Aniket Vishwasrao – Dashing and Vibrant Marathi star
Marathi film industry can count very few dashing and dynamic heroes and one of them is Aniket Vishwasrao. No wonder, during the recent Maharashtracha Favorite Kaun? awards, he was adjudged as the Best Style icon of the year. For the past few years, Aniket has made his presence felt through few TV serials and movies. It was his bad luck that when his solo hero film ‘Rang Berangi’ was released, it was the scare of Swine flu, which prevented audience from coming to theatres. But, Aniket had his best time, when he almost rocked with his role in Mahesh Manjrekar’s big banner multistarer film ‘Fakta Ladh Mhana’, which was directed by well known Cinematograher Sanjay Jadhav.
As a schoolboy from Dahisar, Aniket took active interest in dramatics while he studied in St. Francis High School, Borivali. But, when Aniket joined M.L. Dahanukar College, Vile Parle, his real journey into acting field began. He participated in competitions doing one act plays and even won an award for best performance. It was during his second year in college, he was selected for an important role in a Marathi play ‘Nakalat Saare Ghadale’ starring two versatile actors like Vikram Gokhale and Savita Prabhune. Things changed thereafter for Aniket, who made up his mind to turn professional actor and make a serious career in acting.
With his appearance in debut TV serial ‘Oon Paus’, Aniket came into limelight and thereafter, there was no stopping for him. Playing a very important role in his next serial ‘Kalat Nakalat’ increased his confidence and Aniket was soon a recognized hero in Marathi entertainment industry. As a hero in 2008, he had done a film ‘Guilty’ which was his second film with Kumar Sohani. But, Aniket’s real test was in a Hindi feature film ‘Hava Aane Do’ made by Partho Sen Gupta, where he performed a parallel hero with Nishikant Kamat opposite Tanishtha Chatterjee and Rajashree Thakur. The film was acclaimed at various film festivals abroad, but could not be released in India, due to Censor problem. The film was shot on the backdrop of India-Pakistan war, when the two youths almost get ready to work abroad after a long struggle.
A perfect gentleman, maintaining good PR with people around him, Aniket spoke to Marathi Movie World. Excerpts from an interview:
Q: For a youngster who studied from a convent school, was that easy to perform in Marathi initially ?
A: I didn’t have any problem, as in our house we conversed daily in Marathi and I always respected our culture, by reading and watching Marathi newspapers and TV programmes.
Q: When did Aniket Vishwasrao actually came into limelight as an actor?
A: I think, it was after ‘Oon Paus’ that I received the recognition as an actor.
Q: But, your film debut was through ‘Havaa Aane Do’( Let the wind blow) a feature film? What was the role you played in this film ?
A: I played a protagonist. It was a very good film about directionless youth influenced by foreign culture. When they decide to finally settle down in their lives, the Indo-pak war breaks out. The film had problems with censor, but received applause at various international festivals abroad.
Q: You also had a very good solo hero role in ‘Rang Berangi’. Don’t you regret that the film was released at a wrong time ?
A: Yes, it was our bad luck that during that period, there was a big scare of swine flu and people kept themselves away from theatres. In this film, I had a good role, suited to me. But, never mind. I had another opportunity through ‘Fakta Ladh Mhana’ a big banner film. And, I did receive the compliments from well wishers.
Q: When we saw you winning the Style icon award at the Maharashtracha Favorite Kaun? ceremony, you also invited other nominees to share the award with you. Are friends so important to you ?
A: Yes, though they were nominated along with me, they are very good friends and artistes. I felt that they too deserved that award and hence the gesture.
Q: Do you have real friends in this entertainment industry? How do you find time for them ?
A: Yes, I do have friends in this entertainment industry. Santosh is one of them. He is a common friend of some of my friends since my college days. We do find time sometimes.
Q: Now, that you and Pallavi are close friends for the past 4-5 years, when do you intend to get married ?
A: Not very soon. We need some more time for that.
Q: Who inspired you to take up this acting career ?
