Tejaa Deokar- From dancing to acting
“Mental stability and stamina, very important during long shoots” – Swarda Thigale
She is a fresh face to Marathi TV viewers. This smart and talented Pune collegian has made her confident looking acting debut through E TV’s ongoing Marathi serial ‘Majhe Mann Tujhe Jhale’. In the character of Shubhra, a college going girl, Swarda Thigale has very cleverly displayed her different moods. Be it in the company of the young Professor, in the group of her friends in college, trying to justify her point to her strict mother or spending happy time with her understanding Grandmother; she has been able to express her emotions very naturally.
Swarda has found a suitable role in this debut serial, as she plays the girl of her age. It was not very difficult for her to get selected for this role, as this second year BA student of Fergusson College, Pune had earlier completed a 4 month acting workshop in Mumbai. While she was studying in 9th standard, as a student of Sinhgad Spring Dale School, Pune, she had also done a 15 day Modelling Workshop, which had helped her to get Modelling assignments too. Swarda has done an ad for Sprite and one more for a food product. So, when she gave audition for ‘Majhe Mann Tujhe Jhale’, her selection for this lead role became an obvious choice.
Swarada ThigaleMarathi Movie World spoke to Swarda on the first day of Diwali, early in the morning. It was very difficult to catch up with her, as three days prior to that she was shooting in double shifts, to adjust her shooting schedule for forthcoming two days holidays for Diwali. Excerpts from an interview:
Q: Tell us something about your family and academic background, as you are new to this Marathi entertainment industry.
A: I am from Pune and currently doing my second year Arts from Fergusson College. My father is a Lecturer in college and mother is a beautician. My Grandfather is a poet and has penned an artistic presentation on me, i.e. ‘Swarda Bhakti Sangeet’. I decided to make a career in acting, when I was studying in 9th standard in Sinhagad Spring Dale School, Pune. At that time, I did a 15 days Modelling workshop to equip myself in this competitive field.
Q: You said, you are studying Arts. Which is your subject of specialisation?
A: I am doing specialisation in Hindi.
Q: Why have you chosen Hindi as main subject? Any specific reason ?
A: Knowledge of Hindi is very important to non Hindi speaking people. After all, it is our national language. I see people from abroad learning Hindi. I am an Indian. So, for me, Knowledge of good Hindi, is a must. Moreover, I wanted to be proficient with this language, as I would want to work in Hindi serials and films, in near future.
Q: In ‘Majhe Mann Tujhe Jhale’ you are playing a college girl Shubhra kulkarni, whose mother convinces her to marry a boy of her choice. In real life, if you are in a same situation, how would you react?
A: Perhaps, I would do the same, to make her happy. I am very much attached to my mother. It is like ‘Tujha Majha Zamena’, ‘Tujhyavina Gamena’ ( Even if we don’t agree on certain points, we love each other’s company). All mothers are like that. They are very attached to their daughters and always think good about their future.
Q: Do you also have same type of Grandmother, as seen in your serial.
A: Yes, I have a caring grandmother. And, she is very forward thinking. No problems with her too.
Q: What are your other hobbies? Are you into sports?
A: I am good in swimming. I have participated at state and national level swimming competitions.
Q: How does your involvement in sport, helps you in your acting career?
A: Basically, it helps in building stamina and also gives mental stability. When I am required to shoot 14 hours continuously, it is my sports background, that helps me a lot, to withstand the pressure.
Q: So, with this work output, we hope to see you in Hindi serials and films, by next year. All the best.
A: Hope so. Thank you very much.
Swapnil Joshi – Changing the look of Marathi films
Marathi film industry has found a perfect star in Swapnil Joshi, to change its look. Today, he is the most popular hero in Marathi entertainment industry, being partly responsible for the success of the latest released Super hit Marathi film ‘Duniyadari’. The film was rated among the top 10 Indian films during the last week of July 2013 with 98 % occupancy, much more than films like ‘Mariya( Tamil), Ship of Thesus( English) and ‘Bhag Milkha Bhag’ and ‘D day’s( Hindi); according to Bookmyshow.com.
