Ankush and Pooja – tallest pair in Marathi films
In Bollywood, we have seen tall actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Jackie Shroff, Shatrughan Sinha, Vinod Khanna, Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, Sunil Shetty , Akshay Kumar ; while among actresses , we saw Susmita Sen as the tallest female, followed by others like Zeenat Aman, Pooja Batra, Deepika Padukone, Sonali Bendre, Tabu & Shilpa Shetty. All others were in the 5 ‘ 4’’ to 5’7” range. No wonder, pairs like Amitabh-Zeenat, Sunil Shilpa, Sanjay –Pooja matched well , on the screen.
In Marathi, when we look at the past, we couldn’t notice any tallest pair, except for watching Ajinkya Deo, as the tallest actor. But, today, we find lead actors like Ankush Choudhary, Kashyap Parulekar and few others like Varad Chavan, who is playing lead role in ‘Dhangarwada'; making their presence felt, during parties and functions. In the recent past, when Kashyap and Manasi, lead pair of ‘Bugadi Majhi Saandali Ga’ appeared on dais, during the music release of their film, they really displayed striking looks.
Last week, we met Ankush Choudhary and Pooja Sawant together , as they posed for photographs; to promote their forthcoming Marathi film ‘Dagadi Chawl’. And, together they displayed an elegant look , clearly indicating that they were the tallest lead pair, in Marathi cinema today. With her blessed height of 5’8″, Pooja is certainly the tallest popular leading actress in Marathi cinema today. Earlier, Pooja had worked with Ankush in ‘Zhakaas‘, but, it was a multi-starrer film. Now, both of them are working together in this action filled love story and hence, their respective heights will also play an important role, in all the important sequences of the film.
By the way, following Pooja, is Manasi Moghe with her height of 5’7″ .We also understand that one more newcomer actress Atula Dugal , who is also very tall; but, she is yet to establish herself in the lead role. However , presently, this pair of Ankush Choudhary and Pooja Sawant is inviting all the attention.
Saurabh & Anuja are happy with their progress in films
Two years ago both Saurabh Gokhale and Anuja sathe were doing well in Marathi TV serials, when they tied their wedding knot. Saurabh had earned his name and fame through ‘Radha Hi bavari’, in the lead role; while Anuja had invited all the attention in the team of ‘Lagori’ and ‘Lagori Returns’. Now, both husband wife are progressing very well in films. Met them together recently at a music release function of forthcoming Marathi film ‘Shinma’, in which Saurabh is playing an important role along with veteran actor Ajinkya Deo.
Both of them seemed to be in a happy mood, as Saurabh spoke about his forthcoming Marathi film ‘Partu’, which is produced by an American based company. “This film has a very good story and is sure to invite the attention of all those who love to watch Marathi films with a good subject.” he said. Saurabh has already made his film debut with ‘Yodhha’, but , he has two more films in hand, besides ‘Shinma’, which is now due for release.
When we asked Anuja, his wife, seated next to him and also an excellent actress; about her progress, she said that she had done a Marathi film ‘Mr. & Mrs. Sadachari’, which is now due for release soon. But, she was more than happy to disclose that she was playing an important role of ‘Bhiubai’( Bajirao’s sister), in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s mega film ‘Bajirao Mastani’, shooting of which is going on, with first look now out. When asked about the other Marathi artistes in this mega film, besides herself and Vaibhav Tawawdi, she mentioned the names of Mahesh Manjrekar and Sukhada Khandkekar, who are also playing important roles.
Incidentally, Anuja has few film offers and she is seriously thinking over them. But, at present, she is busy with ‘Bajirao Mastani’. Anuja, the most popular star of TV serial ‘Lagori Returns’, had also done a film ‘Rakhandaar’ in the lead role. Now, with Bhiubai’s role, she will get noticed in Bollywood. At the same time, her husband Saurabh is also doing well in Marathi films. We wish both of them a grand success.
Film makers trying to cash on the popularity of Ganesh Festival
There was a time, when during the 10 days of Ganesh festival celebrated at different mandals, we used to hear the melodious song on Lord Ganesha ‘Gajanana Shri Ganaraya …’ sung by Lata Mangeshkar . Then, slowly its place was taken over by the famous song ‘Deva Ho Davaa Ganapati Devaa..’ composed by Ram Laxman for the film ‘Humse Badhkar Koun’ in the year 1981. And, it remained popular almost for two decades. But, now days, you find all sorts of item songs played during the festival at different mandals at every street corner, with loud music.
