Showing posts with label Warina Hussain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Warina Hussain. Show all posts
How Bollywood actors who are not on social media stay relevant
8:10 AM
How does the appeal of stars who are not on Insta and Twitter endure? Through their work…
Mitali Parekh (MID-DAY; August 13, 2023)
There are two kinds of celebrities in social media: Those who give their fans a glimpse into their daily (sometimes, fabulous) lives; and those you can’t see at all. There’s Alia Bhatt, making hearts in the sky at Tudum, celebrating her grandfather’s birthday. Kareena Kapoor Khan is on holiday with the family at the Alps, or recreating the Sex and the City posse with girlfriends.
But if you want to see what their spouses Ranbir Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan are up to, you’ll only find them here—the former is helping her grandfather cut his birthday cake; the latter stands next to her by the bench in a red tee.
Ranbir and Saif are among the handful of A-listers—the others being Aamir Khan and Rani Mukerji—who are not connecting to their fans or giving us a glimpse into their lives or thoughts through Twitter, Instagram or blogs. Aamir was on Twitter and Instagram till March 2021. A day after his birthday on the 14 of the month, he announced his departure from all social media platforms saying that he was not very active on them anyway.
“Hey guys, thank you so much for all the love and warmth on my birthday,” the post said. “My heart is full. In other news, this is going to be my last post on social media. Considering that I am so [in] active anyway, I have decided to drop the pretence.”
News agency PTI later reported him saying, “Main apni dhunki mein rehta hoon [I live in my own world]. I am anyway not active on social media… We used to communicate before this [social media] as well. Now that I’ve quit social media, I’ll be able to talk to my audience only through the media.” He guided fans to an official handle for his production house, Aamir Khan Productions, saying, “Future updates on me and my films can be found there...”
Social media is not just a place to flex fitness routines, cute pets and elicit validation about your home-made dalgona coffee. For those in the business of selling dreams and lifestyles, it is now a crucial part of marketing strategies for movies, brand endorsements and their fabled lives. When members of star parivaars such as the any of the four Khans, Kapoors, Bachchans or Bhatts cross post their collective experiences, as do members of the Johar-Chopra posse, fans feel part of the clique, and that karva chauth celebration. And that ostensibly converts to buying of more red ghaghras, glugging collagen boosting power drinks or at least picking up a lipstick.
“Social media is a powerful tool for stars to stay connected with their audience,” says Murtuza Rampurawala, founder of Spectra Digital marketing agency, “Stars can use it to communicate directly with fans. This helps stars humanise themselves, boost their visibility, and maintain an ongoing relationship with their viewers.”
Then how do Saif, Ranbir, Rani and Aamir still pull in crowds to the theatres? And doesn’t this go against the accepted wisdom of maintaining a sense of mystery which keeps the glamour of celebrity intact? That they don’t have a personal account doesn’t mean they are invisible on social media, especially in the case of visual platforms such as Instagram.
“Saif is someone who likes to experience and be present in the moment without the distraction or pressure to capture or share those moments as per timelines, even though he loves taking pictures and getting clicked,” says Urshita Kochar, his manager.
The Associate Vice President of Talent Management at Exceed Entertainment, adds, “He may not have a personal account but there is a lot of Saif Ali Khan you’ll find on social media, be it through brand associations, films, his holiday pictures [on spouse Kareena, sister Soha or sister-in-law Karisma’s accounts], OOTD pictures at the gym [on fan accounts] or at the airport [on paparazzi accounts].”
The same goes for Ranbir; Rani and Aamir are exceptions in this fish bowl, with the former being married to the famously reclusive filmmaker Aditya Chopra. Aamir appears sporadically on the accounts of his children Ira and Junaid. This scarcity increases pull in some cases, with their work and interviews in media becoming their only channel of connection.
“Their absence from social media can create an air of mystery and exclusivity,” says Rampurawala, “as fans have limited access to their personal lives, making them more intrigued and interested in their work. It allows these stars to maintain a clear boundary between their private and professional lives, reducing the risk of online controversies or overexposure. By avoiding social media, they can keep their focus solely on their craft and let their work speak for itself.”
This certainly holds true for OG stars. “Saif’s popularity endures because of his versatility as an actor and the diverse roles he is known to take on,” says Alpa Turakhia, co-founder of Communique Film PR, “He is not an upcoming artist, he has made a name for himself before any of this existed. His career spans decades, which has helped him build a loyal fan base.”
Saif’s ability to evolve with the times and embrace new mediums keeps him relevant in the way participating in reels and trends on social media does for others. He was the first mainstream actor to move to the OTT platform with the web series Sacred Games and is now bringing the character of Star Lord to life in the latest Marvel Audible series.
It takes a certain maturity to preserve one’s sense of wellbeing by excusing oneself from a platform where one is vulnerable to trolls and negativity. In April 2021, actor Warina Hussain quit social media citing it a burden.
In an interview to magazine Filmfare, she said, “For me it was more of a burden... What’s the point? It’s toxic out there. One comment can ruin your mood and it can demotivate you so much. The best way to deal with all of it is to ignore. Sometimes, I felt like fighting back and commenting on these trolls, but there’s no point to that.” Though the account remains active, Hussain clarified that her team would be handling it to post work related content.
How does one negotiate this when social media marketing strategy is now the pinpoint of focus when a film or project is up for release? “It can indeed pose challenges when strategizing publicity for movies or brands,” admits Rangawalla, “Social media has become a central platform as it offers vast reach and targeted advertising capabilities. Stars who are not active on social media might miss out on direct engagement with fans during crucial promotional periods, leading to a potential loss of visibility and buzz.”
This is probably what keeps John Abraham on Instagram. Though he’s been there for a few years, most posts concern posters and stills of his films: No glimpses of a dinner date, his dogs or dalgona. “Collaborating with influencers, other online platforms and leveraging fan clubs to share updates and promote the star’s work can bridge the gap between the non-social media star and the online audience,” says Rangawalla. “In this case, we must find alternative ways to engage the audience and build excitement around a star’s projects.”
Saif Ali Khan and wife and actor Kareena at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, 2022; Prince Charles at a charity dinner in London, 2015. Pics/Getty Images
In Afghanistan, I couldn’t step out alone at night to get medicines for my unwell mother-Warina Hussain
8:04 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; August 23, 2021)
The events that unfolded in Afghanistan recently have left people around the world shaken up. Taliban’s takeover resulted in chaos, confusion and an alarming sense of unrest and fear among the people of Afghanistan and many others who are currently stranded there. Bollywood actress Warina Hussain, 25, moved from Afghanistan to Uzbekistan years ago due to the longstanding political turmoil in the country. After that, she migrated to India 10 years ago, and she made the country her home. Warina, who made her Bollywood debut in 2018 with Loveyatri, says that she can relate to those wanting to leave Kabul in the aftermath of the Taliban seizing power.
“My life was a struggle. I have no father. If you don’t have a man in your family, it’s more difficult. Since the conditions in Afghanistan were not good, we went to Uzbekistan,” the actress had revealed in a previous interview. The family stayed there for four years before moving to India as they could speak Hindi and English. Given the craze for Bollywood films in Afghanistan, Warina and her mother were familiar with Hindi over Uzbek or Russian. After modelling in Delhi for a while, she moved to Mumbai, where she finally made her foray into Bollywood.
The actress whose family has now migrated to the United States, said, “I was supposed to join them, but I chose to make Mumbai my home. I have worked hard to establish a career for myself here.”
Talking exclusively to Bombay Times from the UK, where she is currently shooting for a film, Warina voiced her thoughts on the raging crisis in Afghanistan. Excerpts from the conversation…
Afghanistan is facing a massive humanitarian crisis today. Visuals of people trying to cling onto flights to leave the country or crowding the airport in the hope to seek refuge in other countries are tragic. What were your first thoughts on seeing the events unfold on news channels?
I saw myself in each Afghan person clinging onto a flight for the sake of survival. My life, like theirs, is the result of migration from a war-torn country.
My family moved from country to country in search of a better life. Finally, we arrived in India, a liberal and loving country that welcomed us and we made it our home. Like anyone else fighting for survival, I began working at a young age and had no idea I would one day become a Bollywood actress. After years of struggle, a big launch by Salman Khan sir (who produced Loveyatri) and an opportunity by A R Rahman sir (99 Songs), made me eternally grateful. Having walked in the shoes of someone who has migrated, I can tell you that it is not an easy journey. Not every immigration ends up being a success story. That is why, for the past few days, all I have been thinking about is the survival of the Afghan people. Since the war in Afghanistan began, the number of Afghan refugees fleeing for their lives has increased dramatically, raising the question of how long will they be able to do so. If the country does not achieve the long-awaited peace it deserves, what I have suffered, what my mother has faced, and what others are facing now will become the tale for future generations, too.
