Category Archives: Interviews

“I intend to continue my studies besides acting”- Neha Gadre

Aside 2 March, 2011 Shweta Khot

For a long time now, we have been watching this simple and ideal character of Gauri in popular Marathi serial ‘Mann Udhaan Varyache’ on Star Pravah. Facing every problem in her life with a challenge, she has now turned out to be a role model for every young girl, whether living in villages or towns. Marathi Movie world spoke to Neha Gadre, who plays Gauri, to know more about her acting career.

Q: How was life, before entering this acting field ?
A: I am originally from Pune and spent my childhood here. Having completed my schooling from Muktangan, I joined Fergusson College and presently I am doing my final year BA. Since my 8th standard I was associated with German language and hence made up my mind to do my graduation with this language as my specialized subject. I even completed my Diploma in German language.

Q: Then, how Neha turned Gauri ?
A: I had prepared my Portfolio, which was in western style. When Mahesh Kothare saw these photographs, he invited me for audition. That’s how Neha turned Gauri. Today, I still have a doubt, how he selected me for Gauri’s role, on the basis of those photos with western look?

Q: How do you compare Neha with Gauri ?
A: First let me tell you where they resemble each other. Neha is equally sensitive and emotional like Gauri. Both love the family bonding to preserve the relationship. But, abot other things, both are opposite. e.g.. Neha hasn’t been brought up in a village. She is a city girl. Gauri carries with her traditional deep rooted village culture along with her and is very patient. On the other hand Neha has a limit for patience. Gauri does not teach a lesson to anyone, when she suffers, but if it was real Neha playing that role, she would have certainly challenged Nirja face to face, creating more fun to watch.

Q. While portraying Gauri, what you consider most important ?
A: Gauri is basically from a village, who has moved to a city. She has started adjusting herself to this new life. But, her looks, behaviour, body language and hair style etc. remains the same. That’s how you differentiate her from other city girls. All these things I had to keep in mind, while I studied her character. Now, in certain respect, Neha has become Gauri.

Q: What you have to say about the senior artistes from this serial ?
A: They are all nice people. In fact, our unit is the best. There is not much age difference among the artistes and therefore, we make a very good team. Even with Varsha Usgaonkar there is good tuning. When we are new to the unit, you always have that fear as to how others would react. But, now we are all together in the second year of this serial and therefore we now spend even our holidays together.

Q: How do you manage your studies besides acting ?
A: Last year, while I was doing my 2nd year BA, there wasn’t much tension about the studies. But, this year being final year and that too with University exam, the tension is slowly building up. Next month, I intend to take two months off from acting, to prepare for my exams.

Q: After acquiring your degree, what do you intend to do? Focus on acting or further studies ?
A: I shall continue with both simultaneously. In acting career, there are always ups and downs and therefore acquiring more knowledge would be an asset.

Interviews

Sanjay Narvekar, Actor

Aside 11 February, 2011 Shweta Khot

Sanjay Narvekar is one such actor who fits into any role with his spontaneity, at any given situation, be it stage or in front of the camera. This versatile actor has already proved his ability as a solo hero and also in supporting roles with the same enthusiasm and vigor. Sanjay’s forthcoming film ‘Mohaan Aawatey’ has invited the attention of one and all, for his author backed role in the film. Here, he speaks about his role, in a chit chat with MMW.

Q: When you signed this film ‘Mohaan Aawatey’, were you impressed with the story or your role ?
A: I accepted the role, because the script of this film is based on a real life story. It’s how an ordinary person, who is not even educated, advances step by step with his progress in life to reach his ultimate goal, merely with self confidence and hard work. His struggle in life, impressed me. Moreover, all the co-artistes in film were best. In fact, I found it a perfect project.

Q: Will ‘Mohaan Aawatey’ bring a new change in your life ?
A: For an artiste like me, every role is like a debut. Every time, it gives us a chance to improve further. Therefore, even this role is likely to bring some change in me.

Q: In this film, you are playing a central character. What do you have to say about that?
A: Yes, I am playing a central character. But, this role is about a boy, who comes from a very poor background that too having lived in a village during his childhood. He comes to Mumbai, leaving his school studies halfway. His real journey begins only after his arrival in Mumbai. But, it is because of the other characters around him that the central character gets importance.

