Category Archives: Interviews

Atul Kulkarni
Interviews

Atul Kulkarni – a disciplined actor

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He does not have any bad habits like smoking or drinking. He is very regular in maintaining his daily exercise schedule and eating habits at the appropriate time. An early lunch and early dinner, with a good sound sleep; has kept him going in today’s changing lifestyle. We have never seen him sitting idle. If he is all alone at public places like promotional events of his film or while attending press shows, you will find him either talking to someone, on his cell phone or reading or replying text messages.

Atul Kulkarni, Actor, PictureMarathi Movie world met this disciplined actor on two occasions during the past month. First, it was during the music release of his recently released film ‘Popat’ and later during the press show of the same film at famous studious. On both the occasions, he was occupied with discussions with the scribes, talking about this film. Indeed, Atul has given his best through this film, playing a typical fun loving videographer from a village. Knowing the strength of the role, he has tried to bring in that sudden change of his behaviour, after he realises that the character he plays in the video film, is very close to his real life character.

Otherwise, very selective about the roles offered to him, Atul having agreed to play the role of ‘happy go lucky’ – Janardan in ‘Popat'; itself indicated that the film was offering something different. When we asked him to comment on this, he openly admitted that the script of this film had appealed to him. One does not know the commercial success of this film; but, Atul certainly became part of the timely message on ‘social awareness’ delivered by the film maker through this film, in national interest . And, Atul seemed to be happy about it.

When asked about his other ongoing assignments, he frankly stated that he had no other assignments in hand, besides the TV show ‘Savdhaan Mumbai’ which was being aired on Life OK channel every Saturday and Sunday at 8 pm. “This show began from 10th August and I am doing 16 episodes as a narrator of this Police investigative serial based on crime detection. I really enjoyed, being part of this programme.” he said.

Having already performed opposite bigwigs like Amitabh Bachchan in ‘Khaki’, Kamal Hasan in ‘Hey Ram’, Tabu in ‘Chandani Bar’ , Aamir khan in ‘Rang De Basanti’ ; he has already bagged the National Awards for the best supporting actor for the films ‘Hey Ram’ and ‘Chandni Bar’, which itself speaks about his ability to deliver his best through any given role, which of course is of his choice. The length of the role doesn’t seem to matter to him much. This has become clear, through his role in ‘Khaki'; that too in presence of well known artistes like Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Tanuja, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and others around.

Atul’s next Bollywood film ‘Zanjeer’, is all set to release soon. In this film, he plays the character of Jaydev. This being the debut film of South star Ram Charan, (son of Telugu superstar Chhiranjeevi), opposite popular Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra, has raised lot of expectations. Atul has already been part of more than dozen of south films. To him, language of the film does not matter. It’s all in the body language and spontaneity, at any given situation. And, he is good at that.

Kiran Mane
Interviews

Kiran Mane – an actor with abundant talent

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Kiran ManeIt does not matter how slowly you progress in your journey to achieve success; it is very necessary that you do not stop. For the past fifteen years, a young man from Satara has been sincerely doing his journey in acting field; no matter whatever little success he has had to his credit. The show is going on with the same enthusiasm and spirit that was noticed in him 15 years ago. One really wonders, as to why this young talented actor could not find the right kind of lead roles in Marathi television serials and films.

Kiran Mane began his journey as an actor with experimental theatre, but wasn’t sure about his success. From his native town Satara he came to Mumbai, via Pune ,where he took a stop to join Pandit Satya Dubey’s workshop. In his batch of 80 participants, he made his own identity. Needless to say that all good things happened to him during this workshop in the year 2002 and since then he has managed to display his talent in all the three areas of acting i.e. stage, television and films.

