Asides

Atul Kulkarni
Interviews

Atul Kulkarni – An actor par excellence

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The more you write about actor Atul Kulkarni is less. In Marathi, Hindi and South Indian films, he has performed with total conviction. Watch his commitment in ‘Natarang’ and at the same time playing one of the protagonists in Aamir Khan’s hit film ‘Rang De Basanti’. He invites all the attention, while on screen, as a passionate performer. This itself is his identity as an actor. With his intense acting skills, he has won the hearts of not only people all over Maharashtra but all parts of India.

Atul KulkarniBorn in Belgaum, Atul completed his secondary education from Haribhai Deokaran High School, Solapur, Maharashtra. His father, a businessman, had then settled in Solapur. He joined for electrical engineering at College of Engineering Pune. But, due to lack of interest in Engineering, he returned back to Solapur and joined D. A. V. College, to complete his graduation in English literature. Atul later married theatre actress Geetanjali Kulkarni, whom he met at National School of Drama, Delhi. Not many people are aware that Atul made his film debut through Kannada film ‘Bhoomi Geetha’ in 1997 and has also acted in many south Indian language films.

Atul Kulkarni ActorAtul Won Best Supporting Actor award in Kamal Hasan’s film ‘Hey Ram’ in the year 2000 followed by another best supporting actor’s award in 2002 for Madhur Bhadarkar’s film ‘Chandani Bar’. This brought him name and fame, which was so necessary to enable him to select the roles suited to him. After ‘Satta’ in 2003, we have seen at least 2 to 3 films of Atul released every year in different languages like Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, kannada and Malyalam , besides Marathi. And, his forthcoming film will be ‘Singularity’ in English.

Very few actors from Marathi films have managed to establish themselves in Bollywood and Atul is the latest addition to that list. Last time, while speaking to Marathi Movie World, he had said that Film scripts were more important to him than the language of the film. “I have never accepted any random film offers, just for the sake of being a regular face in the film industry,” he said.

In short, Atul is more concerned about Quality than quantity. Just watch him in that wonderful act in ‘Rang De Basanti’ where he tries to explain that the emotions of a character arise from the heart and one does not have to rehearse for such scenes. His role of an investigative Journalist in Madhur Bhandarkar’s ‘Page 3’ shows his personal efforts in preparing for such a role. To present Guna kagalkar inhit Marathi film ‘Natarang’ ,he must have worked very hard, with the required body language, in the second half of the film. The director can bring out the best from the actor, provided the actor also gives his 100%. And, Atul is the kind of an actor, who always gives his 100%.

When Atul was selected to play as lead hero opposite Sagarika Ghatge and that too in a Marathi film which dealt with post marriage love, many people raised their eyebrows. But, after watching ‘Premachi Goshta’, Atul has removed all the doubts. His portrayal of the character of Ram Subramanyam, a script writer by profession, is very convincing. Very sensitively, he has got involved into his character, which is clearly noticed through all those close up scenes in the film. His expressions during that last scene before interval, speaks everything about his capacity as an actor.

Atul was very much there physically to find out the reactions of media representatives, after the press show of the film two days before the film’s release. And, he was all smiles, to welcome each one of them. He could spot the satisfaction on the faces of all those coming out, after watching his film. This showed his confidence as an actor. There is much more, to come from this brilliant actor, in years to come. After all, he is an actor par excellence .

Saurabh Gokhale
Interviews

I took a decision to pursue acting career at the right time – Saurabh Gokhale

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If Saurabh Gokhale had not taken up acting seriously, he would have continued working in some big Corporate House as an executive today. A native of Pune, Saurabh did his schooling from Nutan Marathi Vidyalaya and later did his graduation from Modern College. Being a part of this cultural hub of Maharashtra, Saurabh had performed on stage and had also taken part in the Purshottam Shield Drama competition. He was also member of Theatre Academy.

Saurabh GokhaleEven after Graduation, when Saurabh did his Mass Communication and MBA; he joined TAL Manufacturing Solutions Ltd; a division of Tata Motors and continued to be part of Kala Sagar Art, presenting and anchoring stage shows. Later, when he joined KPIT in Pune; he felt that he was doing injustice to his hidden acting talent and quit his job; to take a decision to pursue acting career seriously.