The Taliban claimed in their press conference that the rights of women in Afghanistan will be respected ‘within the framework of Islamic law’. Do you trust these reassurances?
The cruel memories of the past still send shivers down our spine, and given the current uncertain situation, trust is a luxury the Afghan people cannot afford anymore.
You have predominantly lived in an Afghanistan that did not have Taliban rule. At that point, was life better for women in terms of safety and education?
Yes, I have lived in an Afghanistan where I enjoyed family picnics and the smell of independence. However, since it was still a country with newly gained independence from the Taliban, it had its dos and don’ts. For instance, a girl couldn’t go out alone at night. There were times when I couldn’t step out alone at night to get medicines for my unwell mother. It’s the product of many years of war, which has tainted people’s views. If we actually want to talk about a peaceful Afghanistan, we need to go back to the time of my grandmother and her forefathers, when Kabul was known for its fashion, art and culture, tourism, trade, and independence were all part of everyday life. Speaking of leadership, it’s high time the people of Afghanistan have the basic freedom of choosing their own leaders.
How do you think the current political situation in the country will impact women and their rights?
I am afraid that all these years of progress will vanish into thin air, and that after years of fighting for women’s rights, women will once again be treated as second-class citizens and deprived of basic rights.
Would you feel safe enough to visit your country under Taliban rule as a Bollywood actress?
Whether I’m an actor or not, I’ll never be comfortable visiting any country where women are restricted from simply being free humans.
A lot has been spoken about the implementation of Sharia law (religious law) in Afghanistan by Taliban. How does it affect women and children?
Khadija, Prophet Muhammad’s wife, was one of the first to accept Sharia. A religious law was created for the safety of women and also because of injustice, and today, injustice is still occurring under the name of religion. I’ve heard of girls being forced out of their homes against their will to marry men they despise. These men should be held accountable for the lives of innocent mothers and children killed in bomb blasts. One cannot deny basic human rights to people while asking them to follow Sharia law.
As an Afghan working in India, what are your expectations from the Indian government or other countries at the moment?
I am confident that India, as a friend of Afghanistan for decades, will do its bit. However, I would like to urge the United Nations to step in, because the concept of a peaceful country is preferable to simply relocating asylum seekers. One may flee, find a better life, but the identity crisis, multi-cultural problems, and deep-down homesickness will remain. One will always struggle to answer the question, ‘Aren’t we all one world?’
It was because of this war and turmoil that my family was forced to flee Afghanistan-Warina Hussain
8:11 AM
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 22, 2021)
The visuals of people desperate to leave Afghanistan reminds actor Warina Hussain of her traumatic past, and revives memories of her family leaving the country in the middle of a turmoil.
“It’s eerily similar to 20 years ago. It was because of this war and turmoil that my family was forced to flee Afghanistan, now I see others losing their homes,” she says of the crisis after the Taliban took charge.
The actor left Afghanistan as a child, and has been in India for over a decade. But memories of what was once her homeland are still alive. “My memories will always be of family picnics, food, and a beautiful spring in Kabul, which I doubt will ever be the same again; the only air one will now breathe will be of suppression,” she says in dismay.
As a refugee, she can understand how difficult it is. “I was fortunate that India accepted me and became my home but I’m afraid that isn’t the case for everyone. Such a country’s conditions result in thousands of refugees and asylum seekers arriving in neighbouring countries, where immediate accommodation may be difficult,” says the actor, who made her Bollywood debut with Loveyatri in 2018.
Hussain appeals for other countries not to abandon Afghanistan. “And for the United Nations to intervene. It’s the wish and plea of a woman who doesn’t want her fellow Afghan women to be treated as second-class citizens,” she ends.
Warina Hussain's next, The Incomplete Man, questions Indian judiciary's leniency towards juvenile criminals
8:12 AM
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; November 12, 2020)
Post the debacle of her debut film, Loveyatri opposite Aayush Sharma, Warina Hussain has chosen a psychological thriller for her next. The Incomplete Man, which focuses on the heinous crimes committed by juveniles, sees the actor play a doctor.
Set to go on floors by November 20 in Goa, The Incomplete Man revolves around three female doctors, who lament on social media about the inadequacies in the men around them. Irked by their brazen opinions, a deviant man, with a history of juvenile crimes, decides to teach them a lesson. "The film questions the existing juvenile laws in the country," says director Dhiraj Devendra Kotkar, adding that it is trying to create a dialogue on the importance of an offender's age limit for crimes that usually warrant a death penalty.
"Warina Hussain essays the role of a paediatrician for which she will shed her glamorous look," says Kotkar of the film that also features Freddy Daruwala, Alankrita Sahai, Tina Singh and Sharib Hashmi in pivotal roles. Written by Naireeta Dasgupta, the film is a work of fiction, asserts the director. "Juvenile criminals have always received a leeway from the law. The movie throws light on the inability of the judicial system to punish underage criminals for monstrous acts. If you are old enough to rape, are you not old enough to be hanged?" questions the director.
This time it’s Munna, not Munni; Salman Khan sir will deal with the pressure-Warina Hussain
8:06 AM
Warina Hussain on sharing screen space with Salman Khan for the first time for a dance number in the third instalment of the Dabangg franchise
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 17, 2019)
After making her debut with Loveyatri last year, Warina Hussain is set to share screen space with Salman Khan in “Munna Badnaam Hua” from his Christmas release Dabangg 3. Calling the song her biggest break yet, she says, “I am happy that at such an early stage in my career I got to work in a big song and franchise.”“Munni Badnaam Hui” and “Fevicol Se,” featuring Malaika Arora and Kareena Kapoor respectively, have been chart-toppers from the franchise, but the Warina doesn’t feel the pressure of meeting expectations. “I knew I had to give my best. I am aggressive when it comes to grabbing opportunities. Besides, this time it’s Munna, not Munni; Salman sir will deal with the pressure,” she chuckles.
Ask her if she got the jitters while shooting with the actor and the answer is ‘no’. “I am super confident in front of the camera. Although, I was nervous about getting the look right. We have created the Millennial Munni. I didn’t know till the last day if I would be in the song at all,” she reveals, and is quick to add that her Munna is more chilled out as an actor than as a producer.
While she hasn’t received formal training in dance, by her own admission, her Bollywood stock has risen thanks to the dance songs “Chogada” and “Akh Lad Jaave” from Loveyatri and “She Move It Like”, a single released by Badshah. “There are times when people call me the Chogada girl. The next one might be, ‘Yeh hai woh ladki Munna ko badnaam karne wali’,” she guffaws before signing off with a promise, “2020 is my year.”
Salman Khan doesn't need choreography-Warina Hussain
9:03 AM
New Munni in B-Town, Warina Hussain thrilled to shake a leg with Salman Khan in Dabangg 3 song
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; November 30, 2019)
Warina Hussain finds herself in the enviable position of sharing screen space with Salman Khan in Munna Badnaam Hua from Dabangg 3. But with good opportunities come expectations. Only a film old in the industry, the youngster's act will inevitably be compared to that of Malaika Arora, who made Munni Badnaam Hui one of Bollywood's most popular songs. On her part, the LoveYatri (2018) actor is only too thrilled to be handed over the baton from Arora."To be called Millennial Munni is a big high for a newcomer like me," she beams. Khan's spontaneity in front of the camera is well-known — the superstar often devises his own steps that go on to become a rage among his fans. Was she nervous about shaking a leg with him? "Salman sir is like my mentor. I was expecting him to share his feedback, but he gave me my space, which was wonderful. He doesn't need choreography and improvises a lot. So, I had to catch up with him on the steps."
The actor reveals that her prep for the song began two months ago. "Since I wanted to look a certain way, I went on a Keto diet, and worked out twice a day for almost two months. We did rehearsals for about a week, trying to [perfect] the moves."
