While Fardeen Khan has almost completed the shooting of his comeback film Visfot, Zayed Khan is gearing up follow his cousin’s footsteps. In a quick chat, he talks about his second innings in Bollywood and the change that OTT platforms have brought about. Excerpts:

I have not seen a lot of people in a long time and a lot of people have not seen me either. I am working on something really interesting and exciting. There are two projects that I want the producers to have the pleasure of announcing. I have been around, working on myself. When things will start looking up for everyone, we will begin swiftly. We’re all being patient and letting this pandemic phase pass. As for Fardeen, I am really proud of my brother.

When I look at Fardeen, I feel a sense of pride that he’s doing so much work and he’s doing so well for himself. I am just happy for him. There are a lot of things that one has to do, build and protect. There is an urge to be creative and to entertain people.

OTT platforms are important from the point of view of creativity and jobs for actors and technicians. It is definitely going to catapult into something massive. But does that mean cinemas die? I don’t think so. If that was the case, cricket matches and concerts would not happen on ground with so many people in attendance. People would only watch them on their flat-screens and mobile phones. But people are going to concerts, matches and watching movies and feeling a common set of emotions with people they don’t know. That makes us human and that won’t go anywhere. I think it’s criminal to not watch certain movies in cinemas. OTT is obviously a step ahead for the entertainment business, but that also means that the canvas for a film going to cinemas will only get bigger from this point forward.

Veteran Sanjay Khan returns to direction with a biopic on Brigadier Mohammad Usman featuring actor son Zayed Khan as the lead
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; May 18, 2020)

After an 18-year hiatus, veteran Sanjay Khan is set to return to his place behind the camera to kick off a biopic on the 1947 India-Pakistan war hero, Brigadier Mohammad Usman. In what is a cause for a double celebration, the period drama will have him direct son Zayed Khan for the first time.

War dramas have been his forte — after all, Khan was the brain behind Indian television's much-loved show, The Sword of Tipu Sultan. Now, he has found the perfect story of bravura in the brigadier, who had remained with the Indian Army at the time of the Partition and laid down his life in Nowshera, Jammu and Kashmir, during the 1947-48 war. "I am working hard on the script because I want to make it as authentic as possible. I want to depict the Indian Army's bravery, and how they fought despite not being armed with sufficient artillery and equipment. The brigadier's story is one of courage and principle," he says.

Khan's directorial venture will be a re-launch of sorts for Zayed. "He is one of the most handsome actors in the film industry. As a father, it is my duty to make a film for him. The audience will rediscover him in the movie."

MUMBAI MIRROR (May 18, 2019)

Ameesha Patel, who is gearing up for the release of her next film, Desi Magic, with an ensemble cast, is in an upbeat mood. And the months preceding D-day, which she spent roaming the world, is the reason behind it. The actress, who is an avid social media user, and has been keeping her fans abreast about developments on the film. Over the last 15 months Ameesha has been globe-trotting, not just for the shoot but to honour other professional commitments as well. Desi Magic, which is Ameesha’s first home production, is now complete and generating a huge buzz among those who have seen the rushes. Riding the buzz, she’s ensured that Desi Magic is the biggest, most lavishly mounted film by an actress-producer in the romcom genre till date.

Ameesha and her business partner, Kuunal Goomer, have left no stone unturned to meet this objective and while they took their time to wrap it up, they have succeeded in delivering a full-on commercial entertainer. If reports are to be believed, Ameesha is really happy that the film is finally complete. She and her team are currently occupied with the post production and are very confident with the way it is shaping up.

The interesting cast and great music is the USP of Desi Magic. Over the last 15 months, Ameesha and Kuunal have travelled far and wide with it, from Mumbai to Paris, Georgia, London and Bangkok.

While Ameesha plays a double role in the film, she has kept in mind that the story is not just about her but all key components of the script. Rajat Rawail plays a key character from Punjab, who is a die-hard fan of Ranveer Singh’s character Sangram Bhalerao from Simmba. The role promises a lot of laughs. The emotional father-daughter bond between Randhir Kapoor and Ameesha will also touch a lot of hearts.

From music and comedy to emotions, the film has it all and the release date will be announced very soon.

Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; July 31, 2018)

Even after their divorce in 2014, Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan and his ex-wife Sussanne Khan, have been doting parents to their two sons — Hridhaan and Hrehaan. They continue to co-parent their children and ensure that they spend quality time with them. The ex-couple have often been seen watching movies with their children and even taking family vacations together. Sussanne also stood by Hrithik during his face-off with Kangana Ranaut. Their camaraderie has led many to believe that the two might plan to remarry soon.

However, a source close to the couple categorically denies the reports. “The buzz about Hrithik and Sussanne getting remarried is nothing but a ridiculous rumour. We wonder what sparks these rumours. It’s not true.”

Ironically, this news had surfaced in January last year, too. When asked about it during an interview with Bombay Times back then, Hrithik had cleared the air, saying, “Sussanne is my friend for life. We are two loving parents for our kids. My equation with her is very peaceful. I can’t have any relationship in my life that’s not peaceful.” About his thoughts on getting married again, he had said, “No, I don’t think about remarriage at all. I am happy. I feel so fulfilled. I don’t feel the need, but of course, you don’t know what the future holds. For now, I am very content.”

When BT reached out to Zayed Khan (Sussanne’s brother) for a reaction on this news, he said, “It’s very sweet, but this is their personal territory and I would not be the right person to comment on anyone’s personal life.”

Hrithik and Sussanne were married for fourteen years, before their divorce in 2014.

— Inputs by Tanvi Trivedi

Upala KBR (MID-DAY; November 22, 2017)

Veteran actor Sanjay Khan has led a colourful life. That fans of the artiste are eagerly awaiting his much-anticipated biography is fitting, given that he has stayed away from the limelight for several years. “I have written the entire book myself, and have sent the notes to the publishers. They are compiling it. The working title is My Best Mistakes,” Khan tells mid-day.

A source describes Khan’s biography as a “tell-all”, one that will chronicle his journey from his inception in Bollywood to his career highlights. “He debuted as an actor in Chetan Anand’s Haqeeqat (1964) and enjoyed success in TV too. The book will include the important developments in his life over the years,” the source adds.

Fans will also get a peek into the actor’s personal life. “It will highlight his marriage to Zarine, and his relationship with kids, Farah, Simone, Sussanne and Zayed. It may also put the spotlight on Sussanne’s public separation from Hrithik Roshan.”

The source adds that the book will also detail his association with politicians, leaders and industrialists, both in India and overseas.

MUMBAI MIRROR (October 27, 2017)

Hrithik Roshan and ex-wife Sussanne Khan took off to Goa with their boys, Hrehaan and Hridaan, and the extended Roshan clan (Mirror, October 20), to ring in Diwali and matriarch Pinky’s 64th birthday.

Now, back in the city, the duo reunited on Wednesday to celebrate Sussanne’s birthday (October 26) at an Asian gastropub in Lower Parel with friends Twinkle Khanna, Gayatri Oberoi, Sonali Bendre, Karan Johar, brother Zayed Khan and his wife, Malaika.

“A year passes by, and many questions pop into my head... the most significant one being: Am I strong enough to show my weaknesses openly, to sit back and expose my vulnerabilities or shortcomings? Yes, I sure am! It’s with these three hidden treasures, that I learn to build my grit and perseverance,” the birthday girl, who’d arrived for the intimate affair in a black dress and gladiator heels in pink, reflected.

Earlier this month, Hrithik had dropped by Sussanne’s interior concept store and posed for a picture with his ex-wife’s posse at work. “Keep flying high, ladies,” the actor had said later, to which Sussanne exclaimed, “Your energy made us work even better!”

Shaheen Parkar (MID-DAY; October 13, 2017)

Zayed Khan is shifting gears to the small screen with Haasil. Although initially hesitant to foray into television, his doubts were put to rest when he realised his father, Sanjay Khan, enjoyed his biggest success on the same medium. “My father became a household name with The Sword Of Tipu Sultan [1990]. The biggest stars of today are also seen on TV,” he says.

Refusing to be bitter, Khan has taken his lacklustre run in Bollywood in his stride. “There’s no point now in talking about what I could have done and what I should not have done. There are times when you get disillusioned with so many variables at work that you feel you should stay away.”