Actually, Kiran began on stage with ‘Gandhi Virrudh Gandhi’, ‘Manomilan’, ‘Wada Chirebandi‘ and today his portrayal of Abhiram kalyankar in the new play ‘Tee Geli Tevha’ really makes audience think about the enormous potential that he possesses, as an actor. Incidentally, the script of this play is written by Kiran himself along with Rajeev Muley and the play is directed by him. It’s a tailor made script for Kiran to exhibit all his skills as an actor, as it is lifetime role for him to display the frustrations of a failed actor, who leaves Mumbai city only to divert his attention to some other field. But, the actor hidden within him, is seen through the gimmicks played by him to make blank calls to people, who display their advertisements in classified columns of news papers.

In this role, Kiran finds ample scope to change his voice, while speaking to the same person at different times. But, when he confesses his trick to the receiver; he combines the voices of different persons at one stretch. And, that speaks about his versatility as an actor. His variety is simply outstanding in this play. Kiran receives a good support in this play, from another talented actress Yogini Chouk. The play is presented by Lata Narvekar and is a worth watch for those who appreciate performances.

It may be recalled that in the past Kiran bagged Ma. Ta Sanman for best actor for his performance in the sensational Marathi play ‘Govind Ghya Kuni Gopal Ghya’, which was based on kidnapping of newborn babies from Government hospital. Kitan had played the character of Vithoba, son of a vegetable vendor played by Smita Talwalkar in this play. Later, Kiran also won the Sanskriti Kaladarpan award for best actor in supporting role for the play ‘Maayleki’. Actually, he had only two scenes in this play; but those were enough to judge his capacity as an actor. Kiran also played a professor and husband of Vandana Gupte in popular Marathi play ‘Shree Tashi Sou’.

Being a Gold Medalist at the state level drama competitions, Kiran has also bagged the fellowship of Maharashtra Government for being the Best Theatre talent.Unfortunately for him, very few filmmakers and TV serial producers took note of his ability. But, wherever, he got a chance, he proved his mettle. On the small screen we noticed his skills in ‘Pimple Paan’ and ‘Ujed Phool La’, while on Big screen he made his presence felt in Hindi through Praksah Jha’s Hindi film ‘Apharan’, and in Marathi through Gajendra Ahire’s ‘Pandhar’ and Hemant Apte’s ‘Majhi Mansa’ besides ‘Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar’, ‘Swarajya Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’ and latest released film ‘Shrimant Damodarpant’.

A real diamond keeps shining, no matter where it lies. For Kiran, the celebrity status does not matter. He is more eager to play challenging roles, where his talent is exploited to the maximum. And, his stage performances has kept him going. His latest play ‘Tee Geli Tevha’is the best example. After all , he is an actor with abundant talent.

Interviews

‘I want people to remember me for my performance’ – Milind Shinde

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With his portrayal of whimsical but dangerous Dada Holkar in Zee Marathi’s ongoing serial ‘Tu Tithe Mee’, Milind Shinde has invited all the attention with his humour filled dialogue delivery which is mixed with broken English. Milind is not new to acting field; but this character of Dada Holkar has certainly brought him recognition as an actor. Marathi Movie world spoke to him, to know more about his acting career. Excerpts from an interview:
Milind Shinde  Q: How did you enter this profession ?
A: It was sometime in 1998-99. After returning from NSD, I was thinking as to what I should exactly do. At that time I was thinking that with my looks, I would be offered the roles of Postman, tea vendor or a Panwallah. So, I went back to Nagar and started directing the stage plays for banks and MSEB in their competitions and earned for my living. Finally, I wanted to go to Mumbai. Two MLA’s from my village, namely Raju Vanjhale and Balasaheb Thorat invited me to Mumbai and offered accommodation. But, while I was in Nagar, my father who was then posted as Government Officer in Beed received a Phone call from Mr. Girish karnad from Bangalore, requesting him to convey a message to me to contact him. Those days, there were no mobiles; but pagers were in operation. So, my father sent a message. When I contracted Mr. Girish karnad, he asked me to come over to Bangalore. He offered me a role in a Hindi serial he was making and also in a Kannada film. It was with this money, I purchased a 2BHK flat in Pune.