Whenever I am in doubt, I reach out to Salman Khan-Warina Hussain
7:36 AM
Gunjan Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; August 2, 2019)
Model-turned-actress Warina Hussain had a dream debut last year when she starred in Salman Khan’s LoveYatri alongside Aayush Sharma. However, Warina admits that Bollywood was never on her mind. “I started as a model at a young age. But after a few years I realised that I never attended college, I don’t have a degree and will not be able to choose a different career option. So I thought ab yahin rehna hai toh I might as well take the next step. Luckily, things have been great for me,” says Warina.
The actress adds that this wouldn’t have been possible without Salman Khan, who is also her mentor now. She says, “Salman is a bundle of positivity and he is very supportive. Whenever I am in doubt, I reach out to him. Mentally, I am at peace knowing that he is there for me.”
‘PEOPLE RECOGNISE ME NOW AND I LIKE IT’
While Warina is one-film-old, the actress has gained popularity. She reveals that before becoming an actor, she would travel in autos post-3am just to chill. “I love my auto rides. It’s just me and my earphones and we would travel around Mumbai. But one day an auto driver recognised me asked for a selfie. It was a new experience for me,” she says, adding, “Life has changed in many ways post LoveYatri. Earlier I had a very normal routine. Kabhi film dekhne chale gaye, gym chale gaye. But now, wherever I go, people come up to me and ask for pictures. And I am not complaining about it at all. In fact, I appreciate all the love coming my way.”
‘SALMAN KHAN HAS A HEART OF GOLD’
Salman is known for giving opportunities to new talents. Warina, who was launched by the actor, says that it’s a big responsibility. “He has a heart of gold. He has given opportunities to a lot of people and I feel really lucky that I got this chance, too. I think that it is our responsibility to live up to the chance that he has given us. If we don’t make good use of it, or if we don’t work hard, then it’s pointless. I don’t feel pressurised that ‘Oh, I have been launched by Salman Khan, I have to give my best’, but yes, I do feel that it is my responsibility to not let him down.”
‘I STARTED MY MODELLING CAREER IN DELHI’
Warina moved to Delhi from Afghanistan in 2013 and started working as a model in the capital. However, the actress has moved to Mumbai now. She says, “Delhi will always be special because I started my modelling career here, but after a while, I shifted to Mumbai. Delhi is more about fashion shows, ramp walks and I never wanted to do that. Mumbai is all about commercial modelling, you can get ads or work in music videos. That’s what I wanted to do, so I shifted to Mumbai.”
Loveyatri actress Warina Hussain to feature opp Salman Khan in Dabangg 3's Munna Badnaam Hua song
8:03 AM
After her acting debut in a Salman Khan production, Warina Hussain will shake a leg with him in the third Dabangg film
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 13, 2019)
Mirror had earlier reported (May 18) that after the chartbusters, “Munni Badnaam Hui”, which was picturised on Malaika Arora in the 2010 cop-drama Dabangg, and the Kareena Kapoor-starrer “Fevicol Se” in its 2012 sequel directed by Arbaaz Khan, the makers of Dabangg 3 have recorded a song titled “Munna Badnaam Hua”. Now, we have learnt that Warina Hussain, who made her Bollywood debut with the 53-year-old actor’s production LoveYatri last year opposite his brother-in-law Aayush Sharma, will feature in the new song with Chulbul Pandey.
According to a source close to the development, Salman and his team were looking for someone who would do justice to the Dabangg special number and zeroed in on Warina. “She shot for the song in a four-day schedule beginning from June 8 at Mehboob studio. Salman and Warina had a great time shooting for the song which has been composed by Sajid-Wajid and sung by Kamaal Khan of 'O O Jaane Jaana' fame and Badshah. This time the song is set in a modernised dhaba and Warina will be seen in an Indo-Western outfit. Her look is created by Salman’s designer, Ashley Lobo,” the source revealed.
Vaibhavi Merchant has choreographed the song and unlike the previous two numbers, this one will see Salman’s Chulbul Pandey in the spotlight, trying to woo his object of affection. The film, which went on the floors with a Maheshwar schedule earlier this year, moving to the outskirts of Mumbai, follows a non-linear storytelling pattern, jumping between Chulbul Pandey’s past and present, showing his transition from a neighbourhood rowdy to a Robin Hood cop.
Notebook has humour and niceness-Salman Khan
4:31 PM
Meena Iyer (DNA; March 27, 2019)
In the last four years, Salman Khan has launched six actors. Quite evidently, he is committed to the cause of introducing new talent. And, in a sense, he is passionate about giving bankable artistes to the movies. Of course, the Bollywood superstar is aware that he can handhold them only during the first stage of their career. Post this, they have to learn to fly on their own. However, that hardly stops him from giving the ‘kids’ his best.
While talking about Pranutan Bahl and Zaheer Iqbal, the lead actors of his production Notebook that releases this Friday, Salman looks back at his debut film. He says, “Thirty years ago, I was introduced with a lot of love. Though I began my career with Biwi Ho To Aisi in 1988, I feel it was Sooraj Barjatya who launched me in 1989 with Maine Pyar Kiya. Like I always tell people, ‘First Sooraj (Barjatya) launched me. And, then I launched Sooraj (Pancholi) in 2015. Life goes around in circles.”
Tease him that the filmmaker is waiting for him even after three decades and the actor says, “Ya, I know. We did Prem Ratan Dhan Payo in 2015. As of now, he also has three other films (not with me), which are ready. I saw the rushes and two of those movies look nice.”
Veering back to the topic of new talent, the Tiger Zinda Hai actor points out, “Aayush (Sharma) and Warina (Hussain) were launched by me last October in LoveYatri. Barely five months later, my production house is backing Pranutan and Zaheer. It’s good to do so because new talent should come in. Both of them have trained hard.”
Zaheer is a dear friend’s son
The Dabangg Khan is all praises for Zaheer and Pranutan. Though both of them are his close friends’ kids, he maintains that it was their sheer talent that prompted him to give them a break in Bollywood. Salman says, “Zaheer is a dear friend’s son, he has been with us since his childhood. When he showed a leaning towards movies, I asked him to train hard first. He has been doing so since Jai Ho (2014).”
“He has attended courses in acting, diction, action and dancing; in short, all the things that an actor needs to be equipped in. Every day, we would send him to auditions, never mind if nothing came out, but it was a part of his training. He’s got the personality of a hero, so we call him Zahero.” (Smiles).
He adds that the debutant is a sportsman at heart. “He’s a good swimmer, he plays squash and table tennis quite well, too, and is adept at roller-blade skating as well as cycling. He’s respectful, well-mannered and has had a good upbringing,” informs Salman.
Pranutan was studying to be a lawyer
As for Pranutan, few people know that she was pursuing a course in law. Salman tells us that her father, Mohnish (Bahl), has been one of his closest friends since childhood, much before they did Maine Pyar Kiya (1989).
However, he is quick to add, “I’ve got lots of friends, they have children, but we’re not looking to launch all of them — only those who, we feel, will do well, have the personality, are hard-working and have a passion for a career in movies. So, Zaheer and Pranutan have worked hard to earn their breaks.”
The actor-filmmaker says fondly, “I hope Notebook does well, both are accepted by the audiences and they make their families proud. It can’t happen just because I produced the film, it should happen due to their own destiny.”
Kashmir is beautiful, it needs no one to enhance it
Salman mentions, “Notebook is a beautiful love story. It’s got a lot of humour, niceness and laughter. It is set in Kashmir. Director Nitin Kakkar has done a good job. Some people have said that the cinematography is fantastic too. But, I say, Kashmir is fantastic. It doesn’t need anyone or anything to enhance it. It’s so beautiful on its own. How can any of us take credit for making it look beautiful?”
How Bollywood celebrities plan to celebrate Diwali
8:45 AM
While some stars are busy working on Diwali, there are others who are taking a break to celebrate the festival of lights in their own special way...
BOMBAY TIMES (November 6, 2018)
KRITI SANON
This year, I’ll be in the midst of shooting for my film and so, it will be difficult to fly to Delhi to celebrate the festival with my family. My parents are planning to come down to Mumbai and it will be our first Diwali puja and celebration together in my new house.
KARTIK AARYAN
This year is very special for me, as my parents are here to celebrate Diwali. My sister is flying down as well. What I love the most about the festival is that everyone manages to take some time out from work and meet each other. In Mumbai, it goes on for a week; every night, we meet at some or the other friend’s place to play cards and have delicious food. I would like to request everyone to stay away from firecrackers, as they are not good for health, the environment, and for animals and birds.
