Big B’s ‘Vihir’ for S.korea and London
A.B. Corp’s new Marathi film’Vihir’ marks an entry of superstar Amitabh Bachchan as a Producer of a Marathi film. Till now, Marathi films have been screened at various international festivals and have received appreciation worldwide. Now, A.B.’s ‘Vihir’ besides participating in two forthcoming international film festivals, will also have its world premiere at Pussan, South Africa on 9th October 2009.
Incidentally, ‘Vihir’ has received an invitation for participation in the international film festival in South Africa and later also at the London film festival to be held between October 15-28, 2009. Directed by Umesh Kulkarni ( ‘Valu‘ fame) with the screenplay by Girish Kulkarni and Sati Bhave, the film’s star-cast comprises ofGirish Kulkarni, Mohan Deodhar, Aloke Rajwade, Renuka Daftardar, Dr. Mohan Agashe, Jyoti Subhash, Sulbha Deshpande and Ashwini Giri.
‘Vihir’ has a very strong plot based on the lives of two brothers, that begins with an event which takes place at a very crucial stage in their life. Talking about the making of ‘Vihir’, Director Umesh Kulkarni says, “I never think seriously about class and masses, while making a film. Whatever I feel is right, I try to place it before the audience. This film will be different from ‘Valu‘, as it deals with a serious topic that raises the issue of human survival”. With the film’s release almost coinciding with Big B’s birthday, ‘Vihir’ is all set to offer him a biggest gift in the form of appreciation.
‘Harischandrachi Factory’ is India’s entry for Oscars
The Marathi Film industry wouldn’t ask for a better news than this one. Within just 5 years time, a second Marathi film ‘Harischandrachi Factory’ has been selected as India’s entry for Oscars in the foreign language film category. It first started with ‘Shwaas’ only few years ago and everybody thought that there weren’t many good films in competition during that particular year for ‘Shwaas’; but with the selection of ‘Harischandrachi factory‘, it has become clear that Marathi film industry has come of age. In the recent past we have not only seen many marathi films with new ideas and stories to change the taste of traditional audience but also to catch the attention of international film media.
Indeed, with the making of ‘Harischandrachi Factory‘ writer- director Paresh Moksahi has not only paid tributes to the pioneer of Indian cinema late Dadasaheb Phalke, but has also shown a new direction to the film lovers in the name of creativity. Perhaps, he knew well, what was the requirement of world cinema when it comes to universal appeal. There cannot be a better script than highlighting the character of the most dynamic and adventurous person who strived to win the audience for such a medium of cinema, during the period 1911-1913) , when Indians were scared to even face the camera.
It is always said that though youfind your entry into Oscars, it is very difficult to win the hearts of the Jury over there. But, with the help of people like Sandeep Sawant, Ashutosh Gowarikar and Aamir Khan, nothing is impossible for Paresh Mokashi to campaign for his film from the next month, when he visits US. 40 year old Paresh Mokashi seems to be confident of sailing through all the hurdles of promotion , as it is the quality and hard work that always pays rich dividends. But, till then let us all wish him all the best for the success of his film. It will be a Golden moment for Marathi film industry, if ‘Harischandrachi Factory’ returns home with Oscars. It will be a biggest tribute to late Dadasaheb Phalke.
‘Maharashtracha Favorite Kon?’
Zee Talkies, only Marathi movie channel started ‘Lux Maharashtracha Favorite Kon?’ – a viewer’s choice film award is a concept that seeks to further increase popularity and interactivity between the Marathi Film industry & the viewers, who get to votes their favorite films, actors, actresses, characters, directors etc.
‘Lux Maharashtracha Favorite Kon?’ , the first and a magnificent Popular Awards on the year of 2008 for the Marathi Film Industry and viewers as well. It is not only felicitating popular & creative Marathi Film industry but also to reward loyal viewers of Marathi Films.
