Arun Nalawade & Shashank Shende to come face to face in ‘Happy Birthday’
What do you expect when two experienced and popular artistes come face to face on screen ? In the past, we have seen such combinations through films like ‘Pinjara‘, ‘Sarkarnama‘, ‘Valu‘, ‘Deool‘, ‘Natasamrat‘ and many other films. With the presence of such versatile artistes, the director takes up the challenge to extract the best out of them, to present the best war of words between them. Now, in the forthcoming Marathi film, ‘Happy Birthday‘ the Marathi film lovers will witness one such pair in the form of ‘Shwaas‘ fame Arun Nalawade & ‘Ringan‘ fame Shashank Shende. Incidentally, both their films won National awards and therefore there are big expectations from their forthcoming film.
‘Happy Birthday‘ presents the story of a sixteen year old boy suffering from Thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder. Produced by Dilip Kolte , this film is directed by Narayan Gondal, who has presented his vision, giving cinematic form to this story. The film is all set to release on 24th November 2017.
“I was very keen on doing a film on the subject of river” – Sandeep Sawant
Some film makers are so passionate about a particular subject that it does not matter for them, how long it takes to make a film on this subject. Sandeep Sawant who made his debut as a producer and director through his Marathi film ‘Shwaas‘ not only won the National Award for the best film, but found his film’s entry from India for the prestigious Oscars. This happened exactly after 50 years for Marathi cinema, as earlier Marathi film ‘Shyamchi Aai‘ had earned this honour. ‘Shwaas’ was ranked 6th in the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film category. And, this was certainly a big achievement for Marathi films and maker of this film Sandeep Sawant.
Now, after 13 years Sandeep is returning with his 2nd film ‘Nadi Vahate‘ , which is all set to release on 22nd September 2017. Sandeep Sawant has really worked hard in making this film on this most relevant social subject. Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented film maker, to know more about his work.
Q: ‘Shwaas‘ was released in 2004 . So, it has taken almost 13 years for you to release your next film ‘Nadi Vahate‘ . Why it has taken so long ?
A: Though ‘Shwaas‘ was released in 2004, I remained busy with this film till 2006, because of film’s participation at different places and post release formalities. It was after that I focused on my favourite subject of ‘River’ and then began the work on extensive research, script on this subject, screenplay etc. to give this subject a perfect cinematic look. Then, it was the question of raising finance, as there are very few producers who come forward to make a film on such subjects. Finally, when myself and my wife Neeraja were ready with our budget, we actually began the work on this film.
Q.: Your wife Neeraja is also art director and costume designer of this film. So, her involvement in this film was from the very beginning. Isn’t it?
A: Yes, Neeraja’s actual involvement into the film started from the beginning, with research and other work.
Q: You have many new artistes in your film. How was their selection done?
A: All these artistes may be new to Marathi film audience, but they are very good artistes. We selected them, after holding several workshops at different places. Priority was given to those, who could speak with that particular accent required in the film. And, they have proved themselves worth.
Q: You completed ‘Shwaas‘ with total 30 shooting days. Did it take the same time for ‘Nadi Vahate‘ ?
A: It’s not the question of number of shooting days. The time period between the shooting schedule gets stretched over a period of time, according to different locations and other requirements. For ‘Nadi Vahate‘ it took me 11 months, as I had to capture different seasons to meet the requirement of my script.
Q: What is the major change you observed in last thirteen years, after you changed the tradition with your path breaking film ‘Shwaas‘ ?
A: Certainly, the quality of films has improved. Now, you find many new subjects attempted by new directors. But, there are very few producers coming forward to release such films on different sensible subjects.
Q: Now that your film is complete with distribution network, what is your strategy to promote this film?
A: We are visiting different places in various districts and holding sessions with shows and talking to people over there, about this film and importance of this subject. Then, there is continuous promotion on social networking sites like facebook and others. And, we are getting good response.
‘Shwaas’ fame Sandeep Sawant to return with ‘Nadi Vahate’
With his debut film as a director Sandeep Sawant shot into fame after release of his Marathi film ‘Shwaas‘, which not only won National award in 2004 but was also India’s entry for Oscars. Now, almost after 13 years, Sandeep is returning with his next film ‘Nadi Vahate‘, which will be released in September 2017.
