Category Archives: Interviews

Neha Joshi,actress

“मला वाचनाची खूप आवड आहे” – नेहा जोशी

Neha Joshi,actress

तिच्या अभिनयाची सुरवात ‘क्षण एक पुरे’ ह्या प्रायोगिक नाटका पासून, तर छोट्या पडद्यावर ‘उन पाउस’ ह्या मालिके द्वारे झली . ‘पोष्टर बॉयज’ मधील कडक, मध्यमवर्गीय पत्नीची भूमिका असो, किंवा काही दिवसांपूर्वी प्रदर्शित झालेल्या ‘ड्रीम मॉल ‘ ह्या सिनेमात तिची मुख्य भूमिका असो, प्रत्येक भूमिकेला आपल्या अभिनयाने पूर्ण न्याय देत, तिने प्रेक्षकंवर छाप सोडलीय . ‘ड्रीम मॉल ‘ सिनेमातील तिच्या अभिनयाचे तर सर्वानीच कौतुक केले आहे. शिवाय, सध्या चालू असलेल्या  ‘का रे दुरावा‘, मालिकेत आणि ‘वाडा चिरेबंदी ‘ नाटकातील तिचा अभिनय सुद्धा उल्लेखनीय आहे.चेहऱ्याच्या योग्य हावभावाद्वारे , तितकाच सहज अभिनय करणारी अभिनेत्री म्हणून तिची सध्या ओळख आहे. तर, अश्या या नेहा जोशी सोबत केलेली, ही खास बातचीत.

‘ड्रीम मॉल’ चित्रपटातील तिच्या भूमिकेबाद्धाल बोलताना, नेहा सांगते, “‘ड्रीम मॉल ‘ ह्यात माझी मुख्य भूमिका होती .खूप वेगळा आणि आव्हानात्मात रोल होता. अभिनेत्री म्हणून खूप काही शिकले.” .

हल्ली समाजात मुलींच्या बाबतीत अत्याचाराचे जे प्रकार वाढतायेत, यावर जेंव्हा नेहाला तिचे मत प्रदर्शित करावयास सांगितले,  तेंव्हा ती म्हणाली, “खरंतर पालकांनी मुलींना विश्वासात घेतले पाहिजे . त्यांना मदत, शिक्षण दिले पाहिजे. पण, काही ठिकाणी, चित्र उलटे असते आणि त्या मुली अश्या प्रसंगांना तोंड देताना, जास्त घाबरतात, अबोल राहतात . जर पालकांनी त्यांच्यावर विश्वास दाखवला, तर नक्कीच त्यांचातील आत्मविश्वास वाढेल. आपल्या पर्स मध्ये नेल कटर सारखे अनेक साहित्य असते, त्यांचा वापर आपण स्वरक्षणासाठी करू शकतो. प्रत्येक मुलीने शाररीक आणि मानसिक दृष्ट्या भक्कम राहणे, गरजेचे आहे.”

neha-joshi-picture

‘पोष्टर बॉयज’ बद्धल बोलताना, ती म्हणाली, “‘पोष्टर बॉयज’ खरतर विनोदी सिनेमा होता, पण तो विनोद अगदी सहज, खरा करणे, हे त्यात महत्वाचे होते. शिवाय त्या चित्रपटात खूप महत्वाचा सामाजिक संदेश होता. आजकाल, जन्माला येणार बाळ, हा मुलगाच हवा, असा अट्टाहास असतो. असा भेदभाव आपण करायला नको. शिवाय ,कुटुंब नियोजनाच्या महत्वाच्या विषयवार तो सिनेमा होता . दिग्दर्शक समीर पाटील, दिलीप प्रभावळकर, ह्रीशिकेश जोशी , अनिकेत, अश्या सर्वांसोबत काम करायला मज्जा आली , शिकायलाही मिळाले .”

