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.
Chit Chat With Bharat Gaikwad
When we engage in what is naturally suited to us, our work takes on the quality of performance and it is this performance that stimulates creativity. This is very relevant to those into film making. In the case of Bharat Gaikwad, this holds true. After studying in Mumbai’s Wilson College, Bharat wanted to do specialization in Sound Engineering, as Physics was his main subject during graduation. But, his involvement in direction did not permit him to find time for his further studies. As an assistant director to stalwarts like Lekh Tandon and Ramesh Gupta, opened doors for him to direct independent projects soon. His debut as a director was through DD metro’s serial ‘Insaaf’.
Though Bharat made his debut through Hindi, it was always his wish to direct Marathi serials and he got an opportunity to do so, when Sanjay Surkar offered him to shoot 15 days a month for his popular serial ‘Avantika‘. Bharat also had an opportunity to direct ‘Jagavegali’ in Marathi and the popular Hindi serial ‘Kitty Party’. Watching his work, someone from Indonesia contacted him through his friend and invited him to not only direct some of their local serials but also train their people into direction. For about 4 years between 2003 and 2007 Bharat lived in Jakarta and dealt with many interesting subjects, only to gain considerable experience. At present, he is directing a police detective serial ‘Lakshya’ on Star Pravah channel which is the topic of discussion. Marathi Movie world had a chit chat with this dynamic director. Excerpts from the discussion:
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Q: For a director, what is important? A script or the cast of the project ?
A: For me, both are important. A good script does make a big difference; but at the same time the performances from artistes are equally important.
Q: What is your way of directing a particular scene?
A: I discuss the scene with my artistes before the shot and explain the importance of the scene, so as to bring out the best out of them. For a director, his keen observation is very important in direction. If he is good at that, he can certainly get the best out of every scene.
Q: After directing few serials with success, why did you opt for an overseas assignment?
A: Yes, I did accept an assignment from Indonesia, as I thought that I would get to learn so many things there in production.
Q: What difference you noticed there ?
A: If you are talking about the audience, they are more influenced by world cinema. They have one hour long episodes. There was no shortage of equipments and I got everything that was required for shoot. The technical support was good. About planning with artistes required little understanding because the artistes left in time, no matter what time they walked in on the sets. So, I had to use my skills to adjust the shooting with their availability. Another good thing that happened in Indonesia was that I could watch so many English film DVD’s there and did a lot of reading during free time.
Q: But, what subjects in the serials are popular there ?
A: They prefer watching something related to magic, action and ghost stories.
Q: You also directed a Marathi film last year. Why wasn’t it a success ?
A: Yes, I directed a film ‘Dhava Dhaav’ a comedy subject. It was a ready made script with artistes that was offered to me for direction. It is because of this reason, I couldn’t contribute much from my side.
Q: But, now, you are directing a police detective serial ‘Laksya‘. How is the response to this serial ?
A: It is because of ‘Lakshya’, my work has come to the notice of many people. I could use all my experience while directing this serial. I have received compliments through many of my friends. A close friend of mine also told me that Mahesh Manjrekar also appreciated it. I also received a feedback that small children in my friend’s society enact the characters of this serial while playing in the evening.
Q: How do you look at the present change in the production of Marathi serials?
A: I myself noticed a big change during the last few years. After my return from Indonesia in 2007, I found some of my friends like Nishikant Kamat and others reaching to great heights. Even there was a big change observed in technical matters. Now, in my serial they are using HD camera, which was till now only used by Nitin Chandrakant Desai for his productions ‘Rajaa Shivchatrapati’ and ‘Bajirao Mastani’. It gives a great feeling to work with all such technical advancements in Marathi serials.
Sachit Patil & Vidyadhar Joshi
For the past few years, Sachit Patil has made a considerable progress into Marathi films. He has not only acted in big banner Marathi films, but has also directed two multi starer Marathi films. At the same time, one senior actor – Vidyadhar Joshi made slow , steady but sure progress through stage, TV serials and finally made it to the big screen with prominent character roles. Both Sachit and Vidyadhar face eachother in sensational Marathi film ‘Arjun’, which is the talk of every town in Maharashtra.
Marathi Movie World spoke to both of them together, a little before the release of this film, where Sachit plays the young protagonist, while Vidyadhar plays a shrewd villain opposite him.