His role in his debut serial ‘Shrimant Peshwa Bajirao Mastani’ showed him the way and Saurabh found a major role in Star Pravah’s serial ‘Mandala Don Ghadicha Daav’. where his talent was actually noticed. Today, Saurabh is the centre of attraction in the ongoing serial on Zee Marathi’s ‘Radha Hi Bavari’. The title of this serial clearly suggests that it is a women oriented subject; but Saurabh using variety in this role, has not only brought liveliness into the serial; but, has also won the hearts of audience. He is found comfortable in the company of all the senior artistes in this serial; be it Sharad Ponkshe, Kavita Medhekar Laad,Bal karve and others.

Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actor from Pune. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: Do you think that you took a wise decision to leave your KPIT job and join acting field?
A: Yes, I think I was doing injustice to myself and also to the company I had joined. So, it took just seven days for me to take this decision; which I feel was right.

Q: But, how were you attracted towards this profession? Is there anyone from your family, into this profession?
A: No, my both parents are Doctors. It was my passion since college days, that brought me into this field. I had not made up my mind to be whole time actor. But when I took this crucial decision to pursue acting career in September 2010 ; in next two months I was signed for ‘Mandala Don Ghadicha Daav.’ Today, while playing the role of Saurabh Dharmadhikari , in ‘Radha Hi Bavari’. I feel happy about my decision.

Q: Are you a director’s actor or believe in yourself?
A: I think, I am both. Though I believe in myself; it is the director, who knows how to tap your potential. I am very happy about the way my character has been projected in ‘Radha Hi Bavari’.

Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming film ‘Yodhha’?
A: This film will be released in April 2013. I am playing the lead role of a Police Cop; who finds his first posting in his own village. While exercising his duty honestly, he has to encounter opposition from his own relatives. My childhood friend, who is into social service supports me in my mission. It is an interesting and timely subject and I really enjoyed playing this role.

Q: You think that acting in TV serial and films simultaneously, is possible ?
A: Yes, it is possible with slight adjustment of your schedule.

Q: Now that you are into this acting field; do you think that your specialized degrees are of any help to you ?
A: Yes, it does help. My communication skills come to my advantage in this profession. Moreover, my management qualification helps me a lot to maintain proper time management in my day to day work.

Q: We understand about your recent marriage to Anjuja Sathe. Congrats! How it all happened?
A: Thanks. Actually, I knew Anuja since my childhood, though she was junior to me. Her elder brother was my good friend. When we met once again in this acting field, we came close to each other. Anuja is also a good TV actress. Our interests match very well.

Priya Marathe
Interviews

“I am certainly looking forward to act in films” – Priya Marathe-Moghe

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She is Glamorous and sweet. Priya Marathe who made her television debut through Zee Marathi’s ‘Ya Sukhano Ya’ couple of years ago, found suitable roles in following productions like ‘Kalat Nakalat’, ‘Char Divas Sasuche’, ‘Ha Khel Savalyancha’ & ‘Goshta Eka Collagechi’, In Hindi, ‘Kasam Se’ was her debut serial, which unfortunately didn’t click well. After that she did one season of ‘Comedy Circus’ with Sunil Pal. We have also seen her in ‘Bade Acche Lagte Hai’ & ‘Pavitra Rishta’.

Priya has shown considerable progress in her acting field, besides completing her graduation in science with distinction. Marathimovieworld.com in close conversation with her:

Priya MaratheQ. How you shifted to acting field ? Did you have any background?
A: I never thought about acting during my childhood. That period, we all dream of becoming a doctor, engineer, pilot etc, which I feel is a childish thing. Those were not real dreams. But, after going to college, when I started participating in inter collage drama competitions and received best actress prize,along with fresh face of the year, my confidence developed. Actually it was Alfa Karandak, organized by Zee TV. They had given a chance to winner for their serial; but unfortunately I didn’t get selected in audition at that time. But after a couple of months, I received call for audition for their new serial and got selected.thus began my career with ‘Ya Sukhanno Ya’.

Q. What attracted you to the role of Priya in ‘Tu Tithe Mi’?
A: I wanted to play a youthful character. Priya’s character is full of intrigues. There is a mystery element to the character. I found many shades as well. Perhaps, the Director noticed something me, as they didn’t want to show a typical character for that role.