Last seen in forgettable films like Sharafat Gayi Tel Lene (2015) and Tezz (2012), Khan admits that he was rarely offered projects that challenged him as an artiste. “I always followed the makers, not the money. Fortunately for me, it wasn’t a question of doing stuff to earn bread and butter.”

At a time when many are crying foul over nepotism, Khan is an example of how having a powerful last name does not necessarily guarantee opportunities. A star kid and former brother-in-law of Hrithik Roshan, he says that he didn’t want his lineage to be his ticket to stardom. “I never wanted to be an obligation to anyone, or indulge in an unfair way of using my lineage for career gains.”

He also agrees that he wasn’t as aggressive as his peers — possibly another reason for his short-lived film career. “I know actors are selfish. They should think about themselves, but that’s not my nature.”

MID-DAY (May 5, 2016)

Ameesha Patel talks about turning producer with Desi Magic, reuniting with Gadar co- star Sunny Deol on screen and the fun of being single

How is your maiden production, Desi Magic shaping up? There was a lot of buzz around it after you released the teaser.
Desi Magic is turning out to be better than what was planned and imagined. My business partner, Kuunal Goomer, who came up with the concept and is keenly involved with every aspect of this film, decided to delay the film’s release by over a year — it was a decision that we weren’t really happy about initially. However, with all the changes that he has made to the project, he has taken it to a whole new level. The team is extremely happy with the film and we are looking at completing it in approximately three months. And does the time frame to make and release a film really matter? I don’t think so. What matters is how the film has shaped up when it hits theatres and not how long it took to be made. I can name several films that have only been in the pipeline for five years or so with nothing progressing post an official announcement. The audience goes to the theatre on the merit of a film’s content.


How were Zayed Khan and Saahil Shroff as co- stars?
I am highly fortunate to have been working with two great, good looking, cool guys who were highly professional. I couldn’t have asked for better co-stars in Desi Magic. They were just tailor- made for their characters.

How is your other film, Bhaiyyaji Superhitt, with Gadar (2001) co-star Sunny Deol progressing?
Sixty per cent of it has already been shot. Sunny is the most amazing of all my co-stars till date; he is a great human being. Hopefully, our on-screen chemistry will work wonders again.

How was the experience of working with Bhaiyyaji Superhitt director Neeraj Pathak? Is he a taskmaster?
Oh, he is just amazing. He knows what Sunny and I can do; he gets the best out of us. He has created an out and out commercial entertainer. Preity Zinta, who is also playing one of the lead roles, is someone I am really fond of. And then there is Arshad Warsi. He is terrific as always.

Why have you been away from the big screen all this while?
It was a purely professional decision, but now, I am all geared up for a comeback.


Mehul Atha, director of Desi Magic, belongs to the ad fraternity. Did he come with a different vision?
Unlike many others, Mehul focusses more on characters than stylised shots. He has several big ads to his credit and is extremely thorough with his work. I am sure he will make a mark in the industry after Desi Magic releases.

You and Kuunal appear to be positive and strong minded...
You have hit the nail on the head. Yes, Kuunal is very strong minded and positive, and I can confidently say that his thoughts, vision and plans will be the talk of the industry in the near future. He and I believe in doing everything with utmost positivity.

What is more appealing to you — acting or producing?
They are equally appealing and challenging, to be honest. I would like to do both. Working in films under other banners is more important for any actor than sticking to home productions. And making good films under one’s own banner is a challenging task. I am hopeful, with time, our production house will rise to the challenge and deliver.

You got your first break with Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai (2000). Any plans to give struggling actors a chance to make it big through your production house?
Post Desi Magic, we would love to launch new talents for our other projects.

Was turning producer on your to-do list?
No, it was never on my to-do list. In fact, it was Kuunal who forced me into this! But I am happy that I went ahead with his foresight. I couldn’t have asked God for more; I am in a very happy space at the moment.

What about the news of you being offered a TV show in America?
It is one of the top 10 shows on air today, but I declined it since it would have taken up all my time. At the moment, I am happy with my production venture and also busy doing a film with Sunny. There was no way I could leave India for several months on end.

