Category Archives: Interviews

“Proud to be a Marathi Mulgi” – Manasi Moghe

Aside 27 September, 2014 Keertikumar Kadam

Upon introduction, a warm endearing smile greets you. Feet firmly on ground and without any airs Miss India 2013 chats with Marathi Movie World. This 23 years old (young) beauty is utterly focused and knows exactly what she wants from life.
It’s every other girl’s dream to either become Miss India or a famous ‘Bollywood’ star like Madhuri Dixit, Sridevi, or Kareena Kapoor. Very few know that grinding hard work is required in the process. Manasi knew about it and was prepared for arduous hard work. She realised her dream in 2013, when she was announced Femina Miss India Universe, changing her life drastically in a positive way.

“I always wanted to become Miss India since my childhood.”confessed Manasi. Her journey started from Indore, where she was born and where she went to school and college, moving to Nagpur for her higher studies to become an Engineer ( in electronics and IT ) and finally to Mumbai, city of opportunities. “My studies and present profession do not match. Since my mother and father are Doctors, I always wanted to do academically well. As I am very good in mathematics I chose engineering,” Manasi was reminiscing. In the final year of her engineering degree, after winning quite a few titles locally, she decided to go after her dream and applied for Femina Miss India contest in 2013. Rest is history, as she won the coveted Miss India Universe title.

Like any other beauty pageant winner, next stop being ‘Bollywood’, she did not get lured by mediocre projects. She was offered Marathi film, which she readily accepted after reading the script. She is debuting in ‘Bugadi Mazi Sandli Ga‘ based on Marathi folk culture, Laavni. “I loved the role offered wherein invigorating emotions are to be expressed and it’s a musical with lots of dancing involved, as I have to perform different types of Laavnis.” expressed Manasi, when asked about why she chose Marathi regional film as a debut film. “Also I am a ‘Marathi mulgi’ so why not?‘. Though not a trained dancer, she went through a rigorous training, for dancing and humorously said that she did not get any scolding from her dance director, who apparently is a task master, during rehearsals or shooting.

This tall ( 5’9″) beauty with brains, who also happens to be extremely able Basketball player, has been amongst the top 7 contestants, at Miss Universe contest 2013. She was declared ‘Miss Diva’ 2013, in the same pageant. She has been associated with ‘Muktangan’, NGO which is involved in uplifting underprivileged children. “I love kids, and I enjoy being surrounded with these kids.” said Manasi.

Marathi movie world wishes, our own ‘Marathi mulgi’, Miss India, Manasi Moghe a grand success in the coming years.

Interviews

“Have patience, have faith in yourself and give honest work – is the funda of my life” – Sameedha Guru

Aside 15 September, 2014 Jitendra R More

Having a family background of dance, writing and acting , Samidha Guru started and father late Suresh Deshpande, was a noted writer and director of Marathi plays. Her sister is a ‘Kathak Visharad’ and is a known actress. Even her husband (Abhijit Guru) is a good writer, actor and director . Samidha is BSc (Microbiology) along with BA (English literature). Before shifting to Mumbai, she had actively participated in theatre and also did a teaching job for a couple of years. After marriage, she came to Mumbai and got a break on small screen. She gives all credit to her husband and family.
Samidha Guru did her debut on Television through ‘Soniyacha Umbaratha‘ but she got noticed in ‘Avaghachi Sansar‘, in which she played an angry young woman. After this, she did prominent roles in many popular serials which include ;Jivalaga‘, ‘Zunj‘, ‘Ya Valanavar‘, ‘Devyani‘, ‘Gandha Fulancha Gela Sangun‘, ‘Tujavin Sakhya re‘. Samidha has also acted in many stage plays at Nagpur. Recently her commercial play ‘Get Well Soon‘, got lots of appreciation from audience as well as from critics. Her acting is noticeable and specially acclaimed. She is currently busy in shooting of her new film, which is being directed by Nagesh Bhosale.

On big screen, Samidha has also done prominent roles in ‘Kaydyaach Bola‘, ‘Majha Mee‘, ‘Dhating Dhingana‘ and ‘Tukaram‘ wherein her acting was appreciated. Recently she received State award for her role in a Marathi film ‘Kapuskondyachi Gosht‘. In which she is in the lead role, with Makarand Anaspure. This film is due for release shortly. We had a chitchat with this hardworking actress regarding her role and the journey of her career.

Q: Tell us something about the story and your role in ‘Kapuskondyachi Gosht‘ .
A: The story and my role are very close to my heart. It is a story of a poor farming family from Vidarbha. Her father commits suicide due to agricultural damage. There are three more girls in the family and their responsibility falls on her shoulders after the death of their father. Then, how she stands in the farm along with sisters, how she overcomes the crisis, is the story all about.

