Category Archives: Interviews

Shrikant Yadav, Actor
Interviews

“My one scene in ‘Vihir’ brought me closer to Big B” – Shrikant Yadav

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He has been associated with marathi theatre for the past 12 years. But, his association with Umesh and Girish Kulkarni brought him to Marathi Cinema. In the year 2005, he found an opportunity to play the most important role of a helpless farmer who is forced to sell his Bull, much against the wish of his son and wife. ‘Valu’ was a touching film, which won many awards at international festivals.

Shrikant YadavThen it was ‘Vihir’, where he was associated with production, being very close to Girish Kulkarni. But, Shrikant Yadav, being a passionate actor, wanted to be a part of the film as an actor, however small the role was. So, he was offered just one scene, where he played a pick pocket. It was a pleasure talking to this avid actor, during the first look of new Marathi film ‘Night School’.

Shrikant’s small role as a pickpocket became a part of an important scene, as it was that incident which takes the lead actor of the film towards death. “This scene was discussed by the members of Jury during Berlin festival and I am glad that it also gave me an opportunity to meet Mr. Amitabh Bachchan there, whose ABCL company produced this film.” says Shrikant. He recalls all those memorable moments of his Berlin trip, where Dr. Mohan Agashe, who was also part of this film said that he was returning for this festival after 35 years. “He had carried his cap, which was preserved by him for 35 years and which was presented to him during the screening of ‘Saamna’ at the same festival.” he added .

Shrikant played another important role in Umesh and Girish’s recent film ‘Deool’, which won the national award for the best Indian film. He played a protagonist- Appa Galande, who revolts against his own uncle Bhau Galande, played by Nana Patekar. It was a difficult role; but Shrikant played it with ease. His sharp looks and body language spoke everything about his talent and personality.

A Mechanical Engineer, Shrikant still continues to work for BSNL, in Pune and prefers to perform in such off beat films, which find place for him. He doesn’t seem to be much interested in TV serials, as his job would not permit him to spend so much of time. But, as an organizer, he plays a crucial role in cultural activities of BSNL. Srikanth’s forthcoming films are ‘Pune 52′ and ‘Night School’. In ‘Night School’ he plays an influential Bar owner involved in illegal activities, who later reforms into a well wisher of the Night school. This film is due for release on 2nd November 2012.

Rahul Mehendale
Interviews

“I am comfortable with all the three areas of acting” – Rahul Mehendale

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It has been a long time, since he has been associated with Marathi stage. But, very few well wishers have really tapped his talent in TV serials and films. Now, when he has stepped in as a lead hero in ongoing popular Marathi drama ‘Lagnabambaal’, as a replacement to Subodh Bhave, he has suddenly shot into limelight.

Marathi Movie world spoke to this passionate actor Rahul Mehendale. Excerpts from an interview:

Rahul MehendaleQ: How did you begin your career ?
A: Being a student of Parle Tilak Vidyalay and Parle College, I was passionate about Marathi dramas. First, I started as assistant director to Mr. Vinay Apte and later did editing job, before switching over to acting. My acting debut in a commercial play was in 1992 with ‘Priya Aai’ where I performed with Bal Dhuri, Janhavi Panshikar and Rahul Awasthi.

Q: This means you have completed 20 years in your acting career .
A: Yes, this year, I have completed 20 years of my acting profession.

Q: What were the other popular projects, that followed ?
A: After ‘Priya Aai’, I did ‘Mee Majhya Mulancha’ and ‘Barrister’ .

Q: Tell us something about your entry into TV serials.
A: When I began doing TV serials, it was only Doordarshan channel for Marathi serials. And, I made my debut through ‘Bokya Satbande’. Thereafter, I performed in many TV serials.

Q: And, what about roles in films?
A: Actually, my first film was in Hindi- ‘Encounter – The killing’. Thereafter in Marathi, I performed in films like ‘Sunder Majhe Ghar’, ‘Checkmate’, ‘Picnic’ etc.