SIDHARTH MALHOTRA
I grew up in Delhi in a joint family and my parents used to host a dinner every Diwali. My cousins, friends and extended family would come over and have dinner, eat sweets and play cards. So, I associate this season with meeting friends and being with my family. In the last decade, I have been staying by myself in Mumbai, so now, I have my own rituals, which includes doing a small puja at home. I remember when I was growing up, my dadi used to make sure that all the kids sat for the puja and prayed together.
TAAPSEE PANNU
Like every year, I will be taking off to Delhi to celebrate Diwali with my family. We usually have dinner with the entire extended family. On this day, I enjoy making rangolis and decorating the house with diyas.
YAMI GAUTAM
Diwali is the only time when being home is mandatory and a nonnegotiable family custom. We are very traditional when it comes to the celebration — lights, food, puja, pahadi-style rangoli, being together as a family... This is what Diwali means to me.
MALAIKA ARORA
I plan to celebrate Diwali just like it’s supposed to be, surrounded by my loved ones. This year, I want to have a celebration with my family and friends at home. Diwali is a festival of lights and that’s what I like about it. I prefer a noise and air pollution-free Diwali.
TUSSHAR KAPOOR
We will be spending time with family and friends. Since Laksshya (his son) is just beginning to understand what this festival entails, I want to take him out as much as possible. He enjoyed the Diwali bash at his school recently. I don’t like crackers and Laksshya hasn’t started bursting them either. He will not be exposed to them. I want him to be environment friendly.
WARINA HUSSAIN
I celebrate all festivals and Diwali is among my favourites. There is so much positivity and light associated with it. I look forward to meeting friends, lighting diyas and wearing traditional outfits. This time, I was so excited that I shopped for my Diwali outfit almost a week ahead of the festival.
VARUN SHARMA
Diwali, for me, is the most awaited festival of the year. It’s family time and I put all work commitments at bay. I also like to party with friends. The only change that has happened over the years is that I don’t burst crackers anymore and I would want to encourage people to celebrate a noise-free Diwali as well.
RAJESHWARI SACHDEV
Diwali is going to be a homely affair for me this year. My Marathi film will release soon, so I’ll also be busy with the promotions. My son enjoys the day, but we try to keep bursting crackers to a minimum. I love experimenting with food on this happy and auspicious day.
BHAGYASHREE
There’s only one way to celebrate Diwali and that is with family. We have a puja at home. This Diwali, my daughter, Avantika, will be distributing a small hamper to create awareness of all the work she’s done to help underprivileged kids.
PANKAJ UDHAS
Like every year, I will celebrate Diwali with my family and friends at home. We won’t burst crackers, but will only enjoy with phooljharis. I’ve saved some money, which I will donate for the treatment of children suffering from Thalassemia.
SHREYAS TALPADE
Spending time with family and friends is the best way to celebrate Diwali. I was never been fond of bursting crackers. There are so many traditional things to do on Diwali. I feel we should set an example for the next generation by celebrating this festival in a sober way.
FREDDY DARUWALA
I am heading to Surat to celebrate Diwali with my family and childhood friends. Whenever I’m in Mumbai during festivals, I miss my buddies the most. So this Diwali, I decided to put all my work aside and travel to my hometown.
SUKHWINDER SINGH
I plan to celebrate Diwali in a musical way. I’ll host a party at home. I’ve invited some talented musicians and I’m looking forward to jamming with them. I plan to celebrate a cracker-free Diwali and contribute towards making the festival noisefree. I realise the trouble birds and pets go through because of the noise and pollution. I might just light some phooljharis to celebrate the ritual.
PALASH SEN
Diwali is all about festivity… lights, puja, decorations, gifts, food and family. I will celebrate the festival at home. This time, I hope to start my war against the forces that crush non-film independent music and hope to return home triumphant the next Diwali.
DIVYENNDU
Diwali happens to be my favourite festival, as it takes me back to the time spent in Delhi. There, it’s a week-long festival for us and we follow the tradition of not cooking dinner at home during Diwali. We go out every night to gorge on street food.
AMYRA DASTUR
I love Diwali because it’s one of the only festivals in the year when my entire family comes together. All of us go to our farmhouse in Khandala for four days. We enjoy awesome Parsi food and play cards. Since we have our dogs there, we never burst crackers. We just light diyas.
SATISH KAUSHIK
I won’t be with my family on Diwali, as I’m shooting for my next production at a village near Lucknow. But I’m looking forward to celebrating the festival with my extended family — my crew — and people from the village. I’ll hire a farmhouse and host a Diwali party for them and we will distribute sweets and dry fruits.
People in India say that I have come from the land of bombs-Warina Hussain
8:13 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; November 3, 2018)
She was a model in Delhi before she moved to Mumbai and then made a debut in LoveYatri. But, before she came to India, Warina Hussain used to call Kabul, Afghanistan home. Understandably, like most Afghans, Warina has a strong command over Hindi and it stems from the fact that Bollywood plays such an important role in Afghani culture. Talking about the influence of Hindi movies in her home country she says, “I haven’t been to Afghanistan in a while. When we were there, my mother was among the first few women who started driving. My naani (grandmom) would tell me stories about the good times, before everything turned bad. She often told me about Fridays when families rented out VCRs and watched movies at home. My naani would seek fashion inspiration from the films she saw. She would stitch clothes for my mother and aunts, imitating fashion from Bollywood movies. Even today, if you ask anyone there about bell bottoms, they won’t know what you’re talking about. But, if you said Amitabh Bachchan pants, any Afghani would give you exactly what you seek. That is the influence of Bollywood in my country. Everyone, including our king, Mohammad Zahir Shah, was very fashion conscious.”
She reveals that Afghanistan used to be a progressive state. She adds, “My naani wore skirts and travelled with my grandpa on a bike. They attended music concerts, too. But then everything changed under the political turmoil. At times, people in India say that I have come from the land of bombs. But, things have now begun to change now. Girls go to colleges and universities. Afghanistan’s current health minister is a woman. Girls faced a lot of atrocities in my country, but today, it’s different. Kabul is progressing. Our cinema has not developed yet, but the music industry is picking up.”
Salman Khan is very stingy with praise, because he doesn’t want people to go off track-Warina Hussain
8:08 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; October 3, 2018)
Actresses usually dream of a debut where a Bollywood superstar is attached to a project. Model-turned-actor, Warina Hussain, is part Afghani and part Iraqi, and she’s eager to make a lasting first impression on the marquee with Salman Khan’s home production, LoveYatri: Journey of Love. In an interview with BT, she takes us through her journey so far. She also reveals the hard work that she and co-star Aayush Sharma have put in on their first film, among other things. Excerpts…
The first experience of being on a film set can be quite special. What was it like for you on the set of LoveYatri: Journey of Love?
Our first shot was on a scooter for the song Tera Hua. We were told that we will rehearse and then shoot. But Vaibhavi Merchant (choreographer) had lied to us. She actually shot the song while we rehearsed to capture the raw moments. She knew we were nervous. Actually, I couldn’t sleep the night before out of excitement. While Aayush did his little prayer in the vanity van, I sought duas, too. It’s turned out to be an experience that will live with me all my life.
How do you view your journey leading up to a dream debut in a film produced by Salman Khan?
It’s not been easy. My mother and I settled in Delhi a decade ago when I was in my early teens. After class 12, I wanted to get into fashion designing which didn’t happen because of financial and family issues. I decided to earn and took up a job as a sales girl at a fashion designer’s boutique. That also didn’t work too well, so I took up modelling. At one point, I realised that I don’t have anything other than modelling to do. So, I decided to move to Mumbai to work in ad films. I gradually found opportunities with fashion catalogues and they became my primary source of income. From there on, it was one audition after the other, till I finally tested for LoveYatri.
With LoveYatri, you stumbled upon a chance to be employed by Salman Khan. What was your first meeting with him like?
I am an introvert. So, I take a while before I open up. Usually, I only smile and you can keep guessing what I’m thinking. I met Salman on the day I was signing the film. He said, ‘Hi! I am Salman Khan.’ I replied, ‘Hi! I am Warina Hussain.’ It was that casual. He told me that my auditions were good and that I would undergo more training. Aayush (Sharma) and Abhiraj (Minawala, director) thought, ‘Isko pata hai Salman Khan kaun hai?’ Generally, they are used to seeing people get ecstatic while meeting him. I drew a blank. (Laughs!) Whenever I am in doubt, I talk to Salman. He’s very stingy with praise, because he doesn’t want people to go off track. He’s generally very encouraging, but woh daant bhi dete hain if he finds you’re getting lazy.