Who among the present Bollywood actresses do you admire?
I am proud of the way Kareena Kapoor Khan and Alia Bhatt have done for themselves. They deserve every bit of the success that they have earned. Hats off to Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone as well for the wonderful work they are doing and making us proud.

You are known to be a fitness freak and your trainer is said to be the best in the business...
Yes, Klinton Rebello is one of the best trainers, who mentors Olympic athletes. He deserves credit for my fitness.

What is your beauty secret?
I do not believe in starving myself and abusing my body. But I feel blessed to have genes of my mother and grandmother, who are extremely beautiful women. Not having too many vices also helps.

Is love on the horizon for you?
I guess men don’t find me worthy of them. Jokes apart, I am currently focussed on my work. Maybe, a year or two down the line, I will think of a relationship. But doing good films is my priority now.

Anirban Das (MID-DAY; May 3, 2016)

Notwithstanding a series of murky accusations in his very public legal battle with Kangana Ranaut, Hrithik Roshan has found support from his ex wife Sussanne Khan and her family — they were spotted with the actor at a restaurant on Sunday afternoon. Now, Sussanne’s brother, actor Zayed Khan has come out in support of Hrithik as he goes through trying times.

“Hrithik is my brother and I support him in this (tiff with Kangana). My family has also supported him throughout (this episode) and will continue to do so. I must also say that he has handled the matter with a lot of maturity and honesty unlike the other party. It’s been tough, but he has always been a joyful and happy soul, and is being himself even in this situation. He kept focus on every other aspect of his life very well despite this thing (legal battle). I know he is honest; however, I cannot comment on what people out there might think, judge or say,” says Zayed.

On sister Sussanne tweeting in support of Hrithik a few days ago, by posting a picture of them in happier times, Zayed says, “That shows our real character or who we are. That shows our upbringing, the respect we have for each other. Hrithik and I meet on a regular basis and he has discussed the matter with me, but I am not going to reveal what he shared with me. We trust Hrithik in this matter and therefore, the support.” On the sidelines, Zayed talks about his professional commitments and plans to turn producer. He says, “Right now, I am meeting a lot of big producers and filmmakers and a lot of work is going to happen. I am open to go for auditions and bag films on merit. I want to be part of larger than life films because people want entertainment. I also have plans to produce TV shows and films. There is a lifestyle show that I will produce; an action film is also in the pipeline.”

But what is keeping him excited is his recently launched mobile app through which one can instantly connect with someone they spot in their vicinity. “A lot of people fear rejection. And that is how I thought of coming up with this app. If someone spots somebody attractive in a club, coffee shop, park and wants to crack a conversation, he or she can direct message the person within half kilometre radius through the app,” he smiles.

Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 27, 2016)

Kangana Ranaut was the star attraction at her success party, Manyata Dutt dropped by for a quick ten-minute chat, but Manu stayed away
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 11, 2015)

On Tuesday, a bash was hosted in a suburban five-star hotel to toast the success of Tanu Weds Manu Returns. Not surprisingly, the film's heroine, or should that be heroines since the sequel boasted of two Kangana Ranaut, was the star attraction.

As soon as the actress stepped out of her car in Dior heels, holding a black clutch and looking sexy in an off-shoulder Bibhu Mohapatra gown (America's First Lady Michelle Obama also wore his label during her trip to India in January), the paparazzi went clickety click. The two-time National Award winner was obviously in high spirits because as soon as she stepped on to the stage, she asked, "Why are we giving speeches? Isn't this supposed to be a parrrdddyyyy..."

She asked the DJ to kick off the music and since her shy writer-director, Aanand L Rai, did not want to shake a leg, Kangana took the dance floor, alone, and swung to the film's chartbusters, Banno tera swagger and Move on, for the next 30 minutes. Atta girl!

"I'm the Raniyon ki Rani... The Queen of Queens," she announced without any fake modesty, posing between two standees of Tanu and Datto.

Manu, however, was missing in action, literally. R Madhavan tweeted his exasperation, "Argghhhhhhh missed the success Bash of @TWMR LAST Night.... Sooo much fun and I was stuck in Malaysia.... Arggghhhhhhhhhhh (sic)."

