“I wanted to show, how injustice is being done to Koli community”- Sharadchandra Jadhav
Sharadchandra Jadhav is not a very big name in Marathi film industry. Yet, he dared to show through his debut Marathi film ‘EK Hota Valya‘, how the Koli community is suffering in the state of Maharashtra. Sharadchandra, was more vocal, while addressing the media persons, during the press show of his film.
Sharadchandra Jadhav graduated from Symbiosis Institute, Pune and later got engaged with his work, besides keeping active interest in theatre. Two years ago, he wrote a script, to voice the injustice on Koli community. The people from this community are being harassed by Government authorities, to produce caste verification, asking them to produce records of 50s period. “There were enough cases noticed by me, where people from this community lost their jobs, for not being able to produce evidence. There are records since the British rule and even Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had made a provision in the constitution to provide reservation to all the backward castes, to bring them into mainstream. But, our Political leaders, didn’t recognize Koli community and similar other communities like Dhangar, Govari, Manyevar, Gavit and others, for their own political gains. It was for this reason, I wrote this script and made this film,” he said.
“Adivasi Koli community is an important community in our country. Yet, since independence, till date Koli and similar other adivasi communities haven’t received the recognition, though the Indian Constitution has included Koli community under scheduled tribe. Those influential people from this community have managed to get the benefits for themselves, but the demands of common people from this community have been ignored by all politicians in power, so far. Those who were in opposition, few years ago, promised us justice; but even after coming to power, they too are showing ignorance, about the demands of Koli tribe. When outsiders coming to state, can get housing, only because they lived on footpaths, the original Koli community in the city of Mumbai, are still deprived of basic benefits,” added Sharadkumar.
When asked about the promotion of the film, he said that the film has been promoted in the pockets of Koli community and have ensured that they will be able to see the film, at the theatre nearby their place. “But, we will begin the television promotion of our film in the second week,” said Sharadchandra.
‘Ek Hota Valya‘ is all set to release on 14th April 2016, on the 125th birth anniversary of Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar, to remind all, about the purpose of presenting this subject, through the film. The film has already been declared the Best Political Film, at the Jaipur International film festival. Sharadchandra, who has directed this film, himself plays the role of Valya in this film.
“We need to find time for fitness, in today’s busy lifestyle”- Nupur Parulekar
Subject of the TV serial and the character played by the artistes are very important, to receive recognition from the home viewers. Many years ago, Kavita Choudhary played an IPS officer in the serial ‘Udaan‘ and she inspired many young girls to appear for Civil Services exams. Now, on Colors Marathi, we find Nupur Parulekar playing one such Civil Services officer Arpita Patkar , in the serial ‘Kiti Sangaychay Mala‘. Nupur plays the role of newly appointed Collector of Sangli District.
Her position comes in the way of her marriage, as it becomes difficult for her parents to find a suitable match for her. In short, it is a challenging role for Nupur, as she inspires many young career minded Maharashtrain girls . Marathi Movie World spoke to Nupur, to know more about her acting career .
Nupur is a typical Mumbai Girl, who has studied from R.A.Podar College and later Ruparel College, while pursuing her Commerce degree. She is also a kathak exponent. Since her early college days, Nupur has been actively involved with stage plays. She left Podar College to join Ruparel College, only because she wanted to do stage, besides doing her studies. “I received a good support from Ruparel College principal Mr. Kulkarni, who encouraged me to perform on stage. This boosted my confidence and after graduation, I decided to pursue acting ,” said Nupur.
We have seen Nupur earlier in Star Pravah’s serial ‘Arre Vedya Mana‘, in which she played the character of Madhuri Dixit. But, now she is totally busy with ‘Kiti Sangaychay Mala’. So, we did ask her, whether she gets sufficient time to rest; and she quickly replied, “No.” In this busy schedule of shooting, it is not only Nupur, but many others, who spend their entire week shooting.
But, Nupur does find time for her fitness. Daily morning she goes for jogging at Shivaji Park. So, now people must be recognizing her, after her entry as Arpita Patkar in the ongoing serial. However, Nupur denies, stating , “I wear Sarees in this serial ; but while jogging in the morning, I am in my track suit and that too without make up. Even otherwise, morning walkers and joggers are busy with their own fitness workout. So, this is the best time for exercise. After all, we have to find time for fitness, in today’s busy lifestyle.”