Swapnil JoshiWith his Chocolate Boy image, Swapnil had a good start for his acting career, during late 80s; when as a 9 year old kid, he played the role of ‘Kush’ in the second part of Ramanand Sagar’s most popular TV serial ‘Ramayan’, i.e.Uttar Ramayan( titled ‘Luv kush) . Few years later, as a teenager he performed as young Krishna, in Ramanand Sagar’s mega TV serial ‘Krishna’. Swapnil did take a break for his studies, to complete his education. He completed his graduation in commerce from Sydenham College ,Mumbai .Later, while performing in Hindi TV serials, he also completed his law graduation.
Some of the Hindi TV soaps he performed in late 90s were ‘Amanat’ ,’Had Kar Di’ and ‘Des Mein Niklla Hoga Chand’, a highly popular soap which ran from 2001 to 2005; followed by ‘Hare Kaanch Ki Choodiyaan’ . In the meanwhile, he attained more popularity through TV reality shows; both as a performer and show anchor. In comedy series ‘Papad Pol – Shahabuddin Rathod Ki Rangeen Duniya’ aired only three years ago, on SAB TV, rated him a popular Indian television star.
Simultaneously, his journey into Marathi television and films, had also begun. He acted in one Marathi serial titled ‘Adhuri Ek Kahani’ and also performed in films like ‘Manini’, ‘Checkmate’ and ‘Mumbai Pune Mumbai’. For ‘Checkmate’, he received State award for best actor. Recently, he performed in a popular Marathi serial ‘Eka Lagnachi Dusri Goshta’opposite Mukta Barve. And, their chemistry worked very well on small screen. But, the success of Marathi Film ‘Duniyadari’ will take him long way. By the way, his new Marathi stage play, ‘Get well Soon!’ is also drawing good crowds.
The year 2013 seems to be lucky year for him. When Marathi Movie world called him up, to congratulate him on his recent film’s success, he was very happy. Talking about his future projects, he said that his two more films are due for release soon. My next film ‘Govinda’ is due for release on 16th August and the promotion of the same will begin from 1st August. The next to follow before the end of this year, will be ‘Mangalashtaka Once More’,’ he concluded. But, he seemed to be very happy, with the success of ‘Duniyadari’. Indeed, Swapnil has put in his heart into the role of Shreyas Talwalkar in this film. The film has not only captured the audience from Mumbai, Pune; but, also district places like Ratnagiri & Kolhapur. And, Swapnil is the most popular hero of Marathi films today. Perhaps, it is for the first time, in recent years, a hero from Marathi films has reached popularity heights.
SWAPNIL BANDODKAR
Swapnil Bandodkar is no more newcomer now. He has broken many records with his super doper hit songs like ‘Radha Hi Bawari’ and ‘Galawar Khali.’ He has got his own fan group, followers who desperately wait for his musdic. Its because of his magical voice and haunting style because of which audiences go crazy for him. Great superstar share few moments of his life with MMW.
SWAPNIL BANDODKAR Q: you are hosting a post of judge at a reality show- ‘Gaurav Maharashtracha’ on E-TV. What is the reality of reality show?
A: if we consider the particular show you are talking about, it is completely judge’s show. Most of the time common listeners cannot judge singers properly… but judges can. That’s why here all the powers are retained with judges. It is a talent show rather than reality show.
Q: what is your opinion about upcoming singing talent?
A: they are good. I mean they are talented but not dedicated like earlier singers. Previous generations have enough time for practice, but in the age fast food,
multitasking is more important than anything. But I have no doubt in my mind than we would take over the generation gap. They are extremely creative!
Q: what is important according to you? Talent or performance?
A: obviously talent! It is the base of performance. Basically audiences attend the concert for your songs, to appreciate your singing. Naturally if it comes along with performance, people love it. Performance is just an ad-on value. But it is extremely necessary now a days. A talented artist must be a good performer.
Q: whom would you like to dedicated your success:
A: of course to my ‘Guru’ – Sureshji Wadkar. With Ashok Patki. In fact all the musicians, lyricists, music director with whom I have worked are contributed to my success.