Q: Can we call it a ‘One man show’ ?
A: No, not at all. No film can be called a ‘One man show’. Even if, one person is a writer, director and actor; there are others too, who make this production complete. To say about this film, it belongs to everyone, right from the Spot-boy to the Distributor. Only because, the film’s name is ‘Mohaan Aawatey’ and that I am performing that title role, does not mean that the credit should go to me.

Interviews

True man’s true story, says Subhash Kale

Aside 5 February, 2011 Shweta Khot

Subhash Kale is not a new name to Marathi film industry. After working as assistant director for Hindi and Punjabi films, he made his debut as a director into Marathi with ‘Mumbaicha Shahane’ in 2008. His much awaited film ‘Mohaan Aawatey’ (True Man’s true story) is all set to release shortly. Here he is in chat- chat with Marathi Movie world.

Here he is in chat- chat with Marathi Movie world.

Q: Why have you titled the name of this new film of yours with a person’s name?
A: This film is based on a story of a person called ‘Mohaan Aawatey’. We have tried to cover his entire life journey, revolving around different happenings in his life. Since this is in particular, a character oriented film, we thought it fit to title the film with his name.

Q: Oh, that means this is a biography of a person called Mohaan Aawatey ?
A: In fact, this is not a fiction. The tagline of this film already indicates ‘True man’s true story’; which means that it is based on a real story. Therefore, it cannot be called a biography.

Q: How did you manage the budget of this film ?
A: The producer of this film has been working as a music director for the past 12 years. He insisted on shooting at particular locations for more perfection. Therefore, the outdoor shoots went on increasing and hence the budget too went on a rise. But, that did not matter. He was always supportive to bear that extra cost. He spent more on song picturisations and also paid attention on background music more.

Q: What do you have to convey through this film ?
A: Every person has to begin somewhere. When a young man comes from a village to a city, he has to face hardships but how he overcomes all the hurdles and finally achieves what he aspires for, is all that I have tried to say through this film.

Q: Why only Sanjay Narvekar to play this title role ?
A: We had two options initially. The first was Sanjay Narvekar, who was already there in our mind and the other was Upendra Limaye. But, Upendra’s dates were not available. When we contacted Sanjay, he showed his willingness by making this dates available. With his acceptance, we felt relieved; as he is such a natural and realistic actor.

Q: This film can categorized in which form, action or story oriented ?
A: The film does have a strong story line and also contains action. So, it is not possible to categorise into one particular form.

Q: How do you rate your film’s chances at the box office ?
A: Our only wish is that this film should reach to all classes of Marathi audience. We haven’t spent much on publicity, as we believe that the ‘word of mouth’ publicity would do wonders for the film’s success.

Interviews

Destiny brought me into films – Siya Patil

Aside 3 February, 2011 Shweta Khot

Someone has rightly said, “I seldom end up where I wanted to go, but almost always end up where I need to be.” In the case of Siya Patil, she was a National level Volleyball player and a State level Basketball player. Yet she wanted to become a Police Inspector, but finally landed in this tinsel world of Marathi films. Daughter of a farmer, Siya comes from Rajewadi, a place from Sangli district, which also happens to be the place of late G. D. Madgulkar, popular Marathi poet and writer.

She completed her school and college education in Pune and after doing her Masters in Commerce, while she was doing her Diploma in Computers from Cummins, she was spotted by Dr. Shreeram Lagoo, who at that time watched one of her dance performances. Dr. Lagoo not only appreciated her skills but also advised her to join films, as he found her eyes very expressive. At that time, Siya had just kept that thought in her mind, as she was very much concerned about getting a job those days, to support her family, which was in distress. She even worked part-time at a Petrol Pump in Pune and worked as a faculty at a Computer Institute. She was very keen on becoming a Police Inspector and had even passed two tests after giving MPSC exam.

But, as they say, destiny had something else to offer this talented girl. Today, we see her in Marathi films and also in one of the ongoing serials on television. Marathi Movie world had a chit chat with Siya, to know more about her struggle and her present career.

Q: How come a girl with gifted sports talent, landed in Marathi film industry?
A: It’s all destiny. When I played Basketball and Volleyball at the State and National level about 8 years ago, there wasn’t much scope to gain financially. I belonged to a farmer’s family and therefore had to study hard and find a job first, to support my family. We were really going through hard times. So, I appeared for MPSC exams only to become a Police Inspector. I was very good in dancing, but never knew that one day I would be able to enter this profession. But, again, meeting the right people at the right time, to enter this industry.