Q. Don’t you feel discomfort, since it is a throughout negative role?
A: This Girl is madly in love with Chinmay’s character. From her point of view, she is trying all possibilities to get back to her lover. I have done couple of negative roles before this, but those were not a full length negative roles. In comparison, this is a big role. I have accepted it as a challenge. Also found something different to do.

Q. Where do you find you more challenges? Playing a heroine’s role or a negative role?
A: To play a heroine also; no doubt, there is hard work. But, to play a negative role, you need to be more careful. Because, in a positive role, you will find many examples from our daily- real life. To play a negative role, you are dependable on your director, script and your own imagination to apply skills to that character’s behavior. Also, in a negative role there’s a very thin line. Hence, attention is to be paid not to overreact.

Q. In ‘Tu Tithe Mee’ serial, you have displayed rich designer sarees. How often do you wear saree in real life? What are you comfortable with ?
A: I’m more comfortable with Jeans n T- shirt. I also wear Churidar Kurta. For traditional functions, I always wear sarees, but not the way, shown in the serial.

Q. Have you experienced any strange incident in real life, where audience have questioned you, about your character in this serial?
A: Yes, on many occasions this happened. Once, I was at a social function. One old lady came forward and squeezed my hand, asking me as to why I was running Manjiri’s life? She warned me not to bother her, any more. Actually, I take this as a compliment. I am happy that I am able to convince the script writer through that character.

Q. We have seen you in Hindi serials also, Tell us about your experience, working for Hindi television?
A: Basically, we all know that there is a major difference in budget. But, apart from that personally one difference that I noticed as an actress, is that, while working in Hindi, you get a lot of exposure, you get noticed by large audience at the national level. In regional serials, we have limited audience. Marathi serials are mainly watched by only Maharashtrian audience. Hindi television is watched widely and you receive attention from maximum people.

Q. Have you tried any other Hindi serial?
A: Recently, I have left Pavitra Rishta, which I was doing for a long time. To be frank, currently I’m not interested to play the roles of mother, grandmother, aunt, etc.

Q. You have married Shantanu Moghe, who is the son of veteran actor Shrikant Moghe. How did it happen?
A: Couple of year’s back, we met at our common friend’s place. Then, we started meeting each other and soon we got involved in each other and had a love marriage. As you know, Shantanu is also an actor like his father, who is a veteran actor from Marathi Theatre, Television & Film industry. My mother in law is a doctor. I am glad that I have got such a nice family. They all encourage me and offer guidance. We also have discussions on many other subjects.

Q. Apart from ‘Tu Tithe Mi’, what other projects you are associated with ?
A: Now, I am working only in ‘Tu tithe Mee’, having quit ‘Pavitra Rishta’ recently. It was difficult for me to manage for both the serials. Presently, I’m in talks with some filmmakers, for couple of film projects. If everything works out fine, hopefully you will see me soon on silver screen. I am certainly looking forward to act in films.

Q. How often do you watch Marathi movies? Which is the movie, you saw recently?
A: Recently, I saw ‘Balak Palak’ in theatre, which I liked a lot. Before that, I don’t remember which movie I saw last. But, sometimes I do watch selective movies on TV, which have received good review.

Q. Now, in Marathi Movies also, actresses are doing bold roles, like we have seen Sai Tamhankar wearing bikini. Personally, as an actress, what are your comments?
A: This is her professional choice, like I have chosen a negative role in ‘Tu Tithe Mi’. And there is always a reaction from audience for every work. They have a right to give their opinion.

Q. Would you say ‘yes’, if you were offered to wear bikini in films ? I mean such kind of role?
A: See, at this moment I can’t say anything; but definitely, if I get such offers, I will think over it. If the role demands, I might be do.

Q. What types of roles you would like to play?
A: I want to choose graph of the character, even if it’s a small role. It doesn’t matter which genre it belongs; whether comedy, serious or a negative role.

Q. Which medium do you prefer? Television, theatre, film?
A: I haven’t worked in film yet; so I can’t comment, So far I have enjoyed working on television a lot. I loved it.

Q. Have you ever acted in any professional drama?
A: No, Not yet.

Q. Which is your favorite color.
A: Black.

Q. You favourite actor and actress?
A: I do like Hrithik Roshan. Also I’m a great fan of Madhuri Dixit, and she is my favorite actress.