Q: what would you like to say about your tuning with Ajay-Atul?
A: we are rather good friends than professional partners. We represent todays music, youth. That’s why listeners still appreciates song of our first album – ‘Bedhund.’
Q: According to you, what is your contribution in music? What kind of music do you prefer? What are your hobbies, likings apart from music?
A: I love all kind of music. I have also composed few title songs for Marathi serials. According to me, melody is the soul of music and I love all kind of melodious songs. Beside music, I love travelling. I really enjoy visiting different parts of the world. I am also passionate for sports. I am also ‘gymoholic.’ I have to be fit in order to perform.
I have also played a role in a Marathi movie – Savli. I played it because it was similar to my profession. It was totally different experience. I just wanted to check my acting skills.
Q: so can we expect to see you on screen again?
A: of course. If would get another better role like Sawli.
Q: is there any musician or performer whom you are willing to work, but haven’t performed yet?
A: no. I have worked with legends and I am happy with it. I don’t want to perform or my hiding wishes to perform with senior authorities in the industry.
Q: are you planning to sing for Hindi movies?
A: definitely. I would love to do it if I would get a chance.
NILU PHULE
He is cunning! he is deceitful! he is just a crooked, still he received lots of love from marathi people. His unique style, his voice and his throw of dialogs,no one can forget his villain! Still don’t remember?…okey ! another clue- a black cap, black coat/ jacket and a dhoti, this typical attire and a crafty smile on face, an abusive language…remember his “….cha maayla” ! no doubt still people love to imitate his dialogs!!! Yess he is Nilu Phule! This legendary actor has completed around 40 years in this industry. He had performed in around 138- 140 marathi movies and 12 hindi movies. He had received awards from Maharashtra Govt. consequently in the years 1972, 1973, 1974. He has also got ‘Sahitya Sangit Academy’ award by the hands of President of India and ‘Natyadarpan award for a drama ‘Suryasta’. Lets have talk with him.
Q. When and how did you debut in Marathi film industry?
A. I had started first in folk dramas from our Art group as hobby long back. Later on I entered in professional folk drama ” Katha Akalecha Kandyachi“. We had completed around 2000 shows of ‘Katha….’. In the second part of ‘Katha…..’ I had to perform a role of leader. Anantrao Mane saw my performance and asked me for marathi cinema. Since then never looked back. My first marathi cinema was “Ek Gaav Baara Bhanagadi”. Fortunately this movie created record and I got around 7 marathi movies that year.
Q. Did you deny any role in cinema/ drama in this span of acting? Why?
A. I never denied any role. All the roles were distinctive and with those I was able to communicate different facets of may acting to the audience.
Q. Were there any conspiracy between the nature of Nilu phule and performed role? And what were the effects of your role on your personal life?
A. Never! everybody is not vicious or slanderer in his own life but he need to perform the role of villain…no excuse! And this put to one’s test how he perform the role. One should aim to live the role despite your nature. I would expect people should remember not only me but my roles also and I always take care of it.
Well, I mostly performed negative role and it adversely affected on the people under perception especially women in rural area still think that I m vicious and slanderer by nature, and I like to harass poor people. And that’s why, rural woman whether she is nurse or teacher always kept distance while talking with me.
Q. Which is your most preferred domain for acting…Cinema or drama? Tell me your most favorite cinema.
A. Ofcourse, like an adroit actor I preferred drama . when someone performed best, the discriminating audience appreciate it on the spot. During rehearsal you can have retakes but afterall it depends on the acting you played on the stage. An actor would have to remain alert in this field. No excuse for mistake. You can win the audience only by your acting and once you got refused by the audience, its very difficult to rise up. But no doubt its more challenging to work in drama.
I like marathi movies ‘Samana’, ‘Sinhasan’, ‘Choricha Mamla’, ‘Shapit’, Pudhache pavul’, and marathi drama ‘Suryasta’. I also like my role in ‘katha…..’.