Q: Now, we find you back on stage.
A: Yes, now I am doing 2 plays ‘Lagnabambal’ and ‘Lagnachi Bedi’. In ‘Lagnabambal’, I entered during the 70th show and till now we have done 85 shows. I had not performed with Madhura and Anand before. And hence, it was a good opportunity to work with them. We form a very good team and I am enjoying every moment in their company. Speaking about the recently launched ‘Lagnachi Bedi’, I would say that it is a revival of old hit Marathi play written by Acharya Atre. I am playing a negative character of Timir, which was earlier performed by renowned actors like Ramesh Bhatkar and Sanjay Mone.

Q: How do you manage your schedule with two ongoing plays simultaneously ?
A: In our Marathi entertainment industry, right from the producer to actor, everybody tries to manage time. Therefore, making adjustment is no problem.

Q: What else, besides these two plays ?
A: I am playing lead role in a forthcoming marathi film ‘Lathi’, shooting of which is nearing completion. Unfortunately, due to sad demise of our director Sanjay Surkar, the shooting is held up for the time being. I am not doing serials at the moment. But, would certainly consider good roles in Films and dramas.

Q: You have worked in all the three areas of acting, i.e. Drama, TV serials and Films. Where are you more comfortable ?
A; I am comfortable with all the three areas of acting, as I was close to each one of them.

Interviews

Ashok Saraf – 40 years of non-stop acting

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At 66, he is fit enough to work with the same enthusiasm, as he did in 70s, when he made his debut in Marathi films. He has a terrific sense of timing, when he performs comedy scenes with his co stars. No wonder, his pairing with late Laxmikant Berde turned out to be a hit. He must have done maximum Marathi films with Laxmikant Berde in 80s. But, no one can forget his cunning havaldar in Dada Kondke’s 1975 film ‘Pandu hawaldar’ and a ‘Munimji’ in Rakesh Roshan’s film ‘Karan Arjun’ in 1995. During the past 40 years, he has played a variety of roles in Marathi and Hindi films .But, he was more known for his comedy.

 

Recently, we watched him play an important role of a sympathetic Police Hawaldar in a hit Hindi film ‘Singham’ and we came to know about his versatility in changing from comedy to serious scenes. Not many Marathi film makers have used his skills in emotion filled roles. Very recently, we saw him play a very good emotion filled lead role in a Marathi film ‘Gol Gol Dabyatla’. But, unfortunately, this sensible film did not do good business.
After a long time, we saw him back to Marathi stage and also in Marathi serials through ‘Nana O Nana’. But, how can we forget his past performances on stage and TV ? ‘Prema Tujha Rang kasa’, ‘Manomilan’ on stage and ‘Hum Panch'(Hindi) on television, found him in his best. In the recent past, he returned to his comedy roles, through ‘Ideachi Kalpana’ in the company of Sachin Pilgaonkar and Mahesh Kothare. And, he stole the show in the role of a shrewd advocate. Even ‘Ek Daav Dhobhi Pachad’, became a hit, only because of his presence in the film.

For the past 28 years, he has been performing range of character roles in Hindi films; be it a crooked lawyer in ‘Pratighat’, kasturi in ‘Bade Ghar Ki Beti’, VCR in ‘Benam Badshah’, Gangaram Lalwani in ‘Naseebwala’, Dhaniram in ‘Aa Gale lag Ja’, Pyare Mohan in ‘Bal Bramhachar’, Mr. Patel in ‘Kya Dil Ne Kaha’ or head Constable Savalkar in ‘Singham’, they were all prominent roles.

Next month, we will see him opposite another experienced Marathi actor Sayaji Shinde, who has been a popular villain in south films. In the film ‘Khara Saangu Khota Khota’ these two actors are playing traditional rivals from the same village, whose children are in love with each other.