Q: How it happened ?
A: I received an offer from Mr. Yashwant Bhalkar for his film ‘Ghe Bharari’ and then
the journey began with ‘Navra Avali Bayko Lovely’ to follow.

Q: How many projects you have in hand now ?
A: Presently, I am doing a TV serial ‘Waras’ and have completed films like ‘Pakyabhai’, ‘Dhoom To Dhamaal’, ‘Four Idiots’ and ‘Mohaan Aawatey’ which is due for release shortly.

Q: What is so special about Mohaan Aawatey ?
A: In this film, I am playing Gauri – a flower vendor, who is loved by the leading man. It’s basically a Male oriented film, but I have three songs in it with about 15-16 scenes sufficient enough to give my best. And, I am happy with it.

Q: Would you be interested to play a character based on sports ?
A: Yes, why not? In fact, that will help me a lot to explore my potential. I have done this kind of role in ‘Chal Dharpakad’, but it was limited to a kabaddi match though I played a doctor.

Q: You are also a popular Model. Which are the brands you have worked for ?
A: I started with WIPRO and then performed for a Leather Range show. Then I was a model for a Saree brand besides few other products including Alfa Gas water heater.

Interviews

Sachin- the Mahaguru of Marathi Entertainment

1 February, 2011 MMW Editorial

In the year 1962-63, a child actor made his debut through Raja Paranjape’s Marathi film ‘Ha Majha Marg Ekala’. And the powerful and sensible script of the film brought this talented child star into fame. He received National award of best child artist for this film, on debut. Popularly known as Sachin, this actor called Sachin Pilgaonkar, later went on to act as a child star in about 65 Marathi and Hindi films. He performed with many big stars in Hindi and prominent among them were his roles in films like ‘Jewel Thief’ and ‘Bramhachari’, during the period 1967-68.

While playing a child actor, he groomed into a teen age star and that fetched him lead roles, through which he offered hit films like Geet Gaata Chal (1975) and Balika Badhu (1976). His pairing with Sarika was a hit those days. We also saw him in that important role of a teenager in super hit film like ‘Sholay’ and ‘Satte Pe Satta’ in the company of big stars . By the time, he crossed his teenage, we witnessed him as a young hero singing that hit song ‘Gapoochi Gapoochi Gum Gum…’. with Poonam Dhillon, in a popular multi starrer big banner film ‘Trishul’ in 1978.

Sachin, Sachin Pilgaonkar
This success was followed by films like ‘Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se’ (1978), and Nadiya Ke Paar (1982). By that time Scachin had turned into a young man, having gained a lot of experience of watching people perform on the sets. So, he turned back to Marathi films production and direction with films like Mai Baap (1982), Navri Mile Navryala (1984), Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi (1988), Atmavishwas, Bhutacha Bhau( 1989) , Amchyasarkhe Aamich (1990) and Navra Mazha Navsacha (2004). But, at the same time he had directed a Bollywood film and with that experience in the 90s he switched over to small screen for direction.

His super hit Hindi comedy show ‘Tu Tu Main Main’ went on to create record viewership on Star Plus channel. This show starred his wife Supriya and Reema Lagoo.Sachin also directed a
show Rin 1 2 3 on Star-Plus, which presented parodies on Bollywood movies. Later, he directed a comedy serial for family , ‘Hudd Kar Di’ starring Dara Singh, as the head of the family.

Soon, it was time for him to anchor musical programmes like ‘Chalti Ka Naam Antakshari’ and similar other shows besides the Marathi film award ceremonies. Not deterred with his progressing age, he went on to prove that he was still best in dancing and proved his ability along with his wife Supriya, when in 2006, the couple won this popular dance Reality Show Nach Baliye, pocketing Rs. 40 lakh , while defeating nine other celebrity pairs , who were part of this contest. Sachin’s victory was mainly based upon the popularity votes in his favour.

In late 2007, he presented his new programme ‘Eka Peksha Ek’ on Zee Marathi, based on dance presentations, which opened the doors for hidden talent from different parts of Maharashtra. The programme is still popular and is released with different themes every phase. Today, being the chief judge of this reality show, he is popularly known as Mahaguru. But, in this entertainment industry, he is a real Mahaguru, almost nearing completion of 50 years of his acting career, which began at a young age of just 6 yrs.