Q: So, your acting career began with Kannada film. But, when you started in Marathi ?
A: After completing Mr. Karnad’s assignments, I came to Pune and did a One year course from FTII. But, then after completing that course, once again the same issue troubled me. i.e. What type of roles I should do ? I was in a dilemma, when I received a call from Amruta Subhash.She was then working in Waman kendre’s drama ‘Phulrani’ and hence asked me, whether I would perform the role of her father in the play. She knew that I would do that role with the kind of voice, which needed a singer artiste. Mr. Gajendra Ahire watched this play and assured me that he would offer a suitable role to me in his film. He did keep his promise and that film was ‘Not Only Ms. Raut’ which won me awards for Best Supporting and Best debut actor. Since then, my journey in this field is going on smoothly. I am grateful to all these people whom I met at the right time. I always tell amruta that it was because of her, i came to Mumbai. With Gajendra Ahire Ii have done 12-15 films.

Q: Your first project was with Girish karnad. What was your experience with him.
A: Some people are born great. Mr. Girish Karnad is one of them. I had read the translated biography of Mr. Karnad ‘Khelta khelta Aayushya’ done by Uma Kulkarni.and, when I actually met him,I found him exactly like that. He speaks fluent Marathi.

Q: Tell us something about your roles in Marathi TV serials and Films.
A: I have done about 20-22 serials. Prominent among them are ‘Vadalvaat’,’Agnihotra’ and the ongoing ‘TuTithe Mee’. There were films like ‘Baboo band Bajaa’, Jaoo Tithe Khau’, ‘Natarang’ ‘Paradh’ and ‘Bayo’. Now, to say something about my experience with films, it takes about 6-8 months to be involved in one film project, including post production. Considering, my original place Beed,the feedback I get from that place is that many of these films never even get released there. Whereas, through television serials I reach at every house in Maharashtra.

Q: What you have to say about your character of Dada Holkar in ‘TuTithe Mee’ ?
A: The character of Dada Holkar portrayed by me is not my own self, but my writer Chinmay Mandlekar speaks through that role. Actually, my director has given me full freedom to perform and that has put me at ease.

Q:Where do you see yourself in years to come?
A: I am working hard to present the best I can, so that the young members in my family should say proudly that this film was done by my uncle or dad. The next generation should say that I want to do the kind of roles that Milind Shinde played. I want people to remember me for my performance. I am paying more attention on quality than quantity. Actually, I am also producing two films ‘Dombari’ and ‘Veda Prem’; so that I will be able to reach out to the audience, with what exactly I have to convey to them.

Interviews

Kunal Limaye – An actor with tremendous potential

Kunal Limaye, Actor

‘Better to be low profile in this world and work hard to a find the right opportunity’, seems to be the policy of young talented actor kunal Limaye. He is a full time actor for the past few years, having totally devoted himself to this profession. Since his childhood, Kunal has been associated with acting, having performed and even presented plays during Ganpati festival in this colony.

Kunal Limaye, ActorReceiving the guidance and motivation from his father Pramod Limaye, a former theatre enthusiast, kunal joined professional theatre with Mohan Wagh’s ‘Chandrakekha’ group and performed many plays for five years including ‘Garudjhep’ where he played Shivaji Maharaj in the company of versatile actor late Prabhakar Panshikar, who had made his comeback to theatre after many years.

After the sad demise of Mohan Wagh, in the recent past, kunal received a big jolt to his acting career, as it was Mr. Wagh, who knew very well, his potential as an actor. Some of the other plays Kunal has performed in are ‘Kenvhatari Pahate’, ‘Goshta Janmantarichi’, Chiranjeev Aais’,’Ghar Anna Despandencha’ and ‘Chehra Mohara’. Kunal has also performed in Video drama DVD’s of the plays ‘Mi Nathuram Godse Boltoy’ and ‘Guntata Hriday Hey’.

