Asides

Manisha Kelkar, Sai tamhankar

Pushkar Jog – Making his Mission Possible

10 years ago, he was a child artiste, having won the state award for his performance in his home production ‘Raju’. Eight years later, he made his debut through Mahesh Kothare’s film ‘Zabardast’ and a new star was born. Pushkar Jog, in spite of the success of ‘Zabardast’ did not receive as much response as expected from the traditional film makers. But, the dancing star with multi talent, did not sit quiet. He performed on TV in a reality show- ‘Maharashtracha Nach Baliye’ and went on to prove that he was a star to be reckoned.

Pushkar Jog, ActorPushkar accepted a TV serial ‘Vachan Dile Tu Mala’ and also proved his acting talents through a role that was filled with emotions. Besides that he also performed in a prominent role in Bollywood film ‘EMI Liya Hai to Chukana Padega’ along with Sanjay Dutt and others. In the meanwhile, his own film ‘Satya’ based on social awareness, was also released. Two of his Marathi films in lead role ‘Mission Possible’and ‘Dhoom To Dhaamaal ‘and a Hindi film, ‘Don’t worry Be Happy’ are set for early releases.

For the past few months, Pushkar was busy with his home production ‘Mission Possible’. Besides playing the lead opposite Saie Tamhankar and Manisha Kelkar, Pushkar will also be directing this film. He has also given his own voice for a song in the film. This will be a big budget film and Pushkar has worked very hard for his home production, as per the repots coming in from his co -artistes.

Marathi film industry need to change the look to suit the modern times and with due respect to all those great film makers for the past 104 years, I have taken up this challenge, says Pushkar confidently.  When I meet some of my college friends, they always say that there is no Hrithik or Shahid style of heroes in Marathi and hence they don’t feel like watching Marathi films. I want to change the perception of these youths about Marathi cinema. Watch the song picturisation in Ladakh and you will surely notice the change,he adds.

Manisha Kelkar, Sai tamhankarMarketing and distribution play a very important role for the success of a Marathi film, hence Pushkar has opted for Percept Pictures, to distribute his film. With their own creative ideas, he is very much sure about their marketing strategy during film’s promotion, which begins 15 days before the film’s release (15th July), which is also the birthday of Pushkar. I expect a new audience, besides the regular film goers, in the form of youths for this film and to achieve that I will be personally touring different places of Maharashtra along with Percept team. says Pushkar.

While shooting this film, Pushkar hasn’t compromised on his budget, wherever the situation demanded for additional expenditure. He has shot a song in picturesque Ladakh, where no Marathi film has been shot so far. The film is an action packed thriller, which is very uncommon in Marathi films. One thing is sure that Pushkar certainly has a surprise package for all through his ambitious venture Mission Possible which itself speaks about his positive attitude through the title. “Percept Pictures who are marketing and distributing this film, are also confident about the success of this film. This film would not only be well appreciated by the masses but also be a trendsetter taking the Marathi Film Industry altogether to a new high.” says their marketing executive.

Rewinding to his childhood, Pushkar was a great fan of dancing stars like Govinda and Mithun Chakraborthy and did almost 200 stage shows, until popular Actor-film maker Sachin Pilgaonkar spotted him and offered him roles in the films ‘Azmaish’ and ‘Aisi Bhi Kya Jaldi hai’ directed by him. He also casted him in his TV serial ‘TuTu Main Main’. Pushkar also played as child artiste in Nana Patekar- Rishi Kapoor starrer film ‘Hum Dono’; after which his father Dr. Prof. Suhas Jog launched him in their home production ‘Raju’. It was for this film that Pushkar received his first state award as a child actor.

After ‘Raju’, there was eight years of break for Pushkar, who concentrated on his education and even completed his Dentistry. But, as someone has said, Destiny has other plans.
Pushkar was back into acting with ‘Jabardast’. Today, he is on his own; all set to offer his own ideas and creativity through ‘Mission Possible.’

This year has been mixed with ups and downs. It began well with the great success through ‘Maharashtracha Nach Baliye’ but soon thereafter I lost my beloved father, who was always there behind me like a true motivator. My parents always offered a great support to me, whenever I needed it. The release of ‘Mission Possible’ is like paying tributes to my dear father, he concludes, a little before he starts his promotion campaign. Hard work and determination always pays dividends.