आता पर्यंत केलेल्या भूमिकेतील, सर्वात जास्त तुला आवडलेली भूमिका कुठली ?
या प्रश्नावर, नेहा उत्तरली, “मला सर्वच भूमिका आवडल्यात. कुठल्या एका भूमिकेचं नाव घेतल, तर इतर भूमिकांवर अन्याय करण्या सारख आहे.” सध्या नेहा  ‘वाडा चिरेबंदी ‘ ह्या नाटकात काम करत आहे.  या अनुभावाबद्धल बोलताना, ती म्हणाली, “हे माझे पहिलेच व्यावसायिक नाटक आहे. सर्वच कसलेले कलाकार. शिवाय, चंद्रकांत कुलकर्णीच दिग्दर्शन, त्यांच्या बरोबर काम करायला मज्जा येते आणि खूप काही शिकायला मिळते.” नेहाच्या मते, तिच्या अभिनयाच्या प्रवासातील, सर्वच क्षण हे अविस्मरणीय होते. पण विशेष म्हणजे, जेव्हा एखादा सीन तिला अवघड वाटतो, आणि मग तो मी करूनदाखवल्यावर , समोरच्या व्यक्ती करून मिळणारी दाद तिला महत्वाची वाटते.

‘का रे दुरावा ‘ मालिकेतील टीम वर्क बद्धल, नेहा सांगते, “सुरुची , सुयेश ,सुबोध सर्वच छान काम करतात. मज्जा येते, एकत्र काम करताना. शिवाय, काम करताना मैत्री होते आणि आम्ही वेग वेगळ्या विषयावर गप्पा मारतो .” लक्ष्मण उतेकर दिग्दर्शित ‘लालबाग ची राणी ‘ या आगामी चित्रपटामध्ये, नेहाची एक वेगळी भूमिका आहे. त्याबद्धल नेहा म्हणते, “मला खात्री आहे, की नक्कीच या भूमिकेचे, प्रेक्षेकांक्डून कौतुक होईल. याशिवाय, जालिंदर कुंभार दिग्दर्शित एक मराठी चित्रपट सुद्धा मी करत आहे. दोन्ही चित्रपट लवकरच येतील.”

अभिनया व्यतिरिक नेहाला काय आवडते? व ती सुट्टी कशी घालवते ? या बद्धल नेहा सांगते, “मला वाचनाची खूप आवड आहे . हल्ली जास्त वाचन होत नाही, पण, मी चित्रपट खुप पाहते. आठवड्यातून मी किमान ३ – ४ चित्रपट पाहते . सर्व प्रकारचे विविध भाषेतील सिनेमे पाहायला, मला आवडतात .”

Pushkraj Chirputkar, Aashu

“I am not like Aashu in real life” – Pushkaraj Chirputkar

Pushkraj Chirputkar, Aashu

The popularity of ongoing TV serial ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’ has increased, due to presence of the character of Aashu, played by Pushkraj Chirputkar. Aashu is not only popular among today’s young generation, but, also among other age groups. This was clearly noticed, when he was surrounded by young and old, present during the recent promotional event of Sanjay Jadhav’s film ‘Tu Hi Re’ at a Mumbai multiplex. All of them, were more keen on clicking photos with their favourite TV artiste. That particular day, he turned out to be the real hero of the day, much to the surprise of Sanjay Jadhav, his mentor.

Marathi Movie World spoke to Pushkraj , and this talented actor was more than happy to speak about his past days. “I did my engineering from Pune’s Pimpri Chinchwad Engineering College and like a typical Puneite was totally focused on my studies, during the first two years. In the third year, I joined a theatre group and that’s how I got associated with acting. We performed at competitions and also did some short films. Though my interest in acting grew further, I decided to complete my graduation and in the final year, passed by Engineering Degree with good marks. It was only then, I became serious about acting and decided to pursue as a career.” he said.

Like any other actor, Pushkraj had to struggle to find good opportunities. But, that did not deter him from his goal. In fact, to earn some money for his pocket expenses, he even worked as a consultant, to prepare an engineering project for his friend. He was confident that he would find a suitable role, to prove his mettle. And, finally, he landed as Aashu in ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’. Among all others, his selection seems to be the perfect one.

Neatly dressed up in a designer Pink Kurta , trimmed bear and well set hair for the occasion, Pushkaraj really looked smart & trendy. So, obviously, could not resist the temptation of asking him about any similarity between Pushkaraj and Aashu. And, he quickly reacted with a broad smile on his face, ” I am not like Aashu in real life. I believe in cleanliness and like to wear tidy clothes. But, like Aashu, I am helpful to my other friends.”