Chit chat follows:
Q ( To: Sachit) : Why only Sachit, to play Arjun ?
A: Mr. Bourandkar and Mr. Ilyas were looking for a youngster, just having finished his post graduation. They needed a slim and fit youngster. Since, I was already into fitness, I fitted into their requirements.
Q ( To: Sachit): And, how do you react to the choice of your leading lady ?
A: Well, it was a welcome choice. Amruta had worked under my direction in ‘Sade Made Teen’, hence there was good understanding between us.
Q: ( To- Sachit) Was there any discomfort, while working with a new director; having yourself done direction before ?
A: Not at all. In fact, Mr. Ilyas made me feel very comfortable. I really enjoyed working under his direction. Moreover, the script and my role being very strong, I was totally committed to this film.
Q.( To – Vidyadhar) The director says, he found his Amrish Puri in you. How do you react to this statement ?
A: If he considered me good enough to play a tough villain, I too tried to give my best through this role of Ratan Shah, a selfish businessman. In the past, I have done small roles and it was through a small role of a villain in ‘Hapoos’ that film makers came to know about my ability to
play such roles. I am sure, this director must have noticed something in me suited for a negative character.
Q ( To – Vidyadhar): But, don’t you think that you have been chosen to play a repeat of that villain?
A: No, I don’t think so. The role of Ratan Shah in ‘Arjun’ is totally different. He is not an ordinary moneylender, agent or businessman. He is a topmost industrialist in Mumbai with his network spread in every business and a very influential person. It was more challenging to play this role as it is one of the strongest characters, throughout the film.
Q ( To both of them) Do you mean that you both were completely focused, during the making of this film ?
A( Sachit): Yes, you are right. For the past one year, during the making of this film, I have said ‘No’ to many offers. Now, whatever films with good scripts have come to me, I shall think about them only after 20th September.
A;( Vidyadhar) : Yes, I was totally committed to this film from start to end. In fact, I also got involved into promotion of the film and toured many places in Maharashtra.
“I select my artistes as per the requirement of the role “- Satish Rajwade
With successful Marathi movies like ‘Mrugjal’, ‘Ek Daav Dhobi Pachaad’, ‘Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai’ and ‘Gaiir’ director Satish Rajwade made his presence felt with the creativity offered through these films. His work as a director was also well received through TV serials like ‘Avantika’ and ‘Agnihotra’. Now, we find him directing a new serial ‘Guntata Hriday Hey’ with a different subject on Zee Marathi. This serial is being shown at 10.30 pm; but, that does not matter when Satish Rajwade is directing it.
An actor turned director, who has in the past assisted Govind Nihalani, is today a big name in Marathi TV and film industry. He is known to handle the subject well and his presentation does leave that desired impact on the audience. Marathi Movie World spoke to Satish Rajwade and this is what the young dynamic director has to say:
Q: You are known to be very selective about the subject, before taking up a film. Is it so ?
A: Yes, I am selective about the subject, as it is the script that I should be comfortable with, for presentation.
Q: What are the projects you have in hand today ?
A: I am directing a film ‘Makadachya Haati Champagne’ which is in post production stage and now involved with this new serial of Zee Marathi- ‘Guntata Hriday Hey’.
Q: What is this film ‘Makadachya Haati Champagne’ all about ?
A: This film is based on a popular Marathi play with this title and it will have good humour.
Q: Do you think that Marathi films based on popular dramas do well at the box office ?
A: It is better to make films based on good quality dramas, in absence of good scripts.
Q: As a director how do you get the work done from your actors, especially those who are new ?
A: I just ask them to behave natural, during the scene.
Q: While selecting the cast of the film or serial, do you make the choice yourself or somebody else does this job?
A: I myself do the selection of the artistes.
Q: But, it is said that you only select the best ones?
A: No, that is not so. I select my artistes as per the requirement of role and the characters they are required to play. A particular artiste should perfectly fit into that role.
‘I live for the day’- Aditi Sarangdhar
Few years ago a young girl from Kalyan peformed in Nishikant Kamat‘s experimental play ‘Litmus’, only to be spotted for her incredible talent. Today, she is one of the leading actresses in Marathi entertainment industry. Since childhood, Aditi Saragdhar was passionate about acting. And, when she got a platform, she never looked back. From Kalyan, her journey to Ruia College, Mumbai was only to enhance her acting skills, to greater heights.