Jimmy Sheirgill was in town but was stuck dubbing for an upcoming Punjabi film. Arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh (sic)!

Deepak Dobriyal, the lovable Pappi bhaiya, had everyone cracking up when they heard his wisecracks.

Tusshar Kapoor arrived with his leggy Kya Kool Hain Hum 3 co-star, Mandana Karimi.

Zayed Khan gave the Rani a bear hug and complimented her saying, "You look smokin' hot, Kangy," before he hit the bar. Cheers!

Also spotted in the dark and smoky ballroom were Manasvi Mamgai (remember Action Jackson?), choreographers, Saroj Khan and Caesar, singer Shaan and his wife Radhika and of course, the producers Sunil and Krishika Lulla, with their CEO friends Raj Nayak and Ajit Thakur.

But the surprise guest was Manyata Dutt. Sanjay Dutt's 'better half', who made a striking picture in a figure-hugging white dress, stopped at the entrance to tell the gathered media that she loved the film, then stepped into the 'private room' to spend some time with Kangana. Ten minutes and Manyata was out and away. But Banno tera swagger lage sexy played on...

Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 19, 2015)

Neeraj Pandey's biopic on Mahendra Singh Dhoni, M S Dhoni - The Untold Story, will explore a lot more than the Indian cricket captain's on-field track record. A source close to the development told Mirror, that the director has incorporated his now dead, ex-girlfriend into the script, with the 33 year old's consent.

No, this lady is not civil engineer-turned-actress Komal Jha, who he reportedly wooed as a struggler in Ranchi.

According to reports, she didn't reciprocate his love at the time but wanted to get back with him when he became famous. But the cricketer had moved on by then. Nor is it model, Lakshmi Raai. "This girl passed away and the makers are looking for a new face to play the character whose entry and exit marks a turning point in MSD's life," adds the source.

The actress who will play his wife, Sakshi, an integral part of the film, will make an entry after this character's death. The source refuses to reveal her name but says that no one has ever heard of her and that is what makes her character so interesting. "It's a blast from the past that will be one of the talking points of Dhoni's story," adds the source.

Meanwhile, dismissing rumours about playing Zaheer Khan in the film, Bigg Boss Season 8 winner, Gautam Gulati, says, "I have not been approached for any role in the film." Zayed Khan who is supposed to be playing fast bowler Ishant Sharma, echoed his words, saying, "I am not a part of the film."

Subhash K Jha (DNA; March 18, 2015)

Ameesha Patel’s first home production Desi Magic got delayed because Ravi Kissen played the villain…. in more ways than one. The Bhojpuri star took off for three months to fight the Lok Sabha elections while Ameesha and her team twiddled its thumbs.

She says, “Ravi was stationed in his constituency during the elections. Obviously, he couldn’t shoot for us. That did slow us down. So did the fact that our leading man Zayed Khan tore a ligament in his leg, and Randhir Kapoor, who plays an important role, took off on a holiday”.

But she isn’t complaining. “We are in no hurry to release Desi Magic. We will release only after the school examinations and the IPL end. Our film is for an audience from the age of six to 60. As the name suggests, there’s a magical quality about it. The film has the innocent romantic charm of Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and my own Kaho Na…Pyar Hai.”

Ameesha feels commercial mainstream cinema has lost its innocence. “We either have the Dabangg kind of action films or the cheesy comedies that no family can watch together. We feel Desi Magic brings back the pleasure of the rom-com.”

The actress, who saw great success in the initial stage of her career has been going through a slump period. She is hoping to revive her career with DM. “A lot of our cinema today looks like an extension of television. Why would the ticket-buying public pay to see on the large screen what they already have at home? Desi Magic will hopefully revive the magic of the moves,” she concludes.

Cine stars had their share of bloopers this year when they didn’t think twice before putting their thoughts across
Gaurav Dubey & Shilpi Sampad (MID-DAY; December 24, 2014)

Who doesn’t know the feeling of saying the wrong thing at the wrong time? Well, everyone — including Bollywood stars, who so fluently and impeccably deliver elaborate lines onscreen.

But the fact that every word and action of theirs is documented, given the constant media scrutiny, makes it only worse. Be it during film promotions, at public appearances or chat shows, a few actors found themselves way off the mark while putting their thoughts into words. hitlist gives you a lowdown on some of the weirdest statements made by B-Town folk this year.

