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Nirmiti Sawant, Actress
Interviews

Nirmiti Sawant – the undisputed laughter Queen

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She made her debut through Super hit Marathi film ‘Bindhast’ way back in 1999. In this film, she played a warden of a Girls’ Hostel; the role, which was most suited to her personality . And, Nirmiti Sawant made her presence felt through that role. Thanks to director Chandrakant Kulkarni, who opted for her in that role. Thereafter, Nirmiti Sawant found roles in films, but they were not prominent enough to exploit her talent.

Nirmiti Sawant, ActressFilm maker Mahesh Kothare did present her in that memorable role of Gauri Shringarpure in his film; ‘Khabardar’ and later found her a suitable role in the film ‘Shubhamangal Savdhan’, where she played Najuka Aatya, the kind of character with orthodox thinking. In this film, she had plenty of scope to confront with renowned actress Reema Lagoo, in many humour filled scenes.

Nirmiti’s best time was on stage, with her play ‘Jau Bai Jorat’ - a hilarious comedy, which turned a hit among drama lovers. On television, she captured the home viewers with her hilarious performance in the serial ‘Kumari Gangubai Non Matric’, where she played the title role and proved that there was no need to find young lead pair, for the success of the serial. Her co star in this serial was Pandharinath kamble. So much was the success of this serial that a film was made on this pair, with the same name and released recently. Nirmiti played a double role in this film, which had offered ample scope to make maximum use of her talent. Needless to say that Nirmiti dominated the film, with her superb performance.

Being a versatile actress, Nirmiti has terrific timing for comedy. Even in a smallest scene, she is able to create an impact. The best examples are recent Marathi films like ‘Ideachi kalpana’ and ‘Ekulti Ek’. No wonder, she was invited as one of the judges for the popular Comedy reality show ‘Fu Bai Fu’. Nirmiti has also performed in two Hindi films ‘Aiyya’ and ‘Horn OK please!’. In ‘Aiyaa’ she played the role of Rani Mukherjee’s mother, offering a variety.

Nirmiti’s ongoing serial on e- TV is ‘1760 Sasubai’ which is filled with non stop comedy. Her presence itself is enough to indicate the humour filled theme. Moreover, she plays a female police; which is sure to generate laughter. Her forthcoming film is ‘Khara Sangoo Khota Khota’, which is also a total comedy film, in the company of renowned artistes like Ashok Saraf and Sayaji Shinde . So, just imagine, what will be the outcome of their interaction with each other? By the way, Nirmiti is playing the character of a Spinster, who runs a marriage Bureau. Watch out for her action in this film.

Always cheerful and open minded, she is very popular among her colleagues in Marathi entertainment industry. In fact, the set on which you find her presence, is always lighted up with jokes and laughter. Perhaps, she considers, ‘laughter’ as the best medicine for good health.

Atul Kulkarni
Interviews

Atul Kulkarni – a disciplined actor

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He does not have any bad habits like smoking or drinking. He is very regular in maintaining his daily exercise schedule and eating habits at the appropriate time. An early lunch and early dinner, with a good sound sleep; has kept him going in today’s changing lifestyle. We have never seen him sitting idle. If he is all alone at public places like promotional events of his film or while attending press shows, you will find him either talking to someone, on his cell phone or reading or replying text messages.

Atul Kulkarni, Actor, PictureMarathi Movie world met this disciplined actor on two occasions during the past month. First, it was during the music release of his recently released film ‘Popat’ and later during the press show of the same film at famous studious. On both the occasions, he was occupied with discussions with the scribes, talking about this film. Indeed, Atul has given his best through this film, playing a typical fun loving videographer from a village. Knowing the strength of the role, he has tried to bring in that sudden change of his behaviour, after he realises that the character he plays in the video film, is very close to his real life character.

