Asides

Inspiring ‘Double Seat’ shows the way to young dreamers

Aside 15 August, 2015 Ullhas Shirke

Rating: ★★★ ½
Studio/presenter: Essel Vision
Producer: Ranjit Gugle, Anish Jog
Director: Sameer Vidwans
Writer, Screenplay : Kshitij Patwardhan, Sameer Vidwans
Music: Hrishikesh, Saurabh, Jasraj
Director of Photography: Arjun Sarote
Editor: Charu Shree Roy
Genres: Drama
Censor: U/A
Duration: 120 Min.
Cast: Ankush Chaudhari, Mukta Barve, VIdyadhar Joshi, Vandana Gupte, Sandeep Pathak, Shubhankar Tawde, aarti wadgabalkar, Pushkar Shrotri;
Review by: Ulhas Shirke

Mumbai chawl life is not new to Marathi films. But, to make the entire film on the backdrop of a chawl, is always challenging. Way back in 1970 filmmaker Raja Thakur first depicted the chawl culture of Mumbai, through his film, ‘Mumbaicha Javai’ starring Arun Sarnaik, Ratnamala, Surekha Kudchi & Sharad Talwalkar. Then, inspired by this film Basu Chatterjee made ‘Piya Ka Ghar,’ starring Anil Dhavan & Jaya Bhaduri ( Now, Bachchan) which was a remake of this Marathi film. Then, in 2003, we saw Mahesh Manjrekar making a Hindi film based on Mumbai chawl culture.

Now, director Sameer Vidwans has presented his Marathi film titled ‘Double Seat’ indicating, how both young husband and wife, who aspire to move to a bigger house from a chawl, work hard to make their dream come true. Actually, the film hits out at the traditional joint family system, of living in One Room Kitchen and making adjustments. But, today, with both husband and wife earning, the days are changing. And, young Maharashtrian couples are willing to work harder, to buy their own house, no matter, it is far away from the city.

Through this film’s story, writer Kshitij Patwardhan and director Sameer Vidwans have tried to generate lots of humour through this emotion filled film. Being the elder son in the family and that too just married, Amit ( Ankush Choudhary) quickly understands the problems faced by his wife Manjiri (Mukta Barve) in their One Room Kitchen house in a chawl located at Lalbaug, Mumbai. So, Amit , who works as a supervisor in a Courier Company earning Rs. 25 thousand a month, takes his wife into confidence, to have their own house, where they can have their privacy. Manjiri, who works as Insurance agent, supports his idea.

After hearing about the bold step taken by her elder son, his Mother (Vandana Gupte) and Amit’s younger brother ( Shubhankar Tawde) also support him, selling some home made products to raise money. Only his stubborn father (Vidyadhar Joshi) , does not approve his idea. The film’s screenplay moves ahead, with lots of hurdles faced by Amit and Manjiri, with Manjiri also becoming pregnant. But, as they say, there is always sunshine, after the darkness. And, so we notice happy ending in ‘Double Seat’, with joint effort of entire family.

However, the end of the film, is not very impressive, except for showing the way. But, there is no solution, as to how the couple is going to travel for their jobs from a far away place, to the city. It would have been better, if the film had shown, some other way, of starting their own business. But, the new latest mobile phones shown in the last scene, only indicates, their prosperity.

The intention of the film, is to inspire today’s youth and see big dreams and work hard, to find their own house, no matter it is small and far away from the city. At the same time, it sends a message to those Maharashtrian people, who keep adjusting themselves, in this expanding and developing city, without themselves becoming part of this development. The film does go against the Joint family system; but if one has to live in this city of Mumbai, one needs to plan better future for their little ones.That’s what the writer had to suggest, through this film.

Looking at the performances, Ankush Choudhary, is at his best. He hardly finds such an opportunity, as he is generally seen in multi starrer films. The director, knowing his stage background well , has tried to exploit his full potential, through this film. Mukta Barve, who is always comfortable playing such roles, has once again proved that she is a talented actress. But, through this film, she has gone one step further, to be part of intimate love scenes. There is also a lip lock kissing scene, shot on this lead pair. But,one should not call it a bold scene. Best performances also come from versatile artistes like Vidyadhar Joshi, Vandana Gupte and other TV and film co stars like Sandeep Pathak, Pushkar Shrotri, Aarti, Shivani, Vikas, Shubhankar and others.