We did ask her, whether she had any offers from Marathi films and she quickly responded, “I have already done a Marathi film ‘Ek Cutting’ along with other popular artistes like Mangesh Desai, Pandharinath Kamble, Vikram Gaikwad and Nayan Jadhav. But, it is not yet released.” We are sure that watching her performance in ‘Kiti Sangaychay Mala’, there is a possibility that she may receive offers from Marathi films. But, at present, Nupur seems to be happy with the ongoing serial and her popularity is rising, among all those Maharashtrian households, watching this serial.
Shivani Rangole – The rising star of Marathi films
She is beautiful , she is smart and she is highly talented. Shivani Rangole possesses all the qualities, to be a lead actress of Marathi films. Shivani is playing one of those six collegians, part of the lead team members in Sujay Dahake’s forthcoming science fiction ‘Phuntroo‘. In the recent past, we have seen Shivani playing Vaibhav Mangle‘s young daughter, in the TV serial ‘Shejari Shejari Pakke Shejari’. Then, we saw her playing a young girl living in the neighborhood of Mukta Barve, in hit Marathi film ‘Double Seat‘.
We met Shivani during the trailer launch of her film ‘Phuntroo’, when she invited all the attention, even in presence of Ketaki Mategaonkar, who is the leading actress of this film. Shivani was anchoring this promotional event, along with her co star in the film Shivraj Waichal. Incidentally, Shivani has been part of many Marathi plays in Pune, like ‘Anathema’ and ‘Jhulta Pool’. Her entry into ‘Phuntroo’ was finalized by filmmaker Sujay Dahake, after watching her performance in the play ‘Jhulta Pool’, written by Satish Pulekar.
Born and brought up in Pune, Shivani completed her graduation in Arts, from Fergusson College , Pune . She is just 21 year old and is just passionate about acting. The day is not far, when she will be counted among the top actresses in Marathi film industry. Are you surprised with this statement ? If yes, then watch the first look of Ravi Jadhav’s forthcoming film ‘&.. Jara Hat Ke’ directed by Prakash Kunte. Watch the freshness in her face, her spontaneous expressions and above all, her smile. In this film, Shivani is playing lead role of a young girl, opposite Siddharth Menon. The film also stars Mrunal Kulkarni and Indraneil Sengupta, who is making his debut in Marathi, through this film.
During our conversation with Shivani, we saw promise in her eyes. She just needed that big break in Marathi films and she has found it in ‘& Jara Hatke‘. But, in the meanwhile, she has a very prominent role to play in ‘Phuntroo’, which is all set to release next month. Few years ago, Shivani was part of Sudarshan Rangmanch, where she received training under the guidance of renowned theatre personality Pradeep Vaidya and others. Having performed at inter collegiate drama competitions, she just needed that guidance, to move ahead in her acting career. And, for the past two years, we have seen that desired change, in her. Wishing this talented actress all the best.
“I always believed in doing something creative” – Amruta Sant
She belongs to the batch of actress Aditi Sarangdhar and Kranti Redkar, from Ruia College, the cultural hub of Mumbai. Like her friends, Amruta Sant had lot of opportunities to perform on stage, when she participated at the inter collegiate drama competitions. When we spoke to her recently, she did mention about her play ‘Manjula’ directed by Nishikant and how she is remembered even today, for her memorable role in this play.
“Since my college days, I always believed in doing something creative. Later, when there was no opportunity in films and serials, I did perform on stage. I have performed in various plays on stage, in different languages like English, Urdu, Gujarathi, besides Marathi. I am also comfortable with Punjabi, as my mother is a Punjabi. But, I really enjoyed doing plays, at Prithvi theatre.” said Amruta.