Otherwise, very selective about the roles offered to him, Atul having agreed to play the role of ‘happy go lucky’ – Janardan in ‘Popat'; itself indicated that the film was offering something different. When we asked him to comment on this, he openly admitted that the script of this film had appealed to him. One does not know the commercial success of this film; but, Atul certainly became part of the timely message on ‘social awareness’ delivered by the film maker through this film, in national interest . And, Atul seemed to be happy about it.

When asked about his other ongoing assignments, he frankly stated that he had no other assignments in hand, besides the TV show ‘Savdhaan Mumbai’ which was being aired on Life OK channel every Saturday and Sunday at 8 pm. “This show began from 10th August and I am doing 16 episodes as a narrator of this Police investigative serial based on crime detection. I really enjoyed, being part of this programme.” he said.

Having already performed opposite bigwigs like Amitabh Bachchan in ‘Khaki’, Kamal Hasan in ‘Hey Ram’, Tabu in ‘Chandani Bar’ , Aamir khan in ‘Rang De Basanti’ ; he has already bagged the National Awards for the best supporting actor for the films ‘Hey Ram’ and ‘Chandni Bar’, which itself speaks about his ability to deliver his best through any given role, which of course is of his choice. The length of the role doesn’t seem to matter to him much. This has become clear, through his role in ‘Khaki'; that too in presence of well known artistes like Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Tanuja, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and others around.

Atul’s next Bollywood film ‘Zanjeer’, is all set to release soon. In this film, he plays the character of Jaydev. This being the debut film of South star Ram Charan, (son of Telugu superstar Chhiranjeevi), opposite popular Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra, has raised lot of expectations. Atul has already been part of more than dozen of south films. To him, language of the film does not matter. It’s all in the body language and spontaneity, at any given situation. And, he is good at that.

Kiran Mane
Interviews

Kiran Mane – an actor with abundant talent

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Kiran ManeIt does not matter how slowly you progress in your journey to achieve success; it is very necessary that you do not stop. For the past fifteen years, a young man from Satara has been sincerely doing his journey in acting field; no matter whatever little success he has had to his credit. The show is going on with the same enthusiasm and spirit that was noticed in him 15 years ago. One really wonders, as to why this young talented actor could not find the right kind of lead roles in Marathi television serials and films.

Kiran Mane began his journey as an actor with experimental theatre, but wasn’t sure about his success. From his native town Satara he came to Mumbai, via Pune ,where he took a stop to join Pandit Satya Dubey’s workshop. In his batch of 80 participants, he made his own identity. Needless to say that all good things happened to him during this workshop in the year 2002 and since then he has managed to display his talent in all the three areas of acting i.e. stage, television and films.

Actually, Kiran began on stage with ‘Gandhi Virrudh Gandhi’, ‘Manomilan’, ‘Wada Chirebandi‘ and today his portrayal of Abhiram kalyankar in the new play ‘Tee Geli Tevha’ really makes audience think about the enormous potential that he possesses, as an actor. Incidentally, the script of this play is written by Kiran himself along with Rajeev Muley and the play is directed by him. It’s a tailor made script for Kiran to exhibit all his skills as an actor, as it is lifetime role for him to display the frustrations of a failed actor, who leaves Mumbai city only to divert his attention to some other field. But, the actor hidden within him, is seen through the gimmicks played by him to make blank calls to people, who display their advertisements in classified columns of news papers.

In this role, Kiran finds ample scope to change his voice, while speaking to the same person at different times. But, when he confesses his trick to the receiver; he combines the voices of different persons at one stretch. And, that speaks about his versatility as an actor. His variety is simply outstanding in this play. Kiran receives a good support in this play, from another talented actress Yogini Chouk. The play is presented by Lata Narvekar and is a worth watch for those who appreciate performances.

