurag is always fun. To be honest, he is an actor’s director and he will get the best out of anybody. It’s a treat to work with him and given an opportunity I would literally die to work with him,” gushes Surveen, who was pregnant at the time of filming.
She says Anurag and the whole team of the show were extremely co-operative with her. “The team was extremely flexible with me and my comfort was given the first priority. Anurag would make sure that the scenes are sent to me on time. I was really pampered a lot through the shoots,” she adds. Surveen started her career with television soap operas and later she made a move to the movies and then featured in web shows. When asked which, among the three does she like to do more, the Hate Story 2 actress states that she prefers films and the digital space. “Television shows in our country are still not experimenting much, so that’s out of the list for me. It’s not satisfying at all. As far as films go, today content is changing and there’s a lot of experimentation that’s going on with new age writers and filmmakers. So, everybody’s focusing on content for a change which is great,” she elaborates.
Blessed with a baby girl in April, Surveen says her life has got better. “It’s become more fun on a daily basis. There are new things to discover with every passing day and it is a beautiful experience.”
Surveen Chawla delivers a girl
8:20 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 20, 2019)
Actress Surveen Chawla, who tied the knot with Akshay Thakker, a businessman, in July 2015, delivered a girl on April 15. The couple has named their bundle of joy, Eva. Talking to BT, Surveen said, “The feeling can’t be described in words. It’s something to be experienced. We feel so blessed.”
In December 2017, BT had reported that Surveen had secretly married Akshay in a ceremony held in Northern Italy. The couple successfully managed to keep their marital status under wraps until we discovered it. The two met through a common friend in 2013 and soon after, they fell in love.
Surveen Chawla expecting a baby in April
6:53 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; November 8, 2018)
After her marriage to businessman Akshay Thakker in Italy on July 28, 2015, Surveen Chawla is looking forward to welcoming a new member in the family. Yes, the actress is pregnant and we caught up with her while she was busy shooting. In an exclusive chat, she revealed the good news. She said, “It’s a beautiful feeling and more so, as it has come completely unexpected for Akshay and me. Suddenly, life has become beautiful. I am looking forward to every step now. Of course, it’s unfamiliar territory, but the only one that comes with a guarantee of being wonderful. Akshay and I feel really blessed!”
Ask the actress if she is nervous about embracing motherhood, and she says, “Honestly, initially, the fear of change engulfed me, but later, the beauty of it all started sinking in. Now, I feel like I am embarking on a new journey and adventure of sorts. I don’t know how many women will tell you the truth, but the reality is that motherhood is a slow, gradual process. Motherly instincts are not born out of nowhere. Motherhood, to me, is a feeling that grows on you, with the growing life inside you. I think just the fact that women are designed to grow a whole being inside them is a far more superior feeling.”
With actresses now getting interesting work after they get married or embrace motherhood, Surveen feels that this is not even a point of discussion today. She says, “Why should this question of whether an actress will continue to work or get interesting projects after marriage or motherhood be a point of discussion? I think we, as a society, should stop making a big deal about a woman becoming a mother, and of it having any adverse impact on her work or career. The day this question is asked to a man who embraces fatherhood, I will answer this one elaborately.”
Surveen is currently enjoying being pampered by her family. She says, “The best part about pregnancy is that everyone around you puts you on a throne and makes you feel like a queen. I am loving it.” Though she is an actress, her husband has always kept a low profile. “Akshay is a low-key person and does not like to be in the limelight. At least not for now, and I respect that,” she says.
The Hate Story 2 actress, who is due in mid-April, plans to continue working, even during her pregnancy. She shares, “I opted out of one project in the beginning, because I had to be careful. But now, I am shooting and will continue to work till I can. I also want to enjoy this phase and make the most of it.”
On a parting note, Surveen says, “Post April, I will experience what women who have been there, call ‘bliss’ or the ‘best feeling in the world’.”
