Showing posts with label Vatsal Sheth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vatsal Sheth. Show all posts
I was planning a family trip when the Drishyam team called-Ishita Dutta
4:49 PM
Kimberly Colaco (BOMBAY TIMES; February 28, 2026)
Ishita Dutta, recently in Goa for the shoot of Drishyam 3 starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Shriya Saran, describes the state as one of her favourite escapes.
“Goa is close to Mumbai, the weather is similar, and it’s ideal for travelling with kids. The resorts and food are wonderful; I often say Goa has some of the best restaurants in the country. I find immense peace and freedom by the beach,” shares Ishita, who spent time here during both her pregnancies.
'I didn’t expect to return so soon'
She reveals that resuming work after having her second baby was unplanned. “I didn’t expect to return so soon. I was planning a family trip when the Drishyam team called. My husband Vatsal encouraged me to take it up, and I’m glad I did. By the time filming began, our daughter Veda was six months old," shr says.
Health setback and recovery
The actress went through a difficult health phase. Diagnosed with gallbladder stones during her second pregnancy, she underwent surgery two months after delivery. “It was an extremely painful period. I lost around 16 kilos in an unhealthy way and became very weak. The first few months with my baby were challenging,” she shares.
Family as the anchor
Balancing work and motherhood is possible because of family support, she says. “With two young children, you need family. My parents and in-laws have been my biggest strength," adds Ishita.
Pankaj Dheer dies after prolonged cancer battle; industry pays tribute
9:33 AM
Avijit Ghosh (THE TIMES OF INDIA; October 16, 2025)
Actor Pankaj Dheer, whose impressive turn as the wronged prince Karna in the television epic, ‘Mahabharat’ (1988), embedded him in a generation’s memory, passed away in Mumbai on Wednesday. He was 68. Dheer was suffering from cancer. “He had been in and out of hospital in the past months,” producer and friend Ashoke Pandit told PTI.
In an interview to the video magazine, ‘Lehren Retro’, the actor once revealed that he had refused the part of Arjun in the BR Chopra production because he was asked to shave off his moustache. “It was foolishness,” he admitted. Six months later he was offered Karna which didn’t require him to shave off facial hair.
Dheer’s family roots went back to Kasur, a town south of Lahore, in pre-independence India. But the son of producer-director C L Dheer (‘Bahu Beti’, ‘Alingan’) had grown up in Bandra, Mumbai.
The TV show’s Sanskritised dialogues triggered performance anxiety. The actor sought tips from Rahi Masoom Raza, who had co-written the show. Among other things, Raza suggested that he should read aloud the Hindi daily, ‘Navbharat Times’, a sister publication of The Times of India, everyday.
With his imposing presence and empathetic voice, Dheer executed an unforgettable Karna drawing the audience's sympathy. The role gave him what every actor yearns for: fame, adulation and a steady career.
When the character died in the serial, many shaved off their hair in Bastar, then part of Madhya Pradesh. “At the behest of (then) chief minister Arjun Singh, I flew there and consoled the mourners, assuring them that I was alive. It was something you believe only when you see it,” he recalled in the interview.
Pankaj Dheer also said, “Many people do not know my name, but they recognize me as Karna. Even today, my face is published as Karna’s face in textbooks.”
The role opened doors in television and films leading to nearly 100 TV shows and films. One of his most remembered roles was of King Shivdutt in the mega fantasy, ‘Chandrakanta’ (1994). Two notable films were Bobby Deol’s ‘Soldier’ (1998) and Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Baadshah’ (1999), where he played a scheming security chief.
Dheer’s passing was mourned on social media. Among those who attended the funeral were fellow actors from Mahabharat, and Salman Khan, with whom he had worked in films such as ‘Sanam Bewafa’ (1991).
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Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; October 16, 2025)
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away yesterday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 68. Dheer was seen in films like Sadak, Soldier, and Badshah, as well as several TV shows, including Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, Yug, and Badho Bahu. He is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.
His Mahabharat co-actor and close friend Gajendra Chauhan, who played Yudhisthir in the show, said, “I am deeply saddened and will miss him a lot. Pankaj was not the serious guy he looked like on screen. He was very jovial, always smiling and a wonderful host. We used to meet every fortnight at someone’s home, and Pankaj would keep everyone laughing. Shooting with him was smooth and joyful because he was light-hearted and pleasant.”
Arjun Feroz Khan, who played Arjun in Mahabharat, posted a picture on Instagram and wrote, “Gentleman! Bids goodbye. Will miss you, PD. Stay blessed (sic).”