A: There are many people, but I cannot forget Hrishikesh Joshi, Mr. Sudhir Bhatt, who gave me my first break into Marathi drama and Mr. Vikram Gokhale from whom I learned the initial lessons of acting.
Q: Any forthcoming projects ?
A: Yes, I am eagerly awaiting for my film ‘Tendulkar Out!’ This film may be released by December end or in January 2012.
“I love to perform variety of roles” – Sandeep Kulkarni
If you look at his educational background, he is supposed to be the most creative person in the Marathi film world. Having done his graduation from Mumbai’s illustrious educational institution – Sir J J school of Arts, Sandeep Kulkarni opted for advertising field and later switched over to acting profession , which is also another art form. Today, he is the most popular actor of Marathi movies.
Beginning his film career with Bollywood stalwarts like Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani through their films ‘Mammo’ and ‘Hazaar Courasi ki Maa’ respectively , Sandeep Kulkarni first took lessons from acting guru Satyadev Dube at the most appropriate time, under whose guidance he could then progress confidently. In late 80s he began his stage career with plays like ‘Majha Khel Mandu De’ and ‘Dhyani Mani’. Besides few Bollywood movies, he was also seen in popular Hindi TV serials like ‘Discovery of India’, ‘9 Malabar Hill’, and ‘Nyay’. But, his entry into popular Marathi serial ‘Avantika’ actually brought him into limelight. He was soon offered the role of Dr. Sane in a Marathi film ‘Shwaas’, which not only won the national award but was India’s entry for the Oscars.
In fact, film ‘Shwaas’ of which Sandeep was a major part, had actually brought in that desired change into Marathi films. And, good days were here for Sandeep, who was spotted as the perfect character to play angry young man of Marathi films to fight injustice in the society. Mr. Apte came as a tailor made role for his kind of personality in the film ‘Dombivali Fast’ made by award winning director Nishikant Kamat. Later, Sandeep went on to be part of films like ‘Bedhund’, ‘Mai Baap’,’Made in China and ‘Sane Guruji’ but his performance in action packed thriller ‘Gaiir’ also went on to prove that he was an actor par excellence, fit to perform any kind of role.
In 2008, Sandeep received the best actor award during Nigerian Film festival for his role in ‘Ek Daav Sansaracha’ Earlier in 2006 , he had won the popular Screen Award for best actor in ‘Dombivali Fast’. In fact, ‘Dombivali Fast’ was the film which also received attention at many international film festivals but the best compliment came from Los Angeles Film festival, when Michael Douglas appreciated the film. If you study his profile, most of his films have been part of international film festivals.
Being very particular about accepting the roles based on not only good script but good cinematic presentation in the screenplay, he is now all set to invite attention of his admirers through his forthcoming film ‘Pratisaad’ which is due for release on 21st May 2010. In this film Sandeep plays a Homeopathy doctor. The script is based on the success story of a popular Homeopath Dr. Amarendra Nikam from Pimpri, Pune. He is also playing an important role of a Muslim character in next Bollywood film ‘Bandaa‘.
In an interview to Marathi Movie World, Sandeep Kulkarni speaks about his acting career and future assignments.
Q: You have been branded as the angry young man of Marathi films, who cannot stand to injustice in the society. Does the real Sandeep also react in the same fashion?
A: – ( Smile). Yes, to a certain extent, but I don’t express my anger that spontaneously, as I did through different roles in films. Like any other common man, I too dislike certain disturbing acts of people, who take others for granted. One has to respect the law and behave like a sensible citizen.
Q: How much is your involvement in your film, besides acting ?
A: I totally get involved right from the shooting till the film is distributed. The involvement also depends upon my personal relationship with the film makers. If I am close to them, then you will even find me helping them in their ad campaign. This is where my original profession comes into operation. And, I enjoy doing that job too, which is full of creativity. In my past film ‘Gaiir’ and the forthcoming film ‘Pratisaad’ my involvement has been there in the ad campaign too .
Q: You have been very choosy about your roles. Does the story and the role offered to you matter a lot ?