MMW wishes Pushkar all the best and rates him the ‘Star of the Month’.

Priya Bapat Kama

Priya Bapat, Actress

What is your role in forthcoming film ‘Anandi Anand’?
I play a simple girl from Konkan, who is interested in music but is married to a boy in Mumbai. She loves to stay in her Konkan village rather than coming to the big city Mumbai. It’s a very interesting role with lots of shades in it.

Priya Bapat KamaHow was your experience, working with other artistes?
It was a great fun and I could learn so many things from the experienced senior actors like Suhas Joshi, Vikram Gokhale, Vandana Gupte, Mohan Joshi and others . I had only worked with Vandanatai before but all these seniors made me comfortable and took good care of me at the beautiful Konkan locations where we shot for 22 days. It was really a great experience.

But, the film’s release has been delayed. Any particular reason ?
I don’t think so, because various aspects like post-production, publicity, and distribution strategies needed to be worked out before the release of the film and that takes time.

Your serial ‘Shubham Karoti’ on Zee Marathi is also being appreciated. Your reaction:
Yes, I am so happy that my character of a girl who strives to keep her joint family together from breaking, after facing lots of problems; has been scripted well. There is a lot to my share to perform in this serial with a very hectic schedule.

Your ‘item’ song in ‘Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy’ was a hit. Will you accept more such songs?
First of all, let me clarify that the song in ‘Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy’ was not an item number but a song shot for a film into the film, where I play an actress. But I will keep my options open to ‘item’ songs. If I like the song and the set-up, I will definitely do such a song.

What’s coming up next ?
Nothing Yet. I have a role in Deepak Balraj Vij’s film produced by Kishori Shahane.

Girish pardeshi

‘Playing Karna’ is like a dream come true. Girish Pardeshi

Whether it was playing a comedy in ‘Foreignchi Patlin’, performing in a serious type of film ‘Marmabandh’ or dancing at the TV reality show- ‘Maharashtracha Nach Baliye’; Girish Pardeshi has proved that he is gifted with multi talent. No wonder, he has been a perfect choice to play the lead role of ‘Karna’ in forthcoming Mythological mega serial ‘Mrityunjay’, which will be telecast on Mi Marathi channel soon. We have seen ‘Mahabharat’ in Hindi but not the required scope has been given to the character of Karna, which is so important in this popular epic.

Girish pardeshiIn marathi literature, we have two popular books written on this great warrior namely- ‘Mrityunjay’ and ‘Radhye’ written by eminent writers Shivaji Sawant and Ranjit Desai respectively. And fortunately, this mega serial ‘Mrityunjay’ is a combination of both these books, taking the form of its audio visual version.

Being made under the banner of Sagar Pictures, ‘Mrityunjay’ is directed by Santosh Deodhar with the camerawork by Mohan Naidu. Both of them having worked on big TV projects in Hindi like- ‘Sai Baba’, ‘Ramayan’ and ‘Prithviraj Chauhan’, this serial is going to be a big visual treat for Marathi audience. The shooting of this serial is presently going on in Baroda at the Sagar Film city and the first episode will be telecast on 18th May 2010 at Prime time.

MMW called up Girish Pardeshi just before the release of this serial to find out his reaction and he was more than happy to share his thoughts. “It was always my dream to play a popular character from mythology and with this role of Karna, my dream has come true. I was very much excited, when my selection was done to play this role two months ago.
At present, I am required to shoot some of the outdoor scenes with the mercury touching its highest level in Baroda, but in that get-up of Karna, I get so much involved that it makes me forget about the scorching heat. Getting an opportunity for horse riding, exercising the skills using bow and arrow and battling with the Gada is a great experience and I am enjoying every moment of it.” says Girish.

At present Girish has focused his attention on this serial, after completing his three films ‘Gargi’, ‘Viparit’, and ‘Niruttar’ which are also due for release. So, watch out for Girish in days to come.