Watching her as a smart and intelligent Police Officer in new TV serial ‘Lakshya‘ certainly takes the viewer ship of the serial and the channel up; so much is her popularity today. We have seen her acting skills in ‘Vadalvaat’ and many more serials that followed later. We watched her in Marathi films, but role in ‘Tee Ratra’ reminded one and all about her potential as an actress. Aditi has always been comfortable with comedy as well as serious types of roles. She also suited well in angry young woman image, fighting against injustice. Now, with her smart Lady Cop character of Saloni Deshmukh , she is sure invite more and more fans to her list.
Marathi Movie World spoke to Aditi Sarangdhar about her acting career and this bold and beautiful actress was kind enough to express her frank views. Excerpts for an interview:
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Q: You have studied Philosophy while doing your graduation; how do you relate this subject in your acting profession? A: Frankly speaking, ‘I live for the day’. I am not very serious about being philosophical in my day to day life.Q: Many years ago Kavita Choudhary through her serial ‘Udaan’ inspired many young girls to join IPS. Now, yourself playing Inspector Saloni Deshmukh, do you think, you will inspire young girls to join Maharashtra Police? A: I don’t know much about this serial. May be I was too small. But, this role of Saloni Deshmukh would surely inspire many young girls. It is a very strong character. |
Q: What’s so special about this character ? A: It is all about the day to day experiences that a duty bound Police officer has to face in real life. It’s not only about saying ‘Yes, Sir’ and obeying orders. It is much beyond that. It’s also about emotions and hardships faced on and off duty.Q: Can you site an example . A: While shooting one dramatic scene, I hear a small child making a remark on police and I explain how difficult it is for the police to work for 24 hours a day many a times. There is no word ‘Kadachit’ in the dictionary of Police. That’s what I noticed while playing this role.Q: Were you inspired by someone in particular, while playing this role ? A: Yes, I am inspired by Kiran Bedi. I have read her book and found her to be the most dynamic and best lady Police officer in our country. Every act of hers was in public interest. May be, she was opposed by her seniors for her actions, but she always proved her point.Q: We understand that you are very particular about your dress design, while shooting. Is that true ? A: Yes, I design my own clothes and I am allowed to do that. Even in this serial, I wear my choice of clothes, if not in uniform.Q: But, how do you do that ? A: I just close my eyes and think about my character. Then I notice all those images with relevant dresses suited for a particular scene.Q: Your choice of dresses were perfect for your character in the film ‘Tee Raatra‘. Were those clothes also designed by you? A: Yes, they were designed by me. I am glad that someone appreciated it.Q: Now that you have committed for this serial, will you be doing films? A: Yes, why not ? For this serial, I have committed only 15 days of the month. Rest of the days I am available for films. |
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“Every film is an experiment” – Ashok Samarth
The new Marathi Television serial ‘Lakshya‘ on Star Pravah channel has brought in one more Police Officer on small screen to investigate the crime in society. We have seen the popularity of CID in Hindi. Similarly, in the past we saw the success of serial like ‘Ek Shoonya Shoonya’ by the maker of CID, which enabled Shivaji Satam to remain the popular CID officer for the past two decades. Another marathi artiste who performed the role of a popular Police officer was Ramesh Bhatkar through ‘Hello Inspector’ and then Kuldeep Pawar made his presence felt through ‘Paramveer’ as a detective.
Now, with the emergence of talented Ashok Samarth playing the role of ACP Abhay Kirtikar in ‘Lakshya’, we expect the popularity of Police investigation based serials once again to catch up with the audience. The selection of Ashok Samarth to play the lead, seems to be most
appropriate, after having watched him in ‘Wavtal’ where he played the lead role of a commando very effectively. With his broad shoulders and strong arms supported by good personality, Ashok certainly fits into the role. Moreover, his performance in the recent blockbuster ‘Singham‘ comes to the advantage of this serial, going on his popularity. In the recent past, Ashok has acted in few Bollywood films and was also part of the cast in Ektaa Kapoor’s Marathi serial ‘Majhiya Priyala Preet Kalena’.