Kunal’s TV serial debut was with ‘Disha’, opposite Vikram Gokhale, followed by ‘Char Divas Sasuche’, ‘Saavdhaan Shubhmangal’ and ‘Kripasindhu’, where he had a long stint of 100 episodes, playing Cholappa, a disciple of Swami Samarth. Kunal was also seen in a special appearance in ongoing film ‘Mala Sasu Havi’ where he played one of the visiting cousins of Ratnaparakhi brothers. When not busy with shooting, Kunal spends time reading and improvising more on his acting skills. He does get offers for anchoring shows.But, he is selective about them.

Kunal has also made his film debut with ‘Uttarayan’ ,where he had an opportunity to work with versatile artistes like Shivaji Satam and Neena kulkarni. Then he also performed in ‘Bharat Aala Parat’. Having performed on stage and television, Kunal is certainly looking forward to perform in Marathi films, which are coming up with a variety of scripts now days. But, will the Marathi film producers find a suitable role for this talented actor ? It remains to be seen.

Sonali Kulkarni, Actress
Interviews

Sonali Kulkarni – Simply passionate about acting & writing

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Her passion for acting, has kept her going. In spite of her marriage to Nachiket Pantavaidya MD of Fox TV Studios in 2010; and turning a mother in real life in 2011, has not kept her away from acting field. In fact, while she was carrying, Sonali performed in National award winning Marathi film ‘Deool’. As an actress, Sonali has gone through all the three mediums of acting; i.e. Stage, television and films. She has been comfortable with both Hindi and Marathi and successfully managed to work simultaneously in both the industries.

Sonali Kulkarni, ActressOnly few weeks ago her Marathi film ‘Kokanastha’ was released, which was a remake of 2005 Hindi film ‘Viruddh’. Two years ago, we found her winning few awards for her performance in the film ‘Deool’. Almost at the same time, we saw her in a prominent role of a widow, fighting for justice in super hit film ‘Singham’. Known for her memorable performances in films like ‘Mukta’ , ‘Dil Chahata Hai’, ‘Bride and Prejudice’, ‘Well Done Abba’, ‘Taxi No. 9211′ ‘Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar’, ‘Doghi’, ‘Dayara’, ‘Gandha’ and ‘Gabhricha Paus’; Sonali has bagged Filmfare Best Actress, Award (Marathi) for ‘Doghi’ and Star Screen Award (Marathi), Best Actress award for ‘Devrai’ She has also received National Film Award – Special Jury Award / Special Mention (Non-Feature Film), ‘Chaitra’.

Sonali has now returned to Marathi stage after a long gap, through ‘White Lily Aani Night Rider’, where she plays the lead role opposite Milind Phatak. This role was initially played by Rasika Joshi , whose untimely death had stalled the popular play. Having taken lessons of acting from late Pt,. Satyadev Dubey in Mumbai, Sonali had also acted in his English play ‘An actor dies..But…” Earlier, while in Pune, during her college days, she was associated with her own group ‘Samanvay’ along with her brother-Sandesh Kulkarni. And they presented many plays at Inter collegiate and other competitions. Sonali has performed in Makarand Deshpande’s play ‘Basant ka Teesra Yauvan’ and with Anurag kashyap in Hindi play ‘Sir Sir Sarla’.

But, with return to Marathi stage, Sonali Kulkarni has added a special flavour to this revived play, which is drawing full houses at present. The show at Prabodhankar Thackeray was full on Saturday 25th May, which speaks about her success as a stage actress. Unlike her screen presence, Sonali has attempted something different, through her body language, which invites all the attention during stage plays. Watch that sequence when both Sonali and Milind, not happy with each other, prefer silence and decide to communicate through written messages. Sonali has certainly generated spontaneous humour through her acting skills.

Besides her acting skills, Sonali is also passionate about writing. She was the guest editor for the Loksatta Weekly supplement – Viva, since it was launched in June 2005. She wrote a popular column ‘So Kul’ for them, till May 2007. Her articles, which were very popular amongst Maharashtrian women talked about a young, sensitive, successful woman’s perspective on Life. Her column was light hearted, sensitive and very meaningful.