Screen time has never been my concern-Surveen Chawla
8:23 AM
Set to play a 'crucial part' in Sacred Games, Surveen Chawla says character graph determines her choice of roles
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 2, 2018)
Barely a week to go before Sacred Games drops online, Surveen Chawla says being part of the first homegrown Netflix show is "a matter of great pride." That the source material - Vikram Chandra's celebrated novel by the same name - is so compelling, is another incentive. "We are used to watching the content Netflix has to offer. And in this case, the set-up is enticing. It has been an honour working with the cast. There is so much to learn when you work with such established people," says Chawla.
The actor plays Nawazuddin Siddiqui's love interest in the thriller. Quashing rumours that she doesn't enjoy too much screen time in the Saif Ali Khan and Radhika Apte-starrer, Chawla says that her character triggers the unfolding of events in the story. "My character blossoms into a crucial part and is instrumental to the action around it. The important element was to nail the back-story. As far as screen space is concerned, there is time and place for every character, and it depends on how you fare in the time given. I had a lot of fun essaying the role, and screen time was never a concern."
Although she agrees that the series is likely to open up new avenues for her, Chawla says that wasn't the reason behind her giving a nod to the project. "I took this up not because it would open new avenues. I don't have a game plan as such. I just want to do good projects regardless of the medium."
I could kiss my co-actor or even go nude on screen, my husband will not say anything-Surveen Chawla
7:50 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; April 16, 2018)
Surveen Chawla surprised everyone when she revealed her marital status in January this year — that she tied the knot with longtime boyfriend Akshay Thakker in Italy in 2015. Most actresses are known to settle down in marriage after making it big in showbiz, but Surveen chose to follow her heart and take the plunge early on in her career.
Talking about her marriage for the first time since it was announced, the actress says that nothing has changed in life since. “In fact, it has gotten only better,” says Surveen, asking, “Why does it shock people that I got married? Those days are gone when an actress would achieve her professional goals first and then get married. Many actresses achieve great professional heights even after marriage now. Just because I was perceived as a go-getter and an ambitious person, it did not mean that I had no intention of getting married if I found the right guy. Marriage and career are not interrelated and people should understand that. Just like any professional woman who continues to work after her marriage, an actress should not wait when she finds the right guy.” Surveen, however, stresses on the importance of understanding and compatibility with the partner before taking the plunge.
Known for her bold and confident outlook, Surveen confesses that she was reluctant to get married at first. “I had gone through many ups and downs in my relationships, so I was quite reluctant to get married until I was doubly sure of the person. Besides, it is also a question of hormones, so it is only right that you get married at the right age.” She adds that she is in a happy space with her husband. “I could kiss my co-actor or even go nude on screen, I can do whatever the script demands in a film and my husband will not say anything about it. That’s the kind of understanding I have with him. When I have this kind of comfort level with him, why would I wait to get married? My husband is supportive of my work and I got a companion for life, what more can a woman ask for?”
She continues, “Marriage is a natural progression for any man or woman and if you find a partner who only enhances your life, I don’t think actresses should wait. When I get a good film project, it is Akshay who says, ‘Go for it’. That’s what partnership is all about. Today, many actresses get married, have babies and make a comeback. The perception with married actresses is changing and it will change further in the future.”
Surveen who was last seen on the show 24 on TV, will be part of the soon-to-be-aired Copy, one of Sujoy Ghosh’s three short features, Teen Paheliyan. She, however, has no intention of returning to daily soaps. “Kabhi bhi nahi. When it comes to TV, I worry about the content as it tends to get regressive. If it is a film project like the one I have done, then it would be interesting. More than the platform, I think the content plays an important role in accepting a project,” she elaborates.
The actress also adds that bagging films projects is not easy at all. She says, “It is a game of patience. I was bombarded with erotic films after Hate Story, but then you have to be choosy about your work. And for God’s sake, a kiss on screen does not mean that you are only doing erotic films.”
