Veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha remembers his charismatic friend and co-star Rishi Kapoor, who went on to become the poster boy for romance
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 4, 2020)

It was a devastating week for the Hindi film industry, with two celebrated actors, Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor, passing away. Shatrugun Sinha, who has worked with Irrfan in Aan: Men At Work and Rishi Kapoor in multiple films, including Manmohan Desai’s Naseeb, describes one as an ‘actor-star’ and the other as a ‘star-actor’. “Irrfan was a combination of struggle, determination and conviction. He made his dream come true through hard work. I watched Hindi Medium and Angrezi Medium and his acting will be a textbook experience for younger generation of actors,” asserts the veteran actor-politician, adding that his friend, Rishi, was the most charismatic star of Hindi cinema. “After Rajendra Kumar and Rajesh Khanna, he became the poster boy of romance with his style.”

Rishi Kapoor had revealed that it was not Shatrughan Sinha but his body double who shot the difficult dance moves in the Naseeb song, “Rang Jamake Jayenge”. Admitting that it is true, he retorts that the audience enjoyed to see him in that song.

Sinha believes Ranbir Kapoor is a worthy son of a worthy father and a brilliant actor. “But Ranbir has big shoes to fill because baap baap hota hai. One can’t compare the two at the moment,” points out Sinha, who during the lockdown, is watching films with daughter Sonakshi and sons Luv and Khush. “We recently watched Parasite and also some shows. They work out at home and the family takes walks in the balcony.”

The actor was last seen on screen in a special appearance as a lawyer in Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se. “I can’t say no to Dharam ji, he is a senior and an elder brother. I did that role out of respect for him. I was also supposed to make an appearance in a song, which featured the Deols with Salman Khan and Sonakshi. Unfortunately, I was in London and couldn't be a part of the song,” he rues, adding that there are a lot of film offers. “I will take a call once normalcy returns.”

Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; October 25, 2019)

Kriti Kharbanda is known for her quirky sense of humour and outspokenness. In a chat with BT, the actress, who will be seen in Housefull 4, talks about how comedy is serious business, acing the action scenes in the film and her funniest co-star on the set. Read on…

When a film has three heroes and three heroines, insecurities must be inevitable as you need to make your presence felt in the limited time that you get, right?
I’d be lying if I say I didn’t have any insecurities as an actor when I signed a multi-starrer. You always wonder how relevant you are to the film. It’s not an easy decision to make. Every actor has a certain amount of insecurity. But Housefull 4 made me realise that kiske paas kitna screen time hai is irrelevant. I signed my next multi-starrer, Pagalpanti, because of Housefull 4. Of course, this is an Akshay Kumar film; he and Riteish Deshmukh are the backbone of the franchise, but every actor helps in elevating the experience of a film. Plus, it feels like a healthy competition.

Since you are known to have a quirky sense of humour, does comedy come easily to you? Also, it’s easy to offend people these days, isn’t it?
Comedy is serious business, and I am proud of what I have been able to achieve here. I grew up on franchises like Housefull, Munnabhai and Golmaal, and so, working in this film is a big deal for me. A lot of people are quick to label this brand of comedy as offensive, but if it offends one person, it entertains hundreds. The intention is always to entertain everyone. The idea of reincarnation has been used in a fun way here, and the film has been made in good taste. Akshay’s character in the film is called Bala, but he is bald. That’s his insecurity, so whenever he thinks someone is mocking him, he says, ‘Tu taklya hai’. It’s not to offend anyone.

There’s another Kriti in the film — Kriti Sanon. How confusing was it for the cast to address you two?
Incidentally, her friends also call her Krits, so both of us were called Krits. Even during promotions, when anyone would say, ‘Kriti bataiyye’, both of us would answer. On the set, they used to address me as Kharbanda or KK. Akshay would call me Kharbanda in a Punjabi way to avoid the confusion.

What was your biggest takeaway from the film?
That I got to do action scenes with Khiladi Kumar. I learnt sword fighting for one of my characters in the film, as I am trained as a warrior. I am petite, and many wondered if I could pull it off, but I did. Even Sham Kaushal ji (action director) came up to me after those scenes and said, ‘Main chauk gaya. Tu chota packet bada dhamaka hai’. My shoulder was injured while learning the stunts, but I was never so motivated to go to work like I was during this shoot. That’s the best feeling — to want to go to work even if you are unwell.

Who was the funniest amongst your co-stars?
I get most of Bobby Deol’s jokes because we have worked together in Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se (2018). He’s into toilet humour and likes to crack those jokes. Riteish is the funniest man I know. It was crazy fun to work with all of them. Even the girls were funny, but mujhe main bohot funny lagti hoon.

YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA PHIR SE has emerged a HIT on television after its disaster theatrical performance. The film fetched a huge 27 crore for its satellite rights which actually enabled to make it a profitable film for the makers with the losses being on the books of Star who had the satellite rights. But the film has scored on television and it should do well enough in time to cover the huge price.

SANJU also had its television premiere a couple of weeks back and has done decent. The price here was almost double of YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA PHIR SE. The premiere of SANJU was a little short of 80 lakhs impressions and the second screening was a little above 40 lakhs. The other films from Rajkumar Hirani like PK and 3 IDIOTS were very good on television and it remains to be seen how SANJU fares in the long run.

If we take into account screenings after the premiere then GOLMAAL AGAIN, TIGER ZINDA HAI and BAAGHI 2 are top three in that order and then there is a gap to the next best which is DHADAK followed by RAID.