Interviews

Imagination is the key – Nilesh Mohrir

Aside 1 February, 2011 Shweta Khot

Almost 21 title songs of popular serials, 14 non film music albums and music for 7 movies. What more one could have asked for ask for from a young music composer Nilesh Mohrir ? This youngster has not only received prestigious awards in a short span but has also been felicitated with some big honours like Anil mohile Purskar, Yuwa Gaurav Purskar, Kala Gaurav, Manavata Gaurav and many others in appreciation of his music.

While doing his graduation in Music and Sound recording from Mumbai University, Nilesh had the privilege of learning the basics from Anil Mohile and Achyuta Thakur. Then, he brought out many private albums with reputed companies like Times, Fountain, Sagarika and Krunal. Besides that he also worked as Music arranger. However, he got a boost to his career when he got an opportunity to provide title song to Zee Marathi’s ‘Kalat Nakalat’. And, that’s how Nilesh became a popular name in every Maharashtrian house.

There was no stopping for him after that as serial makers lined up at his place. For the past five years he has been providing quality music and title songs for every serial he has done. Looking at his film journey, how can we forget that beautiful composition rendered by Rahul Vaidya and Vaishali in ‘Yanda Kartavya Aahe’? His recently released film ‘Manya-The Wonder Boy’, also speaks about his hard work and dedication, while offering relevant tunes required for the purpose. Especially, his background score in this film invites

MMW had a chit chat with Nilesh to know more about his achievements and his future plans.

Q: How did you land into this field and whether it was your own decision to take up this career?
A: To tell the truth, till my college days, I wasn’t sure whether I would be seriously taking up this as my career. During that period, I used to listen to music and even performed as a singer. But, during 1994-95 when I heard songs composed by A.R. Rehman for the film ‘Bombay’, I was inspired and also thought that one day I should also be able to produce such a kind of music. Since then, I stated believing Rehman as my guru and focused on all such requirements to study music in detail.

Q: Oh! That means he is your ideal ?
A: Yes.

Q: Now we find so many new music directors mixing up Western Music with Hip-rock and South pattern and fitting into it the Marathi lyrics. Don’t you think so ?
A: (Smiles) True. In some cases it does happen. But, if you ask my personal opinion, I would say that between experiment and imagination, it’s imagination that is important. If you don’t imagine and keep working within the four walls, then many a times you fail with your experiments and I would not like to be a part of it. Whenever I compose music, I ensure that when a western or non-marathi genre is used, the suitable matching lyrics are to be incorporated to meet the requirement.

Q: But, for the past 5-6 years we have been observing that all these new songs are based on South film songs or English pop.
A: Actually, if it is based on South style, it is okay as it has our own regional base. But, if the songs are composed using those foreign instruments, then it misses the Marathi essence. For such compositions, care is to be taken that the sound of instruments should not cover up the singer’s voice. In short, the song should convey the sentiments through words effectively.

Q: In the past, we have seen the Music directors getting the name and fame. But, now days, though people remember the songs of new music directors, they tend to forget their names. Don’t you think so ?
A: Exactly. This is a very big topic of discussion. There are many reasons, but basically the condition of music directors is almost the same as that of Marathi Cinema. In spite of availability of so many mediums, Marathi songs are not reaching to the people. In the past Akashwani used to be the best option open to play Marathi songs, which were heard in full length. But, today we see the dominance of Hindi on all radio channels, where even an average song is played repeatedly to make it popular. For Marathi songs, there is no such option. Many of my best compositions therefore haven’t reached people. Those who know me, is only because of my title songs for Marathi serials, as I have managed to reach their homes

Q: The present generation is Net savvy . Like Mobiles and television, the internet has become a part of their life. Then, why you are not using this medium for promotion of music?
A: Right, today because of internet so many good things are happening. Like me, there are many other newcomers who are making best use of internet. But, to make Marathi music popular among them, it will certainly take some more time.

Q: Which is your favourite song composed till now ?
A: To be frank, my latest song ‘Nur ada, Nur ada’ in the film ‘Manya-The Wonder Boy’ is my favourite composition. Even my media friends have appreciated it and I have been receiving compliments from well wishers for the same

Q: After ‘Manya’ what’s more in films? Are we expecting some more title songs?
A: I have composed music for three more Marathi films namely: ‘Partner’ , ‘Platform’ and ‘Nirruttar’. Among them ‘Partner’ is based on Va Pu Kale’s novel. ‘Platform’ has already been acclaimed at film festivals. For 2-3 forthcoming TV serials, I am composing title songs.