Observing this change, many Marathi and Hindi film makers, try to promote the songs of their forthcoming films, during this period of Ganesh festival. Now, Ganesh Festival is just few days away and we find many Marathi film makers, trying to release the music of their films, so as to popularize them during the festival time. Film maker Arun kavade has released music CD of his forthcoming film ‘Shinma’ and he is confident that one of the songs, which is an item number pictured on Ganesh acharya and Gurleen Chopra, in the rocking voice of veteran Anand Shinde would be a hit, during the 10 day fest.
R.Viraj, who has released his film ‘Vaajlach Paahije!’ this Friday, also hopes that the item number from his film, picturised on Bhau Kadam, will be a hit, during this festival time. But, makers of forthcoming Marathi film ‘Biker’s Adda’ are more confident that their song on Ganesha ‘Aala Re Aala, Bappa Tu Aala’ will be a hit during the festival period, which begins from 17th September . All in all, we find that the attitude of the film makers is to cash on the popularity of Ganesh Festival
Kamal Nathani takes Marathi film to Europe with ‘One Way Ticket’
Kamal Nathani is a well known figure in Advertising, television, corporate films and feature films, with over 20 years of experience. On Wednesday afternoon, he launched his Marathi film ‘One Way Ticket’ which will be shot in Europe at places like Italy, France & Spain. So, this will perhaps be the first film to be shot on a big cruise, besides these three countries.
The film was officially launched in presence of entire team and media persons at Empire Studios, Andheri, with a teaser of the film, also shown, to give an idea of the theme of this film. Produced and directed by Kamal Nathani under the banner of KNC Productions & Mhalsa Entertainment of Suresh Pai , the teaser of this film, promises thrill and entertainment. The film stars Sachit Patil, Amruta Khanvilkar, Gashmir Mahajani, Neha Mahajan and TV star Shashank Ketkar, who is making his debut through this film .
During the launching ceremony, the makers of this film, recorded the first song of the film ‘Befiquir..’ sung by Apeksha Dandekar & Rohit Raut on the lyrics of Ashwini Shende & music of Gaurav Dagaonkar. The audio was played later, for the invitees. With this big launch, it gives an impression that ‘One Way Ticket’ is going to be a grand film; i.e. something never tried before, in Marathi cinema.
Is the popularity of Swapnil Joshi diminishing ?
Swapnil Joshi, the so called superstar of Marathi films, was in great form, when his film ‘Duniyadari’ became a hit, in the year 2013. This also helped , in the success of subsequent film ‘Mangalashtaka Once More’ released few months later, as he was riding on the success of his previous film. But, some critics felt that ‘Mangalashtaka Once More’ received good response, because there was Mukta Barve, talented Marathi actress, as his co star.
Later, Swapnil did sign two big films. One of them was Sanjay Jadhav’s ‘Pyarwali Love Story’ with Sai Tamhankar and the other was ‘Welcome Zindagi’ with Amruta Khanvilkar, another talented actress. But, ‘Pyarwali Love Story’ didn’t do well. And, ‘Welcome Zindagi’, which was released in June this year, was a flop. The only film which gave him respite , was ‘Mitwa’ , which was released on Valentine’s day, early this year. But, once again, the critics felt that success of ‘Mitwa’ was its mesmerizing music.
Swapnil then had lots of hopes from Sanjay Jadhav’s love story ‘Tu Hi Re’, which was released few days ago. But, once again, this film too did business, below expectation. And, this gave an impression, that the popularity of Superstar was diminishing. Swapnil himself, will have to find the reasons, as to why his last two films didn’t do well.
Even otherwise, he desperately needs one hit, before the end of the year, to remain in the race. At present, hero of Marathi films, is its story. And, therefore, success of Marathi films is totally dependent on good story, which would appeal the audience . Anyway, Swapnil’s next film will be ‘Mumbai Pune Mumbai-2′ , which is for Diwali release. There is one more film, he has signed with director Swapna Waghmare and then there will be another big banner film, for which the search for his actress, is going on through 9x Jhakaas reality show contest. Will ‘Mumbai Pune Mumbai-2′ prove lucky for him, to bounce back ? Let us wait till Diwali. But, till then, he will have to work very hard, on promoting his forthcoming film.