But, above all, what makes Ashok Samarth stand apart from others is his commanding voice and his rich dialogue delivery. Marathi Movie World had a chit chat with Ashok during the press meet of ‘Lakshya‘. Excerpts form the discussion:
Q: Tell us how you were selected for this role of ACP Kirtikar in ‘Lakshya’ ?
A: One day after returning home late night around 11.45 pm, I received a phone call from Aadesh Bandekar, who asked me whether I was willing to play this role in his own serial. After he narrated the theme, I realised the importance of the role and the character and said ‘yes’ to him.
Q: Now, how much of impact has ACP Abhay Kirtikar has created on your mind ?
A: Abhay Kirtikar is a character inside the uniform of Police. Facing every situation with a challenge while in the uniform, automatically brings out that required toughness in handling a particular case; but once you are back home, whether on the sets or in reality, the situation changes. The emotions change and that is what is expected from us while performing such characters. While playing this role, I realised what expectations people have from police.
Q: Did you study any particular police officer before performing this role ?
A: For an actor, it is his own presentation that is important. Given a situation, he should be able to deliver through his own skills. Now, we all know that the image of Police is the reflection of the society. Therefore, while performing this character I am paying more attention on my own imagination, as if it was like facing the reality myself.
Q: Tell us something about your success in Bollywood, especially after ‘Singham’ turning to be a hit ?
A: For me, every film is an experiment. Whether it was playing a role of a Commando in marathi film ‘Wavtal’ or a villain in ‘Singham’, I always took it as a challenge to play the characters offered to me. I did not distinguish whether it was a Hindi or Marathi film. Now, my next Hindi film ‘Married to America’ is due for release.
Q: What’s this new film all about ?
A: It is about the construction of a Dam in India by an Engineering company from USA. Mainly, it is about an NRI Engineer who has designed the construction of this dam. The film presents a good story in cinematic form. It will be released around October.
“Working with Vijayabai was a great experience”- Mohan Khambete
His fine personality and rich voice mixed with perfect diction finds him continuous roles in Marathi films and television serials. If Mohan Khambete were not to become an actor, he would have turned a musician. Since childhood, music has been his passion. With elder brother already good at playing tabla and harmonium, Mohan picked up the music quickly during his childhood at home.
But today, as a character actor, Mohan finds a variety of roles coming to him. We saw him playing a Union leader in TV serial ‘Mrunmayee’, then as a Cassette King in ‘Char Divas Sasuche’, as a Psychiatrist in ‘Ya Gojirvanya Gharat’, an owner of a news channel in ‘Adhuri Ek Kahani’, multiple roles in ‘Gangubai Non-Matric’ and now we watch him as an advocate in ‘Pinjara’. Some of his latest Marathi films have been ‘Daavpech’ and ‘Aatapitaa’. In Hindi serial ‘Ek Chutki Aasmaan’, he plays an important role of Dadaji. Mohan has also performed in few Hindi films, but his scene with Imraan Hashmi in ‘Zaher’ turned out to be the best, where he played a criminal lawyer.
Marathi Movie World had a chit chat with this versatile Marathi actor. Excerpts from the short interview:
Q: You were born and brought up at RBI Colony, Mumbai Central. Did, the cultural activities in the colony inspire you to become an actor?
A: Yes, initially as a school kid, I watched many great artistes from my colony perform during the Ganesh Festival. Prakash Bhanu, one of the popular directors from the colony offered me roles in the dramas directed by him every year. Besides that I also performed at the inter-school drama competitions through Chabildas High School, Dadar, which later turned out to be a hub for experimental theatre. During my childhood, I was very fond of music and performed in the plays just as a hobby.
Q: So, when did you take acting seriously ?
A: When I was 20 years old, I had an opportunity to work with Vijayabai Mehta. I worked in two of her plays, ‘Shakuntal’ and ‘Haibadan’. With that experience, I seriously thought about acting. Later I joined Vinayak Padwal’s acting school as a founder member and when I joined Mahindra & Mahindra, I became a part of their Kala Manch and performed at various competitions.
Q: When exactly you felt that you were a complete actor?