A: It is not only the story and role offered, but what I am more particular about is the presentation of screenplay. Unfortunately, today not many Marathi and Hindi film makers are paying attention to screenplay, which is the heart of the film. If your screenplay is good, you are sure to catch attention of the audience and hold them back to their seats from start till end. I really get inspired when I see the work of late Vijay Tendulkar through the screenplays written by him. With limitations during his time, he was so perfect in his presentation on paper.
Ashwini Bhave , Interview
A Philosophy graduate, A well known actress in Hindi and Marathi movies, a writer and now a producer, well that’s a small list of Ashwini’s achievements till now.
Ashwini’s acting careers began with the Marathi drama ‘Gaganbhedi’. She debuted with ‘Shabbas Sunbai’ into movie industry and later established herself as a successful actress with hits movies like ‘Ashi hi Banava Banavi’, ‘Kalat Nakalat’ and ‘Aahuti’. She also acted in TV serials Rau, Sainik, Bandhan and Bhairavi. Her entry into Hindi movie industry wasn’t a small affair. Her performance in R.K banner’s ‘Heena’ impressed everyone. Ashwini has received best actress awards from Govt. of Maharashtra for her performance in ‘Aahuti’ and for the role in drama ‘Purush’ (Hindi).
But Ashwini suddenly disappeared from the screen and now, after an absence of 10 Ashwini-Bhave
years, she has returned with a bang!!! This time she is not just the actress but the producer too.
Q: What exactly inspired you to make a film?
A: Well, after marriage , I went to America and got busy with my family, but the actor inside me was disturbing me somewhere. That’s why I did a 4 yrs degree course in ‘Motion Film and Television’ from California University in 2002. As a part of final year project, I prepared a documentary film on Warali Art named “Warali Art & Culture” which was shown in MIFF (Mumbai International Film Festival) 2002. This gave me a confidence me that I can make a film, And I think that’s what lead me to produce ‘Kadachit’.
Q: What did you experience while working as a co-producer?
A: In every field you experience something good and something bad. In fact the idea of this film emerged form our chit-chatting with Chandrakant Kulkarni and Girish Joshi. But soon after I realized that it is very hard to materialize ideas into reality.
As a co-producer, I realised that film production is a team work and not only producer’s responsibility. Each and every stage of production i.e.- Pre Production – Production – Post Production is important and the persons working on that particular stage are of prime most importance. Right from spot boy to actor, editor, sound recordist, cameraman, director…Well, this is only about production team. Once you get sensor certificate the focus changes. Now the responsibility is shifted to distributors, theatre owners, designers and production managers. The most important thing is right from the first moment of the creation to the end of the work, it is producer’s responsibility to keep harmony and zeal of the work among the team members. When it comes to production money matters and I think that there should not be any compromise about finance if you really want to do something to the perfection. Fortunately, I had dedicated team members who worked hard and gave their best.
Q:What is most challenging ? Acting, Writing or Production?
A: You cant say specifically, because everything has its own challenges they give you satisfaction of working. We should learn to take these things as a challenge then it becomes more exciting. It’s important to be honest to yourself.
In acting, the director tells you what to do and what not. You get your compensation and that’s it. Same is the case with writing. But as a Producer, you cant just release your film and stay away as you are emotionally involved in that particular creation. Its all up to audience how they respond.
Q: Any special reason for selecting Chandrakant Kulkarni as a Director of ‘Kadachit’?
A: As I told you before the storyline arose form our discussion with him. Besides, he has given several silver jubilee films like ‘Bindhast‘, ‘Bhet‘, ‘Kay dyacha Bola‘. He has directed around 60 marathi plays. He is simply one of the best directors today. I would like to give him full credit for completing my film within 22 days and that’s not a small deed.
Q: Tell us about your role in ‘Kadachit’.
A: This the story of a modern woman, who is a caring mother, wife and a Neuro-surgeon. It’s about how she confronts the problems arising form her past and present. It was really a challenging role. But, I am think that I have done justice to the character despite being away from acting for 10yrs.