Puneet Issar, who played Duryodhan, said, "Karna and Duryodhan were brothers, and I could play that part with him so naturally because I had known him even before we did Mahabharat. I am heartbroken, and I will always miss him."
The Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association President Ashoke Pandit penned on social media, “Shocked to know about the sad demise of our dear friend and a brilliant actor, Pankaj Dheer. A great human being. Huge loss to the industry.Heartfelt condolences to the family (sic).”
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Akash Bhatnagar (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 16, 2025)
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer died on October 15 after a prolonged battle with cancer at the age of 68. His cremation was held yesterday in Mumbai. A statement from CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association) confirmed the news, expressing “profound grief and deep sorrow” at the passing of their former chairman and general secretary.
His performance as Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat made him a household name, and he appeared in shows Chandrakanta, Yug, The Great Maratha, and Badho Bahu. He also starred in films like Sadak (1991), Soldier (1998), and Baadshah (1999).
Pankaj is survived by his wife Anita Dheer, son Nikitin Dheer, and daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar.
It’s very shocking news and quite sad. I got the honour of working with him in my first film Taarzan: The Wonder Car (2004). He was fantastic and he always made sure that we were all comfortable.
- Vatsal Sheth
It was a privilege to work with him in Rishton Ka Saudagar – Baazigar. He used to get sandwiches from home just for me. Anyone who worked with him knows what an amazing person he was.
- Ishita Dutta Sheth
Pankaj ji was the first senior actor I ever worked with in Rang Badalti Odhani. He treated me like a son with so much kindness. He’ll always be remembered with immense love and respect.
- Karan Tacker
He was one of the finest gentlemen I ever worked with (in Mahabharat). He also crossed the epitome of every humanity angle. He’ll be missed.
- Arjun Feroz Khan
Ishita Dutta shares health update after being hospitalized with son
9:07 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (August 2, 2025)
Actor Ishita Dutta recently revealed that she was hospitalized along with her two-year-old son Vaayu, just a couple of months after welcoming her second baby with husband, Vatsal Sheth (44).
The 34-year-old actor shared a photo from the hospital on Instagram Stories on Wednesday, showing Vaayu and herself receiving IV fluids, though she didn’t reveal their faces in the post.
While she didn’t disclose the reason, Ishita mentioned that being unwell has led to significant weight loss. Sharing a health update, she wrote, “It’s been a really tough month... At a time when I was supposed to be with my newborn, I was making hospital rounds instead. Thankfully, both Vaayu and I are doing much better now.”
She also addressed the buzz around her post-partum appearance: “A lot of you have been asking me about my weight loss — it wasn’t deliberate, just a result of being unwell.”
In June, the couple welcomed their daughter, Veda, and their son Vaayu in July 2023.
Ishita and Vatsal fell in love on the sets of the television show, Rishton Ka Saudagar — Baazigar and got married on November 28, 2017, in Mumbai.
We are overjoyed to welcome our baby girl-Vatsal Sheth, Ishita Dutta
2:25 PM
Hasti Doshi (BOMBAY TIMES; June 13, 2025)
Actors Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta welcomed a baby girl on June 10. The couple, already parents to son Vaayu, couldn’t be happier as their wish for a daughter has come true. Vatsal shared, “We became parents around two years ago for the first time when Vaayu came into our lives. This time, we were hoping for a baby girl and our dream has come true. We are overjoyed. Our family is now complete.”
Talking about how Vaayu reacted to the arrival of his sister, Vatsal said, “Vaayu is about to turn two, so he doesn’t understand much. We kept telling him that a baby will be entering our lives and will be his little sister/brother. When he saw her, he was very happy and gave her flying kisses.”
Meanwhile, the actor has decided to take a short break from work. “I have consciously taken a small break from work because this is family time and I want to spend it with my family. They need my full attention, love and care.”
An elated Ishita told us, “We are happy and excited. The best moment was when we saw Vaayu’s reaction. It was priceless. I can’t wait to see them grow up as siblings. It will take a few days for the fact to sink in that we have a daughter now. I am looking forward to this new journey with Vatsal and our kids.”
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S Farah Rizvi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 12, 2025)
Actors Vatsal Sheth (44) and Ishita Dutta (34) welcomed their second child, a baby girl and shared the happy news with their fans in an Instagram post made late night Tuesday.