Bollywood actor Rahul Roy all praise for Marathi films
Known for his super hit film ‘Aashiqui’ on debut in 1990, Bollywood actor Rahul Roy has acted in about 28 films, during the past 25 years. Now days, he is noticed at the music launch functions of Marathi films. Few months ago, he was seen as a chief guest for the music launch of the film ‘Just Gammat’. Recently, we saw him once again, as chief guest for the music launch of forthcoming Marathi film ‘Mohor’, directed by Vijay Patkar.
Rahul’s presence at the ceremony, certainly gave way to the rumors about his possible debut in Marathi films. At present, many Bollywood personalities have been entering Marathi cinema. So, even if he performs in Marathi films, in near future, it will not be surprising. But, while speaking on the occasion, Rahul was all praise for Marathi films. ” Marathi films have excellent stories and good content. I myself watch selected Marathi films, with my friends.” he said.
Knowing about the genre of the film ‘Mohor’, he added, “Those who play comedy roles, are very serious people in their real lives. I have myself experienced this, while interacting with so many artistes.”
After releasing the music CD of the film, Rahul interacted with the artistes and crew of this film and offered his good wishes to them. ‘Mohar’ stars Sayaji Shinde, Prasad Oak, Aditi Sarangdhar , along with Vijay Kadam, Helmata Bane, and debutante child artistes Prajakta Jagtap and Chaitanya Ghadge.Music by Milind More and DOP Raj Phadtare are the other credits of the film.
Much awaited film ‘Khwada’ to finally release on 22nd October
It is not the first time that a national award winning film, has taken a long time to release in theatres. In the past, Marathi film ‘Dhhag’ won two national awards; but it took more than a year to release the film in theatres, that too in very limited screens. But, Bhaurao Karhade, who has made his debut as a director, through his film ‘Khwada’ and also won national award, has been lucky to find a presenter.
Chandrashekhar More, one of the leading art directors of Hindi film industry, has come forward to be presenter of ‘Khwada’. Now, this film will be released all over Maharashtra on 22nd October 2015. This was officially announced at a press conference held recently. While speaking on the occasion, Bhaurao Karhade thanked Mr. Chandrashekhar More and said that he made this film to provide wholesome entertainment to every member of a family. He also hoped that the audience would get a unique cinematic experience, while watching his film.
On this occasion, the entire team of ‘Khwada’ including lead actors Shashank Shende, Bhausaheb Shinde and Anil Nagarkar were also present. The other cast of the film comprises of Yogesh Dimble, Rasika Chavan, Vaishnavi Dhore, Chandrakant Dhumal, Prashant Ingle, Vaishali Kendale, Amol Thorat, Nana More, Hemant Kadam and Surekha. Cinematography of the film is done by Veerdhawal, editing has been handled by Rohan Patil, art direction by Sandeep Inamke, lyrics by Vinayak Pawar and the music is given by Rohit Nagbhide. Highlight of the film is the great sound designing done by Mahavir Sabanvar.
Anand Shinde returns with another catchy number in ‘Shinma’
Anand Shinde who enrolled his name in Limca & Guinness Book of World records, with his super hit song ‘Navin Popat ha, lagala Mithu mithu bolayla’, has recorded more than 10,000 songs , which also includes songs from 112 films, till recent past. Recently, we saw him in his new look, with a new hair style, during the music release of forthcoming Marathi film ‘Shinma’. And, when his catchy number ‘Tujhi Chimni Udali Bhurr’ was played on A.V.System, there was overwhelming response from the audience present on the occasion. The appreciation was not only for the performers Ganesh Acharya and Gurleen Chopra, but also the legendary singer, which became clear, when his name was announced, to come on the dais.
‘Shinma’ which is an entertaining film filled with a social message, is produced by Aanil Joshi under the banner of Vedaant Entertainment and is directed by Milind kavade. Later, the music CD of this film was officially released at the hands of renowned choreographer Ganesh Acharya, who is also part of the star cast of this film, as he has performed along with Gurleen Chopra, on this song played on the occasion. Many well known celebrities from Marathi film industry, who are also artistes in this film, were personally present, to grace the occasion.