Actually, watching her perform on stage, television and in films, suggests that Amruta is the kind of actress, who is meant for intense emotion filled roles. Amruta herself doesn’t seem to be curious about doing typical Marathi TV serials, but she does perform in few episodes of serials like Asmita, in few stories, where there is scope for the character, she is required to play. How can we forget her character of a schizophrenic patient, played in few episodes of Asmita, the detective serial on Zee Marathi? She had performed her part exceptionally well. Then, she also played in a suspense filled story of a mother in law and her daughter in law, in the same serial with Shubhangi Gokhale. We also saw her best performances in Marathi films like ‘Saturday Sunday’ made by Makarand Deshpande and Nagesh Bhosle’s film ‘Panhala’. And, she made her presence felt. Three years ago, Amruta has also performed in an Indo-American film ‘Breakdown’ . Now, she is doing a Marathi play ‘Talyat Malyat’, written and directed by Abhijit Guru, which has given her an opportunity, to prove her ability.
Looking at the change noticed in Marathi films, for the past few years, we feel that there is enough scope for talented Amruta. And, when we asked her about the progress of Marathi films, she too agreed, stating that new subjects were being attempted, taking Marathi cinema worldwide.
“Some of the creative filmmakers of today, are very particular about the selection of characters. Now, take my own case. After watching my performance in ‘Saturday Sunday’ film, Nagesh Bhosale selected me for his film ‘Panhala’. If you perform exceptionally well, however small your role may be, your work gets noticed.” she concluded.
“We believe in the power of live music” – Lahu- Madhav
Having noticed many music director duos in Marathi and Hindi films, there is one more pair, which is emerging as the most promising music duo, in Marathi and Hindi films. Lahu Panchal and Madhav Ajgaonkar have today established themselves, with their quality music. Their understanding between each other is perfect, for every project. And, the bond of their friendship, exists from their college days, when they first met in Ramnarain Ruia College, which is a hub for cultural activities, besides offering good education.
Those days, Madhav used to play the synthesizer and Lahu was a good singer. After finishing college, Madhav pursued his interest in composing, while Lahu continued with singing and the duo toured all over the world. Maintaining good rapport between them, they had several music sittings for rehearsals. It was hard work, with lots of patience.
Finally, in the year 2012, both decided to introduce themselves as music composer Lahu-Madhav pair and did many albums in Hindi and Marathi. And, their hard work paid dividends, when they first got an opportunity to compose music for Hindi film Rajdhani Express, followed by Marathi films like ‘Dhyaas’ , ‘Yala Jeevan Aise Naav’ and now forthcoming Marathi film ‘Athang’, from which they have great hopes.
When Marathi Movie World spoke to them, Madhav who was found more vocal, between the two, said, “Undoubtedly, the most memorable moment for us, was our debut in Marathi films, with our very first song sung by the legendary singer Asha Bhosle. That first Marathi album for the film ‘Dhyaas’, also had three more songs, sung by Shaan, Kunal Ganjawala and Sonu Nigam. It was an honour, when Ashatai herself patted our backs, saying that she hardly got an opportunity to sing such a beautiful song “Tujhya ni Majhya…”, written by Mandar Cholkar. The best compliment we received, was from legendary Marathi composer Yashwant Deo, who also appreciated this song.”
Later, talking about their debut Hindi film ‘Rajdhani Express’, he added, “ There was a song “Koi Umeed bar Nahi aati”, we composed, was based on the poetry of the legendary poet Mirza Ghalib and we presented it in two different styles. First, it was in the contemporary western style with western flute and distortion guitars, sung by Hitesh Prasad and the second one was a completely traditional Indian baithak kind of gazal, rendered by Shahid Maliya.”
But, when we actually listended to Lahu Madhav’s music, we found it, an amalgamation of electronic and live music. When asked to comment on it, both said together, “We believe in the power of live music and insist on using live instruments.” It is for this reason, their music breathes and sounds so warm, with every new composition.
Madhav in particular, who also gives background music, using his name as Madhav Vijay, has scored background music for about 25 films, prominent among them are, ‘Investment’( which won the national award), ‘Nirmalya’, ‘Lagna Pahava karun’, ‘Lonavla Bypass’, ‘Antardah’, ‘Bavare Prem hey’ award winning film ‘Jana Gana Mana’,’Sugar Salt Aani Prem’,’Welcome Zindagi’ and ‘Dhinchak Enterprise’’ while ‘Athaang’ is an upcoming film.
Best thing about them is that they have a big collection of songs, which comes to their advantage. Yet, both of them have maintained a very low profile, in this Publicity crazy film industry.