Sandeep Kulkarni

“I love to perform variety of roles” – Sandeep Kulkarni

If you look at his educational background, he is supposed to be the most creative person in the Marathi film world. Having done his graduation from Mumbai’s illustrious educational institution – Sir J J school of Arts, Sandeep Kulkarni opted for advertising field and later switched over to acting profession , which is also another art form. Today, he is the most popular actor of Marathi movies.

Sandeep Kulkarni Pratisaad

Beginning his film career with Bollywood stalwarts like Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani through their films ‘Mammo’ and ‘Hazaar Courasi ki Maa’ respectively , Sandeep Kulkarni first took lessons from acting guru Satyadev Dube at the most appropriate time, under whose guidance he could then progress confidently. In late 80s he began his stage career with plays like ‘Majha Khel Mandu De’ and ‘Dhyani Mani’. Besides few Bollywood movies, he was also seen in popular Hindi TV serials like ‘Discovery of India’, ‘9 Malabar Hill’, and ‘Nyay’. But, his entry into popular Marathi serial ‘Avantika’ actually brought him into limelight. He was soon offered the role of Dr. Sane in a Marathi film ‘Shwaas’, which not only won the national award but was India’s entry for the Oscars.

In fact, film ‘Shwaas’ of which Sandeep was a major part, had actually brought in that desired change into Marathi films. And, good days were here for Sandeep, who was spotted as the perfect character to play angry young man of Marathi films to fight injustice in the society. Mr. Apte came as a tailor made role for his kind of personality in the film ‘Dombivali Fast’ made by award winning director Nishikant Kamat. Later, Sandeep went on to be part of films like ‘Bedhund’, ‘Mai Baap’,’Made in China and ‘Sane Guruji’ but his performance in action packed thriller ‘Gaiir’ also went on to prove that he was an actor par excellence, fit to perform any kind of role.

In 2008, Sandeep received the best actor award during Nigerian Film festival for his role in ‘Ek Daav Sansaracha’ Earlier in 2006 , he had won the popular Screen Award for best actor in ‘Dombivali Fast’. In fact, ‘Dombivali Fast’ was the film which also received attention at many international film festivals but the best compliment came from Los Angeles Film festival, when Michael Douglas appreciated the film. If you study his profile, most of his films have been part of international film festivals.

Being very particular about accepting the roles based on not only good script but good cinematic presentation in the screenplay, he is now all set to invite attention of his admirers through his forthcoming film ‘Pratisaad’ which is due for release on 21st May 2010. In this film Sandeep plays a Homeopathy doctor. The script is based on the success story of a popular Homeopath Dr. Amarendra Nikam from Pimpri, Pune. He is also playing an important role of a Muslim character in next Bollywood film ‘Bandaa‘.

In an interview to Marathi Movie World, Sandeep Kulkarni speaks about his acting career and future assignments.

Q: You have been branded as the angry young man of Marathi films, who cannot stand to injustice in the society. Does the real Sandeep also react in the same fashion?
A: – ( Smile). Yes, to a certain extent, but I don’t express my anger that spontaneously, as I did through different roles in films. Like any other common man, I too dislike certain disturbing acts of people, who take others for granted. One has to respect the law and behave like a sensible citizen.

Q: How much is your involvement in your film, besides acting ?
A: I totally get involved right from the shooting till the film is distributed. The involvement also depends upon my personal relationship with the film makers. If I am close to them, then you will even find me helping them in their ad campaign. This is where my original profession comes into operation. And, I enjoy doing that job too, which is full of creativity. In my past film ‘Gaiir’ and the forthcoming film ‘Pratisaad’ my involvement has been there in the ad campaign too .

Q: You have been very choosy about your roles. Does the story and the role offered to you matter a lot ?
A: It is not only the story and role offered, but what I am more particular about is the presentation of screenplay. Unfortunately, today not many Marathi and Hindi film makers are paying attention to screenplay, which is the heart of the film. If your screenplay is good, you are sure to catch attention of the audience and hold them back to their seats from start till end. I really get inspired when I see the work of late Vijay Tendulkar through the screenplays written by him. With limitations during his time, he was so perfect in his presentation on paper.

Ashwini Bhave

Ashwini Bhave , Interview

A Philosophy graduate, A well known actress in Hindi and Marathi movies, a writer and now a producer, well that’s a small list of Ashwini’s achievements till now.