There are five songs in the film, each sung in a different style, adhering to different moods. While Varun Likhate has composed four songs which are situation based, one has been composed by Rohan-Rohan. Anand Shinde has rendered his song along with Kavita Nikam. Jay Atre, Rahul Salve and Sagar Wankhede have penned the songs, while Deepali Sathe, Rohit Raut & Varun Likhte have also rendered other songs, on the music of Manish Rajgire & music composer duo Rohan-Rohan.
The film stars Ajinkya Deo, Kishori Shahane, Saurabh Gokhale, Sanskruti Balgude, Gurleen Chopra, Yatin Karyekar, Vijay Patkar, Ananda Karekar, Anshuman Vichare, Ganesh Yadav, , Arun Kadam, Abhijeet Chauhan, Digambar Naik, Ashish Pawar, Jaywant Wadkar, Nisha Parulekar and others. The story of this film is written by Milind Kavade, Ashok Jhagde and Prakash Bhagwat while Milind Kavade has himself written the screenplay. Sagar Wankhede and Deepak Thube have written the dialogues. Renowned DOP from the South Santonio Terezeo, has done the cinematography of this film
Actor Vijay Chavan (Viju Mama) Not Out!
Usually ‘Drags’ are not appreciated by sensible audiences. Almost everybody who played drag couldn’t resist temptation of below the belt humor but one actor who do not fall into this category is Vijay Chavan. When he donned a sari to play a female character of Mavshi (maternal aunt) in a Marathi play ‘Moruchi Mavshi’ he was appreciated and adored by the audiences and his appearance as Mavshi for around 3000 times proves it. After doing competitive theatre when he got an opportunity on professional theatre, first with ‘Tur Tur’ and then ‘Moruchi Mavshi’, there has been no looking back. But after so many years and 250 films he is still grounded. He did about 50 plays and each one of them crossed 100 shows and that’s no small feat. He has always stood out among many big names leaving his own stamp in movies or plays.
Vijay Chavan, fondly referred to as Vijumama by the industry people, was the first recipient of honour ‘Not Out’, an initiative to honor senior actors from Marathi entertainment industry while they still are active in the field, by Sailee Dream Ventures and Dream Shop Entertainment. The organizers Mangesh and Sudha Sawant and Bhushan Kadu whose brainchild is this idea, were unanimous on Vijumama’s name and when Vijay Chavan took stage in the garb of his trademark Mavshi costume, he received a standing ovation.
Incidentally Vijay Chavan has films like, ‘Zapatlela’, ‘Pachadlela’, ‘Zapatlela 2′, ‘Akleche Kande’, ‘Nana Mama’, ‘Misal Pav’, ‘Sangto Aika’, ‘Sasu cha Swayamvar’ to name a few. His son Varad started off the show with his crisp dancing in Ganesh Vandana and Natarang Naman. Pushkar Shrotri was his usual best in compering and some of his one-liners were intelligently tickling. Hemangi Kavi, Atul Todankar, Abhijit Chavan, Santosh Pawar, Kamalakar Satpute were part of the comedy skits while Pradeep Patwardhan and Kishore Ambiye staged a scene from Moruchi Mavshi with Vijumama himself. Deepali Sayyad, Pooja Sawant, Sanskruti Balgude enthralled the audience with their gyrating moves.
Plenty celebrities from the marathi film industry were present with best wishes for Vijay Chavan.
Vijay Chavan, a man of few words, thanked everybody for the good words and honor.
Ashish Wagh offers ‘Mr. & Mrs. Sadachari’
Ashish Wagh is a big name in Film Corporate Sector. As a leading distributor, he has distributed about 300 films. In association with Utpal Acharya, he has even produced a Bollywood film MMS. Now, he is producing and directing a Marathi film ‘Mr.& Mrs. Sadachari’, shooting of which is in progress at Kolhapur. Having already shot some parts of the film in Mauritius, the film will get ready for release on 4th December 2015.
The teaser of this film was released along with the film ‘Tu Hi Re’, thus generating curiosity among the film lovers. After the success of their film ‘Coffee Aani Barach Kahi’, Vaibhav Tatwawdi and Prarthana Behere are working together again, through this film. And, along with them are other popular artistes like Mohan Joshi, Uma Sardeshmukh, Sumukhi Pendse, Prasad Javade, Uday Nene, Vijay Andalkar and others.
Produced under the banner of Indian Film Studios , the cinematography of this film is by Balaji Rangha, art direction is by Mahesh Salgaonkar, while music is provided by Pankaj Padghan & V.Harikrishnan.