Q: It seems, first time you are playing such a character, what was your reaction after reading the script?
A: I thought, this is a golden opportunity for me and I must do this role, This role is emotionally very strong, which will be more helpful for me as an actress.

Q: Did you face any difficulties while preparing for this role?
A: Not exactly; since I’m from Nagpur, the accent or language was not an issue for me. But it was tough during the shooting. We have shot in very hot climate, it was almost 48 degree, I had totally tanned. Now I have received State award for this role. So I’m satisfied about my work.

Q: How was your experience while working in ‘Get Well Soon‘?
A: It was a great learning experience, Chandrakant Kulkarni Sir, is an institute himself. He is very disciplined . I also learnt a lot from each of my co stars in this play. Swapnil Joshi is a simply great artist. He is very supportive and down to earth. Sandip Mehta has different view of life. It was really a great pleasure to work with all of them.

Q: Out of Television, Theatre and Films. which field you feel most challenging / important ?
A: All three are fine with me. I won’t mind to work in any medium. I work with same passion, but theatre and films have more shelf life.

Q: Don’t you think there are less women oriented films in our industry?
A: Yes, but looking at recent time; the scenario seems to have changed. We had films like ‘72 Miles‘, ‘Mee Sindhutai Sapkal‘, ‘Sou Shashi Deodhar;. They are giving importance to women empowerment. So let us hope for the best.

Q: What one should do, to get a break in our industry? What could be the success mantra?
A: Actually it’s different from person to person. Sometimes your patience gives you good opportunities. One should not only work hard but should work very honestly. Self respect and confidence about our work are also equally important. Have patience’, have faith in yourself and work honestly , these are the fundas of my life.

Interviews

Ramesh Deo – The Grand old man of Marathi Cinema is still active

Aside 5 September, 2014 Keertikumar Kadam

“No actor from Bollywood or even Hollywood is actively involved on cinema screen at the age of 90. I am the ONLY one.” A proud, but without sounding egoistic, Ramesh Deo was talking while sitting at Sound Ideaz Academy.

Born in a wealthy ‘Rajput‘ family, Ramesh Deo did a small scene with Pritviraj Kapoor in a Hindi film ‘Aawara‘ when he was a child and debuted in the form of a cameo in a Marathi film ‘Paatlachi Por’. His first big break as a leading man came in 1956, through noted director Raja Paranjape’s Marathi film ‘Aandhala Magto ek Dola’. Later he went on to become a much loved actor of Marathi movie world and was also appreciated as a versatile actor in the Hindi film world. He acted in his first Hindi film ‘Aarti’ in 1962. He has to his credit more than; 350 Hindi 240 Marathi 70 Gujarathi, and a few Bengali, Bhojpuri, South Indian; films. He has also done around 30 plays on Marathi stage. He and Seema Deo (Nalini Saraf, who became his wife later on) was the much sought after leading pair, in Marathi Movie World those days.

His Marathi movie ‘Jagachya Pathivar’, gained immense popularity. Later, he was a part of Hindi films like ‘Anand’, ‘Saraswatichandra’, ‘Jaise ko Taisa’, ‘Dus Lakh’, ‘Zameer’, ‘Khilona’, ‘Rampur ka Laxman’, ‘Kora Kagaz’, to name a few. He was last seen in a hindi movie ‘Jolly LLB’ in a small but significant role.

Though he was slightly in awe of superstar Rajesh Khanna initially, they became great friends later on. Remembering the superstar, Mr. Ramesh Deo said “When I used to visit Rajesh Khanna in his last days, ‘the once superstar’ was anguished and used to say even after calling people over, they do not visit me, giving flimsy excuses”. Ramesh Deo mentioned that he has worked with all noted Marathi and Hindi film directors. He has worked with Hindi film industry’s first family Kapoors. He has worked with all the Kapoors starting with Prithiraj Kapoor, but except recent Ranbir Kapoor.

Ramesh Deo has his own production house and has produced many feature films, Television serials, Advertising films. In fact he narrated an incident about dream girl Hema Malini, being reluctant to be featured on small screen in an ad.

He said, “Now when I meet her I remind her about that and tell her that nowadays you are all over small screen (she being honorable Member of Parliament)”. He has acted with all the top heroes of his time, one regret being his movie with Dilip Kumar couldn’t see the light of the day (Kalinga). Currently, he is busy shooting for a Marathi film ‘Sankasur’.