Speaking to us, Vatsal gushes, “Ishita and I are ecstatic. It’s an indescribable feeling. Our daughter completes our family in the most beautiful way. We waited for this moment for long. Now that it has happened, it’s a little overwhelming. As young parents, we will redo our learning, but this phase is surely amazing.”
The couple, who became parents to their son Vaayu in July 2023, posted an adorable family picture straight from the hospital. Ishita wrote in the caption, “From two to four hearts beating as one. Our family is now complete. Blessed with a baby girl (sic).”
The comments section of the heartfelt moment (left) is filled congratulations and heart emojis from friends, family, and fans. Actors including Rakul Preet Singh, Suniel Shetty, Bobby Deol, Drashti Dhami, Gauahar Khan, Helly Shah, Kishwer Merchant, and Ridhima Pandit shared good wishes, blessings, and love.
We’d love Vayu to have a little sister, say Vatsal Sheth, Ishita Dutta
10:41 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; February 19, 2025)
Actor-couple Ishita Dutta Sheth and Vatsal Sheth are expecting their second child. Ishita, who is in her second trimester, told us, “We are excited and much more prepared this time around. With Vayu, every experience was new. I remember I would run to the doctor often, but this time my doctor is surprised that I’m not calling him frequently. My parents have moved in with us, so I have a good support system at home.”
The Drishyam actress had earlier spoken about mood swings and post-pregnancy issues. When asked about that, she said, “It is real. Motherhood is a unique experience, but a woman goes through a lot of changes in her body and moods. Vatsal has always been a great support.”
She added, "I am glad that Vatsal was a great support and he still is. Even now, a month ago, I had tough time physically but I endured it well."
Vatsal, who was last seen in Adipurush, added, “I feel every time a woman becomes a mother, her partner needs to understand and support her. It is a beautiful journey for the parents, but can be a little tough when you are in a nuclear family set-up. I often joke with Ishita that we should sleep well till our baby arrives and think of holidays only after two to three years now.”
The couple, who are parents to two-year-old Vayu, are hoping to have a baby girl this time. “We just want the baby to be healthy and would love for Vayu to have a little sister.”
While I am really enjoying my shoot, I keep checking on the baby monitor-Ishita Dutta
8:06 AM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 25, 2024)
Actor Ishita Dutta Sheth, who welcomed her first child, son Vayu, with actor-husband Vatsal Sheth in June last year, is returning to work after two years.
While she is excited to make her comeback, Ishita says it was a difficult choice to make: “The decision to get back to work was very tough. I thought I would come back after six months, but when the time came to say yes to any project, I felt reluctant. But, my parents, in-laws and husband all said, ‘We are here to take care of Vayu.’ Vatsal and I both plan our schedules according to him.”
The 34-year-old continues, “Every working woman goes through that guilt. That first day when you have to leave your child and go to work, it will always be hard, be it six months or two years. A mother will always have that separation anxiety; I had it too, but I made it.”
Despite the “mom guilt,” the actor is glad to be back in action. She reveals that she is currently shooting for a film, but keeps the details sparse. “While I am really enjoying my shoot, I keep checking on the baby monitor to see what Vayu is up to. This is the first time I have been away from him for so long,” she tells us.
Ishita adds that she plans on bringing Vayu to the shoot location soon. “We are getting him here. We will see how it goes. If he is able to adjust then, he will stay with me till the end of the schedule. I want to start working properly but I will take a month or two between projects to spend time with him,” the actor concludes.
I think flying kites is in every Gujarati’s blood-Vatsal Sheth
8:46 AM
Soumitra Das (BOMBAY TIMES; January 15, 2024)
Vatsal Sheth, known for TV shows like Just Mohabbat and films like Taarzan: The Wonder Car, is in Ahmedabad currently to dub for his debut Gujarati film. As he stepped out with us for an Uttarayan shoot, he told us, “While Vaayu (his son) is just five-and-a-half months old, I have bought small kites and firkis for him on this trip. They are really cute and since it’s his first Uttarayan, this is the best gift that I could think of for him. I am sure that once he grows up, he would love to fly kites, just like his dad!” Excerpts from a chat:
‘I will be flying kites at Apoorva Lakhia’s pol house’
I feel lucky to be in Ahmedabad this Uttarayan and I will be flying kites at my friend’s (filmmaker Apoorva Lakhia) pol house in the city. Nothing can match the way Uttarayan is celebrated in the pols. Last year, I travelled to Bhavnagar, where I have a few relatives, just to fly kites with them. Uttarayan is among my favourite festivals and I think it’s (flying kites) is in every Gujarati’s blood!