Today, he is the most respected actor in Marathi Entertainment and there is lot to learn from him; when he is around. Recently, while attending a function of the first look of one of his recent films, he noticed silence among the media representatives; and spoke himself, to break the silence and create an instant laughter. For any actor, it is very important to communicate with the media; and Ashok Saraf possesses this skill. No wonder, he has been in this industry for little more than four decades. And, he is still ready to deliver, given any role suited to him.

by Ulhas Shirke © MMW | 02 November 2013, Saturday

Interviews

Adinath Kothare has bright future ahead

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Films were part of his life, when he was born. Like Abhimanyu knew the secrets of war strategies in ‘Mahabharat‘, he too must have acquired the lessons of acting, since the time of his birth. But as he grew up, Adinath Kothare had an opportunity to see the film making process from close quarters. The film institute was in his house itself. Rest was his hard work, when he made his actual debut. His debut film ‘Ved lavi Jeeva‘ was directed by his father; but it wasn’t their home production. Hence, went unnoticed due to lack of distribution and marketing. However, when, his father Mahesh Kothare made their home production ‘Dubhang‘, it was a big boost for him, as the film also involved Adinath’s girlfriend Urmila, whom he knew since the time of ‘Shubhamangal‘, when Adinath was assistant director to his father, and it was Urmila’s debut film.

Early this year, Adinath Kothare played Goraksha Mhapusekar alias Rego, a young boy from a middle class family in Aditya Sarpotdar’s multi starrer film, revolving around four youngsters, passionate about music. In this film, his father played by Vidyadhar Joshi reminds him about his focus on studies after he fails in the final exams, due to his passion for music. In this film, Adinath played a perfect youth from Goa, requiring direction at the most crucial time in his career. His leading lady in this film was Amruta Khanvilkar . Adinath played these emotion filled changes through his character very effectively. His character had a lot of resemblance with that of Shahrukh khan in ‘Kabhi Haan kabhie Naa‘ played at the beginning of his career.

The best time for Adinath was late last year, when he also made his debut in Hindi, through ‘Stand By‘ along with Siddharth Kher. The film was directed by four times national award winning director Sanjay Surkar, who passed away recently. It was a film based on sports. Adinath is currently working in his home production ‘Zapatlela 2‘ which begins its shooting from 4th October2012, with a 40 day non stop shooting at ND studios. This film is a sequel to his father’s 1993 hit film. Adinath is playing Lakshya Berde’s son Adinath Bolke’s character, to find continuity to the original film and his encounter with the deadly puppet ‘Tatya Vinchu‘ in 3D format in this version. Besides this film, Adinath has two more Marathi projects in pipeline . He is also doing a film with another reputed Hindi film director and also an English project .

Today, Adinath and Urmila are happily married couple. In ‘Zapatlela 2‘, Adinath is playing lead opposite Sonalee and is looking forward to a grand success, as the film is being directed by his father and has received backing from two top companies- Select Media Holdings, will be presenting this film and Star Studios, the Indian Arm of 20th Century Fox will be marketing and distributing his film.

Marathi Movie world interacted with Adinath on two occasions. First it was during the first look of ‘Dubhang‘ when he indicated promise through his eyes, like a born star. And now, during the muhurat of his home production ‘Zapatlela2‘, he looked more confident. His body language and comfort in front of the camera, during the muhurat shot in presence of press and invitees around, said everything. His stage exposure with ‘All the Best’ popular Marathi drama, during the past few months, seems to have offered him that required strength, very much necessary to be a complete actor. ‘Zapatlela 2‘ is expected to make him a big star. Marathi Movie world wishes this chocolate hero a bright success.

by Ulhas Shirke © MMW

Interviews

I signed Shankar first and then found a suitable script – Sagar Sakunde

Someone has rightly said, “True champions aren’t always the ones that win, but those with the most guts”. Sagar Ramchandra Sankude came to Mumbai from a small village Ambavade in Satara district in Maharashtra, only with a dream in his eyes to produce a film one day. So, he followed the right path to move towards his ultimate goal. Sagar joined Sir. J. J. School of Arts and graduated with G.D. Art and went ahead with additional qualifications of Art Master from Raheja School of Arts. Meeting right people at right time, increased his self confidence and started learning all the technicalities of film making right from Art direction.