Q. What difference you find in Old marathi and new marathi cinema?
A. Well, the old ones were based on Social, family based stories. But the new marathi cinema is pervading its arena, handling more challenging subjects like ‘Pak Paka Pak’, ‘Dombivali fast’, ‘Shwas’. Marathi cinema soaring high and nominated for Oscar is a sound step towards rejuvenation. Young producer/ directors are trying well.
Marathi drama industry is also handling different subjects like Psychology, addiction, the problems of youngsters, changing status and the effect of status symbol, standard of living , on youngsters , raising demands …these subjects are putting forward by the producers. Marathi audience is also appreciating it.
Q. what steps are taken to receive grant from government for Tamasha/ Lavani?
A. Though responded by audience, Tamasha/ Lavani is still under privileged by people. Leaders are trying to give national and international status for this art. Maharashtra Govt. has acknowledged to give grant for folkdrama/ Tamasha.
Q. Didn’t you ever think about the production before? Which is the most important ingredient for a success of a movie you think?
A. Production/ Direction is the most extravagant part of cinema. One have to spend recklessly in crores. And being an erratic field no one can assure you, how much you get returns as compare to your investment.
Well, Story of the movie is the prime constituent of making of cinema. Then comes the director, who recognize the spark as well as limits of an actor. And getting work done skillfully. Then technical part. No movie will successful without technically soundness. And at last comes the actors, acting in the cinema.
This is a journey of a folk artist to Actor. Don’t you wonder what he is doing now a days? He reads a lot, he like to watch good movies/ dramas. In free time he fosters his hobbies like gardening, social work, working with Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti. This hurricane, who flourished at times, want to spend rest of the life peacefully.
Meet Aurvedacharya Dr. Nilesh Sable
We have seen doctors with MBBS degree turning actors but did not hear of an MS in Ayurveda becoming a popular actor till the results of reality show ‘Maharashtracha Superstar’ on Zee Marathi were out last year. This youngster came to Mumbai from a village in Kolhapur, only to particiapte in this reality show, after being selected from among thousands of participants from all over Maharashtra. Dr. Nilesh Sable, who was adjudged as ‘Maharashtracha Superstar’, from among 12 other short listed talented participants like Yogini Chouk, Abhijeet Khandkekar, Tejpal & Sneha Joshi; thereafter gained recognition on his own strength, to turn popular anchor of the comedy TV reality show ‘Fu Bai Fu’.
The first season of ‘Fu bai Fu’ saw him presenting the programme very successfully and that found him place for the second season. This time he was sharing the dais with Saie Tamhankar, but once again he proved his supremacy, only to secure his place as popular anchor for the third successive season of this popular programme.
Since childhood, Nilesh has been a great admirer of popular comedian Jhony Lever, who inspired him a lot to take up mimicry. During his college days, Nilesh was very popular among his friends for acquiring this art. At the same time he also learnt from the veteran actor, how difficult it was to survive in this entertainment field. He knew what was the struggle to make an entry and then establish self. But, the collection of video clips of Jhony Lever’s performance and his films
only encouraged him to keep going.
Today, when we watch him imitate Shahrukh Khan so perfectly, we realize how hard it must have been for him to practice this art. But, watching him play the anchor’s role, certainly reminds us of him going on the lines of other popular anchors like Jitendra Joshi and Aadesh Bandekar . Was he influenced by them ? No wonder, when Aadesh Bandekar had taken a break, it was Nilesh who played young Bhauji in the popular programme ‘Home Minister’ which was dominated by the former host for a long time. But, Nilesh too succeeded in winning the confidence of all those sisters in law from Maharashtra, during the period of his interaction with them.
At a time when people had a doubt whether Nilesh could do anything else than anchoring; Nilesh showed his strengths in Marathi theatre. Today, we find him playing an important role in Herberium’s old revived play ‘Aandhala Daltay’, which is written by Shahir Sable and directed by Kedar Shinde. This new role certainly provides Nilesh a new platform to prove his supremacy as an all round actor. The role that Nilesh plays in this play was performed many years ago by veteran Raja Mayekar and that itself is a big honour for Nilesh.