Finally, when asked about his co stars in the serial and his friendly relationship with them, he said, “We are all good friends. In fact, we knew each other, even before the start of this serial. And, this helped us, to co ordinate with each other better , while working on the sets.”  “It’s more of a fun, than shooting. And, I really enjoy working with them.” he concluded.

Pritam Kagne

Talented Pritam Kagne is also in the race

Pritam Kagne
In our Marathi film industry, every year about a dozen of new faces make their debut. Some of them attain instant success, while others take their own time to establish themselves. Young and talented Pritam kagne , falls in the second category. Pritam is not only passionate about acting; but she is also committed to her social responsibility, as a good human being.

An audiologist and speech therapist by profession, Pritam did work for a while , at a hospital in Pune. But, her interest in acting, opened the doors for her, three years ago. Pritam made her debut in Marathi films,through Pravin Raja karle’s film ‘Bokad’ . This was followed by a character of a model, she played in ‘Navra Majha Bhavra’, which was the debut film of Nilesh Sable. Thereafter Pritam did a Malyalam film ‘Mr. Bean’, in the lead role, which gave her, a lot of confidence. Simultaneously, she also made her debut on Marathi stage, with the comedy play ‘Ajab Lagnachi Gajab Goshta’ and went on to win Best actress award, for her performance.

Pritam has now bounced back into Marathi films, besides managing two good roles in Hindi films. She is playing lead role opposite Santosh Juvekar in the film Mile jab Chora Chori’. She is also playing the role of late Gopinath Munde’s younger daughter Pritam Munde, in the biopic ‘Sangharshayatra’, which will release soon. Then , she has a comedy film ‘Jangadgutta’ with Sameer Dharmadhiklari. Besides two important Hindi films, Pritam’s new film ‘Halaal’ also goes on the floor soon.

Best thing about this young actress is that, whenever she finds time, she visits her native town, Wanwadi, off karvenagar. Incidentally, Pritam’s father runs a school for speech and hearing impaired children here, on behalf of a NGO and Pritam spends some time with these children. Her original profession, helps her to share happy moments with these children. Indeed, a commendable work. Our best wishes to this talented actress and a committed social worker.

Shweta Mahadik, actress

“I am more keen on doing Marathi projects”- Shweta Mahadik

Shweta Mahadik, actress
She is more popular today, as a Hindi serial actress. Thanks to her performances in the serials like ‘Meri Bhabhi’ and ‘Balika Vadhu’. But, she has also performed in popular Marathi serials, including ‘Devyani’. Last year, we saw her playing an important role of Satyabhama , wife of Lokmanya Tilak, in the Marathi film ‘Lokmanya- Ek Yugpurush’. However, not many people could recognize her in this period film, because of her particular get up in this film. It was a big transition from glamour to a simple housewife ,as noticed 100 years ago.

Shweta Mahadik, found her life partner on the sets of her serial, when she met today’s award winning cinematographer Prasad Bhende, few years ago. Soon the friendship turned into marriage and now the couple has a little son. Now, Shweta is back to acting, as we noticed her recently, in ‘Lokmanya’ in a totally different non glamorous role.

MarathiMovieWorld spoke to Shweta recently. And, in this exclusive interview, she did speak about her transition from glamorous to non glamorous roles. “I was already looking for that change. Though I was doing glamourous roles in TV serials, they were negative roles. The role of Satyabhama was a blessing to me. And, when it was offered to me, I immediately said, Yes.” said Shweta.

Surprisingly, many people who knew her personally, could not recognize her in that character of Satyabhama. And, that was the achievement of the costume designer and make up artiste of ‘Lokmanya’. A talented actress that she is, Shweta is currently in talks with a Hindi serial maker. But, she seemed to be more keen on taking up Marathi projects.

“After ‘Lokmanya’, I am looking forward to take up more Marathi film assignments, where I will have more scope for acting. In ‘Lokmanya’, I didn’t have much to do with dialogues. It was to do more with my facial expressions and body language. Today, Marathi films are more subject oriented and I would certainly love to be part of it.” she remarked.