Ashwini BhaveAshwini’s acting careers began with the Marathi drama ‘Gaganbhedi’. She debuted with ‘Shabbas Sunbai’ into movie industry and later established herself as a successful actress with hits movies like ‘Ashi hi Banava Banavi’, ‘Kalat Nakalat’ and ‘Aahuti’. She also acted in TV serials Rau, Sainik, Bandhan and Bhairavi. Her entry into Hindi movie industry wasn’t a small affair. Her performance in R.K banner’s ‘Heena’ impressed everyone. Ashwini has received best actress awards from Govt. of Maharashtra for her performance in ‘Aahuti’ and for the role in drama ‘Purush’ (Hindi).

But Ashwini suddenly disappeared from the screen and now, after an absence of 10 Ashwini-Bhave
years, she has returned with a bang!!! This time she is not just the actress but the producer too.

Q: What exactly inspired you to make a film?
A: Well, after marriage , I went to America and got busy with my family, but the actor inside me was disturbing me somewhere. That’s why I did a 4 yrs degree course in ‘Motion Film and Television’ from California University in 2002. As a part of final year project, I prepared a documentary film on Warali Art named “Warali Art & Culture” which was shown in MIFF (Mumbai International Film Festival) 2002. This gave me a confidence me that I can make a film, And I think that’s what lead me to produce ‘Kadachit’.

Q: What did you experience while working as a co-producer?
A: In every field you experience something good and something bad. In fact the idea of this film emerged form our chit-chatting with Chandrakant Kulkarni and Girish Joshi. But soon after I realized that it is very hard to materialize ideas into reality.
As a co-producer, I realised that film production is a team work and not only producer’s responsibility. Each and every stage of production i.e.- Pre Production – Production – Post Production is important and the persons working on that particular stage are of prime most importance. Right from spot boy to actor, editor, sound recordist, cameraman, director…Well, this is only about production team. Once you get sensor certificate the focus changes. Now the responsibility is shifted to distributors, theatre owners, designers and production managers. The most important thing is right from the first moment of the creation to the end of the work, it is producer’s responsibility to keep harmony and zeal of the work among the team members. When it comes to production money matters and I think that there should not be any compromise about finance if you really want to do something to the perfection. Fortunately, I had dedicated team members who worked hard and gave their best.
Q:What is most challenging ? Acting, Writing or Production?
A: You cant say specifically, because everything has its own challenges they give you satisfaction of working. We should learn to take these things as a challenge then it becomes more exciting. It’s important to be honest to yourself.
In acting, the director tells you what to do and what not. You get your compensation and that’s it. Same is the case with writing. But as a Producer, you cant just release your film and stay away as you are emotionally involved in that particular creation. Its all up to audience how they respond.

Q: Any special reason for selecting Chandrakant Kulkarni as a Director of ‘Kadachit’?
A: As I told you before the storyline arose form our discussion with him. Besides, he has given several silver jubilee films like ‘Bindhast‘, ‘Bhet‘, ‘Kay dyacha Bola‘. He has directed around 60 marathi plays. He is simply one of the best directors today. I would like to give him full credit for completing my film within 22 days and that’s not a small deed.

Q: Tell us about your role in ‘Kadachit’.
A: This the story of a modern woman, who is a caring mother, wife and a Neuro-surgeon. It’s about how she confronts the problems arising form her past and present. It was really a challenging role. But, I am think that I have done justice to the character despite being away from acting for 10yrs.

It’s a song less movie as there was no point in thrusting song unnecessarily. Amar Mohile’s inscrutable music would really give you an edge of the seat excitement.

nana-patekar-salaam-photo

The one and only one…. Nana Patekar

nana-patekar-salaam-photo

Born as Vishwanath Patekar on the 1st day of the year in Murud – Janjira, Maharashtra, he perhaps indicated that he was born to lead others. Nana, as he is popularly known, is a very common name in Maharashtrian families, but Vishwanath alias Nana Patekar turned out to be a different person with tremendous creativity hidden within his self. He found an opportunity to explore his talent when he joined Mumbai’s J.J. School of Arts. Those days, for a commercial artist, it was not a well paying job. So, Nana switched over to another creative job of acting. He performed on stage and soon became a popular performer with his spontaneous reactions through body language supported by his rich dialogue delivery.