Music of this film goes very well with the story, with good lyrics noticed in two songs. Editing of the film is good with good camera work, especially in all those close up scenes.

‘Double Seat’ is certainly inspiring and shows the way to young dreamers.

Featured, TV Watch

‘Dholkichya Talawar’ combines dance with humour

Aside 10 August, 2015 Shweta Khot

Only few days ago Colors Marathi channel presented a new serial ‘Assa Saasar Surekh Bai’ starring most popular artistes like Mrunal Dusanis and Santosh Juvekar . And, it is certainly offering good entertainment. It is certainly pleasant , to notice the smile of the face of Mrunal, all the time, in this serial. Otherwise, she gets all serious type of roles, where, she is made to suffer in the screenplay. Hope, that does not happen in this serial.

Now, Colors have also introduced an entertaining celebrity reality show ‘Dholkichya Talawar’. This show offers variety, combining dances with humour. The dances are presented by versatile Marathi actresses like Neha Pendse, Shruti Marathe, Bhargavi Chirmule ,Manasi Naik, Megha Ghadge and others along with other talented new artistes like Ashwini kasar and Gayatri Soham.

The initial episode was found very interesting, which offered the traditional Marathi folk culture. With good performances by male artistes like Abhijeet Chavan, Arun Kadam and others, through a skit. The show is anchored for the first time by singer duo Aadarsh Shinde and Nandesh Umap, who are also doing a good job.

Looking at the introduction of these new programmes, one expects Colors’ channel to replace their old shows like Asava Sundar Swapnancha Bangla’, ‘Majhe Mann Tujhe Jhale’, and ‘Kamala’, which are really testing the patience of home viewers. Also on ‘Star Pravah’ channel , their serial ‘Runji’ which has moved off the track, needs to say good bye. One expected this serial to revolve around the central character; but, that’s not happening.

On ‘Zee Marathi’, ‘Honaar Suun Mi Hya Gharchi’ is also testing the endurance of the home viewers, with wastage of time, on Pintya’s marriage, now. But, their other serial ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’, which is targeted on youth audience, has gained popularity, with the presence of the character of Aashu, played by Pushkraj Chirputkar, who is very popular among young and old. Incidentally, the title song rendered by Arya Ambekar for this serial, has popularized so much, that youngsters have started using it as ringtone, on their mobile phones.

Featured, Review

‘Nilkanth Master’ offers an Audio Visual delight

Aside 8 August, 2015 Ullhas Shirke

Rating: ★★★
Studio/presenter: Cozy Homes, Akshar Films Pvt. ltd.
Producer: Meghmala Pathare
Director: Gajendra Ahire
Music: Ajay Atul
Director of Photography: Krishna Soren
Editor: Ballu Saluja
Genres: Drama
Censor: U/A
Duration: 120 Min.
Cast: Omkar Govardhan, Pooja Sawant, Adinath Kothare, Neha Mahajan, VIkram Gokhale, Kishore Kadam, Rahul Solapurkar, Mangesh Desai, Pradeep Velankar

Films based on Pre independence struggle, have become a common sight nowadays, in Marathi cinema. In the recent past, we saw it, in films like ‘Viti Dandu’ and ‘Sandook’. Now, Gajendra Ahire’s latest film ‘Nilkanth Master’ is also set on the backdrop of pre independence movement, during 40s coinciding with Quit India Movement. So, obviously, there are few similarities observed about the oppression by the British Raj, in this film too. Moreover, this film also has village backdrop in its story.

Vishvanath ( Omkar Govardhan) the protagonist in this film, is a young man from a village, who cannot find time for his beautiful childhood friend Indu (Pooja Sawant), as he is more committed to India’s freedom movement. So, Indu’s efforts in pleasing her beloved, by singing and dancing in the fields with picturesque locations , goes in vain. Viswanath joins the camp of young freedom fighter Vyankatesh( Adinath Kothare) . During one risky operation and encounter with Police, Vyankatesh dies and the responsibility of giving the sad news to his wife Yashoda( Neha Mahajan), falls on Vishwanath.

So, Vishwanath who is also on the target of Police, moves to Yashoda’s village and takes shelter at a senior freedom fighter Inamdar’s ( Vikram Gokhale) house. He is given the task of teaching little children and called as Nilkanth Master. But, at this place, Vishwanath comes across Indu, who is now married to a lunatic person. She can’t resist the temptation of coming closer to Vishwanath to fulfill her sexual desire. But, Vishwanath avoids her and instead, moves along with Yashoda, from one place to other, keeping her in dark, about her husband’s death. Besides, escaping from Police chase, he also wants to move Yashoda to a safer place, as he knows that the Police would torture her.