Q: Great! We are all eager to see your compositions filled with melody.
A: Thanks.

Interviews

“Dancing is my passion but acting is my profession” – Smita Shewale

Aside 29 January, 2011 Shweta Khot

She made her confident looking entry into Marathi films through Kedar Shinde’s film ‘Yanda Kartavya Aahe’. Like all time greats Shanta Shelke and Mrunal Kulkarni, she too is an alumni of Pune’s famous Huzurpapga School. Bright and talented Smita Shewale has never missed a single opportunity since her childhood, when it came to competition, be it Dance Competition, College gathering or New Comer’s party; she always used to be around. It was only surprising, how she couldn’t get a call from Zee Marathi’s programme Ekapeksha Ek Apasaras. She was certainly a better choice. Were her dancing talents not known to the organizers?

Anyway, in the days to come, her dancing talents will surely be noticed, as she is certainly one of those sincere and hard working actresses in Marathi entertainment industry. Marathi Movie world spoke to this talented star, to know more about her passion and profession.

Q: How you got your first break through ‘Yanda Kartavya Aahe’ ?
A: One day, I had gone to see a play at Pune’s Sudarshan Manch. Over there, I sensed some confusion on the faces of those people whom I knew. In the meantime Shubhangi Damle approached me and inquired about my present activity. When I told her that I was performing dances, wherever, I was given an opportunity; she asked me to post her my photographs. I totally forgot about it, till I received 2-3 calls from her. This time, she suggested me that Kedar Shinde was looking for a girl, like me as he was doing a film on Rasika Joshi’s script. When I met Kedar Shinde, he immediately finalized me for swati role, without even taking my audition. It looked like that he had found his Swati in me.

Q: How many films and serials have you done so far?
A: My first film was ‘Yanda kartavya Aahe’ followed by ‘Manya Sajjana’, ‘Laadi Goadi’ and ‘Chal Lavkar’. For television, I have done ‘CharChaughi’ and presently doing ‘Shrimant Pehwa Bajirao Mastani’ and ‘Mandala Don Ghadicha Daav’ which has recently been launched on Star Pravah.

Q: What type of role you are playing in ‘Mandala Don Ghadicha Daav’?
A: I am playing Anagha, who is a perfect role model of an ideal girl. She is different from others. A very matured girl, who knows how to handle every situation. However, her younger sister is exactly opposite to her. She is a pampered girl and has a different track of living life. It is Anagha, who always protects her, whenever she is in trouble. It’s a challenging role.

Q: After watching initial episodes of this serial, it only reminds us of Juhi Chawla’s film ‘Aaina’, Don’t you think so?
A: May be, you are right. I sacrifice a lot, just to make my sister happy. Sometimes, I go out of the way to protect her and in the process affect my own self. But, you need to see the forthcoming episodes, before arriving at any such conclusion.

Q: Sure, we will see your forthcoming episodes. But, are you planning to continue with serials ?
A: Presently, I am so much occupied with my work through serials that I get exhausted and there is hardly any time to plan future action. But, let me think about it.

Q: You are also passionate about dancing. Are you a dancing actress?
A: I have trained myself in Bharatanatyam for 12 long years and it is my passion. But, acting will always be my profession. Recently I also directed a classical ballet. Whenever I get a chance to display my both talents together, I shall consider it a privilege.

Interviews

Samrruddhi Porey – An Advocate and a film maker

Aside 26 January, 2011 Shweta Khot

She is an advocate by profession , but film making is her passion. We have witnessed Doctors, Architects and Engineers turning into writers, actors and filmmakers; then why not an advocate make a film? Not long ago, Samrruddhi Porey wrote scripts on honour killing titled Palisades of Silence & Brrrr and registered them with Hollywood. Then, in India she registered one script ‘Apni Dil Ki Baat Suno’, which is in the process of production. But, for a long time, there was one such case that she came across, that created a deep impact on her mind. It was about the legal implication arising out of an agreement with a Surrogate mother, in case something unexpected happened.