It’s a song less movie as there was no point in thrusting song unnecessarily. Amar Mohile’s inscrutable music would really give you an edge of the seat excitement.
The one and only one…. Nana Patekar
Born as Vishwanath Patekar on the 1st day of the year in Murud – Janjira, Maharashtra, he perhaps indicated that he was born to lead others. Nana, as he is popularly known, is a very common name in Maharashtrian families, but Vishwanath alias Nana Patekar turned out to be a different person with tremendous creativity hidden within his self. He found an opportunity to explore his talent when he joined Mumbai’s J.J. School of Arts. Those days, for a commercial artist, it was not a well paying job. So, Nana switched over to another creative job of acting. He performed on stage and soon became a popular performer with his spontaneous reactions through body language supported by his rich dialogue delivery.
It did take some time for him to establish himself in this field and then started receiving offers also from films. His negative role as a local politician, who rapes a social activist in the popular Marathi play ‘Purush’ invited the attention of Bollywood personalities and Nana soon landed in Hindi films, demanding meaty roles well suited to his image. Muzaffar Ali, B.R. Chopra and N. Chandra gave him the recognition of an actor, with suitable roles and thereafter there was no stopping for this talented actor. There was a time, when he demanded almost the same amount that was paid to some of the heroes of the films. But, then he deserved it. Nana was very choosy about the roles and gave his 100% in whatever role he played. Whether it was standing opposite bigwigs like Raaj Kumar or Amitabh Bachchan, he always made his own impression on the screen.
In the year 2001 Nana was back on stage and even attempted the Hindi version of ‘Purush’ with Ayesha Jhulka playing the social activist. He also played a different character in a Marathi film ‘Pak Pak Pakak’, which only he could have played. Some of his films like ‘Krantiveer’ ‘Gulaam E Mustafa’, ‘Agnisakshi’, ‘Khamoshi’, ‘Yashwant’, ‘Hum Dono’, ‘Apharan’ and ‘Ab Tak Chhappan’ fully exploited his potential as an actor. Watching him in the recently released films like ‘Welcome’ and ‘Raajniti’ clearly shows how an actor can make his presence felt in every scene of which he is part of. Nana has that ability to pull the crowds at the theatres, with his name in the cast of the film. Now that he will be back to Marathi cinema, is itself a good news for all of us. Everybody is eagerly awaiting for his film ‘Natasamraat’ which has been announced by Mahesh Manjrekar, with Nana playing the title role. At least, it will help to draw big attendance for Marathi cinema.
When you ask Nana for an interview, he would always say, “What interview yaar, asech Gappa maru”. It is very difficult to extract many things from his intelligent mind. But, one thing is very clear that he is very frank and honest to himself. In the past, he was asked about his favourite film and Nana had taken the name of ‘Gulaam-E-Mustafa’. “I liked the script of Mangesh Kulkarni,” he had said. Nana’s memory is simply amazing. He may forget the name of the person, but he would perfectly recollect the place and period of last meeting with that person. There are so many people whom he has helped and his donations to charity are known to all.
Today, he is a contented person, having earned sufficient for his simple living and has received honours with the top awards in the film industry. Instead of living a stress filled life in the city of Mumbai, he has preferred to live a simple life in Pune, growing vegetables at his farm house. It is only for shooting schedules, he makes himself available in city. Staying aloof from crowded places, perhaps, gives him happiness. But, that does not mean that he is cut off from his social responsibility of expressing his opinion in this democratic country. Many a times, he reacts sharply in a humourous way, giving his frank opinion to the media from time to time, about rise in corruption and other social issues. And, that really shows, how much he is socially aware about the ill effects of corruption on the society. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. And, Nana is certainly doing his bit.
Marathi Movie world take this opportunity to wish him a very happy birthday which coincides with the opening of the new year.