Later, a book with the same name ‘So Kul’ was launched by Loksatta & Rajhans Prakashan ,which was a compilation of over 100 articles written by her. “So Kul, is a reflection of my attitude in life and also happens to be the abbreviation of my name!,” says Sonali.

Prajakta mali
Interviews

‘Suvasini’ enabled me to find role in ‘Kho Kho’

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Members of her family are either in Police department or in education field. But, Prajakta Mali opted for acting career. Her mother was very fond of dancing during her young days;but could not pursue her hobby. So, she admitted little Prajakta at Classical dance classes. Till the time, Prajakta reached 11th standard, she was through her ‘Arangetram’ and had completed Sangeet Visharad.Prajakta Mali

As a teenager, she started participating at national level competitions and soon entered TV reality show, to bag an award. Having performed earlier in children’s play, she had worked on her voice and dialogue delivery. So, when Prajakta decided to take up acting as her career, she received good support from her parents. Though her father is in Police department, he is a great admirer of arts.

Prajakta’s acting career began as a TV show anchor, for a programme ‘Good Morning Maharashtra’ on Zee Marathi. For almost two years, she presented this show and became a known face. But,it was her performance in ‘Suvasini’ serial that brought her into limelight. Prajakta did perform in few other serials like ‘Phiruni Punha Janmen Mee’( Mee Marathi) and ‘Bandh Reshmache’ ( Star Pravah).

Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actress on the eve of release of her debut film ‘Kho Kho’. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: Your film ‘Kho Kho’ is all set to release. How you got into this project ?
A: I consider myself lucky that I was selected to perform in this film. It’s all because of my performance in TV serial ‘Suvasini’. Mr. Kedar Shinde was searching for a girl, to play the character of Suman in this film. And I was told that he watched my performance in ‘Suvasini’ and was considering my name for this role. When I received a phone call from them and was told about the cast of the film and my selection for this role; I just couldn’t say no to this offer. It was a golden opportunity which had come to me.

Q: What you have to say about the film’s story and your role ?
A.: The film is based on Kedar Shinde’s own play ‘Lochya Jhala Re’ which was a hit. It is not so that I was selected in this film just to meet the requirement of a new face; but, there are good scenes to my share. In spite of a big star cast, there is something special for me, in the script. There is one full song picturised on myself and Bharat Jadhav. I am sure, people will like it. In the film, I am playing a girl called Suman. This name is very close to me, as my grandparents address me with this name. Therefore, this character played by me, is very close to my heart.

Q: Tell us about your experience while shooting for this film?
A.: It was a great experience. There was a lot to learn from all those around. The most important thing I learned, was about ‘timing’. All the artistes used to guide me to set my timing with them during a particular sequence; as most of them had worked with each other before. I quickly learned this technique of delivering the dialogue quickly. To say something about kedar Sir; he used to perform the scene himself for us, so that we understood the situation well. I really enjoyed every moment of this film.

Siddharth Jadhav
Interviews

Siddharth Jadhav climbing the ladder of success

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At 28, he has achieved a great amount of success in Marathi films today. But, the success hasn’t gone to his head. He is holding his feet firmly on the ground. Siddhu, as he is popularly known in Marathi movie industry, has won many well wishers in this industry in a very short time. His polite nature speaks for himself. Siddharth Jadhav’s latest released film ‘Huppa Huiya!’ has now brought him the much awaited fame as a solo hero. It’s not that he had not done solo hero film before; but then the script of ‘Bakula Namdev Ghotale’ wasn’t tailor made to suit his character. However, ‘Huppa Huiya!’ meets with all those requirements to make him swing , dance and perform action with the help of its fantasy filled script in that role of Hanmya. Happy days are here for Siddharth, whose next release is none other than his favourite director’s film ‘Lalbaug-Parel’.