It may be recalled that in the past Kiran bagged Ma. Ta Sanman for best actor for his performance in the sensational Marathi play ‘Govind Ghya Kuni Gopal Ghya’, which was based on kidnapping of newborn babies from Government hospital. Kitan had played the character of Vithoba, son of a vegetable vendor played by Smita Talwalkar in this play. Later, Kiran also won the Sanskriti Kaladarpan award for best actor in supporting role for the play ‘Maayleki’. Actually, he had only two scenes in this play; but those were enough to judge his capacity as an actor. Kiran also played a professor and husband of Vandana Gupte in popular Marathi play ‘Shree Tashi Sou’.

Being a Gold Medalist at the state level drama competitions, Kiran has also bagged the fellowship of Maharashtra Government for being the Best Theatre talent.Unfortunately for him, very few filmmakers and TV serial producers took note of his ability. But, wherever, he got a chance, he proved his mettle. On the small screen we noticed his skills in ‘Pimple Paan’ and ‘Ujed Phool La’, while on Big screen he made his presence felt in Hindi through Praksah Jha’s Hindi film ‘Apharan’, and in Marathi through Gajendra Ahire’s ‘Pandhar’ and Hemant Apte’s ‘Majhi Mansa’ besides ‘Yelkot Yelkot Jai Malhar’, ‘Swarajya Marathi Paul Padate Pudhe’ and latest released film ‘Shrimant Damodarpant’.

A real diamond keeps shining, no matter where it lies. For Kiran, the celebrity status does not matter. He is more eager to play challenging roles, where his talent is exploited to the maximum. And, his stage performances has kept him going. His latest play ‘Tee Geli Tevha’is the best example. After all , he is an actor with abundant talent.

Sonali Kulkarni, Actress
Interviews

Sonali Kulkarni – Simply passionate about acting & writing

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Her passion for acting, has kept her going. In spite of her marriage to Nachiket Pantavaidya MD of Fox TV Studios in 2010; and turning a mother in real life in 2011, has not kept her away from acting field. In fact, while she was carrying, Sonali performed in National award winning Marathi film ‘Deool’. As an actress, Sonali has gone through all the three mediums of acting; i.e. Stage, television and films. She has been comfortable with both Hindi and Marathi and successfully managed to work simultaneously in both the industries.

Sonali Kulkarni, ActressOnly few weeks ago her Marathi film ‘Kokanastha’ was released, which was a remake of 2005 Hindi film ‘Viruddh’. Two years ago, we found her winning few awards for her performance in the film ‘Deool’. Almost at the same time, we saw her in a prominent role of a widow, fighting for justice in super hit film ‘Singham’. Known for her memorable performances in films like ‘Mukta’ , ‘Dil Chahata Hai’, ‘Bride and Prejudice’, ‘Well Done Abba’, ‘Taxi No. 9211′ ‘Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar’, ‘Doghi’, ‘Dayara’, ‘Gandha’ and ‘Gabhricha Paus’; Sonali has bagged Filmfare Best Actress, Award (Marathi) for ‘Doghi’ and Star Screen Award (Marathi), Best Actress award for ‘Devrai’ She has also received National Film Award – Special Jury Award / Special Mention (Non-Feature Film), ‘Chaitra’.

Sonali has now returned to Marathi stage after a long gap, through ‘White Lily Aani Night Rider’, where she plays the lead role opposite Milind Phatak. This role was initially played by Rasika Joshi , whose untimely death had stalled the popular play. Having taken lessons of acting from late Pt,. Satyadev Dubey in Mumbai, Sonali had also acted in his English play ‘An actor dies..But…” Earlier, while in Pune, during her college days, she was associated with her own group ‘Samanvay’ along with her brother-Sandesh Kulkarni. And they presented many plays at Inter collegiate and other competitions. Sonali has performed in Makarand Deshpande’s play ‘Basant ka Teesra Yauvan’ and with Anurag kashyap in Hindi play ‘Sir Sir Sarla’.