Since you hail from Afghanistan, did your command over Hindi surprise a lot of people? It’s rare to find foreigners who know the language well.
(Smiles) Actually, a half of Afghanistan knows basic Hindi because everyone religiously follows Bollywood. For the longest time, wherever we went, my mother made sure she has a cable connection because she didn’t want to miss her Ekta Kapoor serials. I grew up watching Son Pari and Shararat. When I came to India is when I formally started communicating in Hindi. While talking to mom, I keep checking with her if she understands what I’m saying, because I often mix words from Hindi, English and Dari (her mother tongue).
All eyes will be on your co-star Aayush Sharma, because he’s debuting in a film produced by his brother-in-law Salman Khan. Where does that leave you?
I am nervous right now. I am not an Indian, so I don’t know how the audience and the industry will react to me. My Hindi is okay, but I don’t know if people will accept me as an NRI in the film. My acting and dance skills will also be analysed. As an artiste, I’m also into the habit of self-critique, but right now, this is the only thing going on in my life. I am hopeful that people accept me.
Generally, models-turned-actors fall prey to the perception that they’re not natural performers. From Katrina Kaif to Deepika Padukone, girls have been scrutinised in the past.
No one must be judged without seeing their body of work. As a model, you have a certain personality, which softens when you become an actress. It’s about how you groom yourself for the profession. Everyone who has made it big, has worked on themselves. Persistence matters a lot, if you have to survive in the film industry. I’ve often been asked if I was nervous while facing the camera. I was more concerned about other things. I will have to prove whether I deserve my next chance to act or not.
Bollywood has long been a favourite in your home country Afghanistan. Now that your debut film is set to release, what sort of reactions are you expecting from back home?
I wish my film opened there. The thing is I haven’t been to Afghanistan in a while. I do get messages from fellow Afghans from other parts of the world, wishing me luck and hoping that I succeed at what I am doing. While staying here in India, I just pray that women in Afghanistan have a great future ahead.
You need to stay invested in new talent for life-Salman Khan
7:57 AM
Meena Iyer (DNA; October 1, 2018)
Salman Khan is enjoying the cool ocean breeze in his garden. Looking super-relaxed after a yummy home-cooked lunch, he invites us to chat with him about his next production LoveYatri, a film in which he introduces two newcomers, Aayush Sharma and Warina Hussain.
Sipping on his black coffee as we drink our ginger tea, the actor-producer takes us through his role as a mentor to several upcoming newbies.
You seem committed to launching new talent; the latest being Aayush Sharma and Warina Hussain.
Back in the day, I was a newcomer looking for that magical break. I was fortunate that the makers of Biwi Ho Toh Aisi (1988) and Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) gave me the opportunity. Today, I’m in a position to introduce youngsters. If a film is made within the right budget and the boy and the girl have a spark, it’s okay to produce it. Initially, there was a fear to back a newcomer because the money is yours and so is the responsibility. Earlier, everybody was more forgiving. Today, everything is put under a microscope. If you introduce talent, you need to invest in them and ensure that they put their best foot forward. Even before the film releases, someone has a problem with the title, there’s social media, some or the other story is coming out, so it’s difficult to keep up and ensure everything stays in place. Production-wise, if you can make the movie within the right budget, you will land safe. The satellite and digital rights fetch enough for you to cover the costs. However, what is important to me is to make a nice product and ensure that it’s a safe bet.
When did you first spot that spark in Aayush?
It was Sohail (Khan) who first mentioned Aayush to me, long before I had met him. We were planning a film called My Punjabi Nikaah. Sohail said that he had seen this boy at the gym. He didn’t know his name, but felt he was apt for the film. Cut to the point when Aayush came home to ask for Arpita’s hand in marriage. We were called to meet him and while we were standing, Sohail whispered that this was the same guy whom he had suggested for My Punjabi Nikaah. That’s how the whole thing started. I joked to myself saying, “Ab toh yeh picture free mein karega,” (laughs). That was it. He’s a hard-working boy, he spent four years with me and worked on Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), Tubelight and Tiger Zinda Hai (2017). So being with me, he has seen how one works. He is into photography and is also a film buff. So, instead of someone else launching him, we felt it was best for us to give him a break under our banner. I know people will start a debate on — what’s so great about giving a break to someone from the family, etc. But honestly, I don’t give a damn about what people say. I’m of the view that he is our boy, our talent, if we don’t have the confidence to launch him, how can anyone else do the same?
You are damned if you do, and damned if you don’t.
Something like that. There were big guys who wanted to sign him, but we had a beautiful subject. I asked him to hear it and told him that if he liked it, we would be happy to produce it. In the interval itself, Aayush said that this was something up his alley. The movie is not about him fighting 10 guys, it’s got romantic scenes, it’s a contemporary subject, it’s got superb music, there’s no sex, vulgarity or double-meaning dialogues, it’s clean pure content.
How about Warina?
Both the boy and the girl are really good. The way they have danced, their chemistry on screen, the way Abhiraj K Minawala has shot the film, it’s great. Warina is a fabulous actress, she is a natural. She is superb even in the most difficult scenes.
You launched Sooraj Pancholi and Athiya Shetty in Hero (2015). You’ve also signed on newbies Zaheer Iqbal and Pranutan Behl.
It takes time to find and nurture new talent. You also need immense faith and patience. Sometimes, the boy and girl do not work in their first film. However, if you are committed to them, you cannot say, ‘Isko mat lo, yeh nahin chala, woh nahin chala.’ You can’t leave them.
You have a dedicated talent-management division, too.
Being Talented (our talent management company) has a slightly different way of working as compared to others. We support newcomers and since we also have a production house, we make films with them. At the same time, they can also do outside movies. We’re not fixated on numbers, it’s about finding newbies and nurturing them.
This is yet another facet to you. Besides, Salman the superstar, Salman the producer, you are now Salman the mentor, Godfather?
These guys are really good. Please, I am no Godfather. I’m their mentor. If someone comes to me, saying mujhe launch kar do, I’m not going to do it instantly. Till the time I don’t see the spark, dedication and devotion to their craft, I won’t think about it. These are the guys I have seen, they are hardworking. I’ve seen Zaheer preparing since Jai Ho (2014). There’s no angst or frustration about waiting. Aayush also has been ready for a long time. The way they have maintained their bodies and worked hard makes me proud. Zaheer was an assistant with me like Sooraj and Aayush. I was an AD for four films before I became an actor. There are no shortcuts; ki koi aapko launch kar de.
You believe in investing in them forever...
My job is to sign them and give them important films. Their job is to use the opportunity well and stay invested in themselves. I gave a break to a girl who was not doing too well in her career with one of my big films. It was a runaway hit, but instead of capitalising on the success, she went ahead and got married. That becomes a waste. Marriage is a good thing. All girls and boys must marry. However, the point I am making is that if you fritter away a chance or if you don’t utilise an opportunity given to you to the fullest, it becomes slightly disappointing. Believe me, it’s hard to find a big break. There are hundreds of thousands who pray, leave everything behind and come looking for that break. If you are fortunate to get one, do not let it become a wasted opportunity. Please use it. That focus has to be there.
Do you think star kids are less focussed than outsiders or say, sons of technicians like you who is a script-writer’s son or Ajay Devgn who is an action director’s son?
One cannot generalise. Star kids may get a break faster than others, but they also work hard to keep up. One must know that the real education in the industry doesn’t come from affluence. It comes from not looking at life through rose-tinted glasses.
Do you ever feel burdened while launching new talent?
No, on the contrary, I feel much lighter. There are so many films you want to do, but you can’t because you don’t have the dates. These guys will take up those movies. Earlier, we used to act in six-to-eight films a year. I don’t know how we managed, but today, even if we want to, we can’t.
So, you’re planning to stick to acting in three movies a year?
Three looks difficult. I manage to do two a year (smiles).
After Bharat, you’ve got Dabangg 3?
Yeah, I’m going to jump straight out of Bharat set onto the Dabangg 3 one. (laughs).
I need to prepare myself thoroughly before working with a superstar like Salman Khan-Abhiraj Minawala
7:55 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; October 1, 2018)
This Friday, while all eyes will be on Aayush Sharma and Warina Hussain, the release of LoveYatri: Journey of Love is going to be just as critical for another newcomer, director Abhiraj Minawala. The young filmmaker takes us through his aspirations and expectations while making a debut with a Salman Khan production. He has honed his skills under the tutelage of prominent filmmakers and is hoping to have a long and successful career ahead. Excerpts…
How do you view your journey from being Ali Abbas Zafar’s assistant on Sultan, to making your debut as a director in a film produced by Salman Khan? LoveYatri: Journey of Love has had its share of controversy and attention, too. What were the challenges?