The top ten films on television in 2018 are as follows. The number is the impressions which is basically the number of television sets which viewed the film.
1. Dhadak - 1,83,16,000
2. Golmaal Again - 1,63,52,000
3. Baaghi 2 - 1,61,45,000
4. Tiger Zinda Hai - 1,37,04,000
5. Pad Man - 86,42,000
6. Sanju - 77,95,000
7. Raid - 74,71,000
8. Yamla Pagle Deewana Phir Se - 69,76,000
9. Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety - 64,97,000
10. Hichki - 63,60,000
11. Secret Superstar - 60,41,000
12. Fukrey Returns - 53,05,000
13. Gold - 50,66,000
14. Padmaavat - 48,55,000
15. Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana - 42,51,000

Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se has disaster written all over it. Ideally, the series should have ended with Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 which was a flop. Yet, the makers went ahead and made this flick, hoping it would click with the viewers. But that’s not possible when you have such a pathetic script in hand. I was shocked to see that there was hardly any scene or one-liner which made viewers laugh from their hearts. Even Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 was funnier! Something like this might have worked last decade or before that but in today’s times, it just can’t. What works is the action scenes of Sunny Deol but it has very little screen time shockingly. Sunny Deol makes a genuine effort but he can’t do much when the writing and execution are so poor. Bobby Deol is strictly average while Dharmendra is decent. He gets to play a cool character but is letdown by terrible writing. Same goes for Shatrughan Sinha. His entry scene is superb and one expects fireworks but alas, nothing much happens after that. Kriti Kharbanda looks stunning and like Sunny, she also tries her best to give her best shot. Music is forgettable, just like the film. Avoid!

My rating - * ½ out of 5!

WHICH FILM WOULD WORK MORE: COMEDY OR HORROR COMEDY?

Continuing with the trend of moderately budgeted films at the box office, this week shall see the release of two such films. Both have the potential to work big time as they are comic capers. But some factors also go against them. My views:

YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA 3: It is the third part of this fun franchise and stars all the three Deols – father Dharmendra and sons Sunny and Bobby Deol. The first part released in 2011 and was directed by Samir Karnik. It did great business at the box office (Rs. 54.93 crore) and was loved for its performances, writing and funny moments. Encouraged by the response, the makers decided to make part 2 and this time Sangeeth Sivan was given charge as director. Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 released in 2013. The promos weren’t that funny and yet the film had a decent opening at Rs. 6.36 crore, less than the opening of part 1 (Rs. 7.64 crore). But the film was a disappointment and did a business of just Rs. 30.77 crore. Many thought that it was the end of this franchise. But surprisingly, the Deols last year launched Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se. Punjabi director Navaniat Singh was appointed as director this time. Besides Deols, part 3 also features Kriti Kharbanda, Johny Lever, Asrani and others. For a grand song, Rekha, Sonakshi Sinha and Salman Khan have done cameo appearances. Moreover, Shatrughan Sinha is seen in the role of a judge. Again, just like part 2, the trailers and songs of Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se haven’t worked. Sunny and Dharmendra have given some fine interviews but overall, the marketing for some reasons seems ‘thanda’. The buzz is limited and it seems that the opening day would be even less than the opening day numbers of part 2! If the response is bad, the lifetime would be the lower than Yamla Pagla Deewana 2. A good word of mouth can help the film put up strong numbers, especially in the North.

STREE: It is a horror comedy based on what the makers say a ‘ridiculously true phenomenon’. Starring Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee and Pankaj Tripathi, Stree is directorial debut of Amar Kaushik. It is produced by Dinesh Vijan and Go Goa Gone directors Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK. The trailer is extremely funny and has met with a good response. The concept seems fresh and it’s a rare horror comedy of Bollywood. Songs have got noticed, especially Kamariya, Milegi Milegi and Aao Kabhi Haveli Pe. Sadly, the film doesn’t look that massy, possibly due to Rajkummar’s presence. The opening can be in the Rs. 3.50-4.50 crore range and might go higher, if evening shows record good occupancy. It won’t be surprising if Stree collects more than Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se.

WHICH FILM WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE AND WHY? DO LET ME KNOW!

‘Rafta Rafta’ brings back a flood of memories for Dharmendra
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 28, 2018) 

“Rafta Rafta Dekho Aankh Meri Ladi Hai”, this Kishorte Kumar classic from Arjun Hingorani’s 1973 film, Kahani Kismat Ki, returns 45 years later as a remixed medley, for Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se. It brings back a flood of memories for Dharmendra, the link between the two songs.

“This time it’s a tribute to my first and fast friend, Arjun Hingorani,” informs the veteran actor, recalling how after he won the first Filmfare talent hunt contest, Arjun would escort me in Mumbai, telling Dharmendra he wanted to cast him in his film when they were together. “I had already been signed by Bimal da (filmmaker Bimal Roy) for Bandini but he took his time and the film released only in 1963. Three years before that, Arjun was ready with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere and I began my journey with it. After that, we were always there for each other and continued making films together.”

Kahani Kismat Ki was the late filmmaker’s fourth assignment and Dharmemdra who was already a star by then, recalls how arriving at Mumbai’s Flora Fountain. Looking at the crowd gathered there, he had an attack of nerves and announced that he wouldn’t be able to dance. “They eventually put Rekha and me on a crane and though a little shy initially, I eventualy became besharam and shook a leg to the catchy song with Rekha on the crane as the fans cheered below,” he says.

His YPD Phir Se directror, Navaniat Singh, was not even born when the original releases, but when there was talk of recreating a chartbuster, he immediately picked “Rafta Rafta”. “It’s the anthem for every generation,” he says, admitting that even though Remo D’Souza choreographed it, since no one can teach Dharmendra to dance, his steps were his own. Rekha returned as well, and they were joined on the dance floor by good friend Shatrughan Singh and his daughter Sonakshi. Dharmendra’s two sons, Sunny and Bobby, alnd as did Salman Khan. “This time there was no crane. We shot at Mehboob Studio over three days and it was like a festival,” he smiles, as Navaniat adds that the final antara which brings all the actors into one frame will remain with him forever.

Adjusting to the new norms of the film industry, Dharmendra talks about attuning to the concept of promotions and how fans adulation has kept him relevant even after almost 60 years
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; August 26, 2018)

After spending almost six decades in the Indian film industry, what keeps you motivated?
Acting has never been a profession for me. I still feel like a kid in the candy shop, and the child in me reminds me of the journey that I have made to reach where I am today. I never worked for any awards. I only wanted to be loved and admired. Acting is like my mehbooba [girlfriend], sometimes she gets miffed with me and then I convince her and vice versa [laughs]. The only force that drives me even today is the love and support of the people. I am thankful to them that even after almost 60 years in the industry they have not thrown me out of their hearts.

Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) was a hit, while the sequel didn't pan out as expected. What convinced you to make the third instalment?
We made the sequel in haste. At that time it was a trend to make franchises. We joined the bandwagon and in the process forgot to focus on the core story. In fact, while making the film, I told the team that I wasn't enjoying working on it. However, we have made a conscious effort to conceptualise a good storyline for the third instalment. I went over the story and script several times before giving my nod. I just hope the audience enjoys it.

While in the comedy space, your character seems flirtatious in Yamla Pagla Deewana. Does romance come easily to you?
I have always been a romantic. People know me as the He-Man [read as Garam Dharam] of the industry, but it's a misconception that he is only physically strong and cannot be romantic. What people don't realise is that nobody can romance like He-Man.

In the past few decades, have you noticed any changes in the industry?
Life has become so fast paced that everyone wants things to happen at the snap of a finger. Nobody has time for a proper meal; people are satisfied with two-minute noodles. This generation has changed and so has their working style. Years ago, movies were about show business, but today, it has become a 'show-off' business. Earlier there was professionalism and warmth. Today, it's all about promotions. Personally, I feel you should promote products, not art. Earlier, we were part of the film industry; sadly it has become a mandi [market]. And films have become a commodity in this market, like soaps and shampoos.

In a profession that demands you to be in the public eye 24/7, you manage to keep yourself at bay. Was it something that you had to work towards?
I cannot blow my own trumpet. I don't feel that it is right and I can't make the effort to do it. We Deols are warm people and have always felt that work should speak for itself. In a way, it is also our weakness. We are actors, not stars. However, we are now learning the art of promotion [laughs]. If it's a good film, people will watch it and I believe that has happened. Yes, the scenario has changed with the corporates coming in. If films were all about commercial value, I would have charged a high fee considering I have given the maximum number of hits, but I have never been money-minded.

Following the trend of remakes and sequels, do you feel that the industry lacks good writers?
No, I don't think so. There is a lot of authenticity in the scripts today. In fact, there is no room for mediocrity and predictability. During our time, predictable films would become blockbusters. The audience loved watching a hero rescue a damsel in distress and defeat the villain. There are so many good scripts being written today.

With your grandson Karan Deol making his debut next year, what do you have to say about the debate on nepotism?
Everyone is attracted towards the film industry and aspires to be a star. I don't think it is necessary to struggle and face hardships to become an actor. I don't find anything wrong if an actor's son wants to become an actor. It's not the child's fault that he hails from a film background. So why do people question the decision of star children? In fact, I feel it's tough for star kids because they have to continuously prove themselves. As for Karan, I've seen a few glimpses of his act and the character is perfect for his debut. He is confident, and I haven't given him any advice because I don't think that works. Ultimately, it is his hard work that will take him places. Sunny is there for him and will do the right thing for his son.

Is there a possibility to see all the three generations together on the big screen?
I would love to share screen space with Karan. We are planning something in the sequel of Apne. Anil Sharma [director] has a few ideas up his sleeves, time will tell. Working with Sunny and Bobby was also never planned, it just fell in place. I believe things will take its course with my grandson too.

Any plans to compile a book of all your sher-o-shayaris?
Not a book. But I want to picturise them [make videos] at my farmhouse. A lot of people have advised me to do something about it, but I've become a little lazy. I need my own time and space to get to it.

Deepali Singh (DNA; August 24, 2018)

The day I met Dharmendra at a luxury hotel, the veteran actor had posted a video of buffaloes grazing on his farm on his Instagram account. “I’m a villager at heart. A true villager will always remain that, even when he’s sitting in a five-star hotel like this,” he told me.

The octogenarian spoke to us about his upcoming outing — Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se — the third instalment of the comedy franchise with his sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. Often, he broke out into poetry and only once, did I get to see his garam side when the waiter kept a jug of water on a table with a loud thud. “Bandh karo yaar!” he bellowed, adding that the noise was disturbing him. But the next instant, he was back to being naram Dharam, as the server placed another glass of water on the table, gently this time. “Shabaash, jeete raho,” he blessed him.

Recalling the time when Apne had released and the Deols were visiting the US, the actor said that audiences there had told him that they loved the movie, but it made them cry. “I told them, I will make you laugh next time. That’s when I picked the script for Yamla Pagla Deewana. If I can make people cry, I can make them laugh as well. For me, acting is reacting and an emotional person reacts faster. So, emotional people are blessed,” he added.

You have acted with your sons in three movies now. What’s special about doing Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se, which is your fourth outing together?
We have made this film to make people laugh. When we made the first one, people liked it a lot. Doosri banayi, pit gayi. This one has turned out so funny ki dubbing karte huye hasi nikal rahi thi! It’s an entertaining film. People have some special feelings for me, my kids and seeing us together adds a beauty to the characters. There are some emotional scenes, too, which strike a chord with the audience.

You seem to enjoy the comedy space...
I do. I have done so many comedies. Right from Chupke Chupke, Naukar Biwi Ka, Sholay mein bhi comedy thi, aur kya tha? I think I have had that comic streak from childhood. Any person who wants to be an actor should know himself and the capacity he has. If you see Seeta Aur Geeta and then Chupke Chupke, you will see how differently I have played both the characters. Comedy needs timing. I’ve done several films with Mehmood bhai. Other heroes were scared of working with him. Maine usse kaha mere saath theek rehna. He was a good friend of mine. Main usko zyaada nahi karne deta tha, because I knew ki yahan yeh score karne ki koshish kar raha hai (laughs).

We met your son, Bobby, recently and he’s again back to his fit self. He gives a lot of credit to Salman Khan for this...
It’s your peer group that can inspire you. If the father says something, sometimes children don’t listen. If a friend tells them the same thing, they do.

He said you have been quite proud of his turnaround...
I’ve always been proud of my children. It’s the only relationship where you want your kids to be better than you. Others wouldn’t want you to go higher, only a father will want that for his son.

Your grandson Karan is all set to make his debut as an actor...
Yes, let’s see how that goes. I think star sons go through a tough time. People tend to think that they are born with a silver spoon. ‘Yeh uska beta hai’, they say. Aadha credit toh bechare ka aise hi chala jaata hai. With someone like me, they would say that he’s come from a village and made a name for himself. Woh credit inko nahin milta. Sunny deserves much more than what he is getting today. Bobby, too, is good. My kids are emotional and I think such people always make for good actors. They don’t know method acting. If you see my films, there were no mannerisms. I was never Dharmendra in my film. It’s human nature to want to be loved, liked and admired, so there is nothing like showbiz for me. Shauhrat toh nahi maangi thi maine, mohabbat maangi thi. Mohabbat dilon mein ghar kar jaati hai.