The actress, who has never minced words, feels every individual must strive for better things. She says, “I wanted to do bigger and better things. In fact, I am on the way to achieving my goals slowly and marriage has only made my life more beautiful.”
It was a personal choice to not announce our wedding-Surveen Chawla
8:00 AM
The actress talks about her hush-hush wedding in Italy, which took place in 2015
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; December 28, 2017)
After our exclusive story of Surveen Chawla being secretly married for two years, the actress has shared the details of her wedding and why it was a fiercely-guarded secret. She tied the knot with businessman Akshay Thakker in a low-key ceremony on July 28, 2015, in Italy.
We hear that Surveen was planning to make her marriage public in January, 2018. The actress reveals, “Yes, I am married. I have known Akshay for long. It was a personal choice to not talk about the marriage. We wanted to break the news just before our Indian wedding, which was scheduled to take place this month. However, we had to postpone it to 2018, following a loss in the family.”
The Italian wedding was a close-knit affair with only families and a few industry friends in attendance. Surveen says, “In a quintessential Indian wedding, the couple is surrounded by guests. But we wanted the day to ourselves; the idea was to enjoy each and every moment with each other and with those who matter the most. Also, I always wanted a white wedding in a chapel located in a castle. Fortunately, Akshay shared the same dream and that’s how we zeroed in on a picturesque castle in Northern Italy. It took me six months to finalize the venue. Since I am a die-hard romantic, there was no other way I would have done it.”
Surveen met Akshay through a common friend in 2013 and hit it off instantly. Their friendship soon graduated to love and they started living in eight months later. “It was organic. We began spending a lot of time together. There was no official proposal. We just knew that we wanted to be with each other. Akshay hates media glare and is a simple guy. He respects my individuality and understands me and my profession. Most importantly, he lets me be the person I am. He is the calming effect in my life. He made me understand the true meaning of letting go. Akshay has made me a better person. The idea behind the unison of two people is to help each other evolve. The best part is that he is not from the industry and that helps me remain grounded. It’s a great feeling to go back home to someone who has different things to talk about with a unique perspective,” she says.
So, did she hide her marriage from the world fearing that it would hamper her career? “Initially, yes, as my films were up for release,” she replies, adding, “But I soon crossed that bridge and realised that a talented actor will shine irrespective of her marital status.We need to take a cue from the West and get over such stigmas. International actresses go about flaunting their love life, marriage and babies without a care in the world. What matters is what I am doing on screen. Also, we suffered a personal loss and didn’t know how to go about announcing the wedding then.” And what about starting a family? “Though it’s not going to happen in the near future, I will proudly announce when I embrace motherhood,” she beams.
BT Exclusive: Surveen Chawla is secretly married
7:52 AM
The actress tied the knot in 2015 in Italy
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; December 27, 2017)
The secret is out! BT has it that Surveen Chalwa is married. In fact, it has been over two years since she tied the knot. The actress exchanged vows with businessman Akshay Thakker on July 28 in Northern Italy, back in 2015. The couple successfully managed to keep their marital status under wraps for long, until we discovered it.
According to a source, “Surveen met Akshay through a common friend in 2013 and soon after, they fell in love. They got married in 2015, with only family and a handful of industry friends in attendance. It was Surveen’s dream to have a white wedding in a chapel located in a picturesque castle and Italy seemed like an apt choice. The couple was waiting for the right time to announce the wedding and had planned to do it in January 2018.”