Sonam Kapoor
She is famously known as Bollywood's fashion icon and infamously as Bollywood's motor mouth. On many occasions, Sonam tried injecting humour into her comments or be too concerned but it often backfired. The statement below takes the cake.

Quote unquote: "People (who) make so-called art films, why do you have to take like not-nice-looking people? Like why? Doesn't make sense, and just that they don't look good does not mean they are good actors!"



Varun Dhawan
Prior to the release of his Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, the young actor was rumoured to be dating his co-star Alia Bhatt. And even if it were true, haven't you heard love is blind? At times, it is dumb too. And when Varun heaped a loaded praise on Alia, comparing her to a Hollywood legend, we couldn't help but cringe.

Quote unquote: "Alia is the Robert De Niro of our generation."


Anil Kapoor
A daughter is generally the apple of her father's eye but that doesn't mean the latter should lose sight of the happenings around him. Unfortunately, this veteran star did.

Quote unquote: "Fawad was already a star before Khoobsurat. Now he's a superstar. Sonam is very lucky for her heroes; Ranbir Kapoor became a star after Saawariya. Dhanush and Farhan Akhtar went to the next level in their careers after Raanjhanaa and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Now it's Fawad."



Arjun Kapoor
Known as one of the most mischievous young actors around, he made more news for the bromance with his friend and co-star, Ranveer Singh, than for his chemistry with actresses this year.

Quote unquote: "Me and Ranveer will get married when the law changes (sic)."


Bipasha Basu
Self-praise is a good way to keep oneself motivated. But, this Bong beauty, who has been struggling to make a comeback, took it a little too far by giving herself a grand title.

With reference to her upcoming supernatural film Alone, Bipasha Basu went on a self-praise mode. Talking about her 14-year-old career, she said she rightfully deserved the title of 'Horror Queen of Hindi Film Industry'

Quote unquote: "I have been acting in films since the past 14 years and I have a large filmography. Yes, I have done a huge number of horror films and people call me the 'Horror Queen Of Hindi Film Industry' rightfully."


Zayed Khan
Don't we know of a particular kind of carpenters which always blames his tools? This actor, who has had a not-so-successful career in films, decided to blame it on some wrong choices he has made.

Quote unquote: "My films didn't justify my talent."

MID-DAY (October 22, 2014)

Ameesha Patel is currently shooting in Thailand for her debut production, Desi Magic. The unit has been shooting on the beaches in Phuket and the actress-producer is happy to be away from Mumbai’s sweltering heat. Desi Magic is being produced under her banner, Ameesha Patel Productions and has her business partner, Kuunal Goomer, as co-producer. Zayed Khan and Sahil Shroff, who feature in the romantic comedy, are part of the current shoot schedule. The unit has been shooting for a song sequence. According to a crew member, director Mehul Atha had the cast in beach wear for the shoot. “It was a colourful sight. The characters created quite a stir on the beaches in Thailand,” adds the unit member.

Vickey Lalwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 20, 2014)

Dia Mirza is married. And she has made her preference public that she would like her first baby to be a daughter.

On October 18, when she exchanged marital vows with beau and business partner Sahil Sangha, the pandit while chanting the mantras, he happened to say, "Hum kamna karte hain ki aap jaldi ek putra ki mata bane." Immediately, Dia and her groom interrupted him and asked that they wanted a 'putri' and not a 'putra'.

The couple has known each other for almost seven years. Cupid struck early but the wedding was postponed twice, once in last November and again this January. Dia officially became Mrs Sangha at a farmhouse in Gurgaon on this Sunday in the presence of friends that included Rajkumar Hirani, Nikhil Advani, Sushmita Sen, Lara Dutta with hubby Mahesh Bhupathi, Shantanu-Nikhil and Zayed Khan among others.

Dia looked resplendent in a Ritu Kumar designed green and beige ensemble while Sahil was dapper in a Raghavendra Rathore outfit.

Mirror has learnt that Dia's mother will stay with the couple. Said a source, "Dia is very close to her mother and Sahil is extremely fond of her as well."