Siddharth JadhavWatching Siddharth as a comedian in the past few films in the company of Bharat Jadhav, gave an indication that he would be typecast. But, that was not to happen; as many directors knew his potential as an actor. Mahesh Manjrekar is one such director, who has offered me roles which did not have any resemblance with the previous one. And, for ‘Huppa Huiya!’ writer Hemant and director Anil Surve thought that I perfectly fitted into that lead character. Indeed, I enjoyed every moment in this film.’ says Siddharth proudly. He was speaking to MMW , with his heart filled with happiness on the first day of release of ‘Huppa Huiya!’

Having been born and brought up in a middle class Maharashtrian family at Sewree, Mumbai, Siddharth did his schooling from Saraswati High School, Naigaon and later finished his graduation from Mumbai’s top class Ruparel College. It was here at this college, he developed interest in acting and performed in many one act plays. He first came into limelight through Devendra Pem’s play ‘Tumcha Mulga Karto kay?’ Since then, there has been no stopping for him. He was soon flooded with offers from films both in Hindi and Marathi and also from TV serials. He did play lead role in ‘Bakula Namdev Ghotale’ but, for Siddharth every role whether small or big;  was important for him.

“I look at every role with the same sincerity and try to give my best, as after all, it is the director who has shown confidence in me, by offering that particular role to me.” says Siddharth proudly, while praising all those directors, who signed him for their films. Not inspired by any particular actor to name with, Siddharth says that he only decided to become a good artiste first and worked very hard in that direction, giving his full time to this profession. Watching him in the plays ‘Jago Mohan Pyare’, ‘Lochya Jhala Re’ and having won many awards in different categories, clearly indicates that he can do a variety of roles in years to come.

Today, Marathi films are more script based offering diversity of subjects and that make actors like Siddharth happy. But, the passionate actor doesn’t seem to be interested in production or direction at this stage. “I am too small to think that big, at this stage.” he says with a smile. After watching his memorable performance in ‘Huppa Huiya!’ we are all keen to watch him in his forthcoming projects like Mahesh Manjrekar’s ‘Lalbaug Parel’, Kedar Shinde’s ‘Iraada Pakka’ and another much awaited film ‘Kshanbhar Vishranti’

Interviews

“I would like to earn a name like my father” – Ashutosh Patki

 

ashutosh-patki-interview-imageThere is nothing new in Marathi entertainment to carry forward the family tradition. Every artiste feels that his or her children should carry forward their name in this tinsel world. Best examples are Ajay Sarpotdar- Aditya Sarpotdar, Mahesh Kothare- Adinath kothare and Sachin Pilgaonkar- Shriya Pilgaonkar. And now, one more name adds to the list. Ashutosh Patki, son of renowned Music director Ashok Patki has entered acting field, in Marathi entertainment. The only change is that instead of music , he has preferred acting as his career.

Though Ashutosh has decided to make a career in acting, his wish is to open a restaurant in near future. At present, we are watching his debut serial ‘Mendichya Panavar’, in which he is playing lead role. Marathi Movie world spoke to this multi talented youngster, to find out as to why he chose this field. Excerpts from an interview:

MMW: Let us know something about your educational background.
A.P.: I studied upto 10th std in IES Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya and later did my Junior college from Ruparel College. Thereafter, I joined 3 Year Hotel management course, at Kohinoor College, since I was keen on opening my own restaurant.

MMW: But then, how you came into acting ?
A.P.: I was already interested in acting, during my college days. My mother suggested me to do some business. Therefore, I did Hotel Management course. It was my planning to open my restaurant in next 5- 6 years. But, after completing my Hotel management course, I decided to take up acting and joined Anupam Kher’s institute. It was only after that I became serious about acting as a career.