Soham Pathak
Interviews

Soham, Aditya and Nikhil open their innings in Film Music

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“There is no substitute for hard work.” Till the beginning of this year the trio comprising of young Soham Pathak and his two friends from Thane Aditya and Nikhil were performing at various shows all over Maharashtra. Youngsters had appreciated their talent and the popularity of their music is evident from their fan followers on social networking sites.
Soham, Aditya, Nikhil

Soham Pathak In the forthcoming Marathi film ‘Shyamche Vadil’ the team comprising of Soham-Aditya and Nikhil are making their debut as music directors. Fortunately for them, music has been the heart of this film, which is based on the emotion filled story in the life of a Rock star. There is ample scope for Pure Rock in Marathi for them. When Marathi Movie World spoke to these three talented music directors, they were very delighted with the response they had received during the release of their music CD. “Our music in this film is for all age groups.” they announced.

Soham, who has himself rendered his voice for Chinmay Udgirkar in this film, said that his voice very well matched with the young hero; but was more thrilled for having got an opportunity to compose music on the voice of renowned veteran singer Hariharan. “We had sent a CD with composition in my voice to him, for approval and when he came to the studio for the first time; he asked, whose voice it was? And also appreciated the composition and sample voice. It was a compliment to me and my team.” says Soham.

In this film, the beautiful song that is rendered by Hariharan is ‘Saare Punha Aathave’. penned by Mandar Cholkar, who also happens to be a common friend of the trio. There are other songs like ‘Udya udya’, ‘Purush Mee’ and ‘Sakal sakal’’, which are expected to invite attention of music lovers. And, they will also decide the future of Soham-Aditya and Nikhil’s team work. Soham Pathak, now just 19, who also writes songs, besides singing and providing music; is all set to play long innings to in this field of entertainment .

“Fortunately for us, we have got a breakthrough this film at the most appropriate time, when Marathi films are going worldwide. We are holding our feet on the ground and will never get carried away with the success in years to come.” they concluded. Listening to their music gives a clear indication that they are here to stay, like some of the renowned music directors.
Marathi Movie World wishes them all the best for their rising career in music.

Shrikant Yadav, Actor
Interviews

“My one scene in ‘Vihir’ brought me closer to Big B” – Shrikant Yadav

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He has been associated with marathi theatre for the past 12 years. But, his association with Umesh and Girish Kulkarni brought him to Marathi Cinema. In the year 2005, he found an opportunity to play the most important role of a helpless farmer who is forced to sell his Bull, much against the wish of his son and wife. ‘Valu’ was a touching film, which won many awards at international festivals.

Shrikant YadavThen it was ‘Vihir’, where he was associated with production, being very close to Girish Kulkarni. But, Shrikant Yadav, being a passionate actor, wanted to be a part of the film as an actor, however small the role was. So, he was offered just one scene, where he played a pick pocket. It was a pleasure talking to this avid actor, during the first look of new Marathi film ‘Night School’.

Shrikant’s small role as a pickpocket became a part of an important scene, as it was that incident which takes the lead actor of the film towards death. “This scene was discussed by the members of Jury during Berlin festival and I am glad that it also gave me an opportunity to meet Mr. Amitabh Bachchan there, whose ABCL company produced this film.” says Shrikant. He recalls all those memorable moments of his Berlin trip, where Dr. Mohan Agashe, who was also part of this film said that he was returning for this festival after 35 years. “He had carried his cap, which was preserved by him for 35 years and which was presented to him during the screening of ‘Saamna’ at the same festival.” he added .

Shrikant played another important role in Umesh and Girish’s recent film ‘Deool’, which won the national award for the best Indian film. He played a protagonist- Appa Galande, who revolts against his own uncle Bhau Galande, played by Nana Patekar. It was a difficult role; but Shrikant played it with ease. His sharp looks and body language spoke everything about his talent and personality.

A Mechanical Engineer, Shrikant still continues to work for BSNL, in Pune and prefers to perform in such off beat films, which find place for him. He doesn’t seem to be much interested in TV serials, as his job would not permit him to spend so much of time. But, as an organizer, he plays a crucial role in cultural activities of BSNL. Srikanth’s forthcoming films are ‘Pune 52′ and ‘Night School’. In ‘Night School’ he plays an influential Bar owner involved in illegal activities, who later reforms into a well wisher of the Night school. This film is due for release on 2nd November 2012.