Long live Mr Ramesh Deo. Our best wishes are always with you.

Interviews

“Mhalsa has brought some change within myself” – Surabhi Hande

Aside 2 September, 2014 Sanskruti Bhatkar

Surabhi Hande, ‘Mhalsa’ of the popular serial ‘Jay Malhar’ has done her schooling from Jalgaon, joined M.J College and did her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from L.A.D. College, Nagpur. When she was in the 1st year, she participated in a play ‘Swami’ and did stage shows all over India. She was also an artist in All India Radio’s Marathi Sugam Sangeet Programme. Her father Sanjay Hande is an Asst Music Director in Akashwani and mother Anjali Hande is a professor, HOD of music

Surabhi began her acting career at the age of 16-17. She first acted in a Hindi film ‘Standby’ and then went on to act in the Marathi serial ‘Ambat Goad’ (Star Pravah), in a negative role.

Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actress about her ongoing mythological serial ‘Jai Malhar’. The excerpts from the interview are as below:

Q: When did you actually begin your acting career ?
A: I did my first performance on stage when I was in the 1st year of my bachelors degree. I took part in Rajya Natak competition, played role in Vivekananda’s play ‘Swami’ and did stage shows all over India . Also worked in All India Radio as an artist in ‘Marathi Sugam Sangeet programme’

Q: Have you also done any Hindi film?
A: Yes, I have started my acting career from Hindi Film ‘Standby’, directed by Sanjay Surkar and was introduced by my father’s friend Mr. Prakash Choubey, when I was in college. I played the role of Adinath Kothare’s sister and daughter of Sachin Khedekar. I also did a Marathi serial ‘Ambat Goad’ on Star Pravah, in which I played a negative role.

Q: In ‘Jai Malhar’, you are playing the main character of Mhalsa; are you enjoying the attention? What do you want to say about this role , How do you feel in this role?
A: Yes, I consider myself lucky that I was selected to perform Mhalsa’s role in this serial. When I came to know, the auditions were going on for Jai Malhar, I went for it and when I received a call and was told about my selection for this role; I just couldn’t say ‘no’ for this offer. It was a golden opportunity which came my way. Jay Malhar is a mythological serial and my character of Mhalsa has given me an opportunity to play something different. I am learning and enjoying a lot while doing this character. Different look, different attitude, even I am feeling some change within myself; I have changed a lot.

Q: Besides this ongoing Serial, are there any other projects in pipeline?
A: No, currently I want to concentrate on this serial only, as it has a very hectic schedule for me.

Q: Tell us about your experience while shooting?
A.: It is a great experience. There is a lot to learn from all those around. The most important thing I learned, is about ‘timing’. All the artists guide and understand each other. I am quickly learning the technique of delivering the dialogues, as well as body language for this role as this is a mythological story. I am really enjoying every moment of this serial with all artists and my co-artist Mr. Nage .

Q: After performing in lead role , will you be taking up character or other roles on small screen ? Are you choosy about the roles?
A : I haven’t decided anything about it so far. Actually, I want to do different types of roles. The story should have a lot of strength. I would love to do ‘bindhast’ type, thrilling character or political personality or even uncommon character like one in Hindi film ‘Paa’ or Rani Mukharji’s ‘Mardani’. Personally, I would prefer variety of roles. I did negative role in the serial ‘Ambat Goad’, but in future , I won’t be interested in doing negative or comedy roles.

Q: Where are you more comfortable? On stage, TV or big screen?
A: I am comfortable while performing in all the three mediums. I have a passion for working in films; but I also enjoy working on stage.

Q: Any particular Director or production house, you would like to work with in future?
A: No, I am ready to work with everyone, not particular about anybody so far.

Q What is your hobby ?
A: Singing , I like to participate in singing programmes too.

Q .Who is your ideal?
A: In Marathi, Mukta Barve, Mrunal Kulkarni, Aishwarya Narkar and In Hindi Madhuri Dixit and Kajol.

Interviews

“I would love to play variety of roles” – Niyati Ghate

Aside 4 July, 2014 Jitendra R More

The recently released Marathi film ‘Mukkam Post Dhanori’ has brought a new face to Marathi film industry. She is not only talented with her acting skills, but is a good classical dancer and expert in martial arts. Niyati invited all the attention through her performance in this adventure and mystery filled Marathi film ‘Mukkam Post Dhanori’.

A graduate from Smt.C.H.M. College, Mumbai, Niyati focussed her attention on classical dance and paid more attention on her fitness, practicing Martial arts. Those who have seen this film, are all praise for her action scenes and agility; besides her notable performance, on film debut.