With both husband wife, belonging to Marathi film industry, we asked Shweta, as to how both of them managed time for their little son? And, she said, “I can manage it, as whenever I am shooting, it’s in Mumbai. It is Prasad, who has to go on tour sometimes, with his assignments. But, still, we make our son happy, enjoying family functions together and on few other occasions, adjusting our schedule.”

By the way, Shweta is also the daughter in law of veteran actor , film maker & renowned painter Prakash Bhende and former actress Uma, who received Lifetime achievement award last year, from Maharashtra State Government.

Prasad Jawade

“Every actor has a wish to become a director”- Prasad Jawade

Prasad Jawade
You may call it a family marriage drama, or a love story. ‘Ase He Kanyadaan’ on Zee Marathi, shows  the challenges taken by a youngster, to win the heart of his would be father in law; only to marry his daughter. This character of  Kartik , the young dashing businessman, belonging to a high profile family, is played by Prasad Jawade.

Incidentally, Prasad came into reckoning, during the Maharashtracha Superstar talent hunt show , organized by the same channel, few years ago. He was among the last five contestants; but, his talent was noticed by Balaji Telefilms, who casted him in their serial ‘Majhiya Priyala Preet Kalena’ in a negative role.

Generally, an actor beginning with a negative role, gets branded as a villain in his next projects. But, that did not happen in the case of Prasad. He received some good offers from his next TV assignments, including lead role in ‘Arundhati’, where he played a blind young man. When the auditions for ‘Ase He Kanyadan’ were  going on, they were looking for an actor with some experience. And, that helped Prasad, to prove his mettle. Today, Prasad has proved his selection right . He has that spontaneity of  changing his expressions quickly, like a button artiste, the skill required from any good actor, to prove his ability. MarathiMovieWorld spoke to Prasad during a function recently.

Very polite and jovial, as observed in our first meeting, Prasad was kind enough to share his experience, as an actor.  The very first thing, he spoke, was about the city of Mumbai, which has offered him scope in this acting field. “I shall always remain grateful to this city of Mumbai and people living here. At every stage of my progressing career, well wishers have come forward to help me. This has happened , since my days of struggle.” said Prasad.

Actually, Prasad who is a stage actor from Pune, made his entry into films, as an assistant to well known cinematographer of Bollywood and Marathi films Umesh Kabre. It was during this period, he learned the technique of  facing camera with confidence. “In fact, I became more camera friendly. My appearance in the  serial, ‘Majhiya Priyala Preet kalena’, only  boosted my confidence .So, when I played the lead role of a blind hero,  in my next serial ‘Arundhati’, I worked harder. Before the beginning of the shoot, I actually visited a blind school, getting the feel, by closing my eyes. It was the most challenging role for me.” he added.

Prasad did perform in recently released film ‘Classmates’. One wonders, as to why he is not getting prominent roles in Marathi films ? Looking at his caliber, he is a hero material. But, Prasad believes in destiny. “All my friends are doing well in films and I am happy about it. Let me wait for my turn.” he reacted with smile on his face.

When asked about his role in ‘Ase Hey Kanyadaan’, Prasad expressed his satisfaction for finding the lead role in this serial. “Here again, I am thankful to Subodh Bhave, who recommended my name, as the makers, wanted an experienced actor, to play the role of Kartik.” he said.

Kartik loves to watch something entertaining at the end of the day. He feels that Marathi serials should attempt new subjects, other than the traditional Saas-bahu dramas. “Sometimes, we as artistes, are compelled to accept roles in serials, with traditional subjects. But, now the change is noticed. I like the fresh subject taken up in ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’. It is refreshing!. Instead of watching routine serials, I prefer watching  Comedy shows like ‘Chala Hava Yeu Dya’.” he added.

Finally, when asked, whether he would like to direct a project, considering his previous experience as assistant, on the sets of films; he remarked with a smile on face, “Every actor has a wish to become a director.”

Siddharth Chandekar

Is Siddharth Chandekar emerging as the most promising actor?

Though Ankush Choudhari plays the lead actor of the ‘Classmates’ team, the actor who has been inviting the attention of audience is Siddharth Chandekar. Siddharth began his acting career in films through a Milind Ukey’s film ‘Hamne Jeena Seekh Liya’. But then, he was a teenager. Siddharth’s actual journey as an actor began with the serial ‘Agnihotra’ and Avadhoot Gupte’s film ‘Zenda’. Then , we saw him in Atul Sarpotdar’s film ‘Satarangee Re’ based on young collegians.