But, with return to Marathi stage, Sonali Kulkarni has added a special flavour to this revived play, which is drawing full houses at present. The show at Prabodhankar Thackeray was full on Saturday 25th May, which speaks about her success as a stage actress. Unlike her screen presence, Sonali has attempted something different, through her body language, which invites all the attention during stage plays. Watch that sequence when both Sonali and Milind, not happy with each other, prefer silence and decide to communicate through written messages. Sonali has certainly generated spontaneous humour through her acting skills.

Besides her acting skills, Sonali is also passionate about writing. She was the guest editor for the Loksatta Weekly supplement – Viva, since it was launched in June 2005. She wrote a popular column ‘So Kul’ for them, till May 2007. Her articles, which were very popular amongst Maharashtrian women talked about a young, sensitive, successful woman’s perspective on Life. Her column was light hearted, sensitive and very meaningful.

Later, a book with the same name ‘So Kul’ was launched by Loksatta & Rajhans Prakashan ,which was a compilation of over 100 articles written by her. “So Kul, is a reflection of my attitude in life and also happens to be the abbreviation of my name!,” says Sonali.

Prajakta mali
Interviews

‘Suvasini’ enabled me to find role in ‘Kho Kho’

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Members of her family are either in Police department or in education field. But, Prajakta Mali opted for acting career. Her mother was very fond of dancing during her young days;but could not pursue her hobby. So, she admitted little Prajakta at Classical dance classes. Till the time, Prajakta reached 11th standard, she was through her ‘Arangetram’ and had completed Sangeet Visharad.Prajakta Mali

As a teenager, she started participating at national level competitions and soon entered TV reality show, to bag an award. Having performed earlier in children’s play, she had worked on her voice and dialogue delivery. So, when Prajakta decided to take up acting as her career, she received good support from her parents. Though her father is in Police department, he is a great admirer of arts.

Prajakta’s acting career began as a TV show anchor, for a programme ‘Good Morning Maharashtra’ on Zee Marathi. For almost two years, she presented this show and became a known face. But,it was her performance in ‘Suvasini’ serial that brought her into limelight. Prajakta did perform in few other serials like ‘Phiruni Punha Janmen Mee’( Mee Marathi) and ‘Bandh Reshmache’ ( Star Pravah).

Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actress on the eve of release of her debut film ‘Kho Kho’. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: Your film ‘Kho Kho’ is all set to release. How you got into this project ?
A: I consider myself lucky that I was selected to perform in this film. It’s all because of my performance in TV serial ‘Suvasini’. Mr. Kedar Shinde was searching for a girl, to play the character of Suman in this film. And I was told that he watched my performance in ‘Suvasini’ and was considering my name for this role. When I received a phone call from them and was told about the cast of the film and my selection for this role; I just couldn’t say no to this offer. It was a golden opportunity which had come to me.

Q: What you have to say about the film’s story and your role ?
A.: The film is based on Kedar Shinde’s own play ‘Lochya Jhala Re’ which was a hit. It is not so that I was selected in this film just to meet the requirement of a new face; but, there are good scenes to my share. In spite of a big star cast, there is something special for me, in the script. There is one full song picturised on myself and Bharat Jadhav. I am sure, people will like it. In the film, I am playing a girl called Suman. This name is very close to me, as my grandparents address me with this name. Therefore, this character played by me, is very close to my heart.

Q: Tell us about your experience while shooting for this film?
A.: It was a great experience. There was a lot to learn from all those around. The most important thing I learned, was about ‘timing’. All the artistes used to guide me to set my timing with them during a particular sequence; as most of them had worked with each other before. I quickly learned this technique of delivering the dialogue quickly. To say something about kedar Sir; he used to perform the scene himself for us, so that we understood the situation well. I really enjoyed every moment of this film.