MMW: Now, tell us about your acting debut.
A.P.: When I finally decided to take up acting, I asked my father about the future course of action. He suggested me to do direction course. Accordingly, he spoke to Kedar Shinde, requesting him to take me as his assistant. For about one year I was with Kedar dada for his TV project ‘Madhu Ithe aani Chandra Tithe’ and also assisted him in his film project ‘ Shrimant damodar pant’ which is yet to release. It was only after that I switched over to acting. One day, Mr. Rakesh Sarang called up my father and inquired whether I was willing to act. He had seen my photos and was planning to start a new serial with a new face in the lead role. So, I was invited for audition and after passing the screen/ look test; my selection was made. It was within next 8-10 days, I had to report for shooting.

MMW: Do you have any other projects in hand ?
A.P.: I have done two films. One of them is B.R. Chopra productions’ Marathi film and the other is a multi starrer film ‘Akalpit’, where I play second lead. Actually, this is my debut film in Marathi; shooting of which is still going on.

MMW: Didn’t feel like entering music field?
A.P.: I love music. But, didn’t feel like doing a career in that field. Acting was already there in my mind. So, I opted for acting first. Now, I would like to earn a name here, like my father in this Marathi entertainment industry.

MMW: thanks Ashutosh, wish you all the best.
A.P. : thanks a lot.

by Chetana Gavakhadkar © MMW

Interviews

A creative legend, called Amol Palekar

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Not all the Marathi actors who received Bollywood offers, were successful. But, in 70s Amol Palekar invited all the attention. His popularity as an actor in Bollywood, still remains, which is clearly visible from the recently released Ajay Devgan-Abhishek Bachchan starrer film ‘Bol Bachchan’ , where his original hit film ‘Golmaal’ scenes were repeated. The credit obviously goes to Amol Palekar’s perfect timing for comedy, which is evident from his past films ‘Chotisi Baat’, ‘Golmaal’, ‘Baton Baton Mein’ and so on.

It did not matter to an actor within Amol Palekar, as to who was directing him. He was always at ease. Moreover, those great film makers like Basu Chatterjee and Hrishikesh Mukherjee very well knew his potential. So, natural was his performance. No wonder, he won the filmfare award for Best actor for ‘Golmaal’ in 1980, in presence of top actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Rajesh khanna, Vinod Khanna, Jitendra, Mithun Chakraborty around.

Being student of Fine Arts at the Sir JJ School of Arts, Mumbai, creativity had set in his mind. Though, he commenced his artistic career as a painter; it was in late sixties, he became active in Marathi and Hindi theatre; as an actor, director and producer. Later, as an actor, he achieved prominence for almost over a decade from 1970. His image of a common man on screen, posed challenge to all those larger-than-life heroes of that period in Indian cinema. In all, he received nine prestigious awards, as Best Actor.

Amol also went on to perform in regional language films in Marathi, Bengali, Malyalam and Kannada, which fetched him critical acclaim as well. After 1986, he had almost stopped acting, to focus on filmmaking. As a director, we have seen his ability through his sensitive portrayal of women, selection of memorable stories from Indian literature and insightful handling of social issues.

In the past, Amol was also involved in production of several television serials, especially on the national network; namely ‘Kachchi Dhoop’, ‘Mrignayani’, ‘Naquab’, ‘Paool Khuna’ and ‘Krishna Kali’, Having a background of experimental theatre with Pt. Satydev Dubey, it enabled him to start his own theatre group ‘Aniket’ sometime in 1972. By the time, he had already made his acting debut through Marathi film ‘Shantata! Court Chalu Aahe’ directed by Satyadev Dubey, which brought a new movement into Marathi cinema. .

‘Aakriet’ was the first Marathi film directed by him. Later, he displayed his creativity through an unusual Hindi film ‘ Paheli’ starring popular stars like Shahrukh Khan, Rani Mukherjee and Juhu Chawla. This movie was India’s official entry for Best Foreign language Film at the 2006 Oscars. This itself was an honour for Amol. Besides film making, Amol involved himself in social service, offering his voice to an HIV/AIDS education animated software tutorial, created by the non profit organization TeachAIDS.