A: Acting is always a learning process. I am still learning. After marriage, I had taken a long break. But, when I began again, I was selected to play lead role of the play ‘Barrister’ in a competition. Those days, Vikram Gokhale played that role at commercial level. So, I was very particular not to copy him. I played that role in my own style and later realised that I had copied my old friend Uday Mhaiskar, with whom I had performed in Vijayabai’s ‘Haibadan’. I did mention to him about it; but Uday told me that it wasn’t so. He convinced me that those who learned under Vijayabai, had that kind of diction and body language. “We all should be thankful to her,” he said, while removing that thought from my mind. Uday and Ravindra Mankani were my colleagues during the beginning of my career.
Q: How was that transition from theatre to TV serials?
A: In 1996, I had performed in the finals of Natya Mahotsav. At that time a friend of mine with whom I worked in ‘Barrister’ recommended me to the assistant of Sangeet Kulkarni, who was then doing a serial ‘Tharaar’. I was selected as a villain in that serial. Then it was ‘Mrunmayee’ followed by ‘Char Divas Sasuche’ and dozens of TV serials till date.
I would prefer to be an actress, not a star – Jui Gadkari
All those Kakus, Maushis and Aajis in most of the Maharashtrian homes occupy their positions in front of the TV sets every day at 7.30 pm to watch Star Pravah’s popular serial ‘Pudhacha Paul’. As the character of Akkasaheb calls out for Kalyani, all these elderly females start thinking as to what wrong the girl has done this time. In short, they are all protective towards their favourite Kalyani. Today, Kalyani has found a special place in their hearts. Is Jui Gadkari, who plays this character, aware of her popularity among these people?
Marathi Movie world spoke to Jui Gadkari, to know more about Kalyani’s character and her rising career.
Q: Tell us something about your real family life and your educational background.
A: I am originally from Karjat. We all, including my uncles have lived together in a villa. Recently, it has been redeveloped into a building. But, still we all continue to live together. Ram Ganesh Gadkari is my Great Grand father. My father – Ketan Gadkari is a playwright. At home, the atmosphere is like an arts theatre. You will find all sorts of musical instruments here. To say something about my education, I have completed my graduation in Mass Media and Advertising followed by Post Graduation in Advertising and Public Relations. At present , I am doing my MBA in marketing.
Q: Before signing ‘Pudhacha Paul’, what other serials you had done?
A: ‘Bajirao Mastani’ was my first serial, where I played Chanda. Thereafter, in ‘Majhiya Priyala Preet Kalena’ I performed the role of Soniya and in ‘Tujhvin Sakhya Re’ I played Lavanya.
Q: Have you received special training for acting ?
A: No, I haven’t done even a single day workshop in acting. While working as an assistant director, I did a photo session and when I felt that I could act, I gave auditions. That’s how I started getting roles.
Q: How do you compare yourself with the character of Kalyani ?
A: We share only two things in common. Both of us believe in good relationship with others and at the same time love our near and dear ones through our heart. Now, talking about Kalyani, she is a simple , straightforward and sensitive person. Anybody can take her for granted. Whereas, in real life, I am an extrovert. You may call me tapori kind of girl, who likes to lead a group of friends.
Q: In that case, it must have been difficult for you to enact kalyani’s character ?
A: Yes, it was a difficult task. But, the director made me work hard on Kalyani’s character with so many rehearsals. I had to keep in mind her behaviour, body language and her simplicity. I rehearsed for a month, before going to the sets of this serial.
Q: Today, you are rated as an ideal daughter-in-law. But, what are your personal views on an ideal daughter-in-law?
A: She should be able to maintain that proper balance between office and home management, if she is a working housewife. While pursuing her career , she shouldn’t neglect her home. She should not forget that she is the pillar of the house and therefore has to be physically strong and keep away from negative attitude. Positive thinking is a must for her to maintain that required cordial relationship with her Mother-in-law, which should match close to daughter-Mother relationship.
Q: What type of roles you enjoy the most ?
A: I enjoy doing women oriented serials, where I find a chance to present different shades of a woman through those characters, such as a tapori type of girl, a responsible educated girl, a simple girl from a village and so on. These characters should be unique and something special.
Q: Tell us something about your future projects .
A: Presently I am occupied with only one serial, which keeps me busy for all 30 days of the month. I would certainly love to perform in films, particularly those, where I am not playing a glamorous role. If it is a powerful challenging role, I would certainly love to do. Instead of becoming a star, I would prefer to be an actress.