Today, it is a big challenge for the people living in villages to preserve the river flowing in and around their village. To keep the river clean and make proper use of it, is the need of the time. ‘Nadi Vahate’ is set on the backdrop of this important timely issue. Recently, this film was conferred with special awards at the Zee Gaurav awards and Pune International film festival. Produced by Sandeep Sawant and Neerja Patwardhan under the banner of Sahaj Films, the cinematography of ‘Nadi Vahate‘ film is by Sanjay Memane. Editing by Niraj Vhoralia and art direction- dress design by Neerja Patwardhan are other credits.
Shwaas
Rating:
Censor: U/A
Duration: 120 mins
Director: Sandeep Sawant
Writer: Sandeep Sawant
Cast & Crew
Writer: Sandeep Sawant
Cast: Arun Nalavade …. Grandfather Vichare
Ashwin Chitale …. Parashuram (Grandson)
Sandeep Kulkarni …. Dr. Sane
Amruta Subhash
Awards: National Award for best film in 2004
India’s official entry to the 2004 Oscars and was ranked 6th in the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film category.
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Anshuman Vichare – Bright future ahead
Coming from a middle class family from Chiplun a picturesque place in Konkan, Anshuman Vichare has established himself with his own identity today in Marathi entertainment industry. Since his childhood, Anshuman was passionate about acting and he moved in that direction setting his goal. After completing his school education he joined college for his commerce degree. Besides studying, he also found time for his acting.
Anshuman Vichare
It was during his college days that Anshuman made up his mind to pursue his career in acting. He started taking part in various state level competitions. He performed in one act plays and went on to win various prizes. He bagged six awards from Mumbai University for his proficiency in acting. Anshuman also studied a Diploma course in marketing management, but his focus always remained on acting.
We have all seen him on Doordarshan’s popular programmes like ‘Awad Aapli’ ‘Gammat Jammat’ and others. In all, he performed in 18-20 Marathi serials and about 4-5 Hindi serials. But, ‘Uchapati’ and ‘Abhalmaya’ gave him some recognition. Anshuman made his film debut through ‘Shwaas’.
At the same time he assisted Basu Chatterjee in his documentary ‘Nayee Subhah’ and Shailesh Prabhakar for his documentary on ‘Footpath’ and ‘Suvarnakaal Sangeet Rangabhoomicha’. He also assisted Mangesh Kadam for his play ‘Bhramacha Bhopala’ and other projects.
Anshuman has to his credit few Hindi films too. ‘Hotel Dot Com’, ‘Detective Naani’, ‘Damaad Ke Intazaar Mein’, ‘Bhulva’ are some of them. However, the most memorable moment for him came, when he was declared the winner of second chapter of reality show ‘Fu Bai Fu’, alongwith Atul Todankar. Last year one of his films ‘Hungama’ was released. His role in this film was somethging special and won him the Sanskruti Kala Darpan award. The other films released were ‘Ved Laavi Jeeva’, Bharat Aala Parat’ and ‘Irsaal Gavchi Irsaal Manse’ .
Now, Anshuman is eagerly awaiting for his forthcoming film ‘Swarajya – Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’. There is also a short film ‘ Salute to 7:33′ in which he plays freedom fighter Rajguru. Then, there is a play ‘Ek Maau Char Bhaau’ and film ‘Misalpaav’ in the pipeline. But, at present he is going strong with his play – ‘Eh Chal Asa Nasata Re’ which is inviting attention from theatre lovers. Directed by Prasad Dani, Anshuman is really doing well in the company of Savita Mehendale, Ajinkya Date and Sangram Salvi.
In days to come, there are big expectations from a talented actor like him in this Marathi entertainment industry.
“I love to perform variety of roles” – Sandeep Kulkarni
If you look at his educational background, he is supposed to be the most creative person in the Marathi film world. Having done his graduation from Mumbai’s illustrious educational institution – Sir J J school of Arts, Sandeep Kulkarni opted for advertising field and later switched over to acting profession , which is also another art form. Today, he is the most popular actor of Marathi movies.