Siddharth Jadhav
Interviews

Siddharth Jadhav climbing the ladder of success

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At 28, he has achieved a great amount of success in Marathi films today. But, the success hasn’t gone to his head. He is holding his feet firmly on the ground. Siddhu, as he is popularly known in Marathi movie industry, has won many well wishers in this industry in a very short time. His polite nature speaks for himself. Siddharth Jadhav’s latest released film ‘Huppa Huiya!’ has now brought him the much awaited fame as a solo hero. It’s not that he had not done solo hero film before; but then the script of ‘Bakula Namdev Ghotale’ wasn’t tailor made to suit his character. However, ‘Huppa Huiya!’ meets with all those requirements to make him swing , dance and perform action with the help of its fantasy filled script in that role of Hanmya. Happy days are here for Siddharth, whose next release is none other than his favourite director’s film ‘Lalbaug-Parel’.

Siddharth JadhavWatching Siddharth as a comedian in the past few films in the company of Bharat Jadhav, gave an indication that he would be typecast. But, that was not to happen; as many directors knew his potential as an actor. Mahesh Manjrekar is one such director, who has offered me roles which did not have any resemblance with the previous one. And, for ‘Huppa Huiya!’ writer Hemant and director Anil Surve thought that I perfectly fitted into that lead character. Indeed, I enjoyed every moment in this film.’ says Siddharth proudly. He was speaking to MMW , with his heart filled with happiness on the first day of release of ‘Huppa Huiya!’

Having been born and brought up in a middle class Maharashtrian family at Sewree, Mumbai, Siddharth did his schooling from Saraswati High School, Naigaon and later finished his graduation from Mumbai’s top class Ruparel College. It was here at this college, he developed interest in acting and performed in many one act plays. He first came into limelight through Devendra Pem’s play ‘Tumcha Mulga Karto kay?’ Since then, there has been no stopping for him. He was soon flooded with offers from films both in Hindi and Marathi and also from TV serials. He did play lead role in ‘Bakula Namdev Ghotale’ but, for Siddharth every role whether small or big;  was important for him.

“I look at every role with the same sincerity and try to give my best, as after all, it is the director who has shown confidence in me, by offering that particular role to me.” says Siddharth proudly, while praising all those directors, who signed him for their films. Not inspired by any particular actor to name with, Siddharth says that he only decided to become a good artiste first and worked very hard in that direction, giving his full time to this profession. Watching him in the plays ‘Jago Mohan Pyare’, ‘Lochya Jhala Re’ and having won many awards in different categories, clearly indicates that he can do a variety of roles in years to come.

Today, Marathi films are more script based offering diversity of subjects and that make actors like Siddharth happy. But, the passionate actor doesn’t seem to be interested in production or direction at this stage. “I am too small to think that big, at this stage.” he says with a smile. After watching his memorable performance in ‘Huppa Huiya!’ we are all keen to watch him in his forthcoming projects like Mahesh Manjrekar’s ‘Lalbaug Parel’, Kedar Shinde’s ‘Iraada Pakka’ and another much awaited film ‘Kshanbhar Vishranti’

Hansraj Jagtap
Interviews

Hansraj Jagtap – the talented teenager from Beed

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Hansraj Jagtap13 year old Hansraj Jagtap, a student of Champavati Vidyalaya, Beed was picked up during the auditions from among hundreds of children for the most important role of Krishna, in the award winning film ‘Dhag‘ directed by Shivaji Lotan Patil. The film also stars Usha Jadhav, who has bagged national award for best actress. She plays the mother of Hansraj in this film; while Upendra Limaye plays his poor father, whose house runs on the earnings of the last rites at the only crematorium in the small village of Maharashtra.

Even before the official release of his film ‘Dhag‘, Hansraj has bagged the Best child actor award at the recent ‘Ma Ta Sanman awards'; besides the film bagging six awards in different categories, including best film. Hansraj came into limelight, when his name was specially mentioned by the Jury while announcing the National awards. His performance has already been acclaimed by critics, while the film was screened at three different festivals during the past few months. The official release of his film will take place during the month of may 2013. Marathi Movie World spoke to Hansraj to congratulate him on his achievements. And the talented actor did speak at length about his experience after winning the award.