The entire second half of the film is about the Police hunt for two of them and both of them dodging the police, by changing places. Though, there are many interesting happenings in this half , the film moves with its limited content towards climax. The director has tried to mix the love story of Vishwanath and Indu, during Vishwanath’s mission for country’s freedom. However, in the process, he has offered beautiful songs & picturesque locations to offer audio visual delight, through the film.

Pooja Sawant looks beautiful as a village girl, while she sings and dances in the rains, on her own choreography. She has also looked stunning, in rich costumes, after her marriage to a rich but lunatic person. Her performance is noteworthy, in this film. Omkar Govardhan is a young talented actor and he has portrayed the committed freedom fighter, with total commitment. Neha Mahajan shows promise, once again, in her third film, through her challenging role. She expresses very well, through her eyes. Vikram Gokhale, Kishore Kadam, Rahul Solapurkar, Mangesh Desai, Pradeep Velankar and others, have limited scope in this film. But, Ajay Atul’s music is impressive. Looking at the perfect sound design and good cinematography, ‘Nilkanth Master’ appears, technically well presented film.

Interviews

“I am not like Aashu in real life” – Pushkaraj Chirputkar

Aside 7 August, 2015 Ullhas Shirke

The popularity of ongoing TV serial ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’ has increased, due to presence of the character of Aashu, played by Pushkraj Chirputkar. Aashu is not only popular among today’s young generation, but, also among other age groups. This was clearly noticed, when he was surrounded by young and old, present during the recent promotional event of Sanjay Jadhav’s film ‘Tu Hi Re’ at a Mumbai multiplex. All of them, were more keen on clicking photos with their favourite TV artiste. That particular day, he turned out to be the real hero of the day, much to the surprise of Sanjay Jadhav, his mentor.

Marathi Movie World spoke to Pushkraj , and this talented actor was more than happy to speak about his past days. “I did my engineering from Pune’s Pimpri Chinchwad Engineering College and like a typical Puneite was totally focused on my studies, during the first two years. In the third year, I joined a theatre group and that’s how I got associated with acting. We performed at competitions and also did some short films. Though my interest in acting grew further, I decided to complete my graduation and in the final year, passed by Engineering Degree with good marks. It was only then, I became serious about acting and decided to pursue as a career.” he said.

Like any other actor, Pushkraj had to struggle to find good opportunities. But, that did not deter him from his goal. In fact, to earn some money for his pocket expenses, he even worked as a consultant, to prepare an engineering project for his friend. He was confident that he would find a suitable role, to prove his mettle. And, finally, he landed as Aashu in ‘Dil Dosti Duniyadari’. Among all others, his selection seems to be the perfect one.

Neatly dressed up in a designer Pink Kurta , trimmed bear and well set hair for the occasion, Pushkaraj really looked smart & trendy. So, obviously, could not resist the temptation of asking him about any similarity between Pushkaraj and Aashu. And, he quickly reacted with a broad smile on his face, ” I am not like Aashu in real life. I believe in cleanliness and like to wear tidy clothes. But, like Aashu, I am helpful to my other friends.”

Finally, when asked about his co stars in the serial and his friendly relationship with them, he said, “We are all good friends. In fact, we knew each other, even before the start of this serial. And, this helped us, to co ordinate with each other better , while working on the sets.” “It’s more of a fun, than shooting. And, I really enjoy working with them.” he concluded.

Featured, TV Watch

9x to present ‘Jhakaas Heroine – Season 2′

Aside 2 August, 2015 Shweta Khot

Last year 9x Jhakaas presented their first season of ‘Jhakaas heroine’ in seven episodes, to decide the winner among the ten shortlisted aspiring young Marathi actresses. They had received 3500 entries from all over Maharashtra , for this reality show. This year, we understand that, they want to make it still bigger. This year the Season 2 will be hosted in mid September 2015 . But, the entries and registration for the same begins from 3rd August 2015.