I'm embarrassed to know how ancient I am-S P Balasubrahmanyam
7:51 AM
SP Balasubrahmanyam on his Centenary Award, Korean filmmaker Im Kwon-Taek fanboys over SRK and 'Nari' power at 47th IFFI
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 21, 2016)
Girl power and cinema root
ed in reality were buzzwords at the inaugural cer emony for the 47th
edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on
Sunday. Hosted by actresses Surveen Chawla and Suhasini Maniratnam, the
show kicked off with the theme, “Nari - The changing face of women in
Indian cinema over the years“. Union Minister for Information &
Broadcasting, Venkaiah Naidu, said, “Cinema can be an effective tool of
social change and needs to coexist with reality, to pass the test of '2Rs', reason and reality.“
Chief guest Ramesh Sippy who kept calling
IFFI 'IIFA' joined playback singer SP Balasubrahmanyam to felicitate
South Korean filmmaker Im Kwon-Taek with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The father of Korean cinema, Kwon-Taek who has made over a 100 films in
five decades, revealed that he is a fan of Shah Rukh Khan and films
like 3 Idiots and Slumdog Millionaire. “I'm inspired by Indian thought
when I make films on Buddha and Buddhism,“ he admitted, adding that he's
looking forward to working on India co-productions.
Balasubrahmanyam was conferred the Centenary Award for Indian Film
Personality of the Year by Naidu, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar,
chairman of the Children's Film Society of India Mukesh Khanna and Goa
Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar. “I'm embarrassed to know how ancient I
am. I don't know how 50 years have passed and I'm still working. I'm
thankful to the entire industry, everyone who glorified my work
onscreen,“ he said.
Actor Sushant Singh Rajput and I & B secretary, Ajay Mittal,
felicitated this year's jury, chaired by Czech-born American
writer-director Ivan Passer and comprising Moroccan filmmaker Leila
Kilani,
Indian filmmaker Nagesh Kukunoor, Brit cinematographer Larry Smith and
Yugoslav filmmaker Lordan Zafranovic.Opening with the Polish film, After Image, IFFI 2016 is marked with several firsts: A system for the visually impaired by UNESCO and NGO Saksham, wherein films have been audio-described, Barco's laser projection technology that offers superior image quality, Best Directorial Debut in Feature category, and a UNESCO Gandhi medal for films that preach nonviolence. A package of films that were awarded at the Swachch Bharat event on October 2 are also scheduled to be screened.
Surveen Chawla down with malaria
7:42 AM
MUMBAI MIRROR (October 19, 2016)
Parched actress Surveen Chawla also had to be rushed to the hospital after she was diagnosed with malaria. A source reveals that she was in Sydney, Australia, last week to attend an event when she took ill. “She had to be hospitalised as soon as she returned to Mumbai. She has been advised bed-rest for the next couple of days,” her spokesperson confirmed.
Anil Kapoor is hot at 59-Surveen Chawla
8:09 AM
Surveen Chawla admits that while he is her father’s age, it didn’t deter her from kissing him on 24 Season 2
Urmimala Banerjee (DNA; August 1, 2016)
Dressed in a little black, sequinned outfit and
sporting red, pouty lips, Surveen Chawla is in a hurry. The actress who
was missing post Hate Story 2 is back in action on TV with two shows 24
Season 2 and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 9. She has created a sensation by
sharing a liplock with Anil Kapoor for the TV show. Here Surveen talks
about it and more...Tell us about your role in 24?
I cannot say much about my role now because I am afraid if I say one word about it, I will end up saying a lot more, which will be catastrophic. All I will say is that it’s an edgy and multi-layered character. She is Haroon Sherchand’s (Sikandar Kher) girlfriend, but in love with Jai Singh Rathore (Anil Kapoor). You have to wait for the story to unfold.
Let’s talk about the lip lock with Anil Kapoor?
Well, I did tell Abhinay (Deo, director) sir that I was feeling awkward and nervous. I have kissed on screen before, but there was a feeling of hesitation because technically, Anil sir is my father’s age. Of course, I would be ashamed to say this to him as he’s hot at 59! I psyched myself for around five minutes before the shot. I know as an actor I would kiss a piece of furniture if I was told to do so. Moreover, it was a closed set. Everyone was professional and serious. There was no giggling around. People should stop making such a hullabaloo about kissing in films or TV. Just look at the West.
Has the image as a hot actress after Hate Story 2 hampered your career?