If a biopic was made on your life...
Nahi nahi, no biopic for me.

But you have led such an interesting life?
I agree, but I wouldn’t want a biopic. Maine toh apni biography tak nahi likhi, sabki char char kitabein aa gayi hain. I might make a travelogue or something. When I look at my old photos, I tell him, ‘tu ban gaya hero’. He (referring to himself) was dying to be a hero.

When you look back now, do you have any regrets?
You make some mistakes in life. I’m human. If I get to live this life again, I would like to rectify them.

And career-wise?
I don’t have any regrets when it comes to my career. If I get to live another life, I would want to be a hero again. Even today, I have girls tweeting to me, saying, ‘We used to have a crush on you, etc’. Everyone likes to be admired, liked and loved. There is no bigger high than that.

Dharmendra on the Deol legacy and family bonding, why he can’t stay away from acting, and the Apne sequel which is coming up next
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 15, 2018)


How does it feel to be back on screen after five years with sons, Sunny and Bobby, and the Yamla Pagla Deewana franchise?
It always feels good to be back on screen. Acting is like my beloved, sometimes we get away from each other, but we can’t stay apart for too long. This is the only way I know to live in the hearts of people. This has become a habit now which is hard to break. Fame is like a nasha, chadta hai toh utar bhi jata hai, par mohabbat woh jazbaa hai jo dil mein ghar bana leta hai. Chasing this love, I return to the screen, again and again. It’s a blessing to be loved.

Any signs of nerves?
Well, this business is unpredictable and since we, as actors and filmmakers, get emotionally attached to our work, there is always that niggling anxiety. In the case of this franchise, the original film was a hit but Part 2 didn’t do well. We’re hopeful we will score with Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se, we’ve spent a lot of time getting the right story and I’m confident of my boys who, first and foremost, are good human beings. That always strikes a chord. Dono bade dilwale hain, dono mere pyaare hain. A part of our success and strength is our togetherness as a family.

Yes, it is rare today to see two generations come together in a fi lm, with the third, Sunny’s son Karan, waiting to be launched?
Before I became an actor, I used to admire the Kapoors—Prithviraj ji, Raj ji, Shammi and Shashi — growing together as actors and filmmakers. I’m sure my fans admire the Deols today in the same way. I came to Mumbai alone, with nothing but my confidence to make it. Sunny and Bobby, being star kids, carried the burden of expectations. That they could carve a niche for themselves is a great high for me as a father. As for Karan, I’ve seen some songs from his debut film, Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas. Sunny, as the director, has shot them beautifully and Karan exudes confidence and is in character. He looks like a boy from the village, very natural style, jo main bhi tha kabhi.

In a recent interview, Bobby spoke about his debut as the young Dharam in Dharam-Veer. What do you recall of that shoot?
I remember Bobby’s confidence and how he refused to share the money he’d been paid as shagun with the staff. (Laughs) Even at that age, Bobby was careful with his money as I still remind him. Sunny was always a spendthrift and even as a child would get expensive gifts for the help from holidays abroad, saying, “Mera dil chahta hai, papa.”

When I came to Mumbai, mere saath pura Punjab aa gaya tha. My mother had told me then, “Dharam, tera kitchen jitna bhara rahega, tu utna hi bhagyashali rahega.” Her words still echo when I see them in my farmhouse. My sons have had a different life from mine, but they have the same passion and are not greedy. We ask for only what we need, and a lot of what we need is love. We are men who think with our hearts. Hamara dimag bhi hamare dil mein hai.

Bobby has recreated your iconic scene from Sholay in this film. Your memories of the film which opened on August 15, 1975?
I remember the tank on which I was tottering was high and I improvised on the dialogue by adding a ‘ji’ to ‘mausi’ when asking for Basanti’s hand as I was putting maska on her. Every character in that film is unforgettable. Shah Rukh (Khan) told me once, “Paaji, iss scene ko toh industry ka national anthem bana dena chahiye.”

Yamla Pagla Deewana seems like an apt franchise for the dildar Deols...
We can play any role. I’ve played a doctor in Bandini and a writer in Anupama but yes, this franchise has become our brand now.

How much has filmmaking changed since your time?
Hamaare zamane mein we didn’t have so many staff and amenities like a vanity van, but there was a lot of warmth and camaraderie. I’d play rummy and badminton with the make-up man and dress man. My co-stars were my friends aur raat ko jab neend nahin aati thi, we’d go for a stroll or to see a film.
Once, Shatru (Shatrughan Sinha) missed his flight from Jaipur and we spent the whole day together, chatting and cracking jokes. He’s like a younger brother who’d seen me first when I visited his school. After we started working together, we became good friends. Recently, during a shoot for Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se, we were like two joyous kids having a blast. Looking at us, Sunny told me he wanted to make a film with just the two of us. I look for friends like him who make the sets lively and jovial.

It also brought you together with your Rafta Rafta lady, Rekha.
The past never goes away, it always catches up and the vibe is the same. Salman (Khan) also makes a special appearance in a song, as did Sonakshi (Sinha). I’ve earned a lot of goodwill over the years and when I ask for something, people don’t usually say “no”. Goodwill se bahut kuch ho jaata hai.

It’s nice to see the media-shy Deols promoting a fi lm and enjoying it.
Chal rahe ho, toh batane ki zaroorat nahin, ruk gaye jis din, poochega koi nahin, jaante hain jo dhol woh peethte nahin, chalte rehte hain bas, mudkar dekhte nahin... (Recites these lines from a poem he’s penned). I used to think like earlier ki dhol peetne ki zaroorat nahin, but times have changed and today, I’ll say beat your drums and blow you trumpet too. Promotions have become like starters which people have come to expect before you serve the meal. We’ve started playing the game too and beginning to enjoy ourselves in the process.