Dilip Prabhwalkar, Actor, Writer
Dilip Prabhavalkar is playing multiple role in his upcoming film ‘Bokya Satbande’ which is releasing on 17th April. As a story writer, screenplay writer, Dialogue writer and an actor he is going to make sure that its totally a Dilip Prabhavalkar’s movie. This is a chit-chat with him on his upcoming flick.
Bokya Satbande is on the verge of release….how are you feeling? How did the idea come up of making a movie?
Ohhh, it feels great and gives enormous pleasure….actually Bokya Sathbande has come a long way through from different mediums in all these years. At that time I had written bsb for radio. I had even played a character in that – of Bokya’s father. It became very popular, especially among the children. Then Rajhauns Publication approached me to write in a book form wherein three editions of books were published and were loved by children enormously. People say that children don’t like to read but I don’t think so…the simple reason being that now ‘bokya‘ has released its 11th edition and will come up with 12th edition soon, just because children love to read it. Then, it was produced on television medium in 13 parts, which is still remembered.
Q. How will you describe the character of Bokya?
Bokya is a normal child like other children- very smart, mischievous, playful….but still he lives in his own world and has some urge to help others within his reach.
Q. How was the cast of ‘Bokya’ finalised and Aryaman, (Sanjay Narvakar’s son) selected?
For casting, I will give this credit to producer, director and executive director….I have done the dialogue ,screenplay and the story but rest all was their lookout…..as such I feel it is always a director’s movie.
Q. Have to made any changes in the story for the movie?
Yes…definitely. I had made some changes to suit the 70 mm screen…There are in all 25 short stories, so we have made attempt to cover maximum in the movie.
Bokya Saatbande Since you have written the story, didn’t you feel like directing it?
(Smiles) No…not at all. As such, it is not my piece of cake…I am an actor and a writer.. Yes, but I have tried it once, when I did ‘Hasva Fasvi’ drama. It was written as well as directed by me, besides acting.
How was the experience during shooting…any memorable moment?
It was fun altogether…It was almost like my own journey with this story passing through various mediums and I always enjoyed working with the children. In the past, I have done children dramas and I always loved to work with them.
Now, talking about Hindi films…Paheli, Risk, Lage Raho Munnabhai, Sarkar Raj…your fan following has increased. It was nothing as such that I got attracted to Hindi film industry. But yes, It was a different experience. As such , people may not be knowing that I am the same person, who played all these different characters. I got l recognition when I received National Award for Gandhi’s role in ‘Lage Raho Munnabhai’.
How much important are awards for you?
When any one says that I don’t believe in awards..Its all false. Everyone one likes to be rewarded for their work. It is actually an appreciation that you receive from public for your work. It really makes you happy. But, I like being awarded for my literary work more than my acting. I was so happy when I received an award for ‘Bokya Sathbande’ book in January, when I was shooting for this movie.
Madhurani Gokhale Prabhulkar – Interview
A popular model, a committed actress, a successful TV programme host, a singer , a music director and above all an expert in communication skills ; that’s how this multi-faceted personality can be described in Marathi entertainment field. Right from the age of 16, Madhurani Gokhale Prabhulkar was keen on taking up acting career and accordingly worked in that direction. Born in Bhusaval, but brought up in Pune, the cultural hub of Maharashtra, Madhurani showed the signs of acting talent while studying in S.P. College, Pune. She was so much focused into this profession that for the most prestigious Purshottam Karandak competition, her own scripted and presented play ‘SeeSaw’ won the best play award.
One of the judges- director Sanjay Pawar, who witnessed her talent during this competition, recommended her name to Kanchan Nayak the Producer and Madhurani got her first major break in ‘Indradhanush.’ In the meanwhile, she completed her Mass Communications from Pune University and married her friend Pramod Prabhulkar, only to start their own company Miracles, which is today involved into courses in film making. Madhurani handles the workshops for TV ads. Together, they have already produced one sensible film ‘Goad Gupit’ in 2003, in which Madhurani played a cameo along with Aadesh Bandekar. As an actress, she also has to her credit one successful stage play- ‘Tumcha Aamcha Same Astaa’.