Getting timely tips from none other than Mr. Achyut Palav , the master in Calligraphy, he learned many things about designing art. He also worked on many film projects and also acted as a character actor in many films, just to learn the art of film making. Finally, the day is coming close to open a new chapter in his life. On Friday 28th September 2012, his first film as a producer ‘Dum Asel Tar’ is all set to release. Marathi Movie World had a chit chat with this dynamic and gutsy person, to know about his journey into tinsel world.

sagar SakundeQ: Is it a dream come reality for you, with the release of your first film as a producer?
A: Yes, whatever I had in mind, has come true. It’s a great moment in my life. My first venture is now all set to release on 28th September 2012.

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Q: Instead of directly jumping into production, you acquired the necessary knowledge and then jumped into this field? Isn’t it?
A: Yes, for the past six years after completing my education, I focused myself on Art design for films and also assisted in several projects, to know details about the production. This enabled me to understand the estimated expenditure for making a film.

Q: So, your education and experience in this field helped you to manage your project ?
A: Yes, you are right. It helped me a lot.

Q: Did you have this particular script in mind, before launching your film?
A: No, it was first the search of a suitable hero. When I came across Shankar, who had graduated from Whistling Woods Acting School, I was highly impressed with his personality. I just wanted his type of hero for my film. Then I approached Mr. Vijay Gokhale, who not only agreed to direct my film but also suggested the name of Advait Dadarkar for a script suited to this hero. While others look for a suitable hero for a script; in my case, it was the other way. So confident, I was about this hero.

Q: Besides producing the film, what is your personal involvement in the film, such as set design, photography etc.?
A: No, I have given scope to newcomers like me, whom I found capable. In fact, my film’s Poster has been designed by Achyut Palav’s Resonance Designs. He has been my Guru, since J.J. School of Arts days.

Q: With the completion of your film, are you satisfied with Shankar’s performance ?
A: Yes, I am. He has done extremely well. Even all other important characters of the film have performed very well. Thanks to Vijay Gokhale, for helping me at the right time. It’s a team work and I hope to work with Shankar once again. He is a perfect actor for Marathi films.

Interviews

“I am particular about my fitness” – Kishori Shahane Vij

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With gifted good looks supported by sharp melodious voice, it wasn’t much difficult for Kishori Shahane to find her place into tinsel world at the right time, when she was very much in college. An eminent classical and folk dancer, it added to her advantage to establish herself in cultural events at a young age. Having crowned with Miss Mithibai Beauty Pageant award from this popular college, known as the cultural hub of Mumbai, there was no looking back for multi-talented Kishori.

Being a Mumbaite and Maharashtrian, she first entered Marathi films and shot into fame with the films like ‘Maherchi Saadi’and ‘Wajva Re Wajva’. But, her stage performances in plays like ‘Moruchi Maushi’. (Marathi )and ‘Aadhe Adhure’ (Hindi) gave her recognition as a complete actress. Her performances in recent films like ‘Sachin’s ‘Navara Majha Navasacha’ and Zee Talkies’ block buster ‘Ek Daav Dhobi Pachhad’ (Marathi), Hriday Shetty’s Hindi film ‘Pya Mein Twist’, ‘Superstar’, ‘Shagird’ and Vikram Bhatt’s ‘Red’ (Hindi) gives an idea of her ability to play different roles, besides maintaining her fitness level, for the past 21 years.