“I had just returned from Mumbai, after receiving the Ma Ta Sanman for best child actor in the film ‘Dhag’. The celebrations at home and school were going on; when I received another good news. I was at the school writing my exams . and when I returned home, my mother served me sweet dish ( Sheera) while father came home from his office with a box of Sweets (Pedhas). On TV news channels, they were talking only about the film ‘Dhag’ and other achievers at the national level. Finding my name in the ‘Special mention’ announced by Jury; was itself a big honour for me.” he reacted.

What next? And, he quickly responds, stating that he had just finished his 9th standard exams and was preparing himself to proceed to Kolhapur and Solapur during vacation, for the shooting of a new Marathi film ‘Kartavya‘. Hansraj has just been signed for this film, based on his performance in ‘Dhag’. It may be mentioned that the entire story of ‘Dhag’ revolves around his character of Krishna, who doesn’t want to carry forward his traditional family work at the crematorium. But, circumstances force him to do that work, during teenage. Luckily for Hansraj, he could find such a strong role on his debut in films.

If ‘Dhag‘ finds its entry for Oscars, being a path breaking film, with universal theme; Hansraj will go a long way. When Hansraj was asked about this possibility, he just wished for the same. Last year , after completing the shooting of ‘Dhag’, Hansraj was back to his routine at his native town, attending school and playing his favourite game of cricket with his friends. But, for the past one month; he is seriously thinking about his acting career. Now, next academic year being most crucial for him; accepting new roles in films simultaneously, will be like walking a tightrope. But, Hansraj likes to take up challenges. With his outstanding performance in film ‘Dhag’, he certainly stands tall in the field of acting.

Finally, when asked about the best Marathi film he watched in the recent past, he mentioned about ‘Jogwa’. His favourite cricketer is Sachin Tendulkar. The day is not far, when Sachin will sit next to him to watch his film. “I am grateful to the makers of this film, the director, assistant directors and all the artistes, for their motivation during the shooting of this film.” he concludes.

Marathi Movie World extends best wishes to Hansraj and sincerely hopes that he and ‘Dhag‘ both get nominations for Oscars.

Smita Jayakar
Interviews

“I am always available for Marathi films, TV and Drama” – Smita Jayakar

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Popular Marathi actress Smita Jayakar has been associated with entertainment industry for the past twenty eight years. After doing her graduation from St. Xaviers’ College and completing Law degree from Government Law College, Mumbai; Smita entered television, for the first time, presenting a knowledge based Marathi programme ‘Kaydevishayak Salla’ on Doordarshan. Those days, she also played a model for many advertisements. She was also part of few Marathi serials. But, when her Hindi serials ‘Mriganayani’ and ‘Ghutan’ invited the attention of Bollywood filmmakers, Smita found suitable character roles in the films of reputed film makers.

Smita JayakarTill date, this talented beautiful actress has worked in number of popular Hindi films ; performing with many leading artistes from Bollywood, including Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan & Aamir Khan. How can we forget her memorable roles in films like ‘Pardes’, ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’, ‘Devdas’, Sarfarosh’, ‘Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani’ and ‘Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahani’.  Smita has also been a popular TV actress on Hindi television with some of her notable performances.

Having been brought up in South Mumbai, Smita married Mohan Jayakar, a solicitor, who is the son of esteemed Barrister M. Jayakar. After marriage, she shifted to Peddar Road , Mumbai; and today she is actively associated with her social activities, besides acting. After a successful modelling career, she had a break for few years and then focussed on her acting career, accepting character roles in Hindi films. She began with Subhash Ghai’s ‘Pardes‘ and then there was no stopping for her. She has worked with many top directors and actors in Hindi film industry. Realising her potential, Sanjay Leela Bhansali offered her suitable roles to exploit her acting skills.