As a singer we have witnessed her skills in the celebrity programme ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’; and then as a music composer, she received her first major break in Vrinda Kirodian’s film ‘Sunder Majhe Ghar’ for which top singers like Sadhana Sargam and Shreya Ghoshal were also involved, only because of Madhurani, who could convince them. There was no stopping for a versatile person like Madhurani in this media, as she was already a successful model. With her excellent communication skills, she became a triumphant TV host with the popular match making programme ‘Yanda kartavya Aahe’, in which she had the distinction of making 48 marriages come true.
Today, Madhurani handles one more popular programme ‘Hich Majhi Maitrin’ for E-TV in the afternoon, interviewing celebrities from Marathi entertainment industry. Producer of this programme Madhavi has shown confidence in her ability as a programme host and Madhurani is doing her job very well. With some spontaneous questions posed to the celebrities, she makes each one of them very comfortable, while they narrate some of their most memorable moments. In one of the episodes , Madhurani literally made veteran actress Swati Chitnis recollect her good old memories and hardships as a newly wedded wife. Sometimes, in a day’s time, she has to handle different celebrities, but with proper home work, she is able to manage the programme well, many a times without cuts.
When Marathi Movie world spoke to Madhurani to know the secret of her success, the talented actress recalled her childhood days and her deep interest in improvising her communication skills. “I just love to communicate with people. Communication is my forte. It is for this reason, today I am taking classes for TV ads through workshops, where those interested in becoming models are trained. I am glad to tell you that from the previous batch, many have been benefited with this training. During my days as a struggler in Modeling profession, whatever I have experienced, I am sharing with the participants. And, it is helping them a lot,” says Madhurani.
When asked about her future plans, she said that her husband was busy writing a script for his next film, but does not know, whether there will be a role for her in that film. “But, being a home production, I will be associated with it in some way or the other” she added. Madhurani’s wish is to bring out a music album for children with a collection of good meaningful poems. “May be, through this effort I will be able to pass on much needed moral values to the next generation” she concluded.
“Working with Amitji, was a memorable moment” – Rujuta Deshmukh
Charming, self assured and talented are some of the adjectives one can use for Rujuta Deshmukh, who has been able to establish her own identity in today’s competitive world. Acting has already been in her blood, being born in the family who owned a drama company in Pune. Her father Avinash Deshmukh, who owned a theatre company, gave Rujuta her first break as a child artiste, when she was studying in 4th standard. Rujuta then played the role of Rajaram, in the historical play ‘Raigadala Jhevha Jaag Yete’. This was followed by roles in Marathi films like ‘Nashibvaan’, ‘Ek Gadi Baki Anadi’ and many others as a child artiste. In short, she has worked in the company of popular artistes like Alka Kubal and likes. Rujuta is a graduate with English Literature from Pune’s prestigious S.P. College, which is also known as a temple of Marathi artistes. Having performed at various Inter school and collegiate competitions, Rujuta was actively associated with GRIPS theatre. She got her first major break through Vinay Apte in the most popular serial ‘Abhalmaya’ and since then she has never looked back.
Her memorable performance in another popular serial ‘Kalat Nakalat’ and her emotion filled role of a blind girl in another serial ‘Goshta Eka Anandichi’ goes on to say a lot about her potential as an actress. Two years ago, she has also proved her dancing skills in a TV reality show, suggesting that as an actress, she was ready for all challenges. Rujuta took time off to have a chit chat with Marathi Movie world. Excerpts from the chit chat.
Q: What are your memories about ‘Abhalmaya’, your first major exposure on small screen?
A: Yes, it was a great moment, which is very difficult to describe in words. Being a part of this popular soap on a popular private channel, gave a nice feeling. I cannot forget that character of Pallavi.
Q: You were also part of another popular serial ‘Damini’. How was that feeling ?
A: Again it was a happy moment to be a part of this big serial and playing Dr. Esha in the concluding part and that too in the company of great stars like Sanjay Mone , Sukanya, Uday Sabnis and others.
Q: You have also worked in one big banner Hindi film. Isn’t it ?