Nilesh has long way to go in this field, which he has chosen because of his passion for acting. Now, he is now all set to work in films and TV serials with new offers pouring in. Marathi Movie world wishes this talented actor a bright success in days to come.
I really enjoy playing Manu in ‘Lajja’. – Girija Oak
Few years ago, we saw her making her debut as a heroine into Marathi films through Kanchan Adhikari’s film ‘Manini’. In that lead role Girija Oak proved that acting was in her blood. Her father Dr. Girish Oak, being a versatile popular stage, TV and film actor. With the background of medicine and science coming from the family (mother a Pharmacist) , Girija completed her graduation and is presently doing her MBA with distant learning.
Acting is not new to her. For the past fifteen years, she has been associated with it. After doing few Marathi films, for a long time she was looking for a suitable role in a Marathi TV serial. Finally, ‘Lajja’ offered what she actually deserved. It was a central role of Manu who struggles in her life at a very crucial stage when as young girl, she is exposed to good bad world of city life. Girija is happy that she got a chance to emote the true feelings of a girl under such circumstances and is trying to inspire others with her bold decisions. Till now, she has been able to attract viewers through her extra-ordinary acting skills. She communicates a lot through her eyes and brings in a lot of variation through her voice modulation, depending upon the circumstances in the scene.
Her much awaited Marathi film ‘Adgula Madgula’ opposite Subodh Bhave will be released in a month or two. She is also doing a film with Balaji productions, titled ‘ Shor’ where she plays one of the three leading ladies, opposite US-based South Indian star Sendhil Ramamurthy. Tushar Kapoor is also there in this film. We have already seen her ability in Hindi, in Aamir Khan’s film ‘Taare Zameen Par’. But, watching her presently in the role of Manu, certainly goes on to say a lot about this talented actress. Marathi Movie World caught up with her during the Zee awards function. Excerpts from an interview
actress Girija Oak
Q: Were you seriously interested in acting career or landed in this industry just because your father is also a part of this industry?
A: I have been in this profession for the past fifteen years. It was only due to my education that I was not able to give time. But, now that I have time, I have devoted myself completely to this acting profession.
Q: But, you are also doing your MBA. What’s the reason for that ?
A: In my family, all have done post graduation. So, why should I stay behind? It will certainly help me in near future.
Q: Do you think that your MBA qualification will help you in film making ?
A: Knowledge is never a waste. I don’t say that I want to become a director, as I am too young to think about that. But, surely it will help me to produce my own film, if everything works well.
Q: You made your film debut through ‘Manini’. How did you get that role ?
A: I had given an audition, while the selection process was going on. Based on the audition, I got selected.
Q: Have you switched over to TV serials from films ?
A: No, I am doing both. Two of my films, one Hindi and one Marathi are due for release soon. For a long time, I was looking for a role in a TV serial and ‘Lajja’ offered me, what I exactly wanted. I really enjoy playing this role of Manu in this serial.
Q: How do you look at the recent changes noticed in Marathi cinema?
A: Marathi cinema is going for a better change. We see a lot of variety in scripts and presentation form. Even the marketing has improved.
Q: But, don’t you think that in a city like Mumbai, there is less response from Marathi viewers, when it comes to watching the film in multiplexes?
A: When we talk about Mumbai in particular, I feel that here we have a cosmopolitan culture. When there are three types of films i.e. Hindi, English and Marathi releasing on the same day; obviously the audience gets divided in theatres, resulting in a limited response for Marathi films.
Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming ‘Balaji’ film ‘Shor’?
A: Well, I am playing one of the leading ladies in the film, opposite US-based South Indian star Sendhil Ramamurthy. Tushar Kapoor is also there in this film. It’s a satirical, cool, smart comedy based in urban India. There are three different stories in the film and all are inter-connected like film ‘Metro’.
Q: Any future plans ?
A: I am equipping myself with knowledge. But, I don’t know what will I do in near future. I am keeping all the options open. May be, I will be into film making or I may become a writer. I love to write. There is also a possibility of taking up higher studies in bio technology. Only time will decide.