In Marathi, Smita has performed in two plays – ‘Aai Retire Hotey’ and ‘Manaat Majhya’ and had done 5 Marathi films, out of which only two films ‘Chalu Navra Bholi Bayko’ directed by Anil Mohile and ‘Satvapariksha’, directed by Ramesh Salgaonkar were released. But, both these films, won her awards. Smita has also performed in English and Hindi plays. She has also toured abroad for her drama performances and is all praise for English theatre. So, it is surprising, as to why a talented actress like her, is not being considered by Marathi film and TV producers?

When asked to comment, Smita has her say, “I don’t know the reason. But, I am always available for Marathi films and TV serials. Even if there is any good script for Drama, I don’t mind doing it. Don’t know the reason, why all these well known Marathi directors are not approaching me for suitable roles. I am a great admirer of Marathi films and only few days back, I had an opportunity to see few films during SKD film festival, at Ravindra Natya Mandir. I was really happy to notice the creativity part in all these films, presenting new subjects. “Dhag’ impressed me; but the theme of Marathi film ’35 minutes’ appealed me a lot.”

Her frank reaction clearly indicated her agony, for not being considered for roles in Marathi serials and films. Being the head of Governing Council in advisory capacity to ‘Sanskruti kala Darpan, Smita is playing an important role. This year, instead of spending on parties and celebrations connected with the prestigious awards; she has suggested the committee to save upto Rs. 11 lakhs and use the same for the farmers from drought affected areas of Maharashtra. “We will be identifying one village and go personally to distribute free seeds to them.” she says.

Smita also finds her free time for spiritual work, as she practices ‘Holistic healing’ and takes her workshops at the Times of India Building, Mumbai every 1st and 3rd Sunday between 4 and 6 pm. “My quest for a deeper understanding of peace and happiness in life led me to experiment with various natural therapy techniques and practices. Finally, I discovered a simple and practical approach to heal my inner self.” she explains. Through her own trust ‘New Leaf’, she has been helping poor children from Marathi Municipal schools, who are deprived of proper aid. She also visits Municipal maternity homes, and provides healthy food to the women admitted for delivery. Isn’t that a great service to the society ?

Her two forthcoming Hindi films are Rohan Sippy’s ‘Sonali Cable’ and T series film ‘Yaariyan’. Her role as Abha’s mother in Zee TV’s popular show ‘Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli’ was highly acclaimed. Her ongoing serial is ‘Ghar Aaja Pardesi’ on Sahara One. After Sulochana and Reema Lagoo, if any Marathi actress who has bagged good character roles in reputed Hindi films, it is Smita Jaykar. We are eagerly waiting to watch her perform in a good Marathi film or serial in near future.

Shruti Marathe, Actress
Interviews

“Playing the role of Radha, is more challenging” – Shruti Marathe

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She made her acting debut through Marathi serial ‘Peshwai’, while she was studying in 10th standard. Those days, she was studying in St. Mira’s School, Pune. Born in Baroda, Shruti Marathe came to Pune along with her family, when she was just one year old. Since then, she was brought up in this cultural hub of Maharashtra.

Though Shruti made her debut in Marathi films, through a small role in Shreyas Talpade’s film ‘Sanai Chaughade’, she had to wait for lead role in Marathi, till she was selected for the title role of Radha, in Marathi serial ‘Radha Hi Bawari’ now running on Zee Marathi. Recently, Shruti played an important role in ‘Satya Savitree aani Satyavan’ which was also a debut film of beauty queen Amruta Patki. In this film, Shruti played a role, which was totally in contrast to the glamorous roles she played in Tamil films in the recent past.

Shruti Marathe, ActressIncidentally, Shruti was part of three Tamil films ‘Indira Vizha’, ‘Naan Avanillai 2′and ‘Guru Sishyam’. In fact, her debut tamil film ‘Indira Vizah’ was based on a Hollywood film and was also a remake of Bollywood film ‘Aitraaz’. In this film, Shruti played the role of kareena kapoor, who defends her husband in court of law, being a lawyer herself. “This was a challenging role for me, but I enjoyed playing my character in ‘Naan Avanillai2.” says Shruti. Though Shruti has performed in three successful Tamil films and one Kannada film ‘Aadu Aata Aadu.’ now due for release; her talent was ignored by Marathi film industry. Only exception being ‘Satya Savitree Satyavan’, where her acting skills were clearly noticed in the role of a widow.