I have celebrated Uttarayan in Ahmedabad earlier also and once, Ishita (Dutta Sheth, his actress-wife) had also tried her hand at flying kites. Earlier, she used to think that flying kites is easy; lekin uss ne 20 patang udaane ki koshish ki, and she was finding it difficult. Then I helped her in flying one kite, lekin woh bhi do second mein kat gayi! She realized that it’s not easy and one has to be very alert and aware while flying kites.
Even if I am shooting during Uttarayan, I make sure to carry kites and firkis to the sets. While doing the show Haasil, Zayed Khan and I had flown kites together on the sets. I have also celebrated the festival in Madh Island while shooting for other TV shows.
‘My friends and cousins buy kites & manjha for me from Surat’
I was born and brought up in Mumbai and although Uttarayan celebrations there can’t match the way it is celebrated in Gujarat, we used to have a lot of fun. About three or four days before the festival, we would visit the kite markets and buy kites. My friends and cousins buy kites and manjha for me from Surat, which are of great quality.
The quality of kites and manjha is crucial when you are looking forward to flying kites for the entire day. The preparation also involved buying tapes and finger protection gloves.
Just the night before Uttarayan, all the friends would get together. Hum agarbatti se kites mein holes karte thay, aur phir kinya bandhte thay. From the next morning, we would be on the terrace for the entire day and woh pench ladane mein jo maza hai, that can’t be described in words. We would also shout ‘lapet’ and ‘kai po che’ at the top of our voice.
Raat ko hum kandeel bhi udate thay, and there would be competitions for that. Uttarayan is also about relishing homemade delicacies. My mom makes amazing chikkis (til chikkis, peanut chikkis and murmura chikkis) and I love gorging on undhiyu and chikkis. She also makes delicious aadu paak (adrak ka halwa). I also love eating mathiya and cholafali.
Vatsal Sheth would not let me have a lot of mithai. Now that I am pregnant, he lets me eat anything I like-Ishita Dutta
8:43 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; March 25, 2023)
Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta Sheth are all set to become parents. Just like their low-key wedding at Iskcon Temple in Mumbai in November 2017, the news of the pregnancy was known only to a few family members and close friends initially. The couple recently shared the news on social media.
Talking about this new phase in their lives, Ishita says, “We are very excited and not exactly prepared, but we are looking forward to it. Every day is a new day. The body is going through a different experience.”
Vatsal adds, “We have been married for five years, but we hadn’t made a conscious decision to have children only after we are settled in our careers. Just like marriage is a milestone, having a child is another milestone. Work keeps happening and you continue to work hard, but welcoming our baby will definitely be the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in our lives.”
Sharing how Ishita broke the news to Vatsal, she says, “I got to know about it in the morning and was waiting for Vatsal to come home. Initially, I wanted to plan something big and share the good news with him, but then I could not wait and told him as soon as he got home.”
Ishita, who is in her second trimester, shared that the baby is due in a few months and she is happy to see her husband fussing over her. “Vatsal is very fit and he is watchful of what he eats and would not let me have a lot of mithai. But now he lets me eat anything I like. In fact, he fulfils my demands immediately. We will think of some baby names soon,” she shares.
The two actors, who have been busy working, were away from each other for a month. Vatsal has been shooting for a Gujarati film, while Ishita has been shooting for a Hindi movie. Vatsal says, “I have also shot for a web series and will be busy throughout the year.”
Ishita wants to continue working during her pregnancy. She says, “As long as the makers are okay with my pregnancy, I will continue to shoot. I want to continue working post pregnancy, too. Of course, when the baby arrives, a lot of things will change and life will take a new direction, but I would like to start working once we settle down after a few months. Vatsal and I love making reels, so yes, social media will also be another important thing to explore.”
Vatsal adds, “I think once the baby arrives, I will be a complete hands-on father and that’s when the feeling will sink in.”
We are boring people who love each other’s company-Vatsal Sheth and Ishita Dutta
8:25 AM
Kimberly Colaco (GOA TIMES; February 14, 2023)
Bollywood couple Ishita Dutta and Vatsal Shet decided to board the flight to Goa to celebrate Valentine’s Day together, relaxing on the beach. “We are both boring people, and not like what you see on TV. But we love each other’s company. It will mostly be a relaxing vacation,” says Vatsal. Ishita adds, “I get scared of the water, but I like to have a drink and read a book by the beach.”