It has been a long journey from being the first AD to a director. It takes a lot of patience to get this far. It started on the sets of Sultan, where I met Salman Khan and Aayush Sharma for the first time. Aayush was trying to understand the workings of every department on a set. I knew that he wanted to act, but not once did it occur to me that we would end up launching our careers together. I took a year’s break after Sultan and when I finally ran into Salman sir, he asked me for ideas and he was keen that I make a film for his banner. When I started working, I felt Aayush could be a great fit and he liked the script, too.
What advice did your mentor Ali Abbas Zafar offer you?
He had once told me that for your first film, you should work in a space that you are familiar with. Don’t take on too many challenges right away. Take one step at a time and build a strong base for a longer and stronger career as a filmmaker. I stuck to that mantra. As a Gujarati, I could connect with LoveYatri’s story really well. It’s not like I didn’t find great stories before this, but this one excited me the most. My mother’s family is from Ahmedabad. I’ve spent many summer holidays there and I have seen several Navratri celebrations, which are distinctly different from the ones in Mumbai. People go dancing on all nine nights. I wanted to bring out these beautiful things about the state, through a simple romantic story. Aayush plays Sushrut, who wants to start a garba academy, but no one takes his ambition seriously. Warina plays Michelle, a Baroda girl who stays in London. They meet during Navrati, share a common passion for dance and fall in love. Isn’t that sweet and simple?
With the audience’s evolving taste in cinema, even modern love stories have had to reinvent the formula. Do you think a simple love story like LoveYatri, will be able to appeal to contemporary sensibilities?
This film is like a hidden treasure waiting to be found. In late 2000s, films like Khosla Ka Ghosla and Oye Lucky Lucky Oye opened doors for different kinds of stories, which could be set in new parts of the country. You will be surprised to know just how many people want to watch films like LoveYatri. The last time I saw this kind of innocent romance was in Jab Tak Hai Jaan. I had worked on that film, so it was all the more special. Our film has a contemporary style, but it also has the innocence of the 90s films, which is a rarity today. More recently, I felt Bareilly Ki Barfi introduced people to the real texture of Uttar Pradesh with a simple love story. Similarly, through a love story and a set of characters, I’ve tried to introduce the country to the flavours of Gujarat. I’m sure people will savour this film as a romance that I feel has vanished from the big screen.
Launching any newcomer is a huge responsibility for any director or producer. In this case, Salman is launching Aayush, who is his brother-in-law. Do you feel more pressure because of it?
There’s a lot of pressure on me, but it’s not because Aayush is in the film. Salman has shown confidence in me that I can helm a film for his banner, and more so with his brother-in-law. He’s launching a new trio. It’s a lot of responsibility. The fact that he’s confident about us gives us a lot of self-belief.
The Khan family is a tightly-knit unit. Since you have worked with Salman and Aayush, what sort of a rapport do you share with their family?
For me, Aayush is like a brother, but when I am going to his house or Salman sir’s house, I don’t ever forget what I am going there for. Right now, I go there when I have work. The family is indeed very loving and accepting. Like Salim Khan saab saw the film and had only one thing to say, ‘It’s a sweet film. You’ve done justice to it.’ It’s a huge compliment. Previously, Ali has shown his films to him. When Ali heard about this, he said, ‘It’s great because if Salim sir doesn’t like something, he has a lot more to say.’
What was Salman’s reaction?
He just smiled and gave me thumbs up for it.
Now that you have directed a film for Salman’s banner, do you have aspirations of directing him in a film, too?
Yeah! I am hoping for something like that, but there is a long way to go. I need to prepare myself thoroughly before working with a superstar like him. My next film depends on how people receive LoveYatri.
I was surprised that a simple title like Loveratri could court such controversy-Salman Khan
8:41 AM
Rachit Gupta (BOMBAY TIMES; September 30, 2018)
He’s no stranger to controversy, but Salman Khan’s home production, LoveYatri: Journey of Love, created brouhaha over its earlier title (Loveratri). Reportedly, a political outfit in Gujarat objected to it, since they felt that it sounded similar to the festival, Navratri. Salman was quick to diffuse the situation when he promptly changed the title, even as the Supreme Court later passed a judgement in favour of the film. In a candid chat with BT, the superstar talks about steering clear of political and societal pressures and staying focussed on entertaining the masses. He also shares some intimate thoughts on his equation with his brother-in-law Aayush Sharma, who makes his debut with this film. Excerpts from a freewheeling chat...
Changing the title of Loveratri to LoveYatri... just a few weeks before the release must have been a tough decision?
No, it was the easiest decision of my life. What’s the point in getting stuck on a topic if someone has a problem with it? It’s not like we had any intention of hurting anyone or their feelings. It’s not like the title Loveratri means something offensive, but a section of society felt offended by it, and sadly, these people are from the very place where the film is based, Gujarat. Why should we then deliberately go ahead and upset them? So, we changed the title. It’s a very simple change and I think we were fortunate to get the new title, because at the end of the day, the story is about a journey of love. In hindsight, perhaps the new title suits our film better. Hopefully, it will not create any more problem for anyone. And if they are not satisfied with LoveYatri, we will change it to something else. If they still have a problem with any new title, we’ll just say, ‘Paanch October ko ek picture release ho rahi hai. Uss film ka title nahi hai, par uss film ka hero hai Aayush Sharma, Warina Hussain heroine hai, director Abhiraj (Minawala) hai, kripya aap apne nazdeeki yaa door wale theatre mein jaake iss film ko dekhein’ (laughs!). Honestly, how does it matter? My life’s ambition is not to get stuck on the title of a film.
Over the years, the films you have produced, or starred in, have been family entertainers. So, how do you react when political establishments make a hue and cry about your film, compelling you to even appeal to the Supreme Court of India?
I was surprised that a simple title like Loveratri could court such controversy. I could not figure out why it happened. There was one Gujarati lady called Avni ben, who’s quite close to my family and her opinion influenced my decision. To give you a background, she’s a simple woman who has nothing to do with politics or films. But she said, ‘Gando thai gayo (you have gone mad). Yeh kya naam rakha hai film ka, Loveratri?’ If someone were to say that for personal or political gains, that’s a separate matter, but here, a simple Gujarati lady felt so strongly against the title. That’s when I said, ‘Change the title!’ We’ve made a beautiful film with a love story to entertain the people. We don’t want people getting upset with our cinema. Even when the film went to the Censor Board, the committee raised a concern, but they cleared the title when Abhiraj (Minawala, director) explained his thoughts and ideas behind the title. They CBFC saw reason and merit in our arguments. We were very happy when the Censor Board said that we can keep the title and just add a tagline to it. But with so many different sources expressing the same concern over the title, I decided it was best to just change it.
Brother in law, mentor, producer... how would you describe your equation with Aayush Sharma?
I’m not the person that you guys think I am. My equation, or my way of dealing with newcomers, does not change from person to person. So, whether it is Sooraj Pancholi, Athiya Shetty, Zaheer Iqbal (a friend’s son) or Aayush, I work with them in the capacity of a filmmaker. For me, every film I make is like a launch film and I consider every film as a film that can destroy my career. I believe, every newcomer, like Aayush, goes through the same set of emotions and apprehensions.
All eyes will be on Aayush in LoveYatri, because he’s being launched in a film produced by you. That in itself is massive pressure for a newcomer...
It’s going to be very difficult for him. He’s got a huge task at his hands. When I started out, I went out on my own, because I felt that if my father produces a film for me and if that film does well, all credit would go to my father. But if the film doesn’t do well, all the blame would go to my father, too. In such a scenario, I didn’t want the blame nor the credit to go to my dad. It had to be just me, doing my own thing outside of my father’s shadow. But, he (Aayush) will have to go through that phase. Having said that, both Aayush and Warina have worked very hard on this film.
How did you react when you first met Aayush? It’s been reported that your brother Sohail, first informed you about wanting to sign Aayush for a Punjabi film. And then, the same guy turned out to be your sister Arpita’s boyfriend. Were you totally taken by surprise?