It did take some time for him to establish himself in this field and then started receiving offers also from films. His negative role as a local politician, who rapes a social activist in the popular Marathi play ‘Purush’ invited the attention of Bollywood personalities and Nana soon landed in Hindi films, demanding meaty roles well suited to his image. Muzaffar Ali, B.R. Chopra and N. Chandra gave him the recognition of an actor, with suitable roles and thereafter there was no stopping for this talented actor. There was a time, when he demanded almost the same amount that was paid to some of the heroes of the films. But, then he deserved it. Nana was very choosy about the roles and gave his 100% in whatever role he played. Whether it was standing opposite bigwigs like Raaj Kumar or Amitabh Bachchan, he always made his own impression on the screen.

In the year 2001 Nana was back on stage and even attempted the Hindi version of ‘Purush’ with Ayesha Jhulka playing the social activist. He also played a different character in a Marathi film ‘Pak Pak Pakak’, which only he could have played. Some of his films like ‘Krantiveer’ ‘Gulaam E Mustafa’, ‘Agnisakshi’, ‘Khamoshi’, ‘Yashwant’, ‘Hum Dono’, ‘Apharan’ and ‘Ab Tak Chhappan’ fully exploited his potential as an actor. Watching him in the recently released films like ‘Welcome’ and ‘Raajniti’ clearly shows how an actor can make his presence felt in every scene of which he is part of. Nana has that ability to pull the crowds at the theatres, with his name in the cast of the film. Now that he will be back to Marathi cinema, is itself a good news for all of us. Everybody is eagerly awaiting for his film ‘Natasamraat’ which has been announced by Mahesh Manjrekar, with Nana playing the title role. At least, it will help to draw big attendance for Marathi cinema.
When you ask Nana for an interview, he would always say, “What interview yaar, asech Gappa maru”. It is very difficult to extract many things from his intelligent mind. But, one thing is very clear that he is very frank and honest to himself. In the past, he was asked about his favourite film and Nana had taken the name of ‘Gulaam-E-Mustafa’. “I liked the script of Mangesh Kulkarni,” he had said. Nana’s memory is simply amazing. He may forget the name of the person, but he would perfectly recollect the place and period of last meeting with that person. There are so many people whom he has helped and his donations to charity are known to all.

Today, he is a contented person, having earned sufficient for his simple living and has received honours with the top awards in the film industry. Instead of living a stress filled life in the city of Mumbai, he has preferred to live a simple life in Pune, growing vegetables at his farm house. It is only for shooting schedules, he makes himself available in city. Staying aloof from crowded places, perhaps, gives him happiness. But, that does not mean that he is cut off from his social responsibility of expressing his opinion in this democratic country. Many a times, he reacts sharply in a humourous way, giving his frank opinion to the media from time to time, about rise in corruption and other social issues. And, that really shows, how much he is socially aware about the ill effects of corruption on the society. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. And, Nana is certainly doing his bit.

Marathi Movie world take this opportunity to wish him a very happy birthday which coincides with the opening of the new year.

Dilip Prabhavalkar

Dilip Prabhwalkar, Actor, Writer

Dilip Prabhavalkar is playing multiple role in his upcoming film ‘Bokya Satbande’ which is releasing on 17th April. As a story writer, screenplay writer, Dialogue writer and an actor he is going to make sure that its totally a Dilip Prabhavalkar’s movie. This is a chit-chat with him on his upcoming flick.

Dilip PrabhavalkarBokya Satbande is on the verge of release….how are you feeling? How did the idea come up of making a movie?
Ohhh, it feels great and gives enormous pleasure….actually Bokya Sathbande has come a long way through from different mediums in all these years. At that time I had written bsb for radio. I had even played a character in that – of Bokya’s father. It became very popular, especially among the children. Then Rajhauns Publication approached me to write in a book form wherein three editions of books were published and were loved by children enormously. People say that children don’t like to read but I don’t think so…the simple reason being that now ‘bokya‘ has released its 11th edition and will come up with 12th edition soon, just because children love to read it. Then, it was produced on television medium in 13 parts, which is still remembered.