‘NO BIG GESTURES – WE LIKE IT SIMPLE’
The couple who tied the knot in November 2017, believe in a simple funda: give each other enough space. “We do not let our relationship overpower us,” says Ishita. Vatsal adds, “One has to make little adjustments, like – I love sports, she doesn’t, yet, she attends events with me – these small things matter.”
Day to day gestures are important, they say. “We care for each other. It’s not about big surprises, or grand gestures of love. We don’t need to go out to celebrate, it could be as simple as eating dal-chawal at home, watching a film together – that has always been the way for us,” says Ishita.
WILL HAVE A BABY WHEN READY
Are they planning on expanding their family, Ishita quickly replies, “We get asked this a lot, but we will have a baby when we are ready...”
On the work front they are busy shooting for another two months, and hence they decided on this short vacation in Goa. “I will be working in a Gujarati film and will mostly be away while on the shoot,” says Vatsal. While Ishita is tight-lipped about her next project.
A team member had got a fit on sets of my TV show; I borrowed that incident for Drishyam 2-Ishita Dutta
8:07 AM
Reprising her role in Drishyam 2, Ishita says challenging to play character who suffers from anxiety attacks rooted in troubled past
Hiren Kotwani (MID-DAY; November 18, 2022)
Seven years can be a long wait to reprise a character. As director Abhishek Pathak’s Drishyam 2 opens in cinemas today, Ishita Dutta says her character Anju has changed a lot since the first instalment of the Ajay Devgn and Tabu-led thriller. It was the death of Anju’s classmate that kicked off the cat-and-mouse chase in the 2015 thriller.
“[The death] happened accidentally. It has been traumatic for my character. So, over the years, she has become insecure, fidgety, and suffers from anxiety attacks and fits. Her father [played by Devgn] tries to ensure that her condition doesn’t worsen,” says Dutta.
Portraying the character who suffers from anxiety attacks and fits required considerable prep. The actor says that an incident during one of her TV show shoots helped her gain a better understanding of the condition.
“A member of the team had got a fit on the set of my TV show. It was heartbreaking to see them suffer. When I joined the Drishyam 2 shoot, I borrowed from this incident,” she states.
Besides the crime thriller, Dutta has two projects in her kitty that will see her reunite with actor-husband Vatsal Sheth after Rishton Ka Saudagar — Baazigar (2016). “All I can say for now is that we were supposed to start one film in September, but it got pushed ahead. It will roll early next year, while the second film is scheduled to start mid-2023.”
I couldn’t even bring myself to look at Ajay Devgn, but he is so sweet and easy to work with-Ishita Dutta
8:11 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; November 15, 2022)
Ishita Dutta, who started her career as a TV actress and continues to be a part of the entertainment industry, says that the first instalment of Drishyam (2015) changed a lot for her as an artiste. The actress, who will now feature in the sequel Drishyam 2, helmed by Abhishek Pathak, also starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Akshaye Khanna, elaborates on her experience of working with Ajay Devgn, how she still believes in TV as a medium and the kind of offers she wants to take on going ahead. Read on...
You have been a part of films and TV shows, but you are best remembered for your stint in Drishyam . How did the film change the course of your career?
The first instalment of Drishyam marked my debut in Hindi cinema. I was quite young then and had just done one TV show (Ek Ghar Banaunga). The film opened many doors for me, and people recognized me as an actor because of it. I am glad that I bagged the film because it changed a lot for me as an artiste. I had not seen the Malayalam version of the film while shooting for it. In fact, my director (Nishikant Kamat) told me not to watch it because they wanted me to bring my own take on the character. While people do recognize me for my characters in TV shows, Drishyam has earned pan-India recognition. No matter what they say about TV and the web, films have a different feel to them, in terms of how the audience perceives you. I am very happy with the journey so far and I hope it continues the same way.
Anju, the character that you play in both the instalments of Drishyam, is an integral part of the story. How much has it progressed between both films?
It has progressed a lot. In the previous film, something traumatic happened to Anju. Seven years later, the audience will see how the incident has impacted her. She isn’t stable and suffers from fits and nightmares. She needs medical help and her father (played by Ajay Devgn) tries his best to protect her even more. As a character, that’s been a major shift. It was quite challenging personally. I had to perform a scene in which I suffered from an episode of convulsion and Abhishek (Pathak, the director) told me that it was probably the most important scene for me and had to look natural. Making that scene look as real as possible was quite challenging. I watched a lot of videos and did workshops to get it right.
Your husband, Vatsal Sheth and you have known Ajay Devgn for many years now. How was your experience of shooting with him?