Apparently, Arpita says that she first introduced Aayush to me at our Panvel farm, but I do not recollect that meeting at all (laughs!). The second time I met him was when he came home to meet dad and tell him that he wanted to marry Arpita. I was there with Sohail and that’s when he told me that Aayush was the same guy he wanted to make My Punjabi Nikaah with. So, I told Sohail, ‘Dude, abhi toh yeh teri film mein free main kaam karega’ (laughs!).
Aayush revealed in a chat with BT that you had walked in, while he was watching a movie with Arpita in her room at 1 am. How did that situation pan out?
If I remember correctly, I said something like, ‘Oh hello? Kya hai? Chalo niklo baahar!’
In his interview with BT, Aayush also claimed that he feels awkward at film parties and he’s always at a loss of words. Even at film events, he’s always waiting to make a quick exit. After all your interactions, what’s your understanding of him now?
He’s an introvert. He’s a very awkward boy. He was just as awkward with people from political parties, as he is with people from filmi parties (laughs!). He’s just shy. He’ll be all okay and chirpy with you one day and the next day he’ll be running away from you. But above all, he’s a sensible guy. He’s travelled with me for the last four years. He was an assistant on Tiger Zinda Hai, Tubelight, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Sultan. I told him that he needn’t be a full-fledged director’s assistant, and that he should just come to the set and observe. Whatever he had to learn about acting he picked it up in film school. But I wanted him to come to set and learn the process of filmmaking. In these four to five years, he has learnt from everyone he has interacted with. He picked up lessons from the cinematographers, directors, technicians, other actors and me, too. He is a very keen learner. He doesn’t like to meddle in things, he doesn’t like to take centre stage, he prefers to stay reserved and that allows him to observe and learn. I feel, the ability to observe your surroundings and absorb your experiences is a very important skill for actors. That’s the best quality any actor can have.
With the cut-throat competition in the film industry, today, is it more challenging for newcomers to survive and establish themselves?
Today, it’s like the law of the jungle out there. Everyone is eating into everything. During our time, people used to start thinking about stardom only after their films became hits. But today, with the social media and the constant attention on actors, new kids are turned into stars long before their first film has even released. It’s difficult for young actors, because they need to maintain focus, 24 x 7. One little slip-up and their image and career prospects can be lost forever. When we were young, kisi ki majaal nahi thi poochne ki, ‘script kahan hai?’ People would shoot you down before you’d even finish the question. But actors today are sensible and more cautious, because they know there’s so much at stake. They weigh their pros and cons, they find out everything about the director and his team. They want to hear the entire script, they want to meet the producer and know every little creative aspect of the film. They will not shy away from going that extra mile to promote the film on every possible medium, because they know... this is it. There’s nothing bigger than the film, that’s what makes or breaks them. Today, actors need to be sorted and have their head on their shoulders.
Your films have always had strong family values. Does that stem from the fact that you too come from a family that has strong bonds and connections?
I always remember this one incident that happened on the first floor of Galaxy Apartments (his home) many years ago. The entire family was watching an English film together, and suddenly the actors started kissing. It was a proper lip-lock. One head turned to the right, the other to the left, someone started staring at the ceiling, someone at the floor, a few people didn’t know where to look. Dad gave out a loud ‘ahem!’ Someone called out for the house help to get tea for everyone. Every single member of the family got distracted and the moment the kissing scene stopped, the whole family got back to watching the movie. That’s why I feel, you don’t need such stuff in a film. You don’t need these gimmicks to make the film work. I’m not saying these gimmicks don’t work in favour of films, I’m just saying they’re not a necessity in cinema. In my first film, when Sooraj Barjatya was directing me, I remember I had to apply a balm on Bhagyashree’s feet and I did that while shutting my eyes. I don’t think sex or skin can sell a film. That’s not my way of making movies.
It never felt like it was Aayush Sharma’s launch-Warina Hussain
8:38 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 30, 2018)
Afghanistan-born Warina Hussain has grown up on both Bollywood and Hollywood movies, but she decided to try her luck in Hindi cinema. She came to India and started modelling for print ads and commercials before she took to acting. And now, she is all set to make her debut in Salman Khan Films’ LoveYatri alongside Aayush Sharma. Here, the newbie talks about bagging her debut project and Dabangg Khan’s advice to her.
LoveYatri is releasing on October 5. What are the thoughts going through your mind?
I am counting the days and as the date is nearing, I am thinking about the first day of release. The thought uppermost in my mind is logon ko kaisa lagegi. We have worked on the product for one year and now we’re putting it out there. Examwali feeling hai and I’m waiting for the results!
How did you bag the movie?
I have been a model for the past six years and when I shifted to Mumbai in 2014, I started doing print ads and commercials. I thought of getting into acting and trained in the Mumbai branch of The New York Film Academy. I also did a couple of workshops and learnt Bollywood dancing. I got to know about the auditions of LoveYatri and that’s when my life took a huge turn.
Your co-star Aayush Sharma is also debuting in the movie, and he has a filmi connection. Weren’t you apprehensive of being overshadowed?
While I don’t have any filmi connection, I have never thought about these things. I have what he has — the attention, the care they provide, etc. We are getting launched together and the makers never made me feel it is Aayush’s launch. In fact, they have always said it is an Aayush, Warina and Abhiraj (Minawala, director) launch. There is a plus point debuting with other newcomers. All of us put in our 100 per cent, we were open to each others’ ideas and were walking through the journey of LoveYatri hand-in-hand. Also, when Salman sir tweeted my picture, it was trending. Everybody knew my name and started following me on Instagram. I think we are all on the same platform.
What kind of training did you undergo for the role?
Aayush obviously had on-field training of four years (he assisted on films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan, 2015 and Sultan, 2016). I had experience in front of the camera, but despite doing workshops I underwent a training process of six months. I used to go for Scooty driving classes, acting workshops and learn ballet since my character is a ballet dancer. After that we would rehearse the scene again and do the reading with Abhiraj sir. I also had to go to classes for Hindi diction. But learning garba was the most challenging part because I’m not a formally-trained dancer.
Did Salman Khan give you any advice? What was his reaction after seeing your work?
Salman sir was shown the rushes after we finished the Gujarat schedule. I was not there when he saw them, because I am scared of watching my work. There’s a huge critic in me and even on the sets, I am constantly thinking, did I say this dialogue correctly, am I looking fine? But Salman sir said all the three of us had surpassed his expectations. After that I became a little more confident. Also, if he likes your work he just shows a thumbs- up. He has been advising and guiding me about my career, life and a lot of things. But the one close to my heart is when he told the three of us that we should put our heart, soul and mind into this project as the film will decide our future and career. It shows that he sees the three of us in the same light.
You said you have to take classes for Hindi diction, but you seem to speak the language well?
Yes, I can understand even better. However, I needed to work on the diction. I have to tell you a funny incident that happened at the beginning of the shoot. Since Aayush and Abhiraj had seen my introduction video, in which I said I am from Afghanistan, they thought I didn’t know Hindi. So, they were discussing among themselves, “Yeh toh gori (foreigner) hai, Hindi bol payegi?” After sometime Aayush came to me and asked me, ‘Do you need anything? I told him, ‘Diet coke milega?’ He was shocked that I knew Hindi (laughs).
Salman Khan said, 'I hope from this day onward, you never have a day off'-Aayush Sharma
8:08 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; September 27, 2018)
After assisting on films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Sultan, Aayush Sharma is gearing up for the release of his acting debut LoveYatri. With Salman Khan launching him, the newbie couldn’t have asked for a better beginning. He is aware of the privilege and candidly says, “If you take away ‘SKF’ from my film, you wouldn’t have talked to me or interviewed me.” And, while his fate at the box-office will be decided on October 5 when the film releases, Aayush has already caught the audience’s attention for his dancing skills in songs like Rangtari and Chogada. Here, he talks about making the transition from an assistant director to an actor, Bhai’s advice to him and more.
Did you always want to be an actor?
No. I never thought I would be an actor. When I came to Mumbai to study at Jai Hind College, I thought I would open a restaurant, but my friends would say I should be an actor. At that time, I thought of doing a prime-time TV show, as it will be a good way to stay in Mumbai and my parents could watch me on the the small screen back home. But I never went for auditions to get work. I was staying in Bandra and happened to meet Arpita (Khan), then Sohail (Khan) and Salman bhai. They, too, told me I should try for acting as they believed I had the potential.
Was that when you started training?