Rajesh Shringarpure – an actor with tremendous potential
We have seen many Bollywood actors like Aamir Khan and Shahrukh khan working on their body to give a different look to their respective roles. We have also seen popular actor kamal Hasan experimenting with his body either to pose a slim look or hefty look as per the requirement of the role. But, in Marathi cinema, we have hardly noticed any actor working so hard with his body to match with the role he is required to play. Only exception in the recent past being that of Atul Kulkarni, who really worked hard pumping his body with muscles to present himself as a real bodybuilder from a village.
Now, we will notice one more actor from Marathi film industry working hard on his body to build those six pack abs. Rajesh Shringarpure ( ‘Zenda’ fame) is seriously doing a workout in Gym to develop those six abs shape, as he is required to remain topless in his forthcoming film ‘Swarajya – Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’. The talented actor struggled in Hindi as well as Marathi entertainment industry for almost twelve years. It was only after the release of controversial Marathi Film ‘Zenda’ that he actually came into limelight. Rajesh had played the role of a protagonist who walks out of the Political party formed by his beloved uncle, to form another political party; only because he does not get along well with his cousin. Since his character resembled with that of Raj Thackeray in real life, Rajesh became a hero overnight, after the release of this film.
Today, Rajesh is doing extremely well, with three Marathi and Two Hindi films lined up for release. Marathi Movie World spoke to this tall and handsome actor. This is what he has to say…
Q: Today, you are in the news for your efforts in developing six pack abs. Is that true?
A: Actually, we possess so many things which are suitable to us and some of them not suitable. When I signed for this film ‘Swarajya- Marathi paul Padate Pudhe’, I realised that I have to give a topless shot. When I seriously thought over it, I felt that I should first develop six pack abs, which would suit the most in that shot. So, I expressed my desire to the director and he encouraged me to undergo special training in the Gym. That’s all the truth behind this news.
Q: How did you actually work to achieve results ?
A: I was seriously doing my work out in the Gym and followed the instructions of my special trainer. All those tips were very beneficial related to my diet. I totally avoided junk food during this period and banked only on home made food.
Q: How did you survive during your period of struggle? You also got married during that period. Tell us something about that.
A: To be very honest, my struggle period is still going on. Prior to marriage my would be knew about my ambition to become an actor and realised that I was 100% focussed on this profession. She being an understanding and sensible woman, accepted it. There was a time, when after rising up from sleep, I used to think as to how I would to spend that day. Sometimes I used to work for 2-3 days continuously and after that there was no work. During this period, my wife not only supported but also encouraged me a lot.
Q: To become a popular hero of Marathi film, acting is the main criteria. Not much of importance is given towards looks and fitness. What’s your opinion ?
A: Hmmmm. As we notice in Bollywood, the heroes put in lot of efforts in building their body for a particular role, the same thing we don’t see it happen in Marathi film industry. I personally feel that if you are a committed actor, to fulfill the requirement of the role, one must work hard on his body. At least, I am doing it to suit the requirement of my role.
Q: You have simultaneously worked in Hindi as well as Marathi entertainment industry. What difference you notice between these two fields?
A:The main difference I noticed was that of Budget. There is a big difference in the amount you are paid for the job. Now, when you work on the sets of a Marathi film, you don’t realise that you are away from home; but when you work on the sets of Hindi film or serial, you just have to forget everything on the sets and just move home quickly. There is a lot of professionalism in Hindi and You are also treated in that manner.
Q: Some of your films like ‘Mee Amruta Boltey’ ‘Zenda’ and ‘Manyaa – The Wonder Boy’ were all action oriented films. Are you more inclined towards such type of films ?
A: Not exactly. Perhaps, suited to my personality, I get such type of roles. Action is just genre of such movies. But, there are other aspects too, which I am required to pay attention while performing such characters.
Q: How about performing in a comedy film ?
A: In fact, I made my debut through a comedy film. It was Ramoji Productions film ‘Bin Paishyacha Tamashaa’ where I performed along with Prasad Oak, Vijay Chavan and Amruta Subhash.
Q: Are you satisfied now, with the kind of roles you are playing and those signed for your forthcoming films?