Q. How will you describe the character of Bokya?
Bokya is a normal child like other children- very smart, mischievous, playful….but still he lives in his own world and has some urge to help others within his reach.

Q. How was the cast of ‘Bokya’ finalised and Aryaman, (Sanjay Narvakar’s son) selected?
For casting, I will give this credit to producer, director and executive director….I have done the dialogue ,screenplay and the story but rest all was their lookout…..as such I feel it is always a director’s movie.

Q. Have to made any changes in the story for the movie?
Yes…definitely. I had made some changes to suit the 70 mm screen…There are in all 25 short stories, so we have made attempt to cover maximum in the movie.
Bokya Saatbande Since you have written the story, didn’t you feel like directing it?
(Smiles) No…not at all. As such, it is not my piece of cake…I am an actor and a writer.. Yes, but I have tried it once, when I did ‘Hasva Fasvi’ drama. It was written as well as directed by me, besides acting.

How was the experience during shooting…any memorable moment?
It was fun altogether…It was almost like my own journey with this story passing through various mediums and I always enjoyed working with the children. In the past, I have done children dramas and I always loved to work with them.

Now, talking about Hindi films…Paheli, Risk, Lage Raho Munnabhai, Sarkar Raj…your fan following has increased. It was nothing as such that I got attracted to Hindi film industry. But yes, It was a different experience. As such , people may not be knowing that I am the same person, who played all these different characters. I got l recognition when I received National Award for Gandhi’s role in ‘Lage Raho Munnabhai’.

How much important are awards for you?
When any one says that I don’t believe in awards..Its all false. Everyone one likes to be rewarded for their work. It is actually an appreciation that you receive from public for your work. It really makes you happy. But, I like being awarded for my literary work more than my acting. I was so happy when I received an award for ‘Bokya Sathbande’ book in January, when I was shooting for this movie.

Madhurani Gokhale, Actress

Madhurani Gokhale Prabhulkar – Interview

Madhurani Gokhale, Actress

A popular model, a committed actress, a successful TV programme host, a singer , a music director and above all an expert in communication skills ; that’s how this multi-faceted personality can be described in Marathi entertainment field. Right from the age of 16, Madhurani Gokhale Prabhulkar was keen on taking up acting career and accordingly worked in that direction. Born in Bhusaval, but brought up in Pune, the cultural hub of Maharashtra, Madhurani showed the signs of acting talent while studying in S.P. College, Pune. She was so much focused into this profession that for the most prestigious Purshottam Karandak competition, her own scripted and presented play ‘SeeSaw’ won the best play award.

One of the judges- director Sanjay Pawar, who witnessed her talent during this competition, recommended her name to Kanchan Nayak the Producer and Madhurani got her first major break in ‘Indradhanush.’ In the meanwhile, she completed her Mass Communications from Pune University and married her friend Pramod Prabhulkar, only to start their own company Miracles, which is today involved into courses in film making. Madhurani handles the workshops for TV ads. Together, they have already produced one sensible film ‘Goad Gupit’ in 2003, in which Madhurani played a cameo along with Aadesh Bandekar. As an actress, she also has to her credit one successful stage play- ‘Tumcha Aamcha Same Astaa’.

As a singer we have witnessed her skills in the celebrity programme ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’; and then as a music composer, she received her first major break in Vrinda Kirodian’s film ‘Sunder Majhe Ghar’ for which top singers like Sadhana Sargam and Shreya Ghoshal were also involved, only because of Madhurani, who could convince them. There was no stopping for a versatile person like Madhurani in this media, as she was already a successful model. With her excellent communication skills, she became a triumphant TV host with the popular match making programme ‘Yanda kartavya Aahe’, in which she had the distinction of making 48 marriages come true.

Today, Madhurani handles one more popular programme ‘Hich Majhi Maitrin’ for E-TV in the afternoon, interviewing celebrities from Marathi entertainment industry. Producer of this programme Madhavi has shown confidence in her ability as a programme host and Madhurani is doing her job very well. With some spontaneous questions posed to the celebrities, she makes each one of them very comfortable, while they narrate some of their most memorable moments. In one of the episodes , Madhurani literally made veteran actress Swati Chitnis recollect her good old memories and hardships as a newly wedded wife. Sometimes, in a day’s time, she has to handle different celebrities, but with proper home work, she is able to manage the programme well, many a times without cuts.