Marathi Movie world, spoke to Shruti, little before the telecast of her new serial ‘Radha Hi Bawaree’. Excerpts from an interview.

Q: Why only Shruti Marathe to play Radha in ‘Radha Hi Bawaree’?
A: How can I answer this question? You can ask this question to Virendra Pradhan, who found me suitable for this role. I can only say that I had given the audition along with many others, trying for this role. I am lucky to get selected.

Q: How important is this role for you?
A: It is a good challenging role. But, what makes me more happy is that, it is not only my character, which is important; but, the story of this serial is more interesting, offering enough scope to others.

Q: Who is playing hero opposite you in this serial?
A: He is Saurabh Gokhale.

Q: Having done your school and college education from Pune; you must have done lot of stage too ?
A: Actually, during my school and college days, I wasn’t that active with participation in competitions. But, I did perform in few experimental plays and one commercial play ‘Clean Bowled’. as a stage artist.

Q: Having experienced South films; how do you compare their films with Marathi films?A: South Indian films are all big budget films. They have big audience. In comparison, Marathi films are small budget films. But, in Marathi, the scripts are good. That is the biggest advantage you have with Marathi films.

Q: One personal question, Shruti. Any plans for marriage?
A: No, not at present. Now, I am focused on my acting career.

Neela Damle
Interviews

Neela Damle – The Stylophone Queen

Aside

She is the daughter-in-law of late Vishnupant Damle, the founder of Prabhat Film Company, which produced India’s first talkie Film, ‘Sant Tukaram’. There was a time, when as a 19 year old, she had walked to the sets of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s film ‘Anari’ along with Lalita Pawar, a family friend. Stunned by her beauty, Raj Kapoor on meeting her had suggested her to join films. Neela Damle, formerly Neela Kale was the daughter of yesteryear’s actor Late Madhav Kale, who was addressed as the most handsome hero of that period, by none other than Sitara Devi.

Neela DamleAs a child, Neela was brought up in a family, which had the background of acting and classical music. Her father Madhav Kale was a renowned actor during that period, having performed with some of the leading actresses of that time and her mother Sarla a music exponent, who managed an all woman orchestra during 30’s. So, music and acting was a gift to Neela.

She was also a good tennis player. However, she paid more attention on dance and music. As a teenager, she was well versed with classical music and performed ballet in Sachin Shankar’s group.

After her marriage to Vasantrao (Pandit) Damle, Neela shifted to Mumbai, as her husband was an Aeronautical Engineer with Air India. Post marriage, Neela focussed her attention on music and played musical instruments with an authority. She was also a TV star during that period. Once her husband gifted her an imported Stylophone, on which she practiced many popular film tunes. When she was given an opportunity by Kalyanji Bhai (Kalyanji-Anandji Duo) during his musical programme to play a small piece of music on his film ‘Nagin’, everybody including Anandji were stunned by her performance. Thereafter, Kalyanji Bhai addressed her as Stylophone Queen.

Today at 72, Neela Damle still plays that tune on her stylophone in guest appearance, at selected orchestras. “Now, it is not possible for me to perform at far off places; but if it is somewhere close to my house, I do oblige. The only annual ceremony I don’t miss is the Annual Ballet organised by Kumudini Lele (wife of Sachin Shankar). On this occasion, I get a chance to meet all old friends like Rekha and Chitra who were also disciples of Sachin Shankar.” she concluded.

It was a pleasure meeting this enthusiastic woman, who is still passionate about music. Best thing about her is that she keeps a low profile, in spite of her celebrity status. Marathi Movie World present her as a ‘star pick’ on the occasion of Women’s day.