Yes, the kind of projects I got post Hate Story 2 were a bit of a dampener. The film was not an erotic thriller per se. It was a revenge drama about this helpless girl who becomes an avenging angel. Sadly, you get slotted very quickly in Bollywood. As an actor, my job is to perform. The manner in which producers market a film is not in your hands. Yet that builds an image about an artiste. I have rejected many films in the Hate Story 2 genre to avoid being typecast. Then, 24 came up and it is a fab project to be associated with. It is made like a film. The makers have cast characters for the roles and not just famous names.
How is the Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa experience?
It is a lot of fun combined with intense pressure. My body pains all over after doing rehearsals. I am not used to dancing for so many hours. It is very different from gymming. I am not a trained dancer, so it is tough. Coping up with this regime is difficult, physically and mentally. However, the high of learning something new is keeping me motivated..
Casting couch exists down South, not in Bollywood-Surveen Chawla
7:56 AM
MUMBAI MIRROR (July 5, 2016)
While celebrities usually
shy away from the topic of the casting couch, Hate Story 2 actress
Surveen Chawla
makes no bones about it. However, the 31-year-old actress admits that she's only faced it in the southern film industry, not in Bollywood.
“I feel fortunate that I haven't encountered it here (Bollywood), I don't know if it's sheer luck but it says a lot about the progress the Hindi film industry has made. That said, I have faced casting couch situations down South. Of course I refused to give in,“ she says, attributing it to the fact that she isn't “desperate to find work“. “I am not desperate to barter myself for work. I am too much in love with my dignity and self respect. Work will bring me more work and that's my motto,“ she asserts, further stating that filmmakers now want to cast people on the basis of their talent.
“That's the right way. I think women are stronger now and makers who understand that and their love for cinema work well together. It's a great progression,“ she adds.
“I feel fortunate that I haven't encountered it here (Bollywood), I don't know if it's sheer luck but it says a lot about the progress the Hindi film industry has made. That said, I have faced casting couch situations down South. Of course I refused to give in,“ she says, attributing it to the fact that she isn't “desperate to find work“. “I am not desperate to barter myself for work. I am too much in love with my dignity and self respect. Work will bring me more work and that's my motto,“ she asserts, further stating that filmmakers now want to cast people on the basis of their talent.
“That's the right way. I think women are stronger now and makers who understand that and their love for cinema work well together. It's a great progression,“ she adds.
Surveen Chawla, Salman Yusuff Khan in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 9?
7:43 AM
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 25, 2016)
Celebrity dance based
reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa which is set for a comeback with the
ninth season soon, will feature Hate Story 2 actress Surveen Chawla and
choreographer Salman Yusuff Khan in the list of contestants. A source
from the show's team says, “Surveen will be paired with choreographer
Sanam Johar who worked with Archana Vijaya in season five. He was also
the winner of Dare 2 Dance and a runners-up on Dance India Dance. Ex-choreographer and the winner of Jhalak Dikkhla Jaa season 6, Salman
will be paired with an international choreographer and will be the
surprise package of this season.“ The show will be hosted by Manish Paul, with Jacqueline Fernandez, Ganesh Hegde and Karan Johar as the judges.Punjabi artistes stand in support with Udta Punjab
8:05 AM
As the censorship row over Udta Punjab intensifies, Punjabi artistes admit that the state is reeling under drug menace, how it is affecting the youth and why the issue needs to be addressed
BOMBAY TIMES (June 9, 2016)
MAHIE GILL
I completely support Udta Punjab. A film can never defame a state. I am proud to be a Punjabi. I am not saying the drug menace prevails only in that state but it does exist there. Removing Punjab from the title is ridiculous as everyone knows about this issue. Whenever I go back home, I hear how substance abuse is killing the youth. I have even heard that grooms don't reach on time for their own wedding in Punjab because of drug abuse. Let's face it, there s a problem and it needs to be addressed. In fact, In fact, the film the will only help people know the reality and find a way find a way to solve the issue.