Siddharth Chandekar
Later, films like ‘Balgandharva ‘ and ‘Doosari Goshta’ offered him limited scope. Last year, his film ‘Bavare Prem He’ was released, presenting him as a solo hero opposite Urmila Kanetkar-Kothare. In spite of good performance, his talent went noticed, as the film didn’t do well, at ticket window. But, after release of ‘Classmates’, everybody is talking about his performance. Though there are other popular Marathi actors in this film, Siddharth stands out, with his all round performance. He has displayed emotions and humour simultaneously, clearly indicating that he is there to stay in Marathi film industry, for a long long time.
Having seen the promo of his forthcoming film ‘Sata Lota Pan Sagala Khota’, there is plenty of scope for his character, to create instant comedy. And, we have seen the glimpse of it in ‘Classmates’. In short, Siddharth is all set to rock, during the beginning of this new year . It will not be surprising to see him as the Number one hero of Marathi films, in years to come..

Prarthana Behere, Actress, Picture

Is Prarthana Behere emerging as the top actress of 2015 ?

Prarthana Behere, Actress, Picture

On her social networking site, she has disclosed her identity as ‘Coffee Aani Prarthana Behere’ so much has been the importance of this role,  to her.  Indeed, ‘Coffee Aani Barach Kahi’ did very good business and it also helped Prarthana Behere to establish herself, among the leading actresses of Marathi film industry.  Just two months ago, Prarthana had won the hearts of Marathi film lovers, with her remarkable  performance in ‘Mitwa’. In fact, ‘Mitwa’ brought her name and fame.

Only two years ago, Avadhoot Gupte had introduced Prarthana through his Marathi film ‘Jai Maharashtra Dhaba Bhatinda’, where Prarthana played a Punjabi girl, falling in love with a Maharashtrian boy  who runs a Dhaba in Bhatinda , serving Maharashtrian food. Last year, there was no film of hers and people thought that she had switched over to Hindi serials. But, with ‘Mitwa’ she brought a new flavor to Marathi films. According to Prarthana, she is not the same, as she was seen in ‘Mitwa’.  But then, how is she in real life? “I am little childish. But, thanks to director Swapna Waghmare, who knew that I would fit into the character of Avani.” she says.

Now, with her superior  performance in the super hit film ‘Coffee Aani Barach Kahi’, Prarthana has proved that she can be reckoned  among the top actresses of Marathi films, today. Luckily for her, the film was made by a big banner and also received support from Ravi Jadhav’s production company. Now, she has  two more films in hand, out of which, adventure filled ‘Biker’s Adda’ opposite Santosh Juvekar will be released soon. Recently, during the music release of this film, Politician Amar Singh and Bollywood actress Jayapradha, were all praise for Prarthana, after watching the first look of this film. Isn’t that a biggest compliment for Pratrthana ?

Last month, her another big banner film ‘Tujhya Vin Mar Javaan’ was launched in a big way. In this film  , Prarthana is playing a Punjabi girl, intensely in love with a Maharashtrian boy, played by Vikas Patil. The film is produced by the family members of late Bollywood film maker Pramod Chakravorty. And, that itself speaks a lot about this film. According to director of this film Murali Nallappa,  “I found Prarthana as a complete actress.  She was so perfect during her audition that we didn’t have a second thought, before making her selection.” And, the first look of this film, shown on the occasion said it all.

If ‘Tujhya Vin Mar Javaan’ gets released this year, Prarthana will have better chances of rising to popularity heights and winning awards for Best actress of 2015. She has already proved her ability through ‘Mitwa’ and ‘Coffee Aani Barach Kahi’, now,  she will be competing with herself  through her forthcoming performances.  Sky is the limit for this beautiful talented actress.

khushbu Tawade

“I consider Marathi theatre, as the base of acting” – Khushboo Tawde

khushbu Tawade

We have noticed her talent in Marathi and Hindi serials, since 2011. Last year, she also made her debut in Marathi films, opposite Rajesh Shringarpure. She already has two films in hand; but now she will be seen in Devendra Pem’s play ‘All The Best -2′, which will be launched on 1st May 2015 .