Rahul Mehendale
Interviews

“I am comfortable with all the three areas of acting” – Rahul Mehendale

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It has been a long time, since he has been associated with Marathi stage. But, very few well wishers have really tapped his talent in TV serials and films. Now, when he has stepped in as a lead hero in ongoing popular Marathi drama ‘Lagnabambaal’, as a replacement to Subodh Bhave, he has suddenly shot into limelight.

Marathi Movie world spoke to this passionate actor Rahul Mehendale. Excerpts from an interview:

Rahul MehendaleQ: How did you begin your career ?
A: Being a student of Parle Tilak Vidyalay and Parle College, I was passionate about Marathi dramas. First, I started as assistant director to Mr. Vinay Apte and later did editing job, before switching over to acting. My acting debut in a commercial play was in 1992 with ‘Priya Aai’ where I performed with Bal Dhuri, Janhavi Panshikar and Rahul Awasthi.

Q: This means you have completed 20 years in your acting career .
A: Yes, this year, I have completed 20 years of my acting profession.

Q: What were the other popular projects, that followed ?
A: After ‘Priya Aai’, I did ‘Mee Majhya Mulancha’ and ‘Barrister’ .

Q: Tell us something about your entry into TV serials.
A: When I began doing TV serials, it was only Doordarshan channel for Marathi serials. And, I made my debut through ‘Bokya Satbande’. Thereafter, I performed in many TV serials.

Q: And, what about roles in films?
A: Actually, my first film was in Hindi- ‘Encounter – The killing’. Thereafter in Marathi, I performed in films like ‘Sunder Majhe Ghar’, ‘Checkmate’, ‘Picnic’ etc.

Q: Now, we find you back on stage.
A: Yes, now I am doing 2 plays ‘Lagnabambal’ and ‘Lagnachi Bedi’. In ‘Lagnabambal’, I entered during the 70th show and till now we have done 85 shows. I had not performed with Madhura and Anand before. And hence, it was a good opportunity to work with them. We form a very good team and I am enjoying every moment in their company. Speaking about the recently launched ‘Lagnachi Bedi’, I would say that it is a revival of old hit Marathi play written by Acharya Atre. I am playing a negative character of Timir, which was earlier performed by renowned actors like Ramesh Bhatkar and Sanjay Mone.

Q: How do you manage your schedule with two ongoing plays simultaneously ?
A: In our Marathi entertainment industry, right from the producer to actor, everybody tries to manage time. Therefore, making adjustment is no problem.

Q: What else, besides these two plays ?
A: I am playing lead role in a forthcoming marathi film ‘Lathi’, shooting of which is nearing completion. Unfortunately, due to sad demise of our director Sanjay Surkar, the shooting is held up for the time being. I am not doing serials at the moment. But, would certainly consider good roles in Films and dramas.

Q: You have worked in all the three areas of acting, i.e. Drama, TV serials and Films. Where are you more comfortable ?
A; I am comfortable with all the three areas of acting, as I was close to each one of them.

Shivani Surve, Actress
Interviews

I enjoy playing cute bubbly characters- Shivani Surve

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Today she is known as ‘Devyani’ among all Marathi TV viewers, because of her title role in Star Pravah’s popular serial ‘Devyani’. But, for Shivani Surve, it’s not her debut in entertainment field, as before this serial, she has done three Hindi TV serials namely, ‘Phulwa’, ‘Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo’ and ‘Navya’, offering her roles, suited to her teenage, at that time.

Shivani Surve, ActressIn fact, Shivani made her debut in films, at the little age of seven, when she played the main lead role in a Bhojpuri film ‘Ganga Mili Sagar Se’. It was after that she performed in a Marathi drama ‘Mangalayacha Lena’ and then joined a Hindi theatre Group ‘Karma Kala Manch’, which opened doors for her entry into Hindi serials.

As a child, Shivani spent her childhood days in Dombivali and only 5 years ago the family shifted to Sion, Mumbai. While Shivani was doing her serial ‘Navya’ she had to give time for her 12th std exams and had to quit the serial. But, little before that she was suggested to give audition for a Marathi serial. It was always the wish of Shivani’s mother that she should act in a Marathi serial and the opportunity came, when Shivani was selected to play for this title role in ‘Devyani’.