Kishori Shahane Vij Kishori’s talent was noticed by dynamic Hindi film maker Deepak Balaraj Vij, with whom she did ‘Hafta bandh’, ‘Bomb Blast’,’Shirdi Ke Sai Baba’ and ‘Mumbai Godfather’. During the making of ‘Hafta Bandh’ in 1991,both came closer and got married later. With a short break of 2-3 years, Kishori then switched over to Hindi TV serials but continued to act in Marathi and Hindi films. She became a popular TV artiste with her performances in serials like ‘Ghar Ek Mandir’, ‘Teen Bahuraniyan’ and ‘Koi Apna Sa’. Her roles in other serials like ‘Santaan’ (Sahara), Kabhi To Nazar Milao’ and Jassi Jaisi Koi Nnahin’ (On Sony),’Sindoor(Zee Tv), ‘Yeh Dil Chhahe More’ (Star One) and ‘Mere Apne’ (9X) gives an account of her well spread network on small screen.

During her college days, Kishori excelled in Classical and folk dances and has performed live on stage not only in India but also in US and Australia. She also completed her music video ‘Saavan’ for Venus. After almost 13 years, since she became College beauty Queen, she took part in Mrs. Gladrags Beauty Pageant show and was adjudged Mrs. Gladrags Runner-up in 2003, which clearly displays her multi-talented personality.

As a film maker, her film ‘Mohatyachi Renuka’ has already received Maharashtra State award 2007, in the best editing category. This film was produced and directed by her. Her next venture as a producer was ‘Maalik Ek’ in Hindi, based on the life of Sai Baba with Jackie Shroff performing the lead role. Recently, Kishori also produced another marathi film ‘Aika Dajiba’ directed by her husband Deepak, with top stars from Marathi film industry. She played a prominent role in latest released sensational film ‘Aghor’ based on corruption in medical profession. Marathi Movie World spoke to Kishori Shahane Vij and the renowned actress spoke about her secret of fitness and her active lifestyle. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: You have been associated with entertainment industry for a long time now. What is the secret of your fitness ?
A: Since my college days I have been particular about my fitness. Even today, I regularly attend Gym, i.e. three days a week, go for regular walks and do Yoga and meditation.

Q: Do you think that this has helped you to cope up with stress and busy lifestyle in city?
A: Yes, particularly the meditation has helped me a lot towards stress management, which is so important today.

Q: You also directed a film ‘Mohatyachi Renuka’ Are you religious?
A: Yes, I am. Actually, this film was produced by the religious trust, who wanted me to make a film on this subject.

Q: You were also associated in production of two films on Saibaba, with your husband. First it was in 90s and then again in 2010. You have a lot of faith in Sai baba, Isn’t it ?
A: When we made the first film, it was because my husband saw Saibaba repeatedly in his dreams. And the second was also the result of the same thing; as he felt that he had missed few events in the life of this great saint from Maharashtra.

Q: How did you manage to remain in both Hindi and Marathi simultaneously ? Is it because of your good public relations?
A: Actually, I have a secretary called Amarjeet, who takes care of my dates. It helps me to avoid clash of dates. Even otherwise, I am very particular about a project, after giving a commitment.

Q. What are your future projects?
A: I am doing a film ‘Nana Nakose’ with Bharat Jadhav and Adinath Kothare, then there is ‘Langar’ and ‘Yeda Appa’ is now complete with post production work in progress. In Yeda Appa’ I am playing opposite Ashutosh Rana, who is making his debut in Marathi.

Interviews

Amruta Patki makes a memorable debut in Marathi

It’s a blessing for Marathi film industry that former Miss India and Miss Earth- Amruta Patki has made her debut through latest released political thriller ‘Satya Savitree Ani Satyavan‘. With her glamorous looks and appeal, she has already won the hearts of people from all over the world, after being crowned as Miss Earth (Air) at Philippines in Nov 2006. Now, she has created her magic on Marathi screen.