27 year old Khushboo Tawde from Dombivali, is certainly a bright prospect in Marathi entertainment industry, having already won Mata Sanmaan in 2013 and recently, the Dadasaheb Phalke Foundation Puraskar for ‘Best actress on debut’ in Marathi films of 2014.

We have seen Khushboo in the lead, in two Marathi serials ‘Dharmakanya’ and ‘Ek Mohor Abol’; but she has also performed in Hindi television with famous serials like ‘Betaal aur Sinhasan Battisi’ & ‘Tarak Mehta ka Oolta Chashma’, offering variety.

Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actress. Excerpts from an interview:

Q. Tell us about your background and how you landed in acting?
A. I’m a graduate in hotel management and have done my B.Sc. To be frank, I had never thought about acting. I haven’t even participated in drama competitions, during my college days; but, as we know, it was all my destiny.

Q. Why you were not seen in Marathi Television for long time?
A. From the beginning of my career, I have given preference to variety of roles. I was not interested to do similar type of roles again. I consider Marathi theatre, as the base of acting. I was also waiting to work in a good commercial play. Fortunately, I got an opportunity to do theatre. Now, I’m playing lead role, in Devendra Pem’s commercial Marathi play ‘All the Best 2′; which is a sequel to super duper hit play ‘All the Best’.  And, I’m very excited about it.

Q. Last year, you made your debut on big screen with ‘Love Factor’. What about your other ongoing film projects?
A. Thanks to those filmmakers, who have given me an opportunity. Recently, I completed two Marathi films, ‘Chandri’ which is a different genre horror film and ‘Olakh’ which is based on a social issue. In coming months, theses films will be released back to back. Looking forward to audience reaction, on my performance.

Q. But, how was your experience?
A. It was very good learning experience, while doing rehearsals with Devendra Pem and all team members of ‘All the Best-2′. We had a great time. I think, this play will be surely rock, as the previous one did; and create another record on Marathi stage.

Q. Have you taken any training for acting?
A. No. But my idol is Smita Patil. I’m a die hard fan of her. She was really a gem of Indian cinema. We can’t compare anybody with her. I respect her acting a lot.

Q. What is your comment of current Marathi Cinema?
A. I really feel proud and happy that our Marathi films are getting maximum national awards.

Q. How was your experience working in Hindi?
A. Major difference is that, once you get a break on hindi television, you receive name & fame at national level. That is the major difference.

Shilpa Purushottam Koyande

Shilpa Purushottam Koyande – A promising costume designer, with a difference

Shilpa Purushottam Koyande

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail” This Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote, inspires her and she has proudly displayed it proudly on her blog. Since her childhood Shilpa Purushottam Koyande has been taking interest in designing her own costumes. Soon, the interest grew larger during her college days, and Shilpa started designing costumes for others. “Now, my hunger is bigger… Wanna achieve it for my profession, my passion…my work.” she said, when spoke to her recently, to know more about her professional work.

“I always wanted to become a costume designer and work for Marathi film industry to improvise the costumes of different characters, giving them a glamorized look. Basically, the role of a Costume designer includes everything from deciding the right costumes for the right character. It also includes their hairstyle, as well as the accessories like jewellery, purse, shoes etc. which they are supposed to use in the movie.” explained Shilpa.

Speaking about the importance of costumes in films, she feels, “Costume plays a very important role in presenting a person, by his or her pattern. The colours we use, presents their attitude or shades of that particular character.” Shilpa is very much happy that the face of Marathi cinema is changing day by day. “Now, the Marathi artists are also much more cautious about their looks on screen and off screen. Hence, they give priority to it, as much they give it to their fitness.” she added.

Surprisingly, Shilpa’s journey began in the Film Industry, without any godfather. Marathi film ‘The Strugglers- Amhi Udyache Hero’ was her debut film in 2012, as a costume designer; which was Directed by Vijay Shinde, starring Chinmay Mandlekar. After that, she worked as a costume designer for another Marathi film ‘Mahanayak Vasanta Tu’ again starring Chinmay Mandlekar.