In India, Surrogate Mothers are doing a big business especially in villages, where they are exploited by the foreigners and the middle men, who take advantage of their poverty. Taking up one such sensitive tale of a Surrogate mother and the surrogate child, Samrruddhi made a film ‘Mala Aai Vhaychay’ ( I want to be a Mother), which is first of its kind in the world. And, the best thing is that it is a Marathi film. This film has already invited attention at about 8 film festivals, where it was released, inviting attention and bagging awards in various categories. ‘Mala Aai Vhaychay’ is now due for release all over Maharashtra on 11th February 2011. Marathi Movie world spoke to Sammruddhi Porey, the Writer- Producer-director of this film, to know more about her venture. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: What is so special about your film?
A: My film is based on a real life incident and it is the first film in the world on the subject of Surrogate Mother and child. Some people are well aware of this subject, but they are not aware of the legal implications. I have made all possible efforts to convey this message in a cinematic form, so that it reaches not only to the small villages in India, but even to smallest village anywhere in the world, where even an illiterate woman would be able to understand this subject. After all, ‘Mother‘ has an universal identity.

Q: You are an Advocate by profession. How did you manage to enter this area of film making?
A: It does not matter, which profession you belong to. If you have something very interesting to share with the people, that you yourself have experienced or seen happening in real life, then why can’t it be in a cinematic form ? I already had the passion for writing and I have already registered two of my scripts with Hollywood and one with Bollywood. This particular case of Surrogate mother and the child born
to her had a deep impact on my mind and I had decided to make a film. While playing my role as a legal consultant, I was already in touch with many Marathi film makers and even used to share with them some improvisation on scripts, during the course of film’s shooting. One day, I thought that I would be able to make my own film on this subject and it just happened.

Q: How are you going to distribute this film? Did you face any problems?
A: I was myself sure about the quality of my film and my target audience. Now, as far as distribution is concerned, I have to believe in what they feel is right. But, my film will surely be released in multiplexes and single screen theatres. In fact, I am also going to explore the possibility of reaching out to rural audience later on.

Interviews

“Strength of the role and not length is important” – Hemangi Kavi

Aside 20 January, 2011 Shweta Khot

Graduate from Mumbai’s J.J. School of Arts, Hemangi Kavi is a renowned artistic painter besides being a talented actress. On stage, she began with ‘Shame to Shame’ and then did ‘Many Happy Returns’ while on television she started off with a serial on Saam TV and became a popular TV artiste with her serial ‘Maddam Sasu Dhaddam Sun’ on Mi Marathi in the recent past.

Hemangi’s role in the film ‘Dhudgus‘ bagged her the Best actress ‘Late V. Shantaram’ award from Zee Talkies in 2009. An actress with tremendous potential, Hemangi promises good performances in days to come. Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actress. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: Recently you were seen on television through reality show ‘Fu Bai Fu’ and comedy TV serial ‘Maddam Sasu ani Dhaddam Soon'( MSDS). How do you rate your success as a TV star ?
A: Now, both my shows are no more there, but I enjoyed working in both of them. In ‘Fu Bai Fu’ there was tremendous scope for variety and MSDS provided me a platform to entertain the audience through a comedy arising out of the Mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relations. In Marathi, it worked very well.
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Q: But, don’t you think that you gained popularity faster through your TV appearance rather than being a talented film actress for the past few years?
A: Yes, it could be possible, as TV takes you to almost every Maharashtrian house. I have been doing films, but not all my films were super hit, to become very popular. When I performed in ‘Fu Bai Fu’ as one of the participants, we were provided with the script but given the liberty to perform in our own way using our creativity and that was perhaps more accepted by the audience.

Q: Yes, we liked your part where you and your partner Kushal Badrike played new born babies in the hospital. Wasn’t that a difficult task ?
A: Yes, it was difficult but we rehearsed well before presenting the same. And I really enjoyed being part of this show.

Q: Don’t you think that some of your films in the lead role were good but failed to capture commercial success?
A: Yes, some of my films in the lead role were really good films. But, as we witness today, the poor distribution of such films fail to reach to the true lovers of Marathi films. Many a times, I was told that the movie would be released at many theatres at a time, but on the release day I noticed its release only in few theatres.

Q: Were you disappointed that ‘Kon Aahe Re Tikade’ inspite of having a good subject, failed to reach the audience?
A: Yes, it was for the same reason of distribution. In fact, in this film I was playing the lead role opposite Subodh Bhave and there were renowned artistes like Mohan Agashe, Sharad Ponkshe, Shubhangi Gokhale and others around.