After his divorce from first wife Chitra, Amol settled down in Pune and married writer Sandya Gokhale. Both of them together have offered quality films, beginning with ‘Paheli’, followed by Marathi film ‘Samantar’ starring Sharmila Tagore and now they have presented an entertaining Marathi film ‘We are On, Houn Jaoo Dya’. After watching this film, you realise the hard work put in by him, to offer this quality entertainer, using the backdrop of cricket; which is a popular sport in our country. Advancing Age does not matter to a creative film maker. Amol Palekar is the best example. Moreover, he has the moral support of equally creative writer and new life partner Sandhya Gokhale. And, their team work is really working well.
by Ulhas Shirke © MMW

Hansraj Jagtap
Interviews

Hansraj Jagtap – the talented teenager from Beed

Aside

Hansraj Jagtap13 year old Hansraj Jagtap, a student of Champavati Vidyalaya, Beed was picked up during the auditions from among hundreds of children for the most important role of Krishna, in the award winning film ‘Dhag‘ directed by Shivaji Lotan Patil. The film also stars Usha Jadhav, who has bagged national award for best actress. She plays the mother of Hansraj in this film; while Upendra Limaye plays his poor father, whose house runs on the earnings of the last rites at the only crematorium in the small village of Maharashtra.

Even before the official release of his film ‘Dhag‘, Hansraj has bagged the Best child actor award at the recent ‘Ma Ta Sanman awards'; besides the film bagging six awards in different categories, including best film. Hansraj came into limelight, when his name was specially mentioned by the Jury while announcing the National awards. His performance has already been acclaimed by critics, while the film was screened at three different festivals during the past few months. The official release of his film will take place during the month of may 2013. Marathi Movie World spoke to Hansraj to congratulate him on his achievements. And the talented actor did speak at length about his experience after winning the award.

“I had just returned from Mumbai, after receiving the Ma Ta Sanman for best child actor in the film ‘Dhag’. The celebrations at home and school were going on; when I received another good news. I was at the school writing my exams . and when I returned home, my mother served me sweet dish ( Sheera) while father came home from his office with a box of Sweets (Pedhas). On TV news channels, they were talking only about the film ‘Dhag’ and other achievers at the national level. Finding my name in the ‘Special mention’ announced by Jury; was itself a big honour for me.” he reacted.

What next? And, he quickly responds, stating that he had just finished his 9th standard exams and was preparing himself to proceed to Kolhapur and Solapur during vacation, for the shooting of a new Marathi film ‘Kartavya‘. Hansraj has just been signed for this film, based on his performance in ‘Dhag’. It may be mentioned that the entire story of ‘Dhag’ revolves around his character of Krishna, who doesn’t want to carry forward his traditional family work at the crematorium. But, circumstances force him to do that work, during teenage. Luckily for Hansraj, he could find such a strong role on his debut in films.

If ‘Dhag‘ finds its entry for Oscars, being a path breaking film, with universal theme; Hansraj will go a long way. When Hansraj was asked about this possibility, he just wished for the same. Last year , after completing the shooting of ‘Dhag’, Hansraj was back to his routine at his native town, attending school and playing his favourite game of cricket with his friends. But, for the past one month; he is seriously thinking about his acting career. Now, next academic year being most crucial for him; accepting new roles in films simultaneously, will be like walking a tightrope. But, Hansraj likes to take up challenges. With his outstanding performance in film ‘Dhag’, he certainly stands tall in the field of acting.

Finally, when asked about the best Marathi film he watched in the recent past, he mentioned about ‘Jogwa’. His favourite cricketer is Sachin Tendulkar. The day is not far, when Sachin will sit next to him to watch his film. “I am grateful to the makers of this film, the director, assistant directors and all the artistes, for their motivation during the shooting of this film.” he concludes.

Marathi Movie World extends best wishes to Hansraj and sincerely hopes that he and ‘Dhag‘ both get nominations for Oscars.