“In 2013 I got a opportunity to work with renowned director Girish Mohite for his much talked about Marathi film ‘Guru Pournima’, starring Sai Tamhankar and Upendra Limaye, Sulbha Arya,  which was produced under banner of Srihit Productions and released in September 2014.” recalls Shilpa.

Shilpa’s excellent costume designs in ‘Guru Pournima’ were noticed and appreciated by film critics; thus bringing her into limelight. Immediately after this film, she designed costumes for another Marathi film ‘Kalakendra’, directed by Vijay Shinde, starring Lokesh Gupte, Priya Gamre, Priya Berde. The film is focused tamasha culture. At present, she has four Marathi film assignments in hand; out of which 2 films are produced by Satish Motling productions. Recently, Shilpa was in Bangkok, along with the team of this film, for their shooting schedule there. Other assignment is of director Shantanu Rode’s upcoming film, which revolves around the humour filled relationship between father and son.

Besides Marathi films, Shilpa has designed costumes for commercial ads and has also worked on designing of costumes for a parallel hindi cinema, ‘Dhobi Ki Dulhan Pyari Hai’ directed by Sharmila Sankar , which was basically, an International film festival project. There is also one regional movie ‘Mortoo’ produced in Konkani language, which was screened at Melbourne international film festival and international film festival of Goa in 2013/14.

Besides film industry, Shilpa also designs costumes for the Five Star Hotel like Tunga Reganza, Vashi. And, last but not the least, she has worked as costume designer for the Dance Events of Shaimak Davar, Anand Mujumdar, Deepali Mandavkar and for other national competitions of Ballroom dance.

Isn’t that something to be appreciated. Only way, we can describe her is that she is a promising costume designer, with a difference.

Prashant Damle

Prashant Damle is still matchless

Prashant Damale

The moment one hears the name Prashant Damle, a smile adorns one’s face automatically. He is synonymous with loads of laughter. He must be one of the very few actors, to have extensively indulged in all the three forms of entertainment, Theatre, Films, Television. With his presence in entertainment field, spanning almost three decades, he has succeeded in retaining his own identity. Prashant has four Limca world records to his name and numerous awards adorn the shelf in his drawing room.

Prashant is more committed towards Marathi theatre and has so far staged more than 11200 shows. He debuted Marathi stage with ‘Tur Tur’ and ‘Moruchi Mavshi’, which brought him recognition. He played the lead in ‘Bramhachari’ and his play ‘Gela Madhav Kunikade’ broke lots of records. Prashant debuted in Marathi films with ‘Pudhacha Paul’ and went on to do quite a few films like ‘Pasant Aahe Mulgi’, ‘Ekda Pahave Karun’, ‘Ina Mina Deeka’ to name a few. Prashant Damle has a successful stint on television. His anchoring in ‘Aamhi Saare Khavaiye‘ increased his fan following. He acted in serials like ‘Be Dune Teen’, ‘Gharkul’, ‘Bhikajirao Karodpati’, ‘Darling Darling’ to name a few.

MMW had a chit chat with him recently.

MMW : You are staging ‘Karti Kaljat Ghusli’ again. What was the reason to choose this play?
Prashant Damle : I wanted a play with good humour. I was certain that I did not want a farce or a slapstick comedy. ‘Karti Kaljat Ghusli’ is a well written play with pure humour, where you do not have to force or create comedy.

MMW : Tejashree Pradhan is debuting with this play. What’s your take?
PD : Tejashree was keen to do theatre. She has the ability and has been putting in real hard work.

MMW : What keeps you away from films and television?
PD : Number of stage shows. But frankly, I was seen on television (Marathi and Hindi) and I have just completed film shooting of ‘Bho Bho’. You will see me in another film in an important role in ‘Mumbai Pune Mumbai 2 – Lagnala Yayachach’.

MMW : But you like to be on stage…..
PD : You ought to do, what gives you more pleasure. I enjoy doing theatre.

MMW : Any role close to your heart?
PD : I can not single out one role. Each play I featured in, is a milestone in my career. Frankly, I love all my plays. Each play and role has its own importance. …..

MMW : What about films and serials?
PD : Films…. ‘Vajva Re Vajva’ and ‘Savat Mazi Ladki’, TV serial…..‘Kai Pahilas Mazhyat’. Me and the whole team had a blast during the making of this serial.