‘Lux Maharashtracha Favorite Kon?’ , a mega star studded event, after the whole voting process is over, had been held in Hotel Hyatt Regency, Mumbai on Saturday, September 12, 2009 and will be televised on Zee Talkies on Saturday, 19th Sept, 2009 @ 7pm. This event had spectacular performances by Sachin Pilgaonkar, Ankush Choudhari, Sonali Kulkarni, Amruta Subhash, Aditi Sarangdhar , Priya Bapat, Jitendra Joshi and Siddharth Jadhav. Show had anchored by Mahesh Manjarekar and hillarious skits performed by Makarand Anaspure and Vaibhav Mangale. The script was written by Sachin Mote and Ashish Pathre and programe was directed byMahendra Kadam.
The big names like Amol Gupte, Makarand Deshpande, Sonali Kulkarni, Renuka Shahane, Nagesh Bhonsale, Supriya Pilgaonkar, Pallavi Joshi, Mrinal Kulkarni, Ashok Saraf, Nivedita, Ajinkya Deo with his star father mother Ramesh Deo and Seema Deo, Popular Music directors Ajay – Atul and the many other popular stars of the Marathi Film industry were responded to the Gala event and cocktail- dinner.
Zee ‘Lux Maharashtracha Favorite Kon?’ Award winners :
1 ‘Lux Maharashtracha Favorite Kon?’ – Makarand Anaspure for De Dhakka
2 Favorite Actress- Supriya Pilgaonkar for Amhi Satpute
3 Favorite Comedian- Siddharth Jadhav for De Dhakka
4 Favorite Villain- Siddharth Jadhav for Galgale Nighale
5 Favorite Song- Ajay Atul- Moraya Moraya from Uladhal
6 Favorite Couple- Sachin – Supriya
7 Favorite Style Icon- Ankush Choudhari
8 Favorite Unforgettable Face- Sai Tamahankar
9 Favorite Film- De Dhakka
‘Vinodottam Karandak 2009′ held in Pune
Life has become a very serious matter for most people in this day and age. Working long stressful hours, managing households, finances, etc. all combine in shaping the way we react to life. Therefore, to keep you smiling, the famous comedian Mr. Hemant Nagarkar had started a ‘Vinodattam Karandak Ekankika Spardha (Comedy One Act Play Competition) and achieved complete success at ‘Bharatnatya Mandir’ in Pune. The competition’s third Annual year also proved to be successful which began on 7 Sept and lasted until 13 Sept with 27 participants.
Mr. Nagarkar along with his assistants, Mr. Rajiv Punekar and Mr. Sudhanshu Panse adds that this laughter competition has developed amazing creativity and playfulness over the last 2 years with more number of people participating in the competition. They feel proud that these ordinary people have developed a remarkable sense of humor through laughter and hopes that this exciting event had given an opportunity for every ordinary individual to try their hand at making us laugh.
Mr. Bhalchandra Panse, Mrs. Jaymala Inamdar & Mr. Hrishikesh Paranjape judged the competition. The winners were officially declared and honored by Mr. Sureshchandra Padhye (Editor – Sakaal), Mr Prakash Dalve (M LA) and Mr. Amit Phalke (Co-Producer – Zee Talkies) on Tuesday, 15th Sept, 09 at 6 p m in Bharat Natya Mandir, Pune with great celebrations.
Mi Marathi coming up with ‘Saheb’
The word ‘Politics’ itself goes on to say a lot. It elaborates more with the terms like group rivalry, claims , counter claims and above all the hypocrisy. Today, each and every field comprises of the same, but many of us don’t notice it. For a long time we haven’t seen a Marathi serial based on such a Political spoof. Mi Marathi channel is now coming up with their new serial ‘Saheb’ which will depict the actual happenings in the life of a hard core successful businessman- Abasaheb. There is a say, “However successful a person may be, his next generation may not inherit the same strengths and success as acquired by him”.
Aaba, is a multifaceted and dominant individual with a gifted personality. Each and every member in the family, be it his wife, children, in- laws; they are all under his obligation, in some way or the other. It is the spread of his business empire that has involved all these near and dear ones into the network. ‘Saheb’ goes on to describe how this successful empire created by Abasaheb gives way to disputes, clashes and hostility arising out of love and friendship within the relationship.