Beginning his film career with Bollywood stalwarts like Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani through their films ‘Mammo’ and ‘Hazaar Courasi ki Maa’ respectively , Sandeep Kulkarni first took lessons from acting guru Satyadev Dube at the most appropriate time, under whose guidance he could then progress confidently. In late 80s he began his stage career with plays like ‘Majha Khel Mandu De’ and ‘Dhyani Mani’. Besides few Bollywood movies, he was also seen in popular Hindi TV serials like ‘Discovery of India’, ‘9 Malabar Hill’, and ‘Nyay’. But, his entry into popular Marathi serial ‘Avantika’ actually brought him into limelight. He was soon offered the role of Dr. Sane in a Marathi film ‘Shwaas’, which not only won the national award but was India’s entry for the Oscars.
In fact, film ‘Shwaas’ of which Sandeep was a major part, had actually brought in that desired change into Marathi films. And, good days were here for Sandeep, who was spotted as the perfect character to play angry young man of Marathi films to fight injustice in the society. Mr. Apte came as a tailor made role for his kind of personality in the film ‘Dombivali Fast’ made by award winning director Nishikant Kamat. Later, Sandeep went on to be part of films like ‘Bedhund’, ‘Mai Baap’,’Made in China and ‘Sane Guruji’ but his performance in action packed thriller ‘Gaiir’ also went on to prove that he was an actor par excellence, fit to perform any kind of role.
In 2008, Sandeep received the best actor award during Nigerian Film festival for his role in ‘Ek Daav Sansaracha’ Earlier in 2006 , he had won the popular Screen Award for best actor in ‘Dombivali Fast’. In fact, ‘Dombivali Fast’ was the film which also received attention at many international film festivals but the best compliment came from Los Angeles Film festival, when Michael Douglas appreciated the film. If you study his profile, most of his films have been part of international film festivals.
Being very particular about accepting the roles based on not only good script but good cinematic presentation in the screenplay, he is now all set to invite attention of his admirers through his forthcoming film ‘Pratisaad’ which is due for release on 21st May 2010. In this film Sandeep plays a Homeopathy doctor. The script is based on the success story of a popular Homeopath Dr. Amarendra Nikam from Pimpri, Pune. He is also playing an important role of a Muslim character in next Bollywood film ‘Bandaa‘.
In an interview to Marathi Movie World, Sandeep Kulkarni speaks about his acting career and future assignments.
Q: You have been branded as the angry young man of Marathi films, who cannot stand to injustice in the society. Does the real Sandeep also react in the same fashion?
A: – ( Smile). Yes, to a certain extent, but I don’t express my anger that spontaneously, as I did through different roles in films. Like any other common man, I too dislike certain disturbing acts of people, who take others for granted. One has to respect the law and behave like a sensible citizen.
Q: How much is your involvement in your film, besides acting ?
A: I totally get involved right from the shooting till the film is distributed. The involvement also depends upon my personal relationship with the film makers. If I am close to them, then you will even find me helping them in their ad campaign. This is where my original profession comes into operation. And, I enjoy doing that job too, which is full of creativity. In my past film ‘Gaiir’ and the forthcoming film ‘Pratisaad’ my involvement has been there in the ad campaign too .
Q: You have been very choosy about your roles. Does the story and the role offered to you matter a lot ?
A: It is not only the story and role offered, but what I am more particular about is the presentation of screenplay. Unfortunately, today not many Marathi and Hindi film makers are paying attention to screenplay, which is the heart of the film. If your screenplay is good, you are sure to catch attention of the audience and hold them back to their seats from start till end. I really get inspired when I see the work of late Vijay Tendulkar through the screenplays written by him. With limitations during his time, he was so perfect in his presentation on paper.
‘I am too eager to do variety of roles in films’- Vibhavari Deshpande
Few years ago she was seen just one of those smart young girls in in the city of Pune pursuing her job as a professional writer after completing her Mass Communication. Now, we see her playing a typical old fashioned Village woman of 60s or a traditional Maharashtrian woman of early 20th century. It does give a feeling whether another Smita Patil is born. For an artist of her caliber it is the character that’s most important. Watching her perform in ‘Harichandrachi factory’and ‘Natarang’ in prominent roles, no one could believe that she was just one of those mod college girls moving with modern outfits in Smita Talwalkar’s film ‘Saat Chya Aat Gharaat’, which was released just few years ago.
Toady, Vibhavari Deshpande has certainly made her mark into Marathi films with the help of her solid theatre background. In an interview to MMW, Vibhavari talks about herself and her experiences in this field.