Since her college days, Niyati had taken keen interest in acting, performing at inter collegiate competitions and at Youth festivals. She had even joined a group of actress Vishakha Subhedar, to take acting lessons from her. Niyati then began her acting career on stage with commercial plays like ‘Bajirao Mast Mee’ opposite Sanjay Narvekar, followed by ‘Chal Asa Nasata Re’ and ‘Eka Lagnanantarchi Ghost’ . She was also part of two serials on DD-Sahyadri, one of them being ‘Bheti Lage Jeeva’ .

MarathiMovieWorld spoke to this upcoming actress. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: How you landed into this film ‘Mukkam Post Dhanori’ ?
A: Two years ago, I met Mr. Sudarshan Warale, through a common friend. At that time, he was working on a script. And, he asked me, whether I would be interested to work in a Marathi film? Thereafter, when the script was ready, he approached me again with the script. After going through the script, I immediately said ‘yes’ to play the lead role. I felt that it was a challenging role.

Q: How did you prepare yourself for this tough role?
A: I had seen an adventure filled English film ‘Lara Croft: Tomb Raider’ and was highly impressed by the character of Lara Croft. That inspiration itself helped me to perform in this film.

Q: At present, are you working on any other projects ?
A: Presently, there are talks going on for two films. But, nothing is finalised yet. Shall talk, when everything is finalised.

Q: After performing in lead role in film, will you be taking up character or other roles on small screen ?
A; I haven’t decided anything about it so far. Actually, I want to do different types of roles. The story should have lot of strength. Personally, I feel that I should not be typecast. I would prefer variety of roles.

Q: Where are you more comfortable? On stage, TV or big screen ?
A: I am comfortable performing in all the three mediums. There is a passion for working in films; but I also enjoy working on stage, as you can directly connect with the audience.

Q: Do you feel that there are not many women oriented Marathi films?
A: Now, the picture is changing. There are more and more films now, on social subjects, highlighting women’s issues. We see a new picture of modern day woman, emerging on screen..

Interviews

Hello! This is Sub.Inspector Disha Suryavanshi speaking…

Aside 3 July, 2014 Shweta Khot

We are all watching her on small screen, in popular crime investigation serial ‘Lakshya’, on Star Pravah. Today, Pari Telang is more popularly known as Sub-Inspector Disha Suryavanshi, than her original name. Actually, Pari began her acting career as a child artiste, when she was studying in 2nd standard. It was a role in commercial Marathi play ‘Mantramugdha’. This was followed by Zee Marathi’s ( then alpha Marathi) popular Marathi serial ‘Abhalmaya’, and DD’s ‘Bandini’ and ‘Valvacha Paus’.. As a child artiste, she also performed in one Marathi film. Thanks to her father Bhushan Telang, a film and theatre personality, who encouraged her from time to time. Later, he became an executive producer for serials.

While Pari was in Ruia College, she got better exposure of stage and performed in one of the plays for college. For the past few years she has been working as a dubbing artiste for two serials on Disney. To work as a dubbing artiste, you require special skills in voice modulation and Pari is expert in that. No wonder, she has successfully managed to work in Hindi serial like ‘Choo kar Mere Man Ko’ on DD, where she played an important character of Samiksha.

Today, she is seen on Marathi stage playing the role of Sheetal in the comedy play ‘Vasuchi Sasu’ and as Sub Inspector Disha Suryavanshi in popular Marathi serial ‘Lakshya’. Marathi Movie World met Pari, during the launch of new Marathi film ‘Yashwanti’ in which she has an important role to play. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: You are more popular as Sub Inspector Disha Suryavanshi. How do you react to a situation at a public place, if you notice a crime taking place?
A: Yes, I would certainly react spontaneously, to that situation; but, seeking support from others around. Today, all of us need to be vigilant about the happenings around us. Every citizen should be socially active in preventing any untoward happening at a public place.

Q: But, how did you get this role of Sub Inspector Disha, in ‘Lakshya‘?
A actually, my father was executive producer of this serial. One day, after the shooting, I had gone to pick up my father; when I met Aadesh Da and his wife Suchitraji. And, they mentioned to my father, to cast me in one of the forthcoming episodes. When I returned home, I told my father that if at all I was offered a role, it should be Police Inspector’s role. Later, when Shravani madam of Star Pravah, knew about my wish, she too recommended my name, since she had seen my performance as a child actress. By that time, ‘Lakshya‘ had already completed 80 episodes and were in the process of expanding the team. And, soon I found myself in the role of Sub.Inspector Disha.