That’s wonderful. So, what’s next?
Apne 2. with all three of us. Anil Sharma has found an interesting subject and he’s working on it.

Sonakshi Sinha on her ‘happy’ space, sharing the screen with dad, working on her music and looking the best she ever has
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 10, 2018)

Sonakshi Sinha, who takes over from Diana Penty to take the Happy Bhaag Jayegi franchise forward with Happy Phirr Bhaag Jayegi, believes that happiness is a state of mind and one needs to look for it in the smallest of things. “That’s the only way to stay happy,” she says.

The 31-year-old actress plays a Punjabi kudi in the film and insists that it was a cakewalk because even though dad Shatrughan is Bihari and mom Poonam Sindhi, she has very Punjabi traits and a playlist of only Punjabi songs. “I walk, dance and speak like a Punjabi so it was the most natural thing for me to play a character like Happy. Also, I’m not very glamorous in real life, I only look glamorous for my profession and even on screen, I mostly play simple girls whom the aam aadmi can identify with, which is the idea,” she adds.


Recalling her first meeting with the romcom’s producer, Aanand L Rai, she describes him as a “sweet and simple man” with whom she immediately connected on a spiritual level. “We spoke for an hour-and-a-half about food, the films we want to make and only five minutes about this film,” she recalls, showing no signs of pressure coming into a successful series, pointing out that people loved the first film and the original characters who are in this film as well. “That makes the job easier and the response has been positive so far,” she says. Ask her what this Happy is running away from and she says, “The paparazzi, sometimes.”

After eight years, Sonakshi will finally be sharing the screen with her dad in Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se in a song and raving about the experience she admits that working with him had been on her wish list for a long time but surprisingly has not happened in a full-fledged film. “For now, I am honoured to be sharing the screen with three legends Dharam ji (Dharmendra), Rekha ji and dad,” she avers, adding she has grown up with Esha and Ahana Deol. “I played many Holis in their house with Hema ji and Dharam uncle. Even today when we meet, Dharam uncle wonders if I’m going to complain about them. Esha and my brothers (Luv and Kush) would gang up and bully me. But now we can laugh about it. They are amazing family friends.”


Interestingly, Luv’s second film, J P Dutta’s Paltan opens a week after hers. “I’m happy because this is the kind of film he always wanted to do and I can’t wait to watch his film,” says Sonakshi whose upcoming projects include Karan Johar’s period drama Kalank, in which she is paired with Aditya Roy Kapur, and the Arbaaz Khan-produced Dabangg 3, opposite Salman Khan. She suddenly clams up, pointing out that it’s too early to speak about them. “The Kalank shoot is still on and Dabangg 3 hasn’t even started yet,” she demurs, saying the latter is homeground because she started her career with the Khans and is here today because of them. “Doing a Dabangg with Salman or going with him on a Da-Bangg concert is like homecoming for me.”

The actress has just returned from a tour with him that also had Jacqueline Fernandez, Katrina Kaif and Daisy Shah and says that it’s a myth that girls can’t have fun. “In this age of social media, we are in touch all the time and during the tour, we all worked out and ate together,” she reveals.

Sonakshi is looking her fittest and she confides that earlier she would cheat on her diet, but over the last six months she has been consistent with her workouts and careful about what she eats. The effort has clearly paid off. “I’ve surprised myself with my own commitment. It’s been tough but rewarding. The compliments are coming in,” she says.

In her upcoming film, she has sung a new version of “Mera Naam Chin Chin Choo” with co-star Jassi Gill and goes on to reveal that she’s recorded a couple of other songs. After the release of Happy Phirr Bhaag Jayegi, she plans to shoot the music videos and release them. “I want singing to be an extension of what I’m already doing. I also paint when I have the time. The last few months have been super busy and I haven’t painted anything new, but I have a collection of over 30 paintings and I definitely want to exhibit those, hopefully soon,” she says

Bobby Deol on playing young Dharam, the similarities between him and his father, and reuniting with him and brother to take the Yamal Pagla Deewana franchise forward
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 9, 2018) 

What was it like to reunite with dad Dharmendra and brother Sunny for the Yamla Pagla Deewana franchise?
It’s always exciting working with dad and my brother. I wish I could do more work with them but it takes time to find good a script. This franchise itself is returning after four years.

This is the fourth film, if you include Apne, to feature the three Deols. Does it get easier working together over time?
During Apne there was some nervousness because I was facing someone I’d looked up to all my life, someone who is a father before an actor to me. But dad is an amazing co-star. He motivates you, gives you space and encourages you to improvise. He’s full of surprises as an actor.

Apne wasn’t your first film together. You had played the young Dharam in Dharam-Veer in 1977...
(Laughs) I was around six then. Dad was looking for someone to play his character as a child, someone fit, with strong legs, and since it was difficult to find one, asked if I’d play the role. I was game, completely uninhibited. I just wanted to be an actor and was really excited to go on the set. I remember picking up the hammer which was too heavy for little me. They reassured me, saying, “Don’t worry, they have made a lighter one for you.” It was a fleeting appearance, not even 30 seconds, but it made me feel on top of the world. I dubbed my own lines and during the golden jubilee celebrations, since dad was not in town, I went with my chachaji to collected his trophy. They gave me one too.

In the first Yamla Pagla Deewana you had recreated your dad’s iconic scene from Sholay, lurching drunkenly and threatening to commit suicide. Director Navaniat Singh informs that you have recreated it thrice in Part 3.
This time it was different. Yes, there are moments that resembled what dad had done in his films, including Sholay. It’s fun, who better than his sons to do what he has done before We look alike and there are similarities…

How similar are you?
(Chuckles) I’m as gullible as dad. My brother too is a lot like him, at times.

There are moments in the film when you’re upset with him for not paying rent. What makes you angry for real?
I don’t like people who lie and who are fake. Humans get angry easily (laughs). We are more angry than happy, we only need reasons to get upset.

Earlier, we knew Bobby as the Deol who could dance and was good in action films. Now, we are getting to see your comic timing too.
Given a choice I’d still like to do more action films and thrillers. Even as a viewer that’s what I enjoy. Comedy was the third choice but it’s the flavour of the industry today and I don’t want to be left behind. I enjoy the genre. Dad’s comic timing is on another level and that motivates me. It can be difficult or easy depending on how you feel and the script. Some scripts are not funny and you wonder why you’re doing what you are. It works when the writer, director and the actors work as a team.

