‘Golaberij’ is a story, not a history – Kshitij Zarapkar
You never know, what destiny has in store you. Otherwise, an Electrical Engineer with MBA (Finance) from USA, would never be trying his luck in Marathi film industry. Kshitij Zarapkar was well settled with his job in USA, till he came back to India few years ago, to stage his own drama group’s play ‘Sundara Manamadhye Bharali’ here in India. And, he became a part of this Marathi entertainment industry. Thereafter, he performed in 5 dramas and about 30-35 serials. Kshitij came into limelight as an actor with the show “Ghadlay Bighadlay’.
Today, Kshitij is in news for his new Marathi film ‘Golaberij’, based on the life and stories of P.L. Deshpande, noted Marathi writer known for his humour. This is the fifth film, Khsitij is associated with; and besides writing the screenplay, he is also directing this film. Prior to this, Khitij had written the story of ‘Ishya’, “Ideachi Kalpana’, ‘Karuya Udyachi Baat ( which he also directed), and ‘Thenga’( a commercial film, yet to be released).
Kshitij Zarapkar
For the past three and a half years, Kshitij was into extensive research, seriously planning to stage a play based on the incidences in the life of P.L. Deshpande. All that he wanted to present was some humour associated with people around P.L. and the important Characters created by him, through different stories. But, when the play could not be presented, Kshitij tried to use this collection, to make a film. When he found a producer, Kshitij really became serious about the project and completed this film, which is now ready for release. Today, he is all excited about this film, which has some popular names playing some important characters, either associated with Mr. P.L. Deshpande or part of his stories. But, he has opted for Nikhil Ratnaparakhi, a talented actor to play the role of Mr. P.L Deshpande, as he perfectly fitted into all his requirements.
“Golaberij’ is neither a documentary nor a biopic. It is a story and not a history,” says Kshitij, when you ask him as to what exactly he has presented through his film. But, he has certainly generated a lot of interest through his film. The last time he tried his hands at ‘karuya Udyachi Baat’ a sensible film, which was the first film in the world on the issue of Global warming; but, couldn’t receive much success. When you ask Kshitij, the reason for the same, he blames the producer, who according to him did not promote the film properly, prior to its release.
Highlight of ‘Golaberij’, are the dialogues. Though the screenplay is written by Kshitij himself, he has taken special efforts to retain the original dialogues of P.L. Deshpande, in the script, giving due credit to the great writer. “ While seeking the permission to make this film on his stories, Sunitaji was particular about retaining originality and therefore, I made it a point to use even the comas and full stops in the dialogues,” says Kshitij.
“ Making a film on P.L. Deshpande and the people around him including some of his popular story characters, was itself a challenging job. But, I have worked very hard to present this story in a cinematic form, which I am sure will be appreciated by people from all age groups,” he concludes.
“Performing on Big screen is more challenging” – Vaibahv Mangale
Whether it is rib tickling comedy or an action packed film; Vaibhav Mangale has always found suitable roles for him. In the year 2001, he came to Mumbai to begin his acting career and had to literally struggle for the next 3 to 4 years. It was his debut in Paresh Mokashi’s Marathi play ‘Mukkam Post Bombilwadi’ where his talent was noticed; as the play performed 550 shows. Thereafter, Vaibhav performed in Musical play ‘Lagnakallol'; for which performance, he won the best actor award. But, it was his exposure in TV reality show ‘Fu Bai Fu’ on Zee Marathi; that brought him name and fame.
Today, Vaibhav Mangale has reached such a stage that scripts are written for him. Best example is his just released TV serial ‘Shejari Pakke Shejari(SSPS) on Zee Marathi. Vaibhav has combined very well with his favourite co star Anand Ingale to offer this humour filled theme. Marathi Movie World spoke to this versatile actor. Excerpts from an interview.
Vaibhav Mangale, ActorQ: You spent your childhood and completed your education from Konkan. Did you come to Mumbai in search of a job ?
A: I spent my childhood in Deorukh and completed my B.Sc.D.Ed. from Ratnagiri. But, I could not get a job of a teacher. I took a decision to come to Mumbai, because of the encouragement from my uncle. My uncle was confident that more than a job; a career in acting would open doors for me in Mumbai.
Q: Besides acting and music, you are also a good mimicry artist and you have proved it. Have you inherited these skills from your parents ?
A: My father used to sing in Orchestra. Both my paternal as well as maternal Grandfathers performed in Music based plays of yesteryears. So, obviously, I inherited these skills from
them. Before coming to Mumbai, I used to perform in one act plays, story telling competitions and even took part in the State level one act plays.
Q: Today, Marathi audience recognise you more as a mimicry artist. Why didn’t you develop this skill further?
A: Actually, I can perform mimicry of only certain well known people like Vikram Gokhale, Dr.Shreeram Lagoo and Lata Mangeshkar. But, it is not my passion. Mimicry is not a form of acting art. Every mimicry artist is not necessarily a good actor. Therefore, I focussed my attention on acting career.
Q: It is because of television, you could reach every household and become popular. To avoid being typecast, what different ways you attempted?
A: My entry on television was first through Shrirang Godboole’s programme ‘Ghadlay Bighadlay’ on Zee television. Then through ‘Comedy Comedy’ and ‘Fu Bai Fu’; I received appreciation. Mahesh Manjrekar offered me a negative role in his film ‘Kaksparsha’. And now, I am playing an important character of B.L.Pathak from U.P. in Zee Marathi’s new serial ‘Shejari Shejari Pakke Shejari’.
Q: A man from Konkan, speaking U.P. style Hindi so fluently. What is the secret behind this effort?
A: In a city like Mumbai, you come across Hindi speaking people at every place. Even in our Marathi entertainment, in back stage there are many workers from UP. So, I used closely observe their accent. Even our sound recordist is from UP. His name is Shivaji. He helped me a lot to improvise on my accent. It is because of him, I could portray Brijlal Pathak’s character.
Q:You have been part of all the three areas of entertainment; i.e. stage, television and films. Where you feel more comfortable?
A: Stage and films help an actor to achieve what he aspires for; but, television only makes him popular. I love to do films; as the canvas is big and there is plenty of scope. In just three hours you create your own world; which I consider more challenging. When you are working for television, people watch you while eating or doing some other work; and thus take your performance very casually. But, the same audience pay for tickets and watch your performance seriously.
Q: Haven’t you received offers from Hindi ?
A: I did receive offers from Hindi; but, they were for small roles, which didn’t interest me. First, let me settle down in Marathi entertainment industry. Then, let me see, if any good offer comes from Hindi.
Q: How often do you visit your native place ?
A: At present, due to work commitment, I am unable to visit. But, I try to make it at least 2- 3 times a year. I have a house there, where my brother and relatives live. But, if you ask me about Konkan;I do get a chance to visit between Khed and Goa; in connection with my stage shows. Frankly speaking, I feel homely anywhere in Konkan.
Q: What is your message to the Marathi audience ?
A: I appeal to them to go and watch the Drama and film in theatre; by purchasing tickets. I also feel that they should not expect much from the Government. Being a teacher, I would say that each and every individual should behave like a good citizen. Personally I feel that the lessons about community living Civics should be offered to the children in school, from day one of the school.