‘Saheb’ brings face to face the personality clash between the commanding Aabasaheb and his dynamic youngest daughter-in-law, who refuses to follow his orders. You may call it a political conflict or drama. With stalwart like Vikram Gokhale playing the central role, the cast of ‘Saheb’ comprises of talented artistes like Ila Bhate, Sanjay Kshemkalyani, Shravani Pillay, sandeep Bhansali, Swapnali Patil, Anant Jog, Jayant savarkar, Rajan Bhise, Seema Deshmukh, Manjusha Godse and Abhijit Chavan.
‘Gandha’ bounces back with Fame
The unexpected attack of Swine Flu and the fear psychosis arising out of it had prevented many film lovers from going to theatres during the last month. Unfortunately, the release of a sensible film like ‘Gandha‘ had almost coincided with the closure of theatres due to Government directive. The film did receive a big jolt due to this natural calamity. But, as somebody has rightly said, “You cannot stop good creation from reaching to the people with a word of mouth publicity.” With the opening of theatres and with the rise in demand for ‘Gandha‘ in Pune, the film has bounced back with the screening in six theatres.
Directed by Sachin kundalkar ‘Gandha’ has tried out a new experiment in Marathi cinema, combining three different stories knitted into one theme. ‘Gandha’ has already received appreciation in the form of best screenplay during the International Film festival in Pune. It has also been appreciated by well known filmmaker Ashutosh Gowarikar. Above all, the director has also added one more feather into his cap, when his name was announced recently for National Award for best direction for his previous film ‘Nirop’.
‘Gandha’ has a super combination of popular stars like Milind Soman (who makes his debut in Marathi films through this film) Sonali Kulkarni, Girish Kulkarni and Amruta Subhash, who display their talent through different roles.
Rangiberangi – promises total entertainment
Sara Movies ‘Rangiberangi‘ filled with all essentials of romance, comedy and drama is all set to release on Friday 11th September. Directed by Rajendra Bade, the film stars Aniket Vishwasrao and Madhura Velankar in lead roles. While versatile actor Manoj Joshi makes his debut in Marathi films through ‘Rangiberangi‘, other popular Marathi actors like Pradeep Velankar, Ravindra Mahajani, Madhu Kambikar and Kiran Karmarkar will also be seen in important roles.
‘Rangiberangi‘ is a tale of a young boy Ganesh ( Aniket), who much against the wish of his father moves to city from his village, as he aspires to become rich faster. He comes and lives with his uncle( Manoj Joshi). Having been brought up in a decent culture, initially he is unable to cope up with the city lifestyle. His shrewd uncle teaches him all those tricks to walk on the fast track to earn quick money. As per his advice, he tries to impress upon a girl from a rich family( Madhura Velankar) for obvious reasons, but observing her good nature and her service to the society through social work, he becomes her great admirer, besides deeply falling in love with her.
‘Rangiberangi‘ highlights the actual mind-set of today’s youngsters, clearly displaying the good and bad sides. It also shows the contrast between the village lifestyle and that of a city, but it goes on to show how the proper upbringing of a person finally helps in bonding strong relationship. The film also shows the conscience that Ganesh possesses, after reaching a particular stage, when he confesses about his guilt to his beloved and she too forgives him with a big heart. With many more dramatic moments, the film comes with a package of total entertainment for all age groups.
It’s official ! Aadesh Bandekar joins Shiv Sena
Every political party tries to woo its prospective voters by involving a celebrity in their campaign. We have seen this happen during Lok Sabha elections. Now, with Assembly poll-dates announced, a Political party like Shiv Sena was not going to remain behind in the race. The news of Aadesh Bandekar joining the Sena hit every news channel in the name of Breaking News! And today almost all newspapers carried his photograph with Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackerey welcoming him to his party officially, at his Matoshree bungalow.