“I am a great admirer of Madhuri Dixit” – Gauri Nalawade
The girl, who completed her education right from Jr. K.G. to B. Pharm; from Bharati Vidyapeeth, finally decided to take up a career in acting. She is none other than Gauri Nalawade , who plays Vaidehi Shreyas Patkar alias Vaidi in popular serial ‘Swapnanchya Palikadle’. We have seen Vaidehi’s dreams through this serial; now, let’s find out what the real Vaidehi i.e. Gauri Nalawade thinks about her real life dreams in her acting career.
Gauri Nalawade
Q: Before this serial ‘Swapnanchya Palikadle’ have you done any work in this field?
A: I had not done much work, as no one in my family was connected with this field. But, in ‘Avaghachi Sansar’ I played a small role of Amrita Subhash’s siter. In fact, it was a replacement to kadambari. Also, I had done a promotion ad for Ekapeksha Ek’ show with Sachin Pilgaonkar for Zee TV. So, I can say that my first job was for Zee TV. Thereafter, I gave audition for ‘Swapnanchya Palikadle’.
Q: What are your personal efforts to make this character of Vaidehi more appealing ?
A: 80% of Vaidehi’s good qualities are within me. But, I am very talkative and down to earth person and not an introvert like Vaidehi. At the same time, I am not as good as Vaidehi. I like to connect
with people. But, may a times, I feel that Vaidehi is like me and hence I enjoy playing this role.
Q: How many episodes of this serial, you have done so far and what you have to say about the response this serial has received so far ?
A: On 13th March, we will be completing 500 episodes. And, to say something aboput the response received, it is too good. Only last month, the serial received highest TRP, when I played both the characters of Tara and Vaidehi. Actually, when it was revealed that Tara was Vaidehi, many people whom I met later, felt that the character of Tara should have continued for some more time. So much they were involved with this character. I too enjoyed playing this character for a change.
Q: But, how was your personal experience, while portraying both the characters ?
A: Actually, playing Tara’s character was more hectic, as I was not much familiar with the village type of accent. It was very difficult to capture that accent initially. Therefore, to play the character of Tara, I had to closely observe my niece Priya’s characteristics and adopted the same to play that character. It was an opportunity for me to do something different and I did it.
Q: How do you look at your own dreams, your aspirations ?
A: If we dream or aspire for something, they are to be fulfilled in due course of time. Each one of us dream about something, which is within our reach. But, for that one has to work hard. If you ask my personal opinion, I had a dream to look like Madhuri Dixit. To dress up like her and to do make up like her. In every respect, I followed her habits, her expressions. And, what you see now, is fulfilled to some extent through this serial. But, I still have one wish to be fulfilled; i.e. to meet Madhuri Dixit, personally. When I meet her, I shall inform you, as that will be the most memorable moment in my life.
Q: We, at Marathi Movie World, wish that all your dreams come true.
A: Thanks.
Tejashree’s ‘Zoka’ on the cloud nine
‘Uncha Maza Zoka’ a popular T.V. Serial Zee Marathi is celebrating its 100th episode. On the eve of special episodes we decided to meet the child artist Tejashree Walawalkar, who is playing the main role of Ramabai. Tejashree looks very cute and her natural acting talent is admired by one and all. She is studying in Pune, at a well-known school ‘Hujurpaga’ in sixth standard. It was six o’clock in the evening and it was a pleasant moment to see ‘Ramabai’ in school uniform, as she had just returned from the school. We congratulated her on behalf of marathimovieworld.com, for completing 100 episodes and becoming popular among not only Marathi. But even in non Marathi audience.
Almost a year ago, we had met her at premiere show of her 1st marathi movie ‘Aaji Ani Naat’ at Prabhat Talkies. She had played the role of a child artist born with silver spoon in mouth, pampered but starving for love of grand mother. At that time, we felt that her selection for such role was perfect. And now, watching little but matured Ramabai Ranade, in nine yard saree and in that typical old Hairstyle, gives a feeling that she is fit for the role. This success is all because of her natural acting and innocence.