KARAN KUNDRA
You can't brush facts under the carpet and ignore reality. Punjab is suffering today due to a significant rise in crime and substance abuse, which is at an all-time high among the youth. What will you do by salvaging the state's image if you can't save its youth? Instead of hiding the problem, we should solve it. In a day and age, when our Prime Minister is addressing issues pertaining to hygiene on an international platform, why are we cagey about acknowledging this problem that is staring right at our face. I don't know if the film is a mirror reflection of the problems in the state, but I am certain that sidelining or neglecting an issue is not the solution.
DILJIT DOSANJH
At the trailer launch of Udta Punjab, the actor-singer said, “I wish this film was made in the Punjabi film industry. Director Abhishek Chaubey and his team did a lot of recce. They have worked hard on the subject. I'm glad that this serious issue is being told to the audience through a bigger platform as it will reach a wider audience.“
SURVEEN CHAWLA
I am ashamed that films with real content that mirror the society's evils are shunned like this. It's sad that this treatment is being meted out to the film and its makers due to political pressure, upcoming elections and people's vested interests. Why should political motives be instrumental in the creative decision of film-making? Punjab is going through a rough phase and if a film wants to bring the issue to the forefront, why should there be an uproar? Udta Punjab is exposing a serious matter that is of national and international importance. It is informational, educational and an eye-opener of sorts. Turning a blind eye is never a solution.
HARD KAUR
Every time I speak to my cousins in Punjab, they tell me the addiction levels amongst the youth over there are high. Obviously, people won't like if their flawed side is highlighted so blatantly on screen. Mere andar ka Punjabi gets affected when I think about substance abuse in the region. I hope the intention of the film's team is to make a difference and not just make another movie that wants to sensationalise an issue.
SONU SOOD
Punjab is definitely facing a huge drug abuse issue. When I go there and see so many young lads wasting their lives, I tell them that they shouldn't succumb to it. They deny it as they fear they would be caught by the cops but one look at their physique and you can see how it has affected them. I've also tried talking to some parents and urged them to stop their sons from falling into this trap. The guys are unwilling to undergo rehab or treatment as they feel they are leading high-flying lives. I think a film like Udta Punjab should be encouraged to create awareness about this issue. The Censor Board should support the film's cause and the government should find ways to resolve the drug problem.While I can't comment on the cuts, I think it's a stupid argument to suggest changing the film's title and removing any references to Punjab. After all, the film is based in that state and has been shot there, even the characters talk in Punjabi.
RAKUL PREET SINGH
Even though I want to be politically correct, I believe we should treat a film as a film. I'm a Punjabi and those who stay in Punjab will continue staying there and loving the state as they did before the film's release. And if at all there's any issue like how it's being shown in the film, we should take it in a positive stride and create awareness. Why should we maintain double standards? Movies depicting terrorism in Mumbai have been made. Does that mean people have stopped living in the city?
SARGUN MEHTA
I think that if something is not right in a particular state, city or country, we shouldn't hide it. Instead, we should talk about it and spread awareness. Maybe, the state has the highest number of such cases, but it is not that this problem exists only in Punjab. Talking about this issue will not take away from all the good that Punjab has to offer and definitely will not defame it. What will really defame it is the incapability of the top-level people to handle the issue.
RAGINI KHANNA
The controversy is unnecessary. As an actor, I believe in creativity and freedom of expression. When it comes to Udta Punjab, I will comment as an individual and not as a Punjabi. I have not seen the film yet but if the content helps to create awareness about the drugs issue and is presented in the right spirit, then it should be allowed. Cinema has a huge influence on the society and is instrumental in making changes. So if it is helping the cause, it should be seen in the right spirit.
TARUN KHANNA
Drug abuse does exist in Punjab but the government cannot control it. If a film like Udta Punjab is trying to showcase this issue, it is not to get mileage, but to let people know what is happening. I am a proud Punjabi myself and for those who say that they are the face of the state, I would like to ask them that if they have the best in mind, then why are Punjabis suffering so much? We used to have robust Punjabis like Dharmendra and Dara Singh but we can't see such youngsters from the state these days as they are turning towards drugs.