During the first film, I was obviously intimidated by Ajay sir. I couldn’t have just walked up to him and interacted. Coming from a small town like Jamshedpur, one tends to be in awe of every actor. When I saw Ajay sir, I couldn’t even bring myself to look at him. I was that scared, but he is so sweet and easy to work with. He makes you feel comfortable despite being such a big star. That’s why the father-daughter bond came out so well in the film. I think a lot of credit for that goes to him.
Even after the success of the first instalment, you continued to actively be a part of TV. You never quit the small screen and have balanced the two mediums, especially when a lot of TV actors complain about not getting their due in cinema...
I had decided that I would choose the best from what I was offered, irrespective of the medium. So, I tend to take up a project that helps my growth as an actor. I got a lot of film offers, but they were very similar to what I was doing. I am glad I didn’t take up just any role as that wouldn’t have made any difference to my career. While acting on TV, I realized that I was liking the process and got to learn immensely at the same time. In fact, I will take up a good project, be it on TV, the web or film, instead of waiting for something extraordinary to fall into my lap. I like being busy, so I would not want to wait for that perfect opportunity. I believe in taking up the best from what is being offered to me and moving ahead.
So, you have no intention of giving up television for films? Or is it that you don’t wish to be tied down by any medium?
A lot of people warned me against starting my career with TV. I was told that my sister (Tanushree Dutta) was already a part of Bollywood, so I should wait and start with films. However, she said that I should learn rather than wait for something that may not happen. I am glad about the choices I have made. Had I not done TV, I wouldn’t have been prepared for Drishyam. No other medium can teach the things that TV teaches you. I didn’t even know how to face the camera or deliver dialogues. A year-and-a-half later, if I could play the part where I was five years younger than my original age in Drishyam, it was because of my learnings while shooting for a TV show. People also told me that I wouldn’t be able to make a transition from TV to films because we didn’t have any examples to quote. I don’t differentiate between mediums. While I love doing movies, I will continue to dabble in TV. I feel people should give it a little more credit and not demean it, especially not in 2022 when you have seen big actors taking up TV shows and small-screen actors going on to do films. Actors should focus on the craft more than the medium.
Adipurush is a film I am very proud of. I got to work with a fantastic ensemble cast and have a terrific role-Vatsal Sheth
10:33 PM
Shruti Jambhekar (AHMEDBAD TIMES; January 19, 2022)
After a roller coaster 2021 – recovery from Coronavirus (in April 2021) and going back to work with a big ticket film (Adipurush), Vatsal Sheth hopes 2022 will help him reclaim lost ground professionally, despite the slowdown due to the current Coronavirus scenario. While his Gujarati debut (Hun Mari Wife Ne Ano Husband) is finally set to release theatrically, and another Hindi film on the floors, Vatsal is moving towards the OTT space too. Excerpts from a chat:
‘AM OPTIMISTIC THAT 2022 WILL SEE MORE THEATRICAL RELEASES’
Vatsal recovered from COVID in April 2021 and for him, going back to work was the biggest high. He says, “The second half of 2021 was good for the entertainment industry in India we were able to resume work, good content was being created and theatres reopened to 100 per cent capacity. I ended the year on a high; I wrapped up Om Raut’s multilingual film, Adipurush, one film that I am very proud of. I got to work with a fantastic ensemble cast and have a terrific role.”
The Malang actor who was set to make his debut in regional cinema in 2020 confesses that he’s relieved that his long-delayed Gujarati film’s (Hun Mari Wife…) post production is now over and the film is ready for release. “My debut Gujarati film is a lighthearted rom-com shot entirely in London and was one of my pre-pandemic projects. I am optimistic that once the COVID scenario improves and the third wave is over, cinema halls will once again go back to their full occupancy level and people will watch films in theatres,” he says.
‘ACTORS HAVE TO BE MEDIUMAGNOSTIC, I WANT TO EXPLORE WORK ON OTT'
The pandemic has seen OTT’s reach expand manifold and viewing patterns get redefined in the last two years. Vatsal feels actors have to be “medium- agnostic” and move ahead with time. “A good actor is one who can learn and unlearn throughout his/her career. None of us can afford to be complacent at any point. I have tried all kinds of work which includes fun roles (Just Mohabbat or Taarzan), shows where I have played out-and-out dark characters (Ek Hasina Thi, Baazigar, loverboy with grey shades [Haasil]). I am glad to have them on my CV and these project me as a performer who can challenge himself to any extent,” he says.