Ajinkya Deo- Still matchless
During the past three decades, we have seen many lead actors coming into Marathi film industry. Some of them, have come and disappeared, while others have shifted to character roles. But, there is one such actor, who still plays the lead role, for the past 33 years. In today’s competitive world of Marathi cinema, Ajinkya Deo is still matchless. He has already completed century of his films, in Hindi and Marathi films. Last Friday, his film ‘Shinma’ was released, in lead role and now his next film ‘Nagpur Adhiveshan’ also in the lead role, is due for release. It may be recalled that last year, his film ‘Bhatukli’ was released, also in the lead role.
Marathi Movie World had a chit chat with this evergreen actor and this smart and handsome actor, spoke about his present progress in film industry. “Yes, somehow I am lucky to find suitable lead roles for me, in Marathi films, even now. In ‘Shinma’ I was offered the role of a film director, as there is an actual film’s shooting in this film. It’s a good challenging role, as the film, besides offering entertainment, also delivers a social message, very skillfully. My forthcoming film ‘Nagpur Adhiveshan’ is a comedy film, where I am playing a politician. Now, I will be getting busy with a mega serial on Star Plus and then there will be second part of our home production ‘24’, which will also be aired soon. By the way, I am also doing an Indo –British film ‘Bombayria’ in the lead role, ” he said.
Having played the character of a director in ‘Shinma’, we did remind him, whether, in near future, he will be directing a project? And, he quickly reacted, “Yes’ I has a good experience of playing a director’s role, in the film ‘Shinma’.
Finally, when we asked him to react on Aamir Khan’s latest controversial remarks, he diplomatically said, “ Well, I don’t want to comment on this issue, as these are his personal comments and in democracy, anyone can express their feelings. So, I don’t want to react on that,” he concluded.
“Period and location very important, while designing costumes”- Chaitrali Dongre
We usually appreciate appropriate costumes worn by our Marathi artistes in different films; but, many a times we don’t remember the name of the costume designer. Chaitrali Dongre is one such costume designer, who has not only designed costumes for many Marathi films; but has also won popular awards. MarathiMovieWorld.com spoke to this creative personality, to know more about herself and her profession. Excerpts from an interview:
Q: How did you enter this creative profession.?
A: I began my career, as an assistant costume designer for the film ‘Uttarayan’ and thereafter found my way, into this profession.
Q: Now days, most of newcomers want to be on screen; but what about the other opportunities available, behind the screen ?
A: True, 90% of the people want to be on screen, as actors . But, there are many opportunities in technical departments as well. However, in this industry , reference is very important. At the same time, talent is equally important, as without talent, you can’t prove yourself.
Q: As a costume designer, how do you work on costumes? Do you follow any specific style ?
A: I read the script first. After that, I discuss with the director and art director to complete the look design . Then, according to this look, I prepare the costumes. But, for that period and location, is very important . Similarly, tone colors & patterns are also to be taken into account, while designing the costumes.
Q: For what types of films, you need special efforts or study ?
A: To be honest, every film is same for me. I work hard for every film that comes to me and give my 100%. Recently, I worked for films like ‘Dagadi Chawl’, ‘Elizabeth Ekadashi’ & ‘Bikers’ Adda’ . Each film was of different genre. Fashion keeps changing every time. Most of time, old fashions are reintroduced , with some new changes.
Q. Besides costume designing, you are also known as a casting director. Saw you name in the credits of ‘Biker’s Adda’ . What challenges are faced by a casting director?
A: It is always easy to suggest a known artist, but in this case also, we have to take care about his look test and character involvement. Also, we need to think about his/her existing image, which should not reflect in his new character. In case of others, I suggest the artistes, according to the character’s requirement.
Q: Is there anything else, you do, besides these two areas of industry ?
A: I also work as an executive producer. In a couple of years, I might produce my own film . Apart from my work, I love to watch films, I like to travel and last but not the least, I do have my own publication house.
“Experimental Theatre Foundation has helped me to explore myself ” – Komal Khamkar
For every talented artiste, initial stage experience helps to creatively understand self, so as to implement the role of a writer. For the past seven months, budding actress Komal Khamkar has been attending seven different workshops, facilitated by well known Theatre personality Manjul Bharadwaj, through his Experimental Theatre Foundation. Prior to this, Komal had done one act plays, skits, street plays and even two commercial plays, ‘ Eka Ratrichi Bai’ and ‘ Nishani Dava Angtha’ since 2013.