Q: You have studied in Ruia College, the cultural hub of Mumbai. How do you feel about it?
A: yes, I am proud to be an ex student of Ruia College, which has been promoting cultural activities, in the best possible manner. No wonder, the college has received top ranking in India.

Q: Who were your batch mates from Marathi film industry ?
A: There are many people from entertainment industry, whom I know and have passed out from Ruia College. During my time, there were people like ‘Duniyadari’ Music composer Sachin Pathak, Aakash Dabhade from Bollywood and Spruha Joshi, who was my junior in college and had seen her perform for the college, during my time.

Q: Now, that you are into all the three fields of acting; how do you feel about it?
A: Since my childhood, I have been doing it and hence don’t really feel the difference. Actually, I started dubbing for TV channels since I was studying in 7th standard in school. Even now, besides working on my acting projects, I find time to do dubbing for two series of Disney channel.

Q: Looking at your popularity in ‘Lakshya’ TV serial, can we expect you to find more offers from Films?
A: I hope so. I have just received this offer in ‘Yashwanti’ and I am all excited to work in this film, as this will be the first Marathi film, with an animated character as part of the cast, on the lines of Hollywood films like ‘Jurassic park’ and ‘Life of a Pie’.

Interviews

Pooja Pawar Salunkhe makes a comeback to Marathi films

Aside 3 July, 2014 Shweta Khot

When she made her debut in Marathi films through ‘Sarjaa’ she was only 16 years old and then studying in New college , Kolhapur. Pooja Pawar was then very active through entertainment programmes in her college and had also been selected as the ‘welcome girl’ for the tableau presented by the NCC wing for Maharashtra state, at the Republic Day celebrations.

After the release of ‘Sarjaa’, it was a struggle for this newcomer; but then, she successfully found roles in films of well known film makers like Rajdutt, Dr. Jabbar Patel, Mahesh Kothare, Vikram Gokhale, Chandrakant Kulkarni, Kundan Shah and others. Those days, she had twenty plus block busters like – ‘Topi Var Topi’, ‘Chikat Nana’, ‘Ek Hota Vidushak’, ‘Vishvavinayak’ to name a few.
Now, Year 2014, seems to be her year of comeback after so many years. Very recently, her film ‘Headline’ was released. And now, her next film ‘Gondan’ is due for release in the first week of August 2014. Produced by Ashish keskar and directed by Vinika P. this film is a story of Mother and daughter and is set on the backdrop of a Lavani dancer. In this film, Pooja has plenty of scope to deliver variety through her role, as there is also a song picturised on her baithak lavani performance. Her daughter’s role in this film is played by Pooja Sawant.

MarathiMovieWorld met this talented actress, during the launch and announcement of new Marathi film ‘Yashwanti’, which will be the first film in Marathi on adventure, with an animated historic character, being part of the film. Pooja is playing an important role in this film. Excerpts from a short interview :

Q: You are making a comeback to Marathi films, after a long break. Isn’t it ?
A: Yes, I had taken a long break after my marriage. Then, it was time to look after my little daughters. Now, that they are grown up, I thought that it was the right time for me to resume my work. Luckily, I am finding suitable roles.

Q: How do you look at the change in Marathi film industry? I mean, the struggle of artistes in finding suitable roles?
A: Struggle was there that time and even now. After my first film ‘Sarjaa’, even I struggled to find roles. And, now while making a comeback, there is struggle once again. It is almost like starting a fresh innings.

Q: 25 years ago, you came from Kolhapur and now after so many years, we find another talented actress from Kolhapur – Usha Jadhav, winning national award for her performance in the film ‘Dhag’. How do you react ?
A: I feel proud that girls from Kolhapur are doing well in Marathi entertainment industry. Winning a national award is something special.

Q: Heard a lot about your role in forthcoming Marathi film ‘Gondan’. Could you please tell us something about it ?
A: ‘Gondan’ is a good story based film, which revolves around a mother and her daughter. In this film, my character has variety of shades, giving ample scope to acting. There is also a Lavani song picturised on me. Since my schooldays, I have taken training in Kathak under master Prakash Kulkarni, a well-known dance master in Kolhapur. I am glad that even now, I am finding suitable roles.