After winning the Miss Earth pageant, Amruta was busy with her assignments with sponsors, to spread many universal awareness campaigns in 24 countries across the world. Following the tradition of former Beauty queens, she too received offers from Bollywood and Amruta made her debut in films through ‘Hide and Seek’ in 2010. But, since then she focused her attention on her Modeling career and fashion shows. Amruta has performed in many popular fashion shows of Satya Paul, Vikram Phadnis, Manish Malhotra, Rohit Bal, Nita Lulla, Tarun Tahiliani and others. We have also watched her as a supermodel, for many popular brands like Samsonite, Oxemberg, Pantaloons, Hair and Care, Oliva Soap and so on.

Amruta Patki Picture
Actress Amruta Patki

When Amruta was approached by director Sarvesh Parab, to play the lead role in his film ‘Satya Savitree Ani Satyavan‘, she readily agreed, as the role and script were both appealing. “Most of the time, I was associated with that glamorous image and hence when I knew that I was getting an opportunity to play a young woman from a family with political background at a district place with non glamorous image, I immediately agreed for the same,” said Amruta, while reacting on her debut in Marathi films.

Indeed, Amruta has lived up to the expectations of the director, presenting that dynamic character of Sandhya Pawar, a young widow, who aspires to follow the footsteps of her father- who is into active politics. The role was well suited to her personality, according to the director, as he was in search of someone, who would meet the requirement of a young lady from an affluent family with political background.

With the release of ‘Satya Savitree Ani Satyavan‘, Amruta is once again in the limelight, posing a big challenge to some of the young glamorous actresses in Marathi. With her 5’10” height, she does make a terrific screen appeal, as she has the perfect slim figure, with all other additional skills such as dancing and singing, besides her beauty. Amruta has passed the test of acting, which is so important for Marathi films. If given a good script and suitable role, she would certainly take Marathi cinema to greater heights. When Marathi Movie World spoke to this Beauty Queen and she was prompt enough, to share her experience in the field of modeling and films.

Having been brought up in a middle class Maharashtrian family, Amruta is a typical Mumbaikar, having studied in Marathi medium from Utkarsha Mandir School and graduated from Mumbai University through Sathye College, Ville Parle. It was during her college days, she took active interest in extra curricular activities and decided to do a career in modeling. Unlike other conservative Maharashtrian parents, Amruta was lucky to find encouraging parents, who supported her and rest was her dream come true, when she won the Miss India Contest. But, as Amruta had big dreams in her eyes, she also went on to win the Miss Earth (Air) crown, from among 82 contestants from different countries. It was a moment of pride for the entire country on 26th Nov 2006, when she was declared the winner. “I am thankful to my dear parents, who supported me from time to time, ever since I decided to take up career in modeling,” she says.

Not many are aware of her excellence in Singing and dancing. No wonder she was invited as a Judge for the reality show ‘Dholkichya Talawar‘ on E TV, in the recent past. Incidentally, Amruta has also rendered a song in her debut film and has also proved her dancing skills in the title track, screened at the end of the film. Someone has rightly said that the real beauty cannot be hidden. “A diamond glows, wherever it is kept.” It does not need a showroom. Amruta’s entry through this film, is itself an indication that she was here to capture Marathi audience. Her walking style, her looks and body language clearly suggest that she has a terrific screen presence.

Whether ‘Satya Savitree Ani Satyavan‘ becomes a hit or not; but, Amruta would certainly make a deep impression through her important role in this film. She already has one more offer from B. R. films in Bollywood. Now, it all remains to be seen, whether she will create her magic in Bollywood or in Marathi films, in near future.

Shivani Surve, Actress
Interviews

I enjoy playing cute bubbly characters- Shivani Surve

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Today she is known as ‘Devyani’ among all Marathi TV viewers, because of her title role in Star Pravah’s popular serial ‘Devyani’. But, for Shivani Surve, it’s not her debut in entertainment field, as before this serial, she has done three Hindi TV serials namely, ‘Phulwa’, ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ and ‘Navya’, offering her roles, suited to her teenage, at that time.