You’ve just returned from the first schedule of Housefull 3. That must have been fun.
I’ve known Akshay (Kumar) and Riteish (Deshmukh) for years, Sajid Nadiadwala since my first film and Sajid Khan since college. All of them have great chemistry having done a lot of films together and it was fun being a part of that. It was fun understanding and learning their brand of comedy during those 12 days. The main shooting will start in September in India.   

Do you believe in punar janam now, given that the film deals with reincarnation?
(Laughs) As a kid someone told me a story about rebirth and it upset me. I insisted I’d only return as my mum and dad’s son as I couldn’t live without them.

Twinkle, your first co-star in Barsaat, is now married to Akshay. Did you find time to catch up when in London?
Tina hardly comes to the sets but my wife (Tanya) and she went with the kids to Hyde Park. Aarav (Akshay, Twinkle’s son) and Aryaman are around the same age and bonded well. I was working most of the time and Tina was doing her art course.

Are your sons, Aryaman and Dharam, showing an interest in the craft?
There is no business like showbiz and my sons are definitely inclined towards it. But at the moment I want them to concentrate on their studies so that they have options open to them.

Sunny’s son Karan is gearing up for his launch. Any advice for your nephew?
Nobody likes advice. As a youngster even I thought I knew everything. As long as they listen to what you say and follow it, it’s okay. Everyone learns from their own experiences. I just tell the kids to be focussed on their work, everything else will fall in place.

In a song with Kriti Kharbanda “Nazar Battu”, you don’t look older than 20. What have you done to set the clock back?
(Laughs) I’ve just started taking better care of myself — eating right, working out, being focussed. Luckily, I have great genes, my dad doesn’t look 80. And when you are positive from within, the energy makes you look younger and fresher.

Race 3 brought Salman Khan into your life. Any other collaborations on the way?
I hope so. We are constantly in touch, he’s monitoring my workouts. He is always so concerned and motivating. He’s such a superstar, yet he cares so much for others. I don’t have words to express what I feel for him.

Karan Johar is all set to revive the Dostana franchise. What memories does the 2008 film bring back for you?
Karan is a great producer. He took such good care of us. And it was so much fun being on the set with John (Abraham), Abhishek (Bachchan), Priyanka (Chopra) and the director, Tarun Mansukhani. I was wondering why it’s taking them so long to spin a sequel and now finally they have a script. I’m looking forward to seeing Dostana 2.

Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 7, 2018)

Mirror had earlier reported (July 21) that veteran actors Dharmendra and Shatrughan Sinha who have shared screen space in films like Dost, Blackmail and Teesri Aankh, among others, and were last seen in KC Bokadia’s 1998 film Zulmo-situm, are reuniting with Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se. Last week, the veteran duo shot their scenes and Dharmendra admitted that the schedule made him nostalgic.

“We have been close ever since Dost, our first film together. His birthday is on December 9 while mine is a day earlier. He would bring gifts for my birthday and I jokingly flung them at him saying, ‘take it back’. We are like family. Shatru is like a younger brother to me. His wife Poonam played my younger sister in Aadmi Aur Insaan, her second film,” Dharmendra told Mirror.

According to the 82-year-old actor, it was a treat for the crew too, apparently, as Sunny told him, “Papa, we should make a film with just the two of you together.” While Dharmendra isn’t willing to reveal much about their scenes, he informs, “He’s playing a judge and I’m a lawyer. It’s interesting because he must do his duty as well as maintain our relationship. I can’t reveal more because it will give the story out.”

Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; August 5, 2018)

Dharmendra, Sunny and Bobby Deol are slated to return to the silver screen with the third instalment of their popular comedy franchise Yamla Pagla Deewana. A lot of changes have already happened in the film’s release date, with Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se being moved from its original Independence Day release date to August 31 now.

However, the latest news is that the team is re-shooting the climax. An informer reveals, “The movie had wrapped up, but after seeing the first cut, the team wanted to fine-tune the end sequences. Hence, they decided to re-shoot it. They had to film for three-four days to enhance it.”

An insider says, “They had asked Rishi Kapoor to do a cameo, but that didn’t materialise due to some reason. So, extra scenes were added with Shatrughan Sinha, who was always meant to do a cameo. The entire crew began filming the climax from August 2. Today will be the last day of shoot. It’s a courtroom scene and the Deols have been stationed at Film City. They are quite happy with the way the climax has shaped up now.”

Although there was buzz that the film might get pushed ahead a bit, the team is making sure that it hits the marquee on August 31 as planned. “They have finished it well before time, so there’s no question of a delay,” adds the source.

Former co-stars to share the screen after 29 years for the latter’s upcoming comedy
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 21, 2018)

Shatrughan Sinha, who was roped in for a guest turn in a song alongside daughter Sonakshi in Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se, now has extended screen time in the film. Mirror has learnt that the veteran actor plays a judge in the film which features Dharmendra and his sons, Sunny and Bobby Deol, as leads. Besides being his first joint appearance with Sona, the film also marks Shatru’s reunion with former co-star Dharmendra.

The duo has previously featured together in films like Dost, Blackmail and Teesri Aankh, among others. They were last seen in Raj N Sippy’s 1989 release, Shehzaade. Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se, which is helmed by Punjabi filmmaker Navniat Singh in his Bollywood debut, sees Dharmendra in the role of a lawyer while Shatru plays a judge. Kriti Kharbanda is on board as Bobby’s love interest.

“The role came at short notice, but I couldn’t say no. We have worked together in several films, this is a friendly appearance that I’m doing. I begin shooting in early August,” Shatru told Mirror.

He adds that he is also looking forward to seeing Sonakshi with him on the big screen. “It is the first time that she and I will be seen together, even if it is just a few minutes as part of a song. So, this film is special for many reasons and I’m looking forward to be on set.”

The father-daughter duo had shot for the dance number, the film’s title song, along with other guest stars Salman Khan and Rekha in March. The song which also incorporates “Oh Mere Sona Re” from Teesri Manzil and “Rafta Rafta” from Kahaani Kismat Ki, was choreographed by Remo D’souza.