Interviews

“मला फिटनेसची आवड आहे” – देवदत्त नागे

15 June, 2014 Jitendra R More

‘जय मल्हार’ ह्या मालिकेतील मुख्य भूमिका साकारणारा, पिळदार शरीरयष्टी, भारदस्त आवाज आणि तितकाच दमदार अभिनय करणारा अभिनेता म्हणजे देवदत्त नागे. मुळचा अलिबाग, पेण चा. लहानपणापासूनच अभिनय आणि जिमची आवड असलेल्या देवदत्तने आपल्या करिअरच्या सुरवातीच्या काळात ‘फॅशन शोज’ मध्ये मोडेलिंग ने सुरवात केली. खरतर आपले पदवी शिक्षण पूर्ण करून जवळ पास १०-१२ वर्ष त्याने एका मोठ्या संस्थेत मोठ्या पदावर नोकरी केली. पण अभिनय, मोडेलिंगचे स्टेज त्याला सतत खुणावत होते आणि एक दिवस राजीनामा देऊन तो पूर्णवेळ ह्या क्षेत्राकडे वळला. ‘बाजीराव मस्तानी’, ‘कालाय तस्मै नमः’, ‘देवयानी’ , ‘लागी तुझसे लगन’, ‘वीर शिवाजी’, ‘महादेव’ अश्या विविध मालीकांबरोबर ‘पॉवर, ‘वन्स अपॉन अ टाइम’ आणि ‘संघर्ष’ ह्या चित्रपटांतून त्याने आपल्या अभिनयाची छाप पाडली.
सध्या गाजत असलेल्या ‘जय मल्हार’ ह्या मालिकेतील त्याच्या प्रमुख भूमिकेबद्दल आणि अभिनयाच्या प्रवासाबद्दल, मराठीमुव्हीवर्ड डॉट कॉमने त्याच्याशी मारलेल्या गप्पा.

तुझी अभिनयाची सुरुवात कशी झाली?
खरतर मी केमस्ट्री ग्रॅजुयेट आहे. सुरवातीला मी ‘फॅशन शोज’ मध्ये सहभागी व्हायचो, माझे गुरु ‘प्रसाद पंडित’ ह्यांनी मला एक दिवस सांगितले कि, फक्त ‘फॅशन शोज’ पर्यंत मर्यादित राहु नकोस, अभिनयाकडे वळ. ‘हिमालयाची सावली’ ह्या व्यावसायिक नाटकाद्वारे मी रंगभूमीवर पदार्पण केले. त्या नंतर ‘मृत्युंजय’ ह्या मराठी मालिकेतून मला छोट्या पडद्यावर काम करायची संधी मिळाली.

फिटनेस कसा सांभाळतोस?
फिटनेस च्या बाबतीत मला अस वाटत की, ते संस्कार – वातावरण घरातच असाव लागत. मी एक-पाऊण तास नियमित व्यायाम आवडीने करतो. चांगली शरीरयष्टी हे परमेश्वराने दिलेली एक देण आहे. त्याची काळजी आपण घेतलीच पाहिजे. वेळेवर जेवण, पुरेसा आराम आणि व्यायामाची वेळ मी पाळतो. रात्री मला कितीही उशीर झाला तरी मी वर्क आउट करायला विसरत नाही.

अभिनयाव्यतिरिक काय आवडते?
अभिनयाबरोबर मी विविध छंद जोपासलेत. मला बॉडी बिल्डिंग/फिटनेस ची आवड आहे. मी गिटार उत्कृष्ट वाजवतो. मला स्केचिंग करायला आवडते शिवाय ट्रेकिंगला जायला खूप आवडत.

तू अलीकडे ‘संघर्ष’ ह्या चित्रपटात दिसलास. मोठ्या पडद्यावरचा अनुभव कसा होता, अजून कुठल्या चित्रपटात आम्हाला दिसणार आहेस ?
खरतर अनेक सिनेमांसाठी मला बोलावले जातंय पण, सध्यातरी मी जय मल्हार मध्ये पूर्णपणे व्यस्त आहे. मराठी चित्रपटात काम करण्याचा अनुभव खुप छान होता. अतिशय लॅविश आणि हिंदी किंवा इंग्रजी सिनेमाच्या तोडीचा चित्रपट बनवण्याचा प्रयत्न ‘संघर्ष’च्या माध्यमातून केला गेला. विशेष करून त्यातील अॅक्शन सिक्वेन्सस आम्ही खूप मेहेनत घेऊन शूट केलेत.

पौराणिक, ऐतिहासिक भूमिका करायला जास्त आवडते का?
अगदीच तसं काहीनाही, मला प्रत्येक प्रकारची, विविध पैलू असलेल्या भूमिका साकारायला आवडेल. माझ्या शरीरयष्टीमुळे आत्तापर्यंत पौराणिक आणि ऐतिहासिकच भूमिका जास्त मिळाल्यात आणि प्रेक्षकांना त्या आवडल्या देखील.