When Marathi Movie world spoke to Madhurani to know the secret of her success, the talented actress recalled her childhood days and her deep interest in improvising her communication skills. “I just love to communicate with people. Communication is my forte. It is for this reason, today I am taking classes for TV ads through workshops, where those interested in becoming models are trained. I am glad to tell you that from the previous batch, many have been benefited with this training. During my days as a struggler in Modeling profession, whatever I have experienced, I am sharing with the participants. And, it is helping them a lot,” says Madhurani.

When asked about her future plans, she said that her husband was busy writing a script for his next film, but does not know, whether there will be a role for her in that film. “But, being a home production, I will be associated with it in some way or the other” she added. Madhurani’s wish is to bring out a music album for children with a collection of good meaningful poems. “May be, through this effort I will be able to pass on much needed moral values to the next generation” she concluded.

Rujuta Deshmukh, Actress

“Working with Amitji, was a memorable moment” – Rujuta Deshmukh

Charming, self assured and talented are some of the adjectives one can use for Rujuta Deshmukh, who has been able to establish her own identity in today’s competitive world. Acting has already been in her blood, being born in the family who owned a drama company in Pune. Her father Avinash Deshmukh, who owned a theatre company, gave Rujuta her first break as a child artiste, when she was studying in 4th standard. Rujuta then played the role of Rajaram, in the historical play ‘Raigadala Jhevha Jaag Yete’. This was followed by roles in Marathi films like ‘Nashibvaan’, ‘Ek Gadi Baki Anadi’ and many others as a child artiste. In short, she has worked in the company of popular artistes like Alka Kubal and likes. Rujuta is a graduate with English Literature from Pune’s prestigious S.P. College, which is also known as a temple of Marathi artistes. Having performed at various Inter school and collegiate competitions, Rujuta was actively associated with GRIPS theatre. She got her first major break through Vinay Apte in the most popular serial ‘Abhalmaya’ and since then she has never looked back.

Rujuta Deshmukh, Actress

Her memorable performance in another popular serial ‘Kalat Nakalat’ and her emotion filled role of a blind girl in another serial ‘Goshta Eka Anandichi’ goes on to say a lot about her potential as an actress. Two years ago, she has also proved her dancing skills in a TV reality show, suggesting that as an actress, she was ready for all challenges. Rujuta took time off to have a chit chat with Marathi Movie world. Excerpts from the chit chat.

Q: What are your memories about ‘Abhalmaya’, your first major exposure on small screen?
A: Yes, it was a great moment, which is very difficult to describe in words. Being a part of this popular soap on a popular private channel, gave a nice feeling. I cannot forget that character of Pallavi.

Q: You were also part of another popular serial ‘Damini’. How was that feeling ?
A: Again it was a happy moment to be a part of this big serial and playing Dr. Esha in the concluding part and that too in the company of great stars like Sanjay Mone , Sukanya, Uday Sabnis and others.

Q: You have also worked in one big banner Hindi film. Isn’t it ?
A: Yes, it was in Rajkumar Santoshi’s film ‘Family’.

Q: Wasn’t that a great experience too? How were you selected for that role?
A: Yes, it was a memorable moment in my life and also wonderful experience to be part of this film, as there was also good scope for my character, being an important member of a Sahai family. About playing this role, he just spoke to me and asked about my availability. And, that’s how I was selected. I was literally thrilled, as I had to perform few scenes also with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan.

Q: How was your personal experience, working with a big star like him ?
A: He is a great actor and hence getting a chance to perform with him itself was a great moment in my life. After I gave my first day shot, I went and sat in one corner watching some of his scenes filled with emotions. He was simply a master in that. After his shot, I never noticed him going into his vanity van. Instead he sat on one side, watching others perform. That displayed his modesty. But, when I crossed him in the corridor during the break, he addressed me with my first name and exchanged pleasantries. I was overwhelmed with this gesture from a great actor like him.

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.