Shivani Surve, ActressIn fact, Shivani made her debut in films, at the little age of seven, when she played the main lead role in a Bhojpuri film ‘Ganga Mili Sagar Se’. It was after that she performed in a Marathi drama ‘Mangalayacha Lena’ and then joined a Hindi theatre Group ‘Karma Kala Manch’, which opened doors for her entry into Hindi serials.

As a child, Shivani spent her childhood days in Dombivali and only 5 years ago the family shifted to Sion, Mumbai. While Shivani was doing her serial ‘Navya’ she had to give time for her 12th std exams and had to quit the serial. But, little before that she was suggested to give audition for a Marathi serial. It was always the wish of Shivani’s mother that she should act in a Marathi serial and the opportunity came, when Shivani was selected to play for this title role in ‘Devyani’.

Reacting to her selection in this Marathi serial, Shivani says that she is now happy to receive appreciation from the people of Maharashtra, after becoming popular in places like Bihar and North India, performing those Bhojpuri type of roles in Hindi.

Speaking about Devyani’s character in particular, Shivani says, “This character of Devayani only knows how to be good to all with her polite nature. She is not the rough and tough type of girl. She follows the principles passed on to her by her father. Initially, Devayani’s marriage is fixed with a Doctor; but Samrat steps in and breaks it. It was due to pressure mounting on my family, I get married to Samrat and become a part of his family, comprising of head person- Sarjerao Vikhe Patil and his elder daughter in law Vatsala, played by Saie Ranade Sane. And the latest developments are being watched by you all.”

Simple and frank in the discussion, Shivani admitted that there was a lot of hard work, while completing her 12th standard, which she completed through correspondence course and then appearing for the exams; besides continuing with her acting assignments. When asked as to what type of roles she enjoyed playing the most, she said, “I am more comfortable playing cute bubbly character, the kind of I played in Star TV’s serial ‘Navya.”

It was a pleasure talking to this talented actress, for whom ‘sky is the limit’. Marathi Movie world wishes her a bright future.

Spruha Joshi
Interviews

Besides acting, I love to compose poems – Spruha Joshi

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Spruha Joshi is a popular name in Marathi entertainment. At present, she is in full form with two of her plays ‘Never Mind’ and ‘Lahanpan Dega Deva’ inviting all the attention from Marathi stage lovers. Through her role in ongoing TV serial ‘Eka Lagnachi Doosri Goshta’, she has made her presence felt. On big screen, we saw her dashing role in Avadhoot Gupte’s film ‘Morya’ opposite Santosh Juvekar. Marathi Movie World spoke to Spruha, to know more about her achievements in this field.

Spruha Joshi
Q: How and when your acting career took off ?
A: It all began during my childhood. While I was studying in Balmohan Vidyamandir, Vidya Patwardhan was my arts teacher. Having contributed a lot to children’s theatre, she was instrumental in developing me and others towards acting. While doing a one act play ‘Natukli’ for school, she was involved in production of a serial ‘De Dhamaal’ for Alpha Marathi channel. I was in 7th standard at that time, when I made my first commercial debut as a child artiste. This was followed by my performances in ‘Ek Ha Asa Dhaga Sukhacha’, ‘Aabhalmaya’, ‘Bombay lawyers( NDTV) and ‘Satyamev Jayate’.

After joining Ruia College, I performed in one act play ‘Ga Ma Bha Na’ followed by Gajendra Ahire’s ‘Maaybaap’, which was my film debut. During my college days, I performed in many one act plays, acted in popular serial ‘Agnihotra’ and film ‘Morya’.

Q: Tell us something about your roles in ‘Lahanpan Dega Devaa’ and ‘Never Mind’.
A: My character in ‘Lahanpan Dega Devaa’ is of a moody mischievous college girl Sharayu from a upper middle class family of 60s era. This character is very cute and typical of her age, who shares close friendly relationship with her sister-in-law. In ‘Never Mind’, I play an equally important and challenging character of Smita, a young girl, who has just entered Media and Advertising field. She unknowingly falls in love with her Boss, while sharing advice on different issues. It’s all fun, to see it happen.