Today, Aadesh Bandekar is a popular name in Marathi entertainment. His rising popularity among the housewives, while playing the ‘Bhaoji’ in the most popular programme ‘Home Minister’, perhaps invited the attention of the Shiv Sena to make him play their poster boy during the campaign. Aadesh has incidentally spread his popularity with another popular programme ‘Hafta Bandh’ on Zee TV channel. It remains to be seen whether the party would offer him ticket to contest the polls cashing on his rising popularity or use him as a Brand Ambassador during their election campaign.
Aadesh has himself reacted to this entire episode in a very casual manner, stating that he has always been a Shiv Sainik since his childhood and this announcement is just a formality. One thing is sure that this news has certainly boosted the confidence of Sena leaders and has given a big scare to other political opponents like Congress, NCP and MNS.
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Radha Mangeshkar’s debut album ‘Naav Maaza Shami’
Radha Mangeshkar’s debut album ‘Nav Maaza Shami’, Recently Released by, India’s oldest and most respected music company Saregama India Ltd. Radha is the scion of the 3rd generation of the Mangeshkar gharana. She is the daughter and disciple of Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar and niece of Lata Mangeshkar.
In her debut Marathi folk album ‘Naav Maaza Shami’, Radha has given voice to the lyrics set by the legendary Marathi poets – N. D. Mahanor, Sudhir Moghe & Late B.B. Borkar. The Music has been directed by Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar.
The album gives a new expression to traditional folk songs and has the following tracks ‘ Mazya Govyachya Bhumit’ describes the scenic beauty of Goa ” it’s sands, trees, rivers and sea.’Naav Maaza Shami’ The title track, this Koli geet is a romantic duet and has been co-sung with Makrand Sardeshmukh.Bai Gele Phirayla ” This romantic song has been set to a typical Goan melody and has all the fun and color of Goa.Maher Maze Aatle ” A melodious song it expresses the longing of a newly wed woman for her father’s house.Suttela Ambada ” A young and ebullient number, this is a romantic Marathi folk song.Thakun Basali Maay Ga ” A fitting finale to the album, this song is based on Raga Bhairavi and the melody is based on a Punjabi Hir song.
The legacy of the contribution of the Mangeshkar Gharana to Indian music began with Master Dinanath Mangeshkar. Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Usha Mangeshkar, Meena Mangeshkar and Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar are leading lights of Indian music today. Radha Mangeshkar continues this legacy with the release of ‘Naav Maaza Shami’
Marathi Play ‘Yamachya Bailala…’ for the social awareness of cancer.
Even though the name seems to be very weird and not at all related to the topic it may be considered as first attempted on Marathi stage for the social awareness of cancer. Prashat Damle Fans Foundation made a very good attempt to script down a comedy play to bring cancer awareness among the people.
It’s a one act play where Yumraj, the god of death played by Prashant Damle is very sad as he is not able to bring anyone’s soul from the earth heaven. So he call his assistance Chitragupt, who is in charge of registering all death and birth. They plan to visit earth to examine what exactly the matter is. There also they try to catch a soul but still they are unsuccessful in that. There they meet one lady who is earlier diagnosed by cancer but now she is totally fit. So they get to know about the precautions and treatment of cancer.
It was a really nice play to attract people attention in the disease like cancer in which people normally have many misconceptions. With a nice tint of comedy the viewers wont feel bored anytime and learns a lot of useful things with entertainment. The best feature of this play is it is not a commercial and so it is free to all. Prashant Dample Fan club orginasing this play in association with reputated medical hospital/ Social trust including Kokilaben dirubhai ambani hospital trust, Aasta Breast Cabcer group etc.. Play is directed by Mangesh Kadam, Written by Dr. Shekar Kulkarni and cast including Prashant Damle, Mangesh Kadam, Shivani Karadkar, Pari Telang,
Through this attempt many things are cleared about the disease besides that there is a team of doctors present from respective trust; So audience can ask questions live and clear their doubts. The show stealer Prashant Damle is much to be appreciated who has taken very nice initiative for social awareness. Also the special credit should go to Prashant Damle foundation for taking part in a social activity like this. The shows of this play are currently going houseful in many parts of state especially in Mumbai and Pune.