The release of new Marathi film ‘Lavu Ka Lath’ has brought into limelight a talented actress Hemalata Bane. Hemalata is not new to Marathi entertainment industry, as she has already performed in few Marathi films, as a dancer, performing item numbers or as a character artiste. Her selection for the lead role in this film was purely luck. But, in the lead role of Surekha the Lavani performer, she has proved that her selection for this role was a perfect choice. Marathi Movie world had a chit chat with this talented actress. Excerpts from the discussion:
Q: Today is the biggest day in your life. Your first film in the lead role, is releasing today. How do you react ?
A: Yes, ‘Lavu ka Lath’ is a big film for me. But, before that I did perform in the lead. However, those were small budget films and went unnoticed. In fact, the day I was selected for this film, itself was a big day in my life. Now, it all remains to be seen, how the audience will approve my performance.

Q: Tell us, how it all happened ?
A: Actually I had worked with Mr. Vijay Patkar before, in a Shemaroo company produced play ‘Hawaldar Bhola Baikovar Dola’. So, he was well aware of my acting and dancing skills. In fact, during the making of ‘Chashme Bahadur’ I had approached him. But, at that time, he suggested me that I was very thin . When he was all set to make this film, I was told about it by Narendra Panditji, who was associated with him. Further, I also had the advantage of knowing the writer of this film Rajesh Bamugade . further, Mahesh Muley also recommended my name. I even knew that the leading lady was finalized for this film. Yet, I contacted Mr. Vijay Patkar, who called me at Santacruz studio, where the other co-producers were also present. After speaking to me, he suggested me to go to Ghatkoper to try out dresses at the fashion designer’s place. Soon after that, he informed me that I was selected to play lead role in this film. That was a great news!

Q: How hard have you worked in this industry, to make a career in acting ?
A: I have been learning dance since my 7th standard, while I was studying in Shree Bal Govind Vidyalay , Andheri. When I was studying in 11th class, I started performing shows with Avinash Hande’s group. Soon, I realized that I needed to brush up my skills and later joined Maya Jadhav for advance training. I continued with her for little more than 3 years. She is still my Guru. Later, I did many video albums like ‘Retiwala’ and others for Krunal Music Co. As regards feature films, I first began with ‘Aamhi Satpute’ and later performed few character roles. Also performed an item number in ‘Tata Birla aani Laila’. My dancing skills were noticed by many, through my performance in ‘Ekapeksha Ek’.

Q: Wishing you a bright future in this field.
A: Thank you very much.