Reacting to her selection in this Marathi serial, Shivani says that she is now happy to receive appreciation from the people of Maharashtra, after becoming popular in places like Bihar and North India, performing those Bhojpuri type of roles in Hindi.

Speaking about Devyani’s character in particular, Shivani says, “This character of Devayani only knows how to be good to all with her polite nature. She is not the rough and tough type of girl. She follows the principles passed on to her by her father. Initially, Devayani’s marriage is fixed with a Doctor; but Samrat steps in and breaks it. It was due to pressure mounting on my family, I get married to Samrat and become a part of his family, comprising of head person- Sarjerao Vikhe Patil and his elder daughter in law Vatsala, played by Saie Ranade Sane. And the latest developments are being watched by you all.”

Simple and frank in the discussion, Shivani admitted that there was a lot of hard work, while completing her 12th standard, which she completed through correspondence course and then appearing for the exams; besides continuing with her acting assignments. When asked as to what type of roles she enjoyed playing the most, she said, “I am more comfortable playing cute bubbly character, the kind of I played in Star TV’s serial ‘Navya.”

It was a pleasure talking to this talented actress, for whom ‘sky is the limit’. Marathi Movie world wishes her a bright future.

Spruha Joshi
Interviews

Besides acting, I love to compose poems – Spruha Joshi

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Spruha Joshi is a popular name in Marathi entertainment. At present, she is in full form with two of her plays ‘Never Mind’ and ‘Lahanpan Dega Deva’ inviting all the attention from Marathi stage lovers. Through her role in ongoing TV serial ‘Eka Lagnachi Doosri Goshta’, she has made her presence felt. On big screen, we saw her dashing role in Avadhoot Gupte’s film ‘Morya’ opposite Santosh Juvekar. Marathi Movie World spoke to Spruha, to know more about her achievements in this field.

Spruha Joshi
Q: How and when your acting career took off ?
A: It all began during my childhood. While I was studying in Balmohan Vidyamandir, Vidya Patwardhan was my arts teacher. Having contributed a lot to children’s theatre, she was instrumental in developing me and others towards acting. While doing a one act play ‘Natukli’ for school, she was involved in production of a serial ‘De Dhamaal’ for Alpha Marathi channel. I was in 7th standard at that time, when I made my first commercial debut as a child artiste. This was followed by my performances in ‘Ek Ha Asa Dhaga Sukhacha’, ‘Aabhalmaya’, ‘Bombay lawyers( NDTV) and ‘Satyamev Jayate’.

After joining Ruia College, I performed in one act play ‘Ga Ma Bha Na’ followed by Gajendra Ahire’s ‘Maaybaap’, which was my film debut. During my college days, I performed in many one act plays, acted in popular serial ‘Agnihotra’ and film ‘Morya’.

Q: Tell us something about your roles in ‘Lahanpan Dega Devaa’ and ‘Never Mind’.
A: My character in ‘Lahanpan Dega Devaa’ is of a moody mischievous college girl Sharayu from a upper middle class family of 60s era. This character is very cute and typical of her age, who shares close friendly relationship with her sister-in-law. In ‘Never Mind’, I play an equally important and challenging character of Smita, a young girl, who has just entered Media and Advertising field. She unknowingly falls in love with her Boss, while sharing advice on different issues. It’s all fun, to see it happen.

Q: Your character of Kuhoo in ‘Eka Lagnachi Doosri Goshta’ is also inviting attention. Tell us something about this role.
A: There is no doubt about the popularity of this serial. But, the character of Kuhoo is also has its own importance. It’s a nice role of a young girl, who is mischievous, friendly and emotionally attached to all family members. She is a poet and communicates very philosophically with others. People are discussing about her habits. That’s the strength of this role.

Q: What are your other interests, besides acting?
A: I spend time in writing. I just love to compose poems. In 2008 my first set of poems got published. Now, I am working on one more.

Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming projects.
A: As I have already mentioned, I am presently focusing on my ongoing two plays and one serial. All these roles are different and have variety. As regards big screen, I am performing in Ramesh More’s forthcoming film ‘Sur Rahoo De’.

Thanks Spruha. Wishing you all the best.