A: All that I would say is that I am satisfied with the kind of roles offered to me now. Having performed in TV serials like ‘Anamika’, ‘Bhagyavidhata’, ‘Char Divas Sasuche’, ‘Saptapadi’ and ‘Tu Bhetashi Navyane’ and films like ‘Bin Paishyacha Tamashaa’, ‘Mee Amruta Boltey’, ‘Kas’, ‘Zenda’ and ‘Shambhu Majha Navsacha’ I felt satisfied.In fact, in ‘Shambhu Majha Navsacha’, I performed 13 different different characters and this has been recorded in the Limca and Guinness Book of records.
Q: Finally, tell us something about your forthcoming films.
A: ‘Swarajya- Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’, ‘Matter’ and ‘One room Kitchen’ are my three Marathi films and ‘Ek Thi Raani Aisi Bhi’ and ‘Aaja Gunah Kar Le’ two Hindi films which are now due for release. In ‘Swarajya- Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’ I am playing a strong character of Ram Pathare, a self respected protagonist, who is proud to be a Maharashtrian.
Sagar Talashikar – a self made actor
His hard work for the past 15 years seems to have paid dividends. Today, we watch him play a happy go lucky character of Mayank – mischevous son of a businessman, with so much of confidence that he makes acting look so natural. Self made and cheerful Sagar Talashikar began his acting career in Kolhapur under the guidance of Dr. Sharad Bhutadia through his Houshi Natya Kala Group. While he studied his Law, he participated in the Inter Collegiate Drama competitions and performed at the experimental theatre with many plays, some of which were Shakespeare’s plays.
After his arrival in Mumbai sometime in 1997-98, Sagar invited attention of TV serial makers through his performance on stage. ‘Vartamaan’ was his debut serial on E – TV and since then he has performed in about 20-25 serials and equal number of films to follow. In 2006 Sagar also performed in a Bollywood film ‘It’s Breaking News!’ We have seen him in popular Marathi TV serials like ‘Asambhav’ and ‘Avantika’, but his role in ongoing TV serial ‘Guntata Hriday Hey’ seems to be a turning point of his career. Sagar is also doing another serial ‘Runu Zunu’ on Saam Marathi channel with a contrast role of a responsible father of a small girl. But, his portrayal of Mayak suggest a lot about his potential as an actor.
On the big screen we have seen him recently in ‘Balgandharva’ and ‘Guldasta’ trying to make his presence felt. He is now waiting eagerly for the release of his much awaited film ‘Vidhilikhit’ where he plays a parralel role in the lead with Arun Nalawade. Marathi Movie World spoke to Sagar Talashikar. Excerpts from an interview:
Q: You took up acting as your career. Who motivated you at that time?
A: I was performing in Inter collegiate competitions while I was in Kolhapur. But, when I joined the drama Group of Dr. Sharad Bhutadia – Houshi Natya kala, things changed . Over here, I learned how to perform a particular role. Dr. Bhutadia was of great help to me at the beginning of my career.
Q: Do you think that script plays an important factor for the success of Marathi Serials and films ?
A: Yes, script makes a big difference; especially in Marathi TV serials and Marathi films. In Marathi we cannot afford big budget and therefore a strong and powerful script supported by strong
dialogues and good performances help a lot to attain success. The camera on its own cannot speak, but it can capture the best moments arising out of a good screenplay. Today, in Marathi entertainment, a writer has a bigger role to play.
Q: To be a successful actor, is talent very important or it works with your personal contacts ?
A: Your healthy contacts with the right people are equally important besides possessing talent. I feel that both the qualities are essential in today’s competitive world. How will people know you that you possess talent. Your PR does help a lot.
Q: Don’t you think that the role of Mayank in ‘Guntata Hriday Hey’ is the best role you are playing in the recent times?
A: I would say, it is one of the best roles I have got so far.
Q: But, if you have to rate the best one, which one would you opt for ?
A: Yes, I would go with this character of Mayank, which I am playing right now.
Q: How were you selected for this role ?
A: Director Satish Rajwade is a good friend. My selection for this role was done by him. Perhaps he knew that I was fit for it.
Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming film ‘Vidhilikhit’. We understand that it is something special ?
A: Yes, it is a special film for me. It is made by Moin Khan a NRI with David handling the camera. Myself and Arun Nalawde play parallel roles in this film, which is based on a different subject. There is no leading lady in this film. The film is in the post production stage and will be released after 4-5 months.
Q: How are you looking forward to your future in this field?
A: I am expecting good roles and good films to come to me.