Many questions were peeping in the mind but considering her age and to make her comfortable, we started our chat with few casual questions. Even, her mother and grandfather joined us.
Tejashree Walavalakar, Unch Maza Zoka Q. Tejashree, at the time of selection did you know how many days shooting schedule was planned for your role?
– Yes, original duration was two months. Then it became 4 months at the time of final screen test and since serial became very popular, my shooting is going on, even after 6 months.
Q. Did you prefer to stay in Mumbai all along?
– No! 3-4 days in Mumbai for shooting and remaining in Pune. That is my weekly schedule. Mummy or Daddy accompany me.
Q. In the serial, you are learning to write alphabets, but what about your studies in real life?
– I am very particular about my studies. While in Mumbai, I try to cover one subject daily, while on the set, whenever I am free and make up for my missed lessons after returning home. My friends and teachers help me to cover the backlog. For last two-three years. I have been participating in many extra curricular activities viz- Dance, music, drama, fashion show etc. I am used to study besides managing other activities. My Mummy says, “Management of all the activities besides studies, since childhood days, is very important”.
Q. Till now, you have participated in short films, documentaries , serials. Your Marathi film ‘Aaji ani Naat’ made a record of 100 days at Prabhat Talkies. But how did you get the first break?
– (Tejashree’s mother intervenes) Acting, is her inborn talent. We could judge it, when she was in primary school. She used to write, Direct, and act in skits, during school ‘Gatherings’. She has bagged many prizes for acting, from the school. To give her a boost, we prepared her ‘Portfolio’ and approached few people in the field. After some time, , she got a chance to act in short films, produced by Film Institute students. She was offered small roles in few serials and her selection in Marathi film ‘Aaji ani Naat’ was Philip to her career. Tejashree Walavalkar, Rama
Q. We are curious to know, how Tejashree was selected for ‘Ramabai’s role.
– ( Tejashree’s Mother) She was selected out of more than 100 clips of child artistes. Her tone and her expressions turned out to be the assets, due to which she was selected in final screen test. Her maturity proved as an additional qualification.
Q. Tejashree, did you like the role at the beginning? Are you not fed up of nine yard saree and Hair Style ?
– I liked the role very much. Now, I can wear nine yard saree, on my own. This role is very uncommon type. Mahadevrao and Ramabai Ranade are founder members of my school. My acting is praised by everybody in the school. I get applause and co-operation where ever I go. So, I am happy.
Q. Do you get upset, if the director is not happy with your shot and asks for more retakes?
– Our director Virenji, is a very nice person. He gives me script to read. I try to understand the meaning of each and every word and then give my shot. Hardly, he asks me to change my expressions or tone. Retakes are very rare. Sometimes, it’s time taken for light arrangements, which is more than my actual shot time.
Q. ( To Tejashree’s mother) You have arranged few fashion shows. What is the motive behind it?
– ‘Vrindavan Kala Pratisthan’ organized few fashion shows, one of which was on a grand scale. Along with Tejashree, 140 children participated in it at Ganesh Kala Krida Manch. The motive behind it was to offer stage appearance to upcoming artists. Develop their personality and make their parents happy. The response was overwhelming.
Q. What is your future plan if you get more offers? What is your ambition?
– ( Tejashree’s Mother answers..) If she gets a role, where there is scope for her acting or the story demands the character, then we will accept it. Basically, she is interested in making a career in Direction.
Tejashree says, she wants to work with Amir Khan and Amitabhji !
Oh really? – That’s nice!
‘Tathastu’ ! Our best wishes are with you. Best Of Luck
“I am alert all the time, 24×7″ – Kadambari Kadam
Kadambari also played the most important character of Janaki, in Zee TV’s popular Hindi TV serial ‘Teen Bahuraniyan’, which brought her name and fame at the national level. Her role of Radhika in Marathi TV serial ‘Tujhvin Sakhya Re’ also invited attention. She has recently won Best actress MIFTA award for her performance in ongoing Marathi play ‘Tom Aani Jerry’. In this play, kadambari has stolen the show in the role of Deepa, representing a modern day career woman. In her forthcoming film ‘Ajinkya’, Kadambari plays the wife of Sandeep Kulkarni, who is shown a Bank employee and a basketball Coach. Kadambari’s role is of an executive of a corporate house. Marathi Movie world spoke to Kadambari Kadam to know more about her acting career and her views on atrocities on women.