Vibhavari deshpande
Q. What prompted you enter this creative field of acting ?
Since my childhood, while I was studying in Garware High School, Pune, I used to watch Marathi plays. When I joined Fergusson College for my BA course, I started performing on stage. I attended a workshop of Pt. Satyadev Dube and also attended a theatre workshop at NSD , Delhi. There was also lot to learn at Lalit kala Kendra. Later, when I joined GRIP Theatre movement, which is an Indo -German group, I developed myself to write script and also act. After completing my Mass Communication, I was working with Mr. Shrirang Godbole’s Magic Eye, as a professional writer. However, my interest in plays continued. I got my first break into films through ‘Shwaas’ with a small role. Later I played one of the seven students in Smita Talwalkar’s film ‘Saat Chya Aat Gharaat’. Also performed a cameo role in
Amol Palekar’s film and worked in Dr. Jabber Patel’s documentary. That’s how it all began few years ago. In between, I had taken a break for domestic commitments; but now, I am back with films.
Q. Whether it was playing a woman in the era of early 20th century or a typical poor village woman of 1960’s time; how did you prepare yourself mentally ?
It’s all psychological process of believing what you are at that particular moment. For people who are already into acting field, especially having done stage; it becomes much easier. If you are asking my own experience, I paid more attention on body language of these characters. While playing Ms. Phalke in Harischandrachi factory, the director Mr. Paresh Mokashi had already given us clear hints through the scripts; as to how that character is supposed to behave besides the dialogues. It clearly explained that women those days though dressed up according to the tradition, were forward in their thinking process and smart enough to take their own decisions. You must have noticed this lady, saying a flat ‘No’ to playing that much required woman character in that film, when no one was available. It was not because, she was scared, but she knew that she had some other responsibilities to shoulder at that crucial time In ‘Natarang’ I worked more on situation, and accordingly decided to emote strongly , wherever required. Watch that scene, where this lady drives away her husband who returns to take her back. In short, if the script is well written describing the character, performing that role becomes easier.
Q. While Nandu Madhav performed on stage, you appreciated his performance as a teenager. Did you ever think that one day you would play his heroine ?
Not at all. Actually, I knew him before I was signed to play. For me, Nandu was an elderly person, whom I respected a lot. When I was told about my selection to play opposite him, I was trilled.
Q. After watching you in the get up of 9 yard Sarees, Marathi film lovers are keen to watch you in a different style . Are you prepared to take on such challenges ? If so, what kind of roles, you prefer to play ?
Yes, of course! I am too eager to do a different role with a different look; hopefully soon. But, that does not mean that I am going to say. No to the kind of roles I have played before. It all depends on the importance of the character in that film.
Q. Do you think that Marathi films have really come off age ? In that case, what will be the form of Marathi films in next two-three year’s time
Yes , it is welcome change. All these film makers of recent times have really worked hard to offer good presentations. Especially, those directors with theatre background have done extremely well. As far as the new audience is concerned, especially the middle and upper middle class have started visiting the nearby theatres. Now, even the multiplex owners who were reluctant to release Marathi films, are asking for the prints. It only hurts me, when I see those pirated DVD’s of Marathi films purchased by our own people. Why can’t they help stop this piracy? Unless our own people come together and prevent this piracy, nothing is going to work. I have seen in South India, whether it is Chennai or Bangalore, it is the joint effort of common people which has prevented the piracy of their regional films. No one dares to sell the pirated DVD’s of their regional films. If we have to witness prosperity of our Marathi cinema in next 2-3 years time, this piracy is to be stopped completely with moral policing.
Q. If not shooting or performing in Dramas/ serials; how busy is Vibhavari otherwise ?
If not shooting, I get busy with my writing work. At present I am already writing dialogues for popular Marathi serial ‘Agnihotra’ as one of the three members of the script team. Even otherwise, during my free time I am associated with my GRIP Theatre movement, writing scripts for their forthcoming projects.
Q What future plans ? Will you also be doing TV serials ?
I will certainly continue with film projects, be it in the capacity of a writer or an actress. But, I have decided not to act in serials. I had few offers and I said no to them. I just don’t want to mix up that area with my film projects. As far as my association with stage is concerned, I don’t mind working on stage. Soon, I will be associated with one such project with GRIP.