A: Yes, it was in Rajkumar Santoshi’s film ‘Family’.
Q: Wasn’t that a great experience too? How were you selected for that role?
A: Yes, it was a memorable moment in my life and also wonderful experience to be part of this film, as there was also good scope for my character, being an important member of a Sahai family. About playing this role, he just spoke to me and asked about my availability. And, that’s how I was selected. I was literally thrilled, as I had to perform few scenes also with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan.
Q: How was your personal experience, working with a big star like him ?
A: He is a great actor and hence getting a chance to perform with him itself was a great moment in my life. After I gave my first day shot, I went and sat in one corner watching some of his scenes filled with emotions. He was simply a master in that. After his shot, I never noticed him going into his vanity van. Instead he sat on one side, watching others perform. That displayed his modesty. But, when I crossed him in the corridor during the break, he addressed me with my first name and exchanged pleasantries. I was overwhelmed with this gesture from a great actor like him.
Shrirang Godbole – a multifaceted personality
Be it ‘Pimplepaan’- a serial based on popular marathi literature, ‘Ghadlay- Bighadlay’ a humour filled entertainment show or the most popular serial ‘Agnihotra’. Shrirang Godbole has been the common factor in their presentation. Popularly known as Rangada, Shrirang Godbole has created his own identity as a multifaceted personality in the Marathi entertainment world. Incidentally, he was also part of the production team of much talked about film ‘Harischandrachi Factory’.
MMW spoke to Mr. Shrirang Godbole to know more about his work in the Marathi entertainment industry. Chit Chat with Mr. Godbole :
How much has been your contribution in the making of ‘Harischandrachi Factory’?
Frankly speaking, I agreed to be the executive producer of this film, only because Paresh Mokashi happens to be a good old friend. In the past, he has also worked in my stage plays. So, being a part of ‘Harischandrachi factory’ was more like being with my family and friends.
As an actor, we have hardly noticed you. What’s the reason ?
Actually, it’s not my core area. Though, I have been receiving offers to play big or small roles, I am very selective about accepting them. I am more focused on my work related to television production.
At present your serial ‘Agnihotra’ has reached popularity heights. Would you mind sharing your idea about making this serial ?
I happened to trace the theme for this serial, when we had organized a ceremony to mark the birth centenary of my father. At that time, we had issued an advertisement in newspaper inviting all the far relatives to attend this ceremony. Looking at the overwhelming response coming from the participants, I was myself shocked to know about this huge chain of relatives network. Impressed with the bonding in a big joint family system, I decided to make a serial based on this theme.
You have been always offering chance to newcomers through your serials, who later become big stars. How do you feel about it ?
Whether it was ‘Pimplepaan’, ‘Ghadlay Bighadlay’ or ‘Agnihotra’’ right from the beginning, I was very particular about selecting the right artist for the role he or she perfectly fitted in. Working with new artistes always offers flexibility to the director, for experimenting something new with them, as they too are responsive. This is not possible with established artistes. Having given the freedom to experiment something different, the new artistes come out with their best and that enables them to turn stars, in years to come.
“I want to achieve more” – Prashant Damle
Prashant Damle is a familiar face on stage, television, and cinema. He began his acting career with comedy plays like ‘Moruchi Mavshi’ and ‘Brahmachari’. Now he has three plays running with ‘Bahuroopi’, ‘Eka Lagnachi Gosht’ and ‘Olakh Na Palakh’. He has entered the record books for a record number of shows and maximum shows of comedy plays performed on a single day. MMW spoke to Prashant in his make-up room as he was preparing for another successful show of ‘Bahuroopi’.
Q.: How do you manage to do so many plays at the same time?
It’s all time management and I enjoy acting. I am a house oriented person, without any vices and with pranayama and yoga I keep myself fit to tour all over Maharashtra and abroad too.
Q.: You are rarely seen in films today.