Excerpts from an interview:
Q: We understand that you made your acting debut, while you were in Sathye College, Vile Parle. Is that true?
A: Actually, I first experienced stage , when I was only 3 years old, when I played one of the characters in a children’s play ‘Chimna Bagadto Baget’. But, it was in Sathye College, that I really understood, what acting was all about.
Q: Recently you visited Sathye College while promoting your forthcoming film ‘Ajinkya’. How was the response from the students towards you?
A: Most of the students were not aware that I was an ex- student of their college. It was only when I mentioned about it in my speech, there was a loud applause. I was overwhelmed with that response.
Q: Looking at the kind of roles you performed in your previous films; your role in ‘Aaghaat’ was more impressive. What’s your personal opinion.
A: Yes, my role in ‘Aaghaat’ was more challenging. Though I knew that I was playing a patient suffering from a kind of disorder, which needed a serious operation; Vikram sir, who was directing this film and was well aware of the symptoms of such patients, explained to me, how I should react at every situation. I did exactly what he and other doctors explained to me. I am glad that after every shot, he blessed me, in appreciation.
Q: Any comments on your role in forthcoming film ‘Ajinkya’?
A: Though I am playing an executive wife of a basketball coach, who is also into job; I liked the script and felt that I should be part of it.
Q: How do you look at the present change coming into Marathi film industry?
A: About 8 to 10 years ago, though few films like ‘Shwaas’ were made, not many films were based on sensible topics. But, during the past two years, I certainly notice that change for good.
Q: Even your latest Marathi play ‘Tom Aani Jerry’ has invited attention from Drama lovers. What do you have to say about it?
A: Yes, the play has a very good script; much relevant to the changing time.
Q: You were also part of Hindi Television, with ‘Teen Bahuraniyan’. How that role of Janaki came to you?
A: As per the prevailing practice, I had given audition for this role. I was lucky to get selected. Through this serial and the role I played, I realized the importance of being on National network. I had an opportunity to visit along with the team of Zee, for their international festival in New Jersey. When my name was announced, the audience cheered with my character name – Janaki. I was overwhelmed at that moment, as I was glad to know that I had reached those NRI’s, through this serial.
Q: How is Kadambari in real life?
A: I have learned to be myself first, after experiencing certain moments in my life.
Q: As an independent woman, how do you react to atrocities on women, which is the present burning issue in the nation ?
A: I am terribly upset. Women are not getting proper security from the police. It’s high time that every woman should be prepared to fight with self defence. “I am myself alert, all the time, 24×7.”
Q: Have you come across any such incidence?
A: Once, after returning home late night, I parked my car and was proceeding towards my building. A thief came , snatched my purse and ran away. I screamed for help. But, no one came to my rescue. Surprisingly, my watchman. was fast asleep. Don’t understand, what kind of duty they perform? Most of these night duty watchmen are old and are fast a sleep during midnight hours. Next day morning, when I went to Shivaji park Police station; instead of helping me to register my complaint, they wanted to know, where exactly the incident took place. According to them, one side of the road, was under the jurisdiction of Shivaji park and the other side belonged to Mahim Police station jurisdiction. I spent four hours in the Police station, just to lodge my complaint. If this was the experience of a celebrity; what must be the condition of common people?
Q: So, you feel, women are not safe during late hours?
A: Why only late night hours, even during daytime they are not safe. Few years ago, I was traveling in a ladies compartment of a local train. One man entered the compartment. I objected to his presence and asked him to get down. He ignored me. There were about 20 other ladies in the compartment; but, they were just spectators. I tried to call police on Railway helpline number displayed in the train. But, there was no response. Now, tell me, what is the security provided to the women ? It’s high time that women should unite together to fight such incidences.