AARYA BABBAR
Cinema depicts the face of the society and art has the freedom to show what it wants. Let the viewers take the final call on Udta Punjab when they see it. It should be our own perception and not that of people sitting in a room and saying what is good for us and what is not.
I completely support Udta Punjab. A film can never defame a state. I am proud to be a Punjabi. I am not saying the drug menace prevails only in that state but it does exist there. Removing Punjab from the title is ridiculous as everyone knows about this issue. Whenever I go back home, I hear how substance abuse is killing the youth. I have even heard that grooms don't reach on time for their own wedding in Punjab because of drug abuse. Let's face it, there s a problem and it needs to be addressed. In fact, In fact, the film the will only help people know the reality and find a way find a way to solve the issue.
KARAN KUNDRA
You can't brush facts under the carpet and ignore reality. Punjab is suffering today due to a significant rise in crime and substance abuse, which is at an all-time high among the youth. What will you do by salvaging the state's image if you can't save its youth? Instead of hiding the problem, we should solve it. In a day and age, when our Prime Minister is addressing issues pertaining to hygiene on an international platform, why are we cagey about acknowledging this problem that is staring right at our face. I don't know if the film is a mirror reflection of the problems in the state, but I am certain that sidelining or neglecting an issue is not the solution.
DILJIT DOSANJH
At the trailer launch of Udta Punjab, the actor-singer said, “I wish this film was made in the Punjabi film industry. Director Abhishek Chaubey and his team did a lot of recce. They have worked hard on the subject. I'm glad that this serious issue is being told to the audience through a bigger platform as it will reach a wider audience.“
SURVEEN CHAWLA
I am ashamed that films with real content that mirror the society's evils are shunned like this. It's sad that this treatment is being meted out to the film and its makers due to political pressure, upcoming elections and people's vested interests. Why should political motives be instrumental in the creative decision of film-making? Punjab is going through a rough phase and if a film wants to bring the issue to the forefront, why should there be an uproar? Udta Punjab is exposing a serious matter that is of national and international importance. It is informational, educational and an eye-opener of sorts. Turning a blind eye is never a solution.
HARD KAUR
Every time I speak to my cousins in Punjab, they tell me the addiction levels amongst the youth over there are high. Obviously, people won't like if their flawed side is highlighted so blatantly on screen. Mere andar ka Punjabi gets affected when I think about substance abuse in the region. I hope the intention of the film's team is to make a difference and not just make another movie that wants to sensationalise an issue.
SONU SOOD
Punjab is definitely facing a huge drug abuse issue. When I go there and see so many young lads wasting their lives, I tell them that they shouldn't succumb to it. They deny it as they fear they would be caught by the cops but one look at their physique and you can see how it has affected them. I've also tried talking to some parents and urged them to stop their sons from falling into this trap. The guys are unwilling to undergo rehab or treatment as they feel they are leading high-flying lives. I think a film like Udta Punjab should be encouraged to create awareness about this issue. The Censor Board should support the film's cause and the government should find ways to resolve the drug problem.While I can't comment on the cuts, I think it's a stupid argument to suggest changing the film's title and removing any references to Punjab. After all, the film is based in that state and has been shot there, even the characters talk in Punjabi.
RAKUL PREET SINGH
Even though I want to be politically correct, I believe we should treat a film as a film. I'm a Punjabi and those who stay in Punjab will continue staying there and loving the state as they did before the film's release. And if at all there's any issue like how it's being shown in the film, we should take it in a positive stride and create awareness. Why should we maintain double standards? Movies depicting terrorism in Mumbai have been made. Does that mean people have stopped living in the city?