Theatre gives me a high and it’s the best medium for me and with three plays running simultaneously, I can hardly spare time for films. But, if I get good films like ‘Tu Tithe Me’, ‘Atmavishwas’ and ‘Wajwa Re Wajwa’, I will certainly accept them.
Q.:And television?
Prashant: I have done popular comedy shows like ‘Uchapati’ and ‘Filmi Chakkar’ and if I get a good show like ‘Gharkul’ I will definitely do it.
Q.:You are also a brand ambassador now. Isn’t it ?
Prashant: Yes, I am a brand ambassador for SVC Bank and Disha Direct. I visit the branches, meet clients and do endorsements for them. I have my own personal web site too.
Q.: What next?
Prashant: I want to achieve more by producing and directing films and also produce many more plays and act in them as well.
Saii Ranade – Sane, Actress
Saii Ranade – Sane, who plays the title role in E-tv’s Marathi serial ‘Kasturi’, is emerging as the new Marathi star who has managed to pull a sizable number of fan club to this new serial with progression of every episode. With clarity in voice, perfect dialogue delivery and a charming face supported by expressive eyes, have come to her advantage while grabbing this title role. Saii is now marching ahead with the success of this serial and we will soon see her playing lead role in a forthcoming Marathi film titled ‘Bandya Aani Baby’. Marathi Movie World caught up with Saii Ranade Sane during the ‘Mahakhadhya Jatra’ held in Thane and she agreed to speak about her acting career . Excerpts from an interview.
Q: How do we spell your name ? Is it Sai or Saee?
A: It is Saii. Saii Ranade -Sane.
Q: How did Saii land into this field of acting ?
A: Since my childhood, I was interested in acting. And, to take the first step in acting, I joined Bharat Natyam Classes while I was studying in Vimlabai Garware school, Pune. When I was in 10th standard, I won Sadhna Puraskar at Kalavardhini Group, from among 45 students. While in Fergusson College, I started taking interest in stage. Later, I joined Satyadev Dube’s 15 day acting workshop in Pune and also performed in an experimental play ‘Aatlya-sahit Manus’. This performance actually brought a lot of development in me from the acting point of view. I used to do modeling for print media those days and then started giving auditions to find suitable role in a TV serial . Initially, there was a lot of disappointment, but during one such visit to Mumbai, I was informed that my selection was made for the role of Janaki Kirloskar in ‘Vahinisaheb’. They informed me late night at 11.30 pm and I was asked to rush to Mumbai, next day morning.
Q: How was your experience working for the first time on the sets of a TV serial ?
A: Thought I was playing a negative type of role in ‘Vahinisaheb’, I enjoyed it as an actress. It was on the sets of this serial that I could get so many experiences that a newcomer faces with senior artistes. Still, I was happy, as I got the recognition through this serial. I used to live in Thane those days with our relatives and later shifted to Vile Parle as paying guest for convenience of shooting, as I received another offer to play a negative role in ‘Kulavadhu’. Living alone in Mumbai and to manage everything on your own was difficult initially for a girl like me, who was brought up in a family with lots of love and affection. But, I managed it well.
Q: Did you find your life partner almost during this period? Tell us something about that relationship.
A: While I lived in Thane, Salil Sane lived in the neighborhood. I knew him through my relatives. I also happened to interact with him on Orkut network. We found each other on the same wavelength, as we found a lot of time to move together. That time I only had one serial in hand. Later, our friendship turned into marriage, while I was doing Kulvadhu’ serial.
Q: After being typecast in negative roles, how were you selected for the role of ‘Kasturi‘ ?
A: Actually, I didn’t want to be typecast into negative roles and made up my mind to give a full stop to such offers. I was confident that one day I would be offered a suitable role and kept trying for the same . And, one day the makers of ‘Kasturi‘ told me that I was selected for this role.
Q: After ‘Kasturi‘ what next ?
A: There are many other projects I am involved in. There is a film titled ‘Bandya aani Baby’ in which I am playing lead opposite Prasad Oak. In between, I have done many films in guest appearance. You will also see me in Swapnil Bandodkar Music Video album ‘Tichya Dolyat…’