‘Marathi Movie World’ met this talented actress, during her stage show ‘Anhad Naad – Unheard Sounds of Universe’ at Shivaji Mandir recently. She had performed in this multilingual play, exceptionally well, along with her other group members. Incidentally, Komal has also made her debut on television, through popular Marathi serial ‘Honar Suun Mi Hya Gharchi’ which is being aired on Zee Marathi. Komal has stepped in, playing an interesting character of Sunita, whom Pintya ( Janhavi’s brother) wants to marry. Right from her entry into this serial, Komal has impressed all the viewers, with her remarkable performance.
When we were talking to Komal, she was more eager to speak about her association with Manjul Sir’s theatre group. “Experimental Theatre Foundation has helped me a lot, to explore myself as an artiste. Though I am doing this serial now, I still find time for the shows of ‘Anhaad Naad’ on week end”, she said proudly.
Komal , who has done her schooling from D. A. V. Public School , Nerul, Navi Mumbai and graduation from S.N.D.T. Women’s University , Mumbai; was introduced to this theatre group, in March this year, by her close friend Ashwini Nandedkar , an international artistic and a professional performer. “Ashwini is more than a friend to me. We are soul mates. I am really thankful to her, as this course has helped me immensely, to understand my inner self. And, this play ‘Anhad Naad’ has given me the freedom of performing my art in a creative and spiritual way, besides breaking all the restrictions that obstructs an actor, to be a performer. In short, it’s a pure art form,” she added.
Therefore, while performing the role of Sunita, in the popular serial, she looks more confident, in the presence of versatile artistes. When asked, as to how she prepared herself for that particular accent used by Sunita’s character, Komal said that it wasn’t much difficult, as her native place being Raigad, she was used to this style of language. Now, Home viewers are eager to see, how she tackles the character of a demanding lady Shashikala, played by Aasha Shelar, after her marriage to Pintya. But, after watching her performance on stage, we are sure that she is capable of inviting all the attention of the audience, in days to come.
By: Ulhas Shirke © MMW Network
“The bond of relationship is more important in marriage” – Aditi Sarangdhar
Having started her acting career with Nishikant Kamat’s experimental play ‘Litmus’, Aditi Sarangdhar, a talented actress from Kalyan, later found scope in Devendra Pem’s female version of ‘All The Best’. Through TV serials like ‘Damini’ and ‘Vadalvaat’, she became a household name in Maharashtra. Aditi Sarangdhar, did act in about fifteen Marathi films during past few years; but her performance in Marathi play ‘Proposal’ and TV serial ‘Lakshya’ brought her name and fame. In fact, her performance in ‘Proposal’ brought her many popular awards. Now, her new play ‘Graceful’ is also topic of discussion. MarathiMovieworld.com spoke to this talented actress. Excerpts from an interview:
Having played a bold character in the play ‘Proposal’, now your play ‘Graceful’ is being staged. Could you please tell us something about this play .
A: I am playing Veda , an actress, who is in relationship with a 40+ writer, who has a wife and a daughter. But, my relationship with the writer is something beyond physical relationship and this disturbs his wife, who argues , trying to prove the legality of their marriage. It is an interesting debate, which concludes well. But, it sends a message to all those 40+ married women, to offer all that their husbands look for, at this age. And, we are getting good response to this play, from all age groups.
But, what is your personal opinion on this subject of ex marital relationship ?
A: I think, we people are living in this advanced world. To maintain a good marital relationship , it is important for every couple to live with an understanding and perfect bonding. If a man lives with his wife, with total involvement with his mind and body, both of them don’t face any problems.
Today, we see many women oriented subjects in films and TV serials. What’s your opinion?
A: This is good. Every woman gets inspired by a character on screen. Like men, women are not able to react or express their problems. In fact, they are the symbol of patience and sufferings. These characters offer them some confidence.
Your role in ‘Lakshya’ serial has been highly praised. How do you react to this appreciation?