Bobby Deol admits his self-imposed exile from the screen was a mistake and expresses gratitude to ‘angel’ Salman Khan for getting him back into action
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 11, 2018)

He was MIA for a few years but now Bobby Deol is back in the race, basking in the appreciation he’s getting for his new chiselled physique, the result of hours in the gym, kicking and punching with his martial arts trainer, along with a conscious focus on diet and discipline. “It’s awesome, all this love that’s been coming my way. I get angry for not taking better care of myself earlier and for not doing more films in the last few years. It’s too late for regrets but I will work every day now for the rest of my life,” says the actor.

Currently in London for Housefull 4 which kicked off on Monday and reunited him with buddies Akshay Kumar and Riteish Deshmukh, after many years, Bobby is looking forward to the laughs. “Sajid Nadiadwala (producer) makes sure his team is always happy. The script is really funny, very Sajid Khan-ish, a humorous take on reincarnation,” he shares. Does he believe in a second coming himself, you wonder, and he points out that as a member of the Arya Samaj he doesn’t. “But ‘punar janam’ is a part of the Indian culture and psyche. I would want to come back as my papa’s (Dharmendra) son in the next birth, mamma’s too,” he says.

A reel life reunion with papa and brother Sunny in Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se is coming up. “The first part of the franchise did well, the second didn’t, we’re hoping this one works, we’ve spent a lot of time trying to find the right script,” says Bobby. Dharmendra isn’t playing his father this time but a lawyer who’s his paying guest while Sunny is an ayurvedic doctor dealing in jadi-booti. “I’m a Punjabi going to Gujarat after his ladylove,” he adds.

Pictures of Bobby’s sons have been doing the rounds with the elder one, Aryaman, sparking speculations that he’ll be the next Deol to be launched after Sunny’s son Karan. “I’m blessed, he’s a beautiful child, not just from the outside. He has a beautiful soul too,” beams the proud father. “He’s just turned 17 and I don’t want him to grow up before his time. I have kept my kids out of the limelight and away from the media as I want them to enjoy their childhood like I did. They can then choose to do what they want. Right now, Aryaman’s interests are studies and cricket,” he says. Did he want to be anything other than an actor? “Never, I always wanted to be an actor and will be one,” he says.

Meanwhile, he’s found a mentor and guide in Salman Khan. “He came into my life like an angel and treats me like a younger brother, finding ways to selflessly do things for me. Recently, he called me from the US to wish me luck before I went on stage for a performance. He’s awesome!” Bobby exults. Point out that their last release, Race 3, has entered the Rs 100 crore club but not lived up to the sky-high expectations and Bobby reasons, “Every film has its own life and reactions differ from person to person. The social media today is really strong, pictures of my new look went viral instantly and people have also been raving about the action scenes. This hasn’t happened to me in a long time. It’s what Salman wanted for me. Race 3 has given me more than what I hoped for and with it has come the realisation that it was a mistake keeping myself away from all this love.”

Any plans to turn producer or director? “I was always a part of our production house, Vijeta Films, but don’t see myself as a director,” he says. “I’m an actor, I want to play good characters and I’m not looking at only lead roles or films. I wouldn’t mind doing a series with high production values and an exciting role.”

Deepali Singh (DNA; June 21, 2018)

For the past few days, Bobby Deol has been busy rehearsing for an awards show where he will perform after a gap of seven years. But the actor isn’t nervous. “I believe I have nothing to lose and only have things to gain now. I just have to work towards that,” he says.

However, he admits that there will be a nervous energy when he’s about to go up there in front of the audience. “That’s just how it is, no matter how many times you have gone on stage. There is an anxiousness to perform well,” he adds.

Now it’s a given, that among the medley of his earlier hit tracks, it will be Race 3’s numbers, including Selfish and Party Chale On, which will see the Deol boy set the stage on fire with an electrifying act. The movie, which is doing immensely well, also happens to be Bobby’s entry into the Rs 100 crore club and the actor says he couldn’t be happier. “It’s just amazing when you get appreciation for your hard work. People have genuinely liked it and that makes me feel good. It inspires me to do better,” he says with a smile.

For the actor, who put in a tremendous effort into his physical transformation, the real reward was to stay true to people’s expectations from him. “I didn’t want to let the audience down and I’m happy that I have moved in the right direction in life as an actor. I’m hoping this brings in better work for me,” he adds. While his mother has seen the film and loved it, papa Dharmendra and brother Sunny are yet to do so. “My brother has been busy with his son’s debut, but he called to say he was happy for me. My dad is also happy. They have seen my hard work and are glad that after a long time, I am so focused,” he says. With Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se coming up next, is this going to be Bobby Deol’s year? “I just hope that every film that I do, takes me forward. It doesn’t matter if a movie doesn’t do well. I will try and do a better job next time,” signs off the new and improved Bobby.

Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 13, 2018)

Bobby Deol is all set to recreate an iconic moment from Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 curry western, Sholay, in which papa Dharmendra drunkenly totters to the top of a tower from where he addresses the whole village, threatening to jump off if Basanti’s mausi doesn’t agree to the match. That ‘suicide’ scene will be seen thrice in the upcoming comedy, Yamla Pagla Deewaa Phir Se (YPDPS), which features Dharmendra, Bobby and elder brother Sunny.

Director Navaniat Singh is however quick to clarify that it’s not a cut-paste job, the scene was incorporated into the story because Bobby’s character in YPDPS while meek and mild during the day, gets drunk every night and pours his heart out to not just his brother, played by Sunny, but the entire mohalla. His grouse is against one particular character but he takes their fight up to the terrace of his Amritsar home and makes it public, much in the way that his father did back in the 1975 film.

“The flavour of the scene is the same, but the situations are very different,” clarifies Singh, who is making his Bollywood debut with the film, adding, “Dharamji was present when Bobby sir was in action and he was enjoying himself as much as everyone else.”

The earlier instalments were directed by Samir Karnik and Sangeeth Sivan respectively and interestingly in Part 1 too, Bobby had enacted a version of the same scene, admitting that he was really nervous when Sameer insisted on it. The crowd present at the studio made him all the more jittery, but he had pulled it off.