Q: Your character of Kuhoo in ‘Eka Lagnachi Doosri Goshta’ is also inviting attention. Tell us something about this role.
A: There is no doubt about the popularity of this serial. But, the character of Kuhoo is also has its own importance. It’s a nice role of a young girl, who is mischievous, friendly and emotionally attached to all family members. She is a poet and communicates very philosophically with others. People are discussing about her habits. That’s the strength of this role.

Q: What are your other interests, besides acting?
A: I spend time in writing. I just love to compose poems. In 2008 my first set of poems got published. Now, I am working on one more.

Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming projects.
A: As I have already mentioned, I am presently focusing on my ongoing two plays and one serial. All these roles are different and have variety. As regards big screen, I am performing in Ramesh More’s forthcoming film ‘Sur Rahoo De’.

Thanks Spruha. Wishing you all the best.

Interviews

To play a transgender was very challenging- Milind Gavali

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Milind Gavali is a popular Marathi actor, especially among the rural class. The main reason being that he has acted in more rural based films than multiplex type of Marathi films. His latest film ‘Aamhi Ka Tisare’ on a sensitive social issue dealing with the lives transgender community, has been released. Marathi Movie world spoke to Milind Gavali, to find out his reaction. Excerpts from the interview:

Q: When you were offered the role of an Eunuch in the film ‘Aamhi Ka Teesare’, what was your reaction?
A: My reaction was positive. For a long time I was looking for a different type of role and this offer fulfilled my desire. I had done few films with Alka tai. And, we had good tuning with each other. Therefore, when this role came to me through her, I made the best out of it. To play a transgender was very challenging.

Q: To present this character, did you study similar characters?
A: This role was totally different from the kind of roles, we are generally offered. During my meeting with Alka Tai and writer Ramesh More, I was briefed about my role. I was also made to interact
with some of the real life characters from this community, which enabled me to study their lifestyle.

Q: What is the actual theme? Is the character you are playing resembles with the life of Laxmi Tripathi ?
A: After her appearance in the popular TV programme, Laxmi Tripathi has attained celebrity status. This film’s story has been penned, keeping her life in mind. It is almost her real life story. It was only because her parents accepted her in this condition and offered her best education, so that she could face the challenges in this society. Otherwise, any other parents would not have dared to keep such child at home. It’s very unfortunate that parents don’t mind bringing up their children suffering from physical handicap or blindness; but when it comes to upbringing a transgender; they stay away from it.

Q: In Marathi many films are produced, on sensible topics; but, they don’t reach to masses. Do you regret that ?
A: No, there is no regret. Actually most of my films were based on rural life; which were more popular among rural population. They even saw such films at Tent theatres during rural fairs. Such films are not expected to draw crowds at multiplexes. I have done only handful of films, which were shown in multiplexes. Generally, my films are for rural people; and hence there is no such feeling to feel sorry.

Q: This film of yours is not a commercial film; but an ‘out of the box’ film throwing light on a social issue. What efforts are you taking to reach out to masses?
A: Now, what we are talking is also one way of reaching out to to the people. Besides your internet medium, I am also trying to speak to electronic and print media. Besides this, participation in film festivals, has also given me a chance to interact with people from all over the world. About the life of a transgender, there is a lot of misunderstanding in the society. I am sure, this film will remove all the doubts create social awareness in understanding their problems.

Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming films?
A: There is ‘Shoor Aamhi Sardar’ directed by Ramesh More himself. I have completed shooting of ‘Dholkichya Talwar’ and then there is one comedy film ‘Eka Varchadh Ek’ which is due for release in July 2012. ‘Tejaswini’ is still remaining with 25% of work.

Q: Are you happy with your present journey in this field ?
A: This is just a beginning. There is much more to do. This is such a wide field that it gives a feeling of taking a leap into the sky. It’s so huge. Whatever we do, is always little. It’s a wonderful journey. Here in one life, you get a chance to live different lives through the characters you play.