Q: Even after playing the lead roles, you are nowdays accepting small roles in many Marathi films. Why so ?
A: I feel that the strength of the role and not the length is important. In the past, I was offered such roles where there were few scenes, but considering the importance of those scenes in the film’s screenplay, I have accepted these roles. The best example is recently released film ‘Fakta Ladh Mhana’, where I played a small role of a domestic help. When I was explained the character, I knew that this role would create a big impact in the screenplay. If you have seen the film, you will realise it.

Q: Tell us something about your award winning performance in the film ‘Dhudgus‘ .
A: The film had a very good subject and it was all about injustice on a newly married woman. The film was presented well and I had enough scope to prove my ability through this role of a helpless widow.

Q: We also understand that your forthcoming film ‘Pipaani‘ has a challenging role for you ?
A: Yes, for this role, I should thank well known Cinematographer-Sanjay Jadhav. He suggested me that I should accept this role, though it had only 8 scenes. Kranti Redkar is also in this film and we have one such intense scene together. There is a film being shot into this film with Kranti Redkar playing an actress. After completing this film, I realised that I did the right thing by accepting this role. Thanks to Sanjayda once again.

Interviews

“Satish Rajwade is like a school of acting” – Ashutosh Kulkarni

Aside 10 January, 2011 Shweta Khot

A graduate in Social Sciences and Sociology from Pune’s Fergusson College, Ashutosh Kulkarni came to Mumbai only to become an actor. Before that he was active with Pune’s experimental theatre and also performed at the State level competitions. When he first came to this tinsel town, he started taking keen interest on other aspects of stage, i.e lighting technical matters and even direction. He even worked as assistant director to Cinematographer- director Sanjay Jadhav, for the film ‘Checkmate‘ to get the feel of camera and floor movements. ‘Goshta Eka Lagnachi’, ‘Duniyadari‘ and ‘Peshwai‘ were some of the shows through which he got exposure and then through Zee Marathi’s TV serial ‘Asambhav’, he received special attention. Ashutosh learnt his real acting lessons from Satish Rajwade, who was the director of ‘Asambhav’.

“Satish Rajwade is like a school of acting and there is a lot to learn from him, while he directs you,” says Ashutosh, while recollecting some of the special moments he shared in his company. He also does not forget to mention about Shrirang Godbole and Smita Talwalkar, because of whom he got his timely break on television. While working in Marathi, Ashutosh also had an opportunity to be part of a Hindi TV show ‘Bure Bhi Hum Bhale Bhi Hum’. “It was a good experience to work in Hindi,” he says.

There is not a single opportunity he has missed, when it was time for anchoring any programme or show.

“I enjoy playing that role as I feel very comfortable as an anchor,” he says with a smile. As regards his entry into films, soon, you will see him in a new Marathi film ‘Koni Mulgi Deta Ka Mulgi’, directed by Ashok Karlekar.” Having focused himself totally into this profession, he too has his own ambition of setting up his own production house one day. Whatever this young actor does, it is with full conviction. “I don’t do anything halfway and then leave it. If I take up any work, I try to complete it first, before jumping at other. It was for this reason, while I was preparing for my exams, there were no acting commitments. During that period, I was totally engrossed with my studies.” he says.

In the recent past, we have seen Ashutosh confidently performing every character, whether it was a supportive boy friend in ‘Kasturi‘ opposite Sai Ranade Sane, an ambitious and understanding friend in ‘Anubandh‘ opposite Saie Tamhankar, or as Ajay Raje Shankarshet in Star Pravah’s ‘Goshta Eka Lagnachi’ opposite Urmila Kanetkar; he has always been at ease, doing such roles. His serial ‘Lek Ladaki Hya Gharchi’ is also doing well on E-TV.

Ashutosh is now playing a more challenging lead role in the character of Vikram opposite another talented actress Rujuta Deshmukh in Mi Marathi’s popular ongoing serial ‘Tu Bhetashi Navyane’. In this serial he is in the company of versatile senior actors like Vikram Gokhale, Madhu Kambikar, Pradeep Velankar and now Sharad Ponkshe; who has also been added to the caste. “I enjoy every moment while shooting for this serial. Right from the producer, director, co-artistes to technicians; they are truly professional,” he compliments.

Observing him perform confidently and with ease in the company of big artistes, it becomes clear that he is ‘an actor to watch’ in the coming years. Being very polite, friendly with all approach and considering himself still in the learning process, are some of his good qualities that will take him to greater heights in the long run.

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