Last year, Prarthana Behere won the contest and got an opportunity to work in the lead role in the film ‘Mitwa’ . Now, it remains to be seen, who will get an opportunity to play lead role opposite Swapnil Joshi, in the forthcoming Marathi film of a big production house ? Incidentally, Swapnil himself is the producer of this 13 episode show, with Arjun Singh Baraan and Kartik Nishaandar of GSEAMS. So, those young Marathi aspiring actresses may log in their website www.jhakaasheroine.com

Last week Colors channel paid tributes to well known Marathi lyricist Jagdish Khebudkar, who remained associated with Marathi film industry for 50 years, since 1960. His songs from the film ‘Pinjra’ were super it , which helped in the film’s success. Therefore, in this programme, popular Marathi actresses presented the dances on the songs based on his lyrics, besides his grand daughter also performing on one of his songs, This wonderful musical programme was anchored by Prasad Oak and Kadambari Kadam .

Popular TV actress Mrunal Dusanis did make her comeback on television through her new serial ‘Asa Saasar Surekh Bai’ on Colors channel during the week. Her entry was also appealing; but, we failed to understand, as to why she was wearing long Party designer clothes, while attending office and that too while riding a scooter. But, her pairing with Santosh Juvekar suits well; as noticed in initial episodes.

In another new serial of Zee Marathi ‘Nanda Soukhyabhare’ , Rujuta Bagwe has found a good central character of Swanandi ; but some female viewers have started comparing her with Shubhra played by Swarada Thigale of ‘Majhe MannTujhe Jhale’. However, others feel that the serial would go ‘Runji’ way, presenting a typical Saas Bahu drama.

Featured, Review

‘Deool Band’ gives scientific expression to spirituality

Aside 31 July, 2015 Ullhas Shirke

Rating:★★★½
Studio/presenter: Vat vriksha Entertainment
Producer: Mrs. Jayashree Kailas Wani, Juili Kailas Wani
Directors: Pravin Vitthal Tarde, Pranit Kulkarni
Genres: Drama
Censor: U/A
Duration: 175 Min.
Cast: Gashmeer Mahajani, Girija Joshi, Mohan Agashe, Nivedita Saraf, Shweta Shinde, Satish Alekar, Kiran Yadnyopavit, Sharvari Jamenis, Sunil Abhyankar, Pravin Tarde, Snehal Tarde,

Movie Review by: Ulhas Shirke

In the case of many human beings, we observe that ‘faith’ promises them of things they expect and influences their minds, about the existence of a divine power they are unable to see. No wonder, majority of the people all over the world, belonging to different religions, believe in the existence of God.

Latest released Marathi film ‘Deool Band’ produced by Jayashree Kailas Wani, Juili Kailas Wani and directed by Pravin Vitthal Tarde & Pranit Kulkarni takes up this perceptive issue, which has a lot to correlate with people, having faith in the existence of God.

The film opens with the arrival of a young and famous scientist Raghava Shastri (Gashmeer Mahajani) to India, to help ISRO authorities, in developing a method, to alert the defence authorities quickly, about the entry of terrorist groups into Indian territory. His visit is monitored by PMO and hence fearing attack on him, he is shifted to Pune , instead of Mumbai . So, Raghav Shastri and his family comprising of wife (Girija Joshi) and little daughter Sana(Arya Ghare) are made comfortable in a duplex flat in a Pune society; by RAW officer Narayani( Shweta Shinde) , who is in charge of his security.

Raghava Shastri has been provided a separate room for his study and experiment; but, he is often disturbed by the regular chanting of prayers by the residents of the society, at the small temple of Shree Swami Samarth . So, he takes up the issue with society chairman, who agrees to stop the noise. But, the adamant society people and in particular an auto rickshaw driver( Pravin Tarde), who is a devotee of Swami, opens up fight with Raghava Shastri. This hurts the ego of scientist and he brings pressure from the top, to seal the temple.

Later, the scientist faces many strange happenings. But, the metaphor of Swami Samartha (Mohan Joshi) stands by his side, to make him realize , the existence of God. Raghava Shastri, who is shown as an atheist, has his own story, during his teenage, for developing hatred towards his mother and such Swamis, due to some misunderstanding, over his father’s accidental death. The happenings that take place in the post interval session, remove his misunderstandings, as he finds solution to the problems faced by him , in his latest presentation.

‘Deool Band’ is almost a three hour long film. But, its clever presentation through exciting screenplay, helps to keep the audience engaged all the time. The entry of Swami’s metaphor has been timed well, to generate curiosity, just at the stroke of interval. In the entire post interval session, it is Mohan Joshi, who steals the show. With his gigantic personality, supported by some prosthetic make up, he appeals to the