Vatsal is now open to exploring work in the OTT space. He says, “OTT has changed the screen habits of urban Indians. Look at the popularity of Squid Game, its success clearly depicts that language is not a barrier anymore if you have a good concept in hand. Currently, I am in talks for a couple of OTT projects, it will be interesting to explore this medium.”
‘THE PANDEMIC HAS BEEN TOUGH FOR REGIONAL CINEMA'
The pandemic had brought regional cinema to a grinding halt in 2020 and the first half of 2021 with barely any theatrical releases. Now that the Gujarati film industry is on a recovery mode and is on its way to gaining lost ground, Vatsal confesses he’s upbeat about doing regional cinema, especially Gujarati cinema.
“The last two years have been tough on regional filmmakers but the second half of 2021 has seen Gujarati films explore even the direct to OTT release route when theatres hadn’t reopened. This is the same route that Tamil, Malayalam and Telugu films have taken too and is a smart move. When someone’s money is a stake, you can’t hold on to a project for a theatrical release. While a theatrical release gives you a massive high, it’s important to see that one’s work reaches audiences. The plus point is that our stories are heard and the maker gets some of his money back,” he says.
Vatsal feels, “A couple of Gujarati web series and films released on OTT were pretty interesting. There’s a lot of good work that's happening. I am discussing a couple of Gujarati film projects and if things go as planned, I’ll start shooting for my second Gujarati film soon.”
‘TELEVISION HAS NOT TAKEN A BACKSEAT FOR ME’
Vatsal started his career in showbiz as a child artiste in the show Just Mohabbat and has done his share of TV (Ek Hasina Thi, Rishton Ka Saudagar… Baazigar, Haasil) before taking a short break from the small screen. The actor who was last seen in Yeh Rishtey Hai Pyaar Ke in 2020 in an extended cameo says the sabbatical from TV wasn’t planned. He says, “I had some film commitments and I wanted to devote time to those. Doing a daily soap is time consuming and I didn’t have the bandwidth to handle TV and films at the same time. It wasn’t feasible.”
Vatsal adds, “TV hasn’t taken a backseat. I am waiting for a good show and dates that match and I will take one up post that. TV's popularity continues to be massive – loyal viewers have not moved on to OTT entirely. Plus, Hindi TV is also trying to be more in sync with what the millennial audience wants to watch. The makers are trying out some interesting concepts. I will come back on TV whenever I come across a good project.”
‘LET'S BE OPTIMISTIC AND PRAY THINGS GET BACK TO NORMAL SOON’
2020 and 2021 have been the greatest teachers for Vatsal. He says, “Almost all of us endured possibly what has been the toughest phase of all our lives during these two years. A lucky few were able to overcome tough times, but so many out there lost their livelihoods! At one point, I too thought how long can life go on like this. My wife Ishita and I tried to put out videos to help others de-stress. Ishita took up painting and we did whatever we could for our own sanity and also to create some positivity around us!”
Even though we are officially in the middle of the third wave, Vatsal feels this time around the recovery will be faster. “While it’s worrying that there’s another wave and our work might slow down again, we must stay positive. Thankfully, today slowly we are limping back as an industry and I know soon we will be running like before the pandemic had started. A lot of pre-pandemic projects that were on hold have resumed and soon they will be ready for release when things get better,” he says.
Image: Vatsal Sheth-Ishita Dutta shoot a short film at home during the lockdown
7:56 AM
Debarati Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; April 27, 2020)
Actor couple Ishita Dutta and Vatsal Sheth have taken #WorkFromHome to another level during the ongoing nationwide Coronavirus lockdown. The duo has created a short film, titled Kahaa Toh Tha, from the confines of their home. It has been scripted, directed and shot by them, and of course, the two even feature in it. And all this, in just three days.
“It was 15 days into the lockdown when we decided to do something creative. We are entertainers, we have a camera and a story to tell, so we thought, let’s just make a film. We used basic lights and shot on our phones. We moved the furniture around in our house to get the perfect frame. We would shoot the scene and run back to the frame to check if everything was shot well. A lot of hard work has gone into this,” says Vatsal.
For the post-production, the couple sought help from professional technicians. Ishita says, “We got Mehul Vyas (who had worked on Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior) to do the background score for us, an editor and another technician to help us with the creatives.”
Kahaa Toh Tha will release exclusively on Times Music’s YouTube channel at 11am, today.
Vatsal adds, “This lockdown has turned me into a director, which I never thought would happen. So, in that sense, it’s been a positive period for me, and I am happy with the way the short film has turned out.”