A: I am used to this kind of praise, since my performance in the serial ‘Vadalvaat’. In fact, such kind of praise has made me more responsible, to perform still better; to meet the expectations of the audience. Actually, I am still in the learning process. Till now, I have scored only 5 marks and have to score 95 marks more, to be 100 % perfect. Luckily, I have found all good people in this industry, from whom I have learned so many good things and will continue to do so.
You have acted in many Marathi films; but, we have seen you in lead role, in very few films. Why ?
A: It may be , because of my involvement in TV serials. But, now in my forthcoming film ‘Mohar’ I am playing the lead role. I have worked without make up, as I am playing the role of a woman laborer working in brick kiln. For me, it was a different experience as an actress. This film is directed by Vijaya Katkar and is all set to release on 9th October.
Aren’t you very keen on doing comedy films and serials ?
A: No, it is not so. I have already performed comedy during Zee Comedy awards show. Actually, I like to perform comedy; but, unfortunately I am not getting such roles. It is easy to make people cry; but, it is difficult to make them laugh.
What are your future projects ?
A: Besides ‘Mohar’, I am doing ‘Bazaar’ & ‘Malak’, with different types of roles. Very soon, you will also see me doing a Hindi project.
What are your hobbies, when you are not shooting ?
A : I love music. But, I also love to sit quiet, in meditation. I love to meditate. It helps me to understand myself well.
Finally, could you please tell us, which role you enjoyed the most?
A: My best is yet to come. I am here to stay for long, in this industry. I would like to do much better than what I have performed till now.
“My role of Gauri, is a dream come true for me”- Amruta Deshmukh
Every Marathi actress aspires to see huge posters of her Film or TV serial, at prominent locations in city. Till now, very few Marathi artistes have been fortunate, to see it happen. But, for newcomer Amruta Deshmukh, it is like dream come true. Few months ago, she was playing the role of Mayuri Wagh’s sister in law, in the serial ‘Asmita’ on Zee Marathi. Today, she has bagged a lead role in Shreyas Talpade’s debut TV serial ‘Tumcha Aamcha same Asata’ on Star Pravah.
This being Shreyas’ home production, there is lot of marketing done, for its promotion. At every prominent spot in Mumbai city, you find the huge posters of this serial displayed. While travelling in Local train, you get to hear the advertisement of this serial .In fact, the ad of this serial has set this new trend of advertising . And, the person who has been benefitted the most, is young actress Amruta Deshmukh. Today, she is the talk of the town.
Amruta who is originally from Pune, completed her BA with Psychology from S.P.College and later did her Post Graduate Course in Mass Communication & Journalism from Ranade Institute affiliated to Pune University. Amruta has been active with acting field, since her college days, and has also bagged a silver medal for best actress, in a prestigious inter collegiate drama competition. When Amruta first came to Mumbai to give audition, she couldn’t find suitable roles. So, she worked as intern for two months with TV 9 channel. So, we have another actress, after Prarthana Behere, who has worked a s a TV Journalist.
When we spoke to Amruta, we did ask her, as to why she took up a job in TV channel as a Journalist, when she came to Mumbai to become an actress. And, Amruta was frank enough to admit that she gave auditions for some film productions, but wasn’t getting selected. “I actually wanted to play a village girl, as Marathi films these days are rural based . But, couldn’t get through the auditions. At that point, I thought that I was not meant for such roles. So, I decided to take up job in Media house, as I had already done my course in Journalism. It was a question of my survival, in this city of dreams,” she explained.
Amruta first found a role in the serial ‘Pudhcha Paul’ and later in detective serial ‘Asmita’. These were not prominent roles; but, were enough to make her presence felt. But, Amruta was very positive, that one day, she would get a lead role. Perhaps, the popularity of the serial ‘Asmita’ proved to be lucky for Amruta, though she played a slightly negative role.
Now that she is playing the lead role of Gauri, in the serial ‘Tumcha Aamcha Same Asata’, Amruta is very delighted. She is playing a Psychologist in this serial. Incidentally, Amruta has done her graduation with specialization in this subject. “Yes, I am happy and also glad that the serial is being promoted in a big way, so as to reach maximum people. This role of Gauri, is a dream come true for me. But, at the same time, there is a lot of responsibility on me. I have to deliver my best, to fulfill the expectations of the home viewers,” She concluded.