SARGUN MEHTA
I think that if something is not right in a particular state, city or country, we shouldn't hide it. Instead, we should talk about it and spread awareness. Maybe, the state has the highest number of such cases, but it is not that this problem exists only in Punjab. Talking about this issue will not take away from all the good that Punjab has to offer and definitely will not defame it. What will really defame it is the incapability of the top-level people to handle the issue.
RAGINI KHANNA
The controversy is unnecessary. As an actor, I believe in creativity and freedom of expression. When it comes to Udta Punjab, I will comment as an individual and not as a Punjabi. I have not seen the film yet but if the content helps to create awareness about the drugs issue and is presented in the right spirit, then it should be allowed. Cinema has a huge influence on the society and is instrumental in making changes. So if it is helping the cause, it should be seen in the right spirit.
TARUN KHANNA
Drug abuse does exist in Punjab but the government cannot control it. If a film like Udta Punjab is trying to showcase this issue, it is not to get mileage, but to let people know what is happening. I am a proud Punjabi myself and for those who say that they are the face of the state, I would like to ask them that if they have the best in mind, then why are Punjabis suffering so much? We used to have robust Punjabis like Dharmendra and Dara Singh but we can't see such youngsters from the state these days as they are turning towards drugs.
AARYA BABBAR
Cinema depicts the face of the society and art has the freedom to show what it wants. Let the viewers take the final call on Udta Punjab when they see it. It should be our own perception and not that of people sitting in a room and saying what is good for us and what is not.
Why Aamir Khan can't do Anil Kapoor's show 24
8:00 AM
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 9, 2016)
Anil Kapoor who launched the second season of his TV show 24 at a suburban theatre on Wednesday was more than happy to share the limelight with daughter Sonam Kapoor who'd presumably coordinated her power suit with her doting dad's and avoided interacting with the media, and Aamir Khan who stood out in his quirky glasses.
Queries about Sonam and Aamir guest-starring on the show were met with chuckles. "Sonam wants to be the female Jack Bauer and if we have Aamir we will have to have two of them. We would love to have him and I know if I request him he won't say no but our show is about characters and not stars. It has to happen organically," Anil explained, adding that he had to sacrifice an international project to fulfil his commitment to 24.
But if the veteran actor is to be believed, it wasn't a total bust as he jokes that the most exciting part of working on the second season of the show was getting to kiss Surveen Chawla.
Meanwhile, Aamir praised his Mann co-star, saying, "Anil has a childlike curiosity about the way he approaches things, even his meals."
The 59-year-old veteran who's had to undergo physiotherapy sessions along side director Abhinay Deo, thanks to the extensive action on the show, also stopped short of talking about his equation with Aamir who, according to him, is like a younger brother sometimes and an elder one otherwise. "Nazar lag Jaati hai," he explained.
Sakshi Tanwar and Surveen Chawla in 24?
7:54 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; November 26, 2015)
Sakshi Tanwar, who is currently shooting for Dangal
which has her playing Aamir Khan’s wife, will next be seen with Anil
Kapoor on TV. Sources say that she has been roped in to play a crucial
role in the second season of Anil’s international adaptation of the
thriller series 24. The actress will be seen as part of Anil’s
anti-terrorist squad, playing a tough cop. In the first season Mandira
Bedi had played a similar role. Sakshi’s last fiction show was Bade
Acche Laggte Hai and Code Red, a crime-based show that she had hosted.
Another actress, who will be returning to TV after a long gap will be Surveen. She had made her TV debut with Kahin Toh Hoga, did a couple of more serials and reality shows like Ek Haseena Ek Khiladi before shifting to films. The actress has several Punjabi films to her credit, but it was with her sexy turn in Hate Story 3 that she catapulted to fame. On TV she was last seen in Comedy Circus Ke Superstars that she had hosted five years ago. The actress in an interview had said that she would like to do seasonal fiction shows like 24 and Yudh. Her wish has been granted and the actress who worked with Anil in Welcome Back has been cast in the second season. “Surveen will be playing the villain’s girlfriend and will be seen in a glamorous avatar,” says a source.
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