I had neither participated in the school assembly, nor was I into any theatre group. To be honest, I was too shy. So, I had to start from ground zero. I started assisting on films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (2015), Sultan (2016) and Tubelight (2017). That was really an eye-opener on how movies are made. I also learnt the technical aspects.
Once you have assisted on a movie, you start respecting the hard work that goes behind making one. When Bajrangi Bhaijaan became a blockbuster and won critical acclaim, somewhere I felt it is my film. I thought I should be a part of this profession and do one movie that people will remember me for.
How did LoveYatri happen?
I was assisting on Sultan where Abhiraj (Minawala) was the first AD. He wanted to make his directorial debut and was working on a film written by Narenbhai (Bhatt). He narrated LoveYatri’s idea to Salman bhai saying I could do the film. Bhai liked the plot and asked him to work on it. During Tubelight, I heard the script and I loved it. I found it to be a good blend of content and commerce. You can’t control the box office, but you have to be proud of the content you are going to bring out. They were looking for a studio to produce it when Bhai said, ‘I want it to be an SKF film’.
What tips did you take from Salman Khan?
Every time I was on Salman bhai’s set, I tried to ask him about acting and he would say, ‘Acting is a reflection of what you are in real life, the day you try to act, you will ham’. He told me to keep observing and marking his work before his take. He did not even come on the sets on the first day of my shoot.
Instead, early in the morning at 7 he sent me a message saying: Feel every line, every emotion, every character. You don’t need to be Aayush anymore, you need to be the character. For me, it was too much to process! All these years, he didn’t give me any advice and suddenly so many things (laughs).
How was your first day on the sets?
I was excited, but also nervous. I was still getting used to the idea that from an assistant, I was now an actor. It was new, more so because many people feel that I am here because I am related to someone. Now, I needed to give such a shot that the ADs say, ‘He deserves to be here’. That was playing on my mind along with the advice that Bhai had given me. But it was a smooth day, we started with the song Tera Hua. At the end of the day, when I messaged Bhai about it, he texted back a sweet message saying, ‘Insha Allah! Beta best of luck, I hope from this day onward, you never have a day off and spend every day in front of the camera’.
With all the talk about nepotism, do you feel you are the privileged one?
I believe there are some people whose talent hasn’t got due credit and are waiting for a platform like this. I am lucky to have it, but more than that, I am fortunate to have the guidance of someone experienced. Many people are not guided properly and are wasting their time doing something else. There is also a difference between the box-office collection of debutants who have no i connections as opposed to those who have them. If a film with newcomers doesn’t have a big banner attached to it, it doesn’t get marketed well. Realistically, they don’t get that kind of publicity or screens. If you take SKF away from LoveYatri, who will talk to me or interview me? Of course, it helps. An outsider has to figure his own way out.
At the same time, I am as new and as raw as Warina (Hussain, his co-star) is. I was not born into a film family, but because I have a certain background, people will look at me, and say, ‘Let’s criticise him’. But in case of Warina, whatever she does, they will say, fine, it’s her first film. So, it works both ways, there are advantages and disadvantages. My only hope is that when people see the film and my work they say, ‘He deserves to be an actor’. That will be my victory.
Usually, newcomers tend to hide their marriage or family from the media as it may affect their image...
My wife has been my support system. I got married into a famous family, and I don’t think hiding your wife or child will help in your career. If you are good at your work, married or single doesn’t matter. At the end of the day people will look at your work. My family is my motivation. I believe Arpita is known as Salman Khan’s sister, I want to work hard enough that she is proud to be called Aayush Sharma’s wife. My family is the source of my strength.
Were you upset when the title was changed from LoveRatri to LoveYatri?
I have been living with the title LoveRatri for the past one year, so when they changed it I said, ‘No, that is my identity, you can’t take it away from me’. But I respect people’s emotions, it’s not important what the film is called. I have four hit songs, people know me as the Chogada boy, not LoveRatri boy. The producer’s intention is to launch three careers with the film, so when some people peacefully told us to change the title before it became a media spectacle, we did it. We made it with a lot of pyaar and hope that pyaar continues.
Manish Malhotra feels honoured to be styling Gen Y actresses of Bollywood
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BOMBAY TIMES (June 24, 2018)
After styling some of the top actresses in Bollywood over the years, Manish Malhotra is all set to design for the new crop of rising stars in the industry. While Manish has already been working on giving newcomers Janhvi Kapoor and Sara Ali Khan the perfect look for their films, he will also be designing for debutantes Ananya Panday, Tara Sutaria and Warina Hussain in the upcoming months.The 51-year-old designer, whose label completes 30 years in July, has had an illustrious career spanning 28-years in the industry. Talking about styling Gen Y actresses, he says, “Whether it’s a youth-centric film like Student Of The Year 2 or a period drama like Kalank, I am working on different kinds of films. Whether it’s Janhvi for Dhadak, Sara for Simmba, Ananya and Tara for Student Of The Year 2 or Warina for Loveratri, I feel privileged and honoured to work with these young actresses.” Manish gives a lowdown on styling each actress...
Talking about his experience styling the current generation of actresses, Manish says, “Student Of The Year 2 is an entertaining film. It is quite different from the first one. While the first film was a glamorous one, in the second film, Ananya and Tara have been styled in a fun and relatable fashion. In Loveratri (romantic film), I have made sure that both Warina and Aayush Sharma (who play Gujaratis in the film) sport a young look.”
Manish who has at one point of time even styled the late Sridevi (mother of Janhvi Kapoor) says, “I have designed for Sridevi Ma’am and she was very dear to me. Janhvi was born in front of me and I have full faith in her talent and hard work. I am sure that she is going to turn out to be an incredible actress and someone who I will be very proud of.”
Talking about Janhvi’s look in Dhadak, Manish says that designing for a character which is based in Udaipur, Rajasthan, was not an easy task. He says, “Janhvi’s character is that of a rich minister’s daughter who lives in a very conservative house and her father is protective of her. Hence, the outfits for her had to be toned down. While the fabric, texture and colours were bold, we tried a lot of interesting mix of kurta with harem salwar, red waist coat, ivory mal mal ghagra and kalidars to get her look right in the film.” Adding to this, Manish says, “In the second half of the film, Janhvi’s character gets into a realistic mode and goes through several trials and tribulations, thus her dressing had to reflect the struggle. Her attires were kept modest to make the plot look believable.”
Manish who has not only made actresses look beautiful in their films over the years, but also during fashion weeks and fashion shows, catering to their wedding orders — he has managed to build a large client base all over the world. He says, “I have a huge store in Mumbai and in New Delhi. And over the years, I have seen a lot of people choose my brand of clothing because of the love that they have for the actresses and the characters that they have portrayed in Bollywood. My day is never an eight hour working day. I sometimes spend 12-16 crazy hours at work, so that I never lose that connect with movies and actors I have worked with for so many years.” Talking about his latest Bollywood projects, Manish says, “I have diverse films to work on soon. I have designed for Daisy Shah and Jacqueline Fernandez in Race 3. At the moment, I am working on Fanne Khan where I will be designing for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.” If Kasuatii Zindagi Kay comeback is a daily, it will be difficult for me to do-Ronit Roy
8:12 AM
Ronit Roy, who’s been away from the small screen for over two years, explains why TV isn’t working out right now; discusses playing Dad to newbie Warina on the big screen.
Shravan Shah (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 5, 2018)
It has been over two years since Ronit Roy, who found a second lease of showbiz life with Ekta Kapoor’s daily soap Kasuatii Zindagi Kay, has been on TV. With reports of the show, which premiered in 2002, making a comeback, there’s speculation if the 52-year-old actor will reprise his role as Rishabh Bajaj. “I have no call on that yet, but if it’s a daily, it will be difficult for me to do,” Ronit says, quick to add that he believes in the saying, ‘never say never’. “Currently, there’s no time for me to commit to a television show because there is a lot of other work happening. There is also a major shift in viewing platforms. For whatever reasons, nobody is writing anything for television. I have been off TV for two-and-a- half years. The offers that came my way during this time didn’t interest me in the least.”
The film went on the floors in early March with the first schedule in Baroda. Ronit joined the team from March 24, during the second schedule in Ahmedabad, as the female protagonist arrives only later in the film. The team will now head to London after which the film will wrap up in Mumbai. About his young co-stars, Ronit said, “Aayush is not a newcomer. He is from a film family and has been around for a while. He has seen everything. He is a charming man while Warina is playful but attentive and receptive to advice,” he signs off.
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