‘जय मल्हार’ मधील मल्हारी मार्तंड / खंडोरायाची भूमिका साकारण्याचा अनुभव.
मी ‘झी मराठी’ आणि महेश कोठारेजी ह्याचे धन्यवाद मानेन कि, त्यांनी मला हि संधी दिली. ह्या भूमिकेसाठी मी वय्यक्तिक खूप मेहनत घेतली, मल्हारी मार्तंड / खंडेराय ह्यांच्यावर आधारित काही पुस्तके वाचून, भूमिका निट समजून घेतली. कारण, संपूर्ण महाराष्ट्राचे दैवत असलेले -खंडोरायाची भूमिका साकारून, सर्व प्रेक्षेकांचा विश्वासास पात्र उतरण्याची खूप मोठी जबाबदारी माझ्यावर होती. हि भूमिका साकारतांना स्वतःला चांगले अनुभव आलेत.

‘जय मल्हार’ सारख्या मोठ्या मालिकेतून मुख्य भूमिका साकारल्यावर आता सिनेमा ,मालिकांची निवड काटेकोरपणे करणार का ? आता कॅरेक्टर रोल करणार कि नाही?
असे काही ठरवले नाहीये आणि एखादा कॅरेक्टर रोल केल्याचा एक फायदा असा होतो कि, तुम्हाला वेगवेगळ्या भूमिका साकारायला मिळतात. त्यामुळे आव्हानात्मक काही असले तर नक्कीच करायला आवडेल.

‘अभिनय’ क्षेत्रात येऊ पाहणाऱ्या नवीन मुलांना काय सांगशील ?
मेहनत करा ,क्षणिक यशाची अपेक्षा ठेऊ नका. जे काम मिळेल ते प्रामाणिकपणे करा. आपल्या इंडस्ट्रीमध्ये स्पून फीडिंग हा प्रकार नाही. इथ तुम्हाला स्वतःला सिद्ध कराव लागत. तुमच्या कामाचा तुम्हाला विश्वास हवा

Interviews

“My struggle as an actress is still on..” – Shweta Pagar

Aside 8 June, 2014 Ullhas Shirke

MarathiMovieWorld had adjudged her as the best fresh face of the year 2012 and was conferred with the award, for her noteworthy performance in her debut film ‘Shree Partner’ which was based on Va Pu Kale’s story. Shweta Pagar, who studied acting in Anupam Kher’s Acting Academy, is actually from Pune. She is at present doing three films; one of which is a multi starrer film ‘Charlie’ made by ‘Shree Partner’ director Sameer Surve and the other being that of his assistant turned director Santosh Mainkar.
Not many are aware that this Pune girl, who studied from St. Joseph’s school and Apte College, initially wanted to pursue her Engineering; but, later decided to study Arts and subsequently worked for an NGO, on an environment project in the city of Pune. When you talk to her on this subject, Shweta has many suggestions for the Pune and Mumbai Municipal corporations, for creating awareness about separating plastic from the waste, before disposal at the dumping grounds. She becomes very serious about this issue; and speaks through her heart. MMW spoke to Shweta, during the get together arranged by MMW – MarathiMovieworld, for the award winners of 2012, recently in Mumbai. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: Tell us, how you actually got into acting field ?
A: Actually, during my Jr. College days, I had done a theatre workshop in acting. And then, totally forgot about acting, as I took admission for engineering studies. Later, I left Engineering and joined Arts and after completing my studies, I did an Environmental Waste Management Course. Thereafter, seriously worked for an NGO in Pune – The National Society For Clean Cities, an Umbrella body for Mohalla Committees in Pune. I was so actively involved in this project that I even organised a protest march of young college students from Shanivarwada to Municipal Corporation office, to invite the attention of the local body on their process to dispose the waste at Urali Devaji, without segregating the waste. All that I felt that it was improper and the authorities were even exploiting the poor farmers, by grabbing their lands there and not providing them proper compensation. This inspired me to stage a play on this issue, which was finally staged at Balgandharva. And, looking at the response from audience, I decided to switch over to acting and joined Anupam Kher’s academy in Mumbai, for acting course.

Q: And, how was the struggle thereafter?
A: My struggle as an actress is still on. But, after finishing my acting course, I started trying for auditions. However, did not receive positive response. I even gave the auditions for ‘Maharashtrache Superstar’ programme and reached up to second round. Not very happy with the selection process, I returned home and told my mother that I would like to return to my job related with environment. One day, I saw an advertisement in newspaper, wherein the makers of ‘Shree Partner’ had called for an Open audition for Mumbai and Pune. My Mother, who always supported me and knew my abilities, suggested me that it was a good chance. So, I gave my audition and got selected for the female lead in this film.

