Shrirang Godbole, Director

Shrirang Godbole – a multifaceted personality

Be it ‘Pimplepaan’- a serial based on popular marathi literature, ‘Ghadlay- Bighadlay’ a humour filled entertainment show or the most popular serial ‘Agnihotra’. Shrirang Godbole has been the common factor in their presentation. Popularly known as Rangada, Shrirang Godbole has created his own identity as a multifaceted personality in the Marathi entertainment world. Incidentally, he was also part of the production team of much talked about film ‘Harischandrachi Factory’.

MMW spoke to Mr. Shrirang Godbole to know more about his work in the Marathi entertainment industry. Chit Chat with Mr. Godbole :

Shrirang Godbole, DirectorHow much has been your contribution in the making of ‘Harischandrachi Factory’?
Frankly speaking, I agreed to be the executive producer of this film, only because Paresh Mokashi happens to be a good old friend. In the past, he has also worked in my stage plays. So, being a part of ‘Harischandrachi factory’ was more like being with my family and friends.

As an actor, we have hardly noticed you. What’s the reason ?
Actually, it’s not my core area. Though, I have been receiving offers to play big or small roles, I am very selective about accepting them. I am more focused on my work related to television production.

At present your serial ‘Agnihotra’ has reached popularity heights. Would you mind sharing your idea about making this serial ?
I happened to trace the theme for this serial, when we had organized a ceremony to mark the birth centenary of my father. At that time, we had issued an advertisement in newspaper inviting all the far relatives to attend this ceremony. Looking at the overwhelming response coming from the participants, I was myself shocked to know about this huge chain of relatives network. Impressed with the bonding in a big joint family system, I decided to make a serial based on this theme.

You have been always offering chance to newcomers through your serials, who later become big stars. How do you feel about it ?
Whether it was ‘Pimplepaan’, ‘Ghadlay Bighadlay’ or ‘Agnihotra’’ right from the beginning, I was very particular about selecting the right artist for the role he or she perfectly fitted in. Working with new artistes always offers flexibility to the director, for experimenting something new with them, as they too are responsive. This is not possible with established artistes. Having given the freedom to experiment something different, the new artistes come out with their best and that enables them to turn stars, in years to come.