Tanushree kind of gave courage to a lot of other women who are speaking today. Hats off to her-Ishita Dutta
8:21 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; October 17, 2018)
While Tanushree Dutta has been fighting a sexual harassment battle against Nana Patekar, spearheading the #MeToo Movement in India, her sister Ishita Dutta Sheth has strangely maintained a radio silence on the issue. Apart from one interview in which she reminisced the trauma they had gone through, the Drishyam actress hasn’t been forthcoming. After a lot of persuasion, Ishita agreed to speak to us. Excerpts:
While a lot of people have come out in support of Tanushree, you have chosen to stay away from it. Is it a deliberate call?
It’s not deliberate, but I have been with her all these years and seen whatever has happened in her life. It is a sensitive issue. When I saw the videos, again, and watched my father and sister, I relived the pain and trauma. I felt bad that they had to go through that. It angered me, too.
I was in college then, but I remember that day very clearly. It was traumatic for all of us in the family. We, of course, supported her, but it is something that scars you for life. She had spoken about it in 2008 also, and I am just happy that she finally got heard. The problem is that a lot of people ask ridiculous questions, which makes me angry and I don’t know how to react to it. That is one reason I stayed away. Moreover, I don’t need to show my support for her on social media. She is next to me, she is my sister, why should I put out a story on social media? I can tell her directly. Every day at home we are discussing things, what is happening, etc. My parents are there, my dad is doing all the legal paperwork and whatever else is required. Why do people expect us to show support on social media?
Tanushree has become the torchbearer for the #MeTooMovement in India. What do you feel about it?
It takes a lot for one person to stand up and speak and I am really proud of her. My sister kind of gave courage to a lot of other women who are speaking today. Hats off to her and all the women who are opening up (about sexual harassment) because it is not an easy fight. It is not just about talking, but what follows. People say a lot of bad as well as good things about you. For any person to talk about the traumatic incident and read nasty comments on social media is upsetting. I have been reading not just about my sister, but also others, where either they are disregarded or dubbed as untrue. I feel really sad, especially when I read comments implying that they are doing it for publicity. Some women who are on top of their game have come out in the open about sexual harassment, what publicity do they require? It is easy for people to sit behind their laptops and assassinate somebody’s character. Sadly, even women are doing it.
Despite what your sister went through, you entered the industry. Weren’t your parents apprehensive?
No, my parents allowed us to do what we wanted to and I appreciate them so much for it. I came into the industry much after my sister quit. Not once did she demotivate me. It is not just in this industry, it (sexual harassment) is happening in every field. Wherever there are men and women working, this dynamic is there. One can’t sit at home because of that. Fortunately for me, maybe I was extra careful or blessed, but I worked with good people. I have not faced something like this.
What are you shooting for currently?
I am doing this film called Setters, which is about agencies conducting examinations and papers getting leaked. It is about the racket that takes place. I can’t talk much about my role in it now.
After Drishyam, there were a lot of expectations from your next release Firangi with Kapil Sharma.
What went wrong?
I feel a lot of people were confused about the dates. At that time, if you remember there was some issue going on with the censorship of films and movies were not getting censored for some reason. Our film got pushed two-three times. After it was released, people were asking me when is it coming in the theatres! And, a lot was happening then with Kapil Sharma, too and the controversies did affect the movie. I feel bad because people didn’t give it a chance. Having said that, these things happen, it is not in our hands.
What’s next?
I will soon start shooting for Blank with Sunny sir (Deol). It launches Karan Kapadia and I am playing the female lead. We shot for it at the beginning of the year, but then it got delayed because of date issues. However, I got a call yesterday that we will be resuming the shoot in November and the film will release in January.
Recently, you did a mini-series Kaun with Vatsal Sheth...
Yes, the fact that it was a finite series appealed to me. And the fact that I was acting with Vatsal was exciting. We had met each other when we did a show long ago, but we never thought that after marriage we will get an opportunity to share screen space so soon. Also, the supernatural genre was something we hadn’t done before, so it all just fell into place.
Nauheed Cyrusi ties the knot with beau Rustom
7:41 AM
MUMBAI MIRROR (January 9, 2017)
Actress Nauheed Cyrusi, who rose to fame with the “Piya Basanti“ music video in 2000, and went on to feature in films like Lakeer and Anwar, tied the knot with beau Rustom last Thursday in a traditional Parsi ceremony. Guests included former co-stars Sohail Khan, Vatsal Sheth and Rushad Rana, among others.
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