Ila Bhate
Interviews

Success can be achieved through hard work and patience – Ila Bhate

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Twenty five years ago, she was running her own science laboratory in Mumbai after doing her graduation with Microbiology and acquiring a Post Graduate Diploma in Laboratory management. But, at that stage, she felt that she was not meant for this job. The glamorous field of acting invited her attention. And that’s how Ila Bhate turned an actress, with her first commercial appearance through Marathi play ‘Apradhi’. Today, she is the popular stage and TV actress. With the success of ongoing productions ‘U Turn’ and ‘Eka Lagnachi Doosri Goshta’, Ila has found the place in the heart of stage and Home TV lovers. Marathi Movie World spoke to this talented actress, who has devoted herself to the field of acting for a little more than 25 years now. Excerpts from the interview:

Ila BhateQ: Who encouraged you to take up career in acting ?
A: At a time, when I could not focus on my lab work; my husband realized that my attention was somewhere else. He had spotted the talent in me; during the debates, where I took active interest. With his support, I just tried my acting skills through Arun Johglekar’s marathi play ‘Apradhi‘.

Q: Was that your acting debut ?
A: yes, you may call it so; as I had never acted at professional level before that. Our entire team comprising of Pradeep Velankar, Sunil Shende, Ramakant Deshpande, Mohan Munge, Rajani Velankar and others were from our Vile parle area. I had a small role, but it was effective one. Soon after that in 1989, I had a role to play in a film ‘Vazir’ starring Ashwini Bhave, Vikram Gokhale & Ashok Saraf. In the year 2000, I made my debut on television through DD’s popular serial ‘Damini‘.

Q: In the recent past your play ‘U Turn’ has received a grand success. What you have to say about that ?
A: The success of ‘U Turn’ is its team work. Like the way, a good recipe is planned with proportionate ingredients for a tempting dish; the excellent team work worked in favour of this play. Actually, Anand Mhasvekar had very cleverly presented this subject based on friendship between two opposite sex people in the second half of the life. Mr. Govind Chavan dared to produce this play on a different subject and our theatre audience and critics welcomed it. I would say that the hard work put in by two of us and the technical team was supported by destiny, to attain success.

Q: According to you, how important is the timing and response of the co-artistes ?
A: I always try to attain comfort level with my co-artistes. Be it the mother-son, Husband-wife, Mother-daughter relationship; I am always at ease. It is always necessary to react with required expressions or body language, when the other artiste is delivering his or her dialogues. This helps in making the play or serial popular, with your indirect participation. I don’t perform for my own self; but for the effective presentation of that scene involving others in my presence. I have been fortunate to work with comfort, in the company of popular actors like Vikram Gokhale, Dilip Prabhavalkar, Mohan Joshi, Dr. Girish Oak, Ashok Saraf, Ramesh Bhatkar & Sanjay Mone,

Q: Do you think that training at acting workshops, help in building a career in this field?
A: I wouldn’t like to comment on acting workshops. According to me, acting needs to be in your blood; but, you need to brush up that talent. Success of Workshops will depend upon the capacity of the trainee. The purpose of attending the workshop should not be to attain quick results. There is a lot of hard work is required with patience, while learning other technical matters besides acting. Success will come, but a lot of word work and dedication is required for the same.

Q: Say something about your ongoing popular serial ‘Eka Lagnachi Doosri Goshta’ .?
A: Here again, it’s a good team work. Thanks to Shrirang Godbole, Chinmay Mandlekar and Rajiv Patil, the people behind the screen. But, I would specially like to mention about Lata Ravindra, who has penned the dialogues. Each one of us is so much involved with this serial that we enjoy every moment during the shooting. And that is the success story of this serial.

Q: Among the recently released Marathi films, which one in particular, invited your attention?
A: I like the film ‘Kaksparsha’. It is a well presented film, which takes you almost into that era of pre independence. It has a story, which is serious with tragic end; but that was necessary to respect the original story. All the artistes have given their best performances. The other two films, which have invited my attention are ‘Masala’ and ‘Khel Mandala’; but I have yet to watch them.

Hemalata Bane
Interviews

My selection for ‘Lavu Ka Lath’ was itself a memorable moment – Hemlata Bane

Aside

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. YouHemalata Baner 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.