Part 3 is produced by Sunny Deol, Kamayani Punia Sharma, Aarushi Malhotra and Jayantilal Gada and Navaniat brought his own vibe, making the characters more real. “The story is not connected to the first two instalments,” he says in conclusion.

The duo is singing a romantic number for the actor’s upcoming release
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 12, 2018)

After lending her voice to two songs in Salman’s upcoming action thriller Race 3, “Selfish” and “Party Chale On”, Iulia Vantur is all set to team up with the actor again. Mirror has learnt that the duo will give playback for a romantic track featuring Bobby Deol and Kriti Kharbanda in their upcoming action comedy Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se, the third instalment in the franchise which also features papa Dharmendra and big brother Sunny.

A source associated with the project reveals that the idea came about recently when the film’s makers were looking for a song for a romantic sequence between Bobby and Kriti. “Over a dinner meet, Salman admitted he had a song ready which he’d shortlisted for one of his upcoming films but was happy to give it to Bobby. Iulia recorded her portions in a Mumbai studio last week and Salman will record his once he completes the promotions of Race 3. The video will be shot next month at a Mumbai studio.” YPD 3 is complete and the makers are eyeing an Independence Day release.

Mirror had earlier reported (March 8) that Salman had shot for a special appearance which sees him grooving with Rekha, Dabbang co-star Sonakshi Sinha and her dad Shatrughan, besides the Deols. The actresses have lent their voices to this recreated mash-up of the golden oldies “O Mere Sona Re” from Teesri Manzil and “Rafta Rafta” from Kahani Kismat Ki, choreographed by Race 3 director Remo D’souza.

Salman is also planning to produce a film for Bobby and is personally looking at scripts and for a director. “It will bring Bobby back as a Greek God,” he promises, pointing out that back in the day, Bobby was fondly called ‘Jattallion’ by friends. “It was a great way of describing a charming, good-looking star. The film will be well-timed, has the right budget and mass appeal with action and dance being taken to the next level.”

The actress has recorded four songs with composer Vishal Mishra that will be released in the next few months
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 6, 2018)

After painting, Sonakshi Sinha is gearing up to unveil another talent that she has been honing for a while. The 31-year-old actress will showcase her singing prowess in the next few months through four singles that she has recorded with composer Vishal Mishra. The duo is already planning more singles with the actress wielding the mic again.

Vishal, when contacted, confirmed the news to Mirror, saying, “The first song is a Punjabi number but with an international feel to it as it features dancehall, jazz and R&B elements, among others. We recorded it last month. Three other songs followed soon after and all of them will be released in the coming months, with the first one coming out in August. Sonakshi sounds different and amazing in each of these songs.”

Speaking about how the idea of the singles came about, the composer explained, “I recently recorded a song with Sonakshi for Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se (in which she has a guest turn), but we had planned the singles much before that. We have been just jamming at the studio and whenever we get some time we decide on the music. The plan is to record more tracks in the coming months. We are putting in a lot of creative minds into the videos and hopefully they will turn out great too.”

In 2015, Sonakshi had recorded her debut single “Aaj Mood Ishqholic Hai”, a party number composed by the Meet Bros.

Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; June 3, 2018)

A four-year break behind him, Bobby returned to acting with Poster Boys in 2017, and has not looked back ever since. Ahead of the release of Race 3, he reflects on what transpired in the interim

Before the release of Poster Boys last year, you took a four0year break. Why did you do so?
Although, it was made to look like that, the long break wasn’t planned. People said things like, “He’s happy, or he has a lot of money, so, why would he need to work? He’s lazy.” But, that’s not true. I realised [late] that work would not come to me at home, as it used to. I now needed to go out to get it. I stopped looking after myself. As actors, we have to maintain our body. Slowly, I started to hit a low, and suddenly, I was losing everything. I started pitying myself and drank every day. Alcohol is nice, but you shouldn’t overdo it. It takes away your pain for the moment, but, the next day, you wake up with a headache, and the pain is still there [laughs]. But, thankfully, all that is behind me. I have started believing in myself, and I am an actor who is raring to go. I don’t want to sit at home for even a single day.

When did you decide you wanted to come out of that phase?
My family is chiefly responsible for that. My wife [Tanya] would often tell me, ‘Look at how you’re looking. You need to look after yourself.’ My kids were growing up; I was worried they might think that their father was not doing any work, and sitting home all the time. I didn’t want their friends to question them about me, and wanted to be the best role model for them, just like my father [Dharmendra] has been to me. Then Shreyas Talpade came to me with Poster Boys. It may have not done well at the box-office, but I was appreciated. That instilled confidence.

What kind of changes did you introduce in your approach to your career?
I started to think positively. After Poster Boys, we were going to start work on Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se. I took to physical training and started eating mindfully. I haven’t consumed sugar in two years, except when I occasionally indulge in chocolates. I have been off wheat too. I had interacted with Salman [Khan] casually at a celebrity cricket league. We’d been in touch thereafter. Once he told me, “Dekh, jab mera career nahi chal raha tha to main, Sanjay Dutt, aur tere bhai [Sunny] ke peeth pay chadh gaya.” So, I casually said, “Mamu, mujhe tere peeth par chadhnay de.” And, one day, he called and said, ‘Shirt utarega?’ I said, “Mamu, main kuch bhi karunga.” And that’s how Race 3 happened. Shooting for the film was great. Despite being a superstar, Salman is selfless. So, inevitably, everybody on the set became like that. He set the precedent. I am sad that the shoot got over because I enjoyed being part of it. Once, I had a vertigo attack on set, and I could see that everyone was concerned. Anil [Kapoor] too is such an inspiration.

It’s very rare for an established actor like you not to get work.
Work was always there. But the films I was offered weren’t the kind I wanted to do. Also, it’s not that I didn’t approach people for work. But most of them said, “Dekhte hain, kuch karenge.” I met Sajid Nadiadwala around 18 months ago, and that’s how I am part of Housefull 4.

Your nephew, Karan, is making his debut. That must feel great?
Sunny bhaiya has taken it upon himself to direct the film, so that’s a tough job. He got the best out of me in Dillagi [1999, Bobby-starrer directed by Sunny]. I am sure he will get the best out of his son.