Q: After ‘Shree Partner’, what’s next?
A: After ‘Shree Partner’ I signed a multi starrer film ‘Charlie’, made by the same director Sameer Surve , which is now through its first schedule. This is a very ambitious project by the makers, as it is the first Zombie type of film, starring Bharat Jadhav, Neha Pendse, Vijay Chavan and Tinu Anand, who is making his debut in Marathi, through this film. This film has technical support coming from many Bollywood experts like Vidyadhar Bhatte in make up, Madhusudan Shree in camera and so on. It’s a pleasure to work in this project. Then, there is a film ‘Laadki’ where I am playing lead. In this film Ashok Saraf plays my father and it is a comedy film. The third film I am presently shooting for, is Santosh Mainkar’s film ‘Prem at first sight’. Santosh selected me, as he was assisting Sameer Sir, for his projects ‘Shree Partner’ and ‘Charlie’.

Q: What was the reaction of your parents, when you signed your first film?
A. A My mother was very happy. Initially, my father was slightly reluctant, about my joining films; but, when he saw my performance, he was convinced. Actually, his uncle Mr. Yashwant Pagar was associated with Marathi stage and my uncle Sagar Pagar had also shown a lot of interest in post production work of films. Actually, there is good communication between me and my parents. I would say that my parents are my best friends.

Q: With so much of knowledge about environment management, would you like to be associated with such a project, in near future?
A: Oh, yes. Surely, If I get a chance, I would really want to do a film on my favourite subject, to create awareness about its importance in day to day life.

Interviews

Interview of Ajinkya Deo

31 May, 2014 Ullhas Shirke

Years ago, the superhit marathi movie ‘Sarja’ marked the rise of a star. Ajinkya Deo, the tall dark and handsome youth captured the audience with his acting skills and looks. Later on he tasted success with hits like ‘Maaherachi Sadi’, ‘Sarakaarnama’. Though his stint with Hindi movie industry was not much successful, marathi movie goers have not forgotten him yet.

After a long period of absence, Ajinkya is back with his home production ‘Vasudev Balwant Phadake’. MMW gets up and close with Ajinkya.
After staying away from the movie industry for so long, what prompted you to do this film?
This movie is my Father’s dream which he has been cherishing for the past 9 years. It took so long because there was not much information available on Vasudev Balvant Phadke. It seems that the name has faded into oblivion. It was really saddening to find so less about this foremost warrior in the annals of freedom fight.
`My father was sad to see the deeds of Vasudev Balvant Phadake going unnoticed in the histroy. He really felt that the freedom fighter should get his due. Being from the movie industry, he felt that there could not be a better way than making a movie. This movie is not produced with intentions of making money, this is to pass on the legend of Vasudev Balvant Phadake to everyone.
So what are your experiences about producing the movie?
When we deicide to produce the movie, there was hardly any inforamtion avaialble. we got much information from the court proceedings of case against vasudev balvant phadke. besides, the director Gajendra Ahire has done his MA in history, so that helped a lot.
This is the first marathi movie shot in Rajsthan. We had to work in the early morning to avoid the intense heat. The entire team got full supporters and the whole experience was amazing.

Any special preparations for the role of Vasude Balvant Phadake.
I am director’s actor. I have tried to convey whatever I have learned about the character. I have tried to gather as much information as possible. I think that it’s important to identify with the character that you are going to play. And I have done just that. Gajendra was a lot help. He made me forget myself and think as Vasudev Phadke. We have also taken lots of efforts on my look.

VasudevBalwantPhadake
Comedy movies are in today well and yet you are venturing with an Historical epic. Moreover, there is no audience for marathi movies today. What do you have to say about that?
It’s true that there is not much audience for marathi movies these days. The poor production values are to be blamed for that. There is hardly any thought given to the publicity of the movie. Most of the producers finish the movie and release it without any publicity whatsoever. How do you expect the audience to watch a movie if they never know when a movie is released. I think that all the producers should think about the presentation and publicity and try to attract as much viewers as possible.

The people want something new and its our duty to fulfill their expectations. We should learn from the hindi movie industry about promoting a movie.

Will you compare Vasudev Balvant Phadke with ‘The Rising’?
The rising was a Hindi movie. There have been movies like it in hindi film industry before. But ‘Vasudev Balvant Phadake’ is the first historical movie of such a grand scale in marathi. Maharashtra government and Pune Municipality have been very helpful to us during the making of this movie.Entire team has worked hard to realise this dream. We hope the audience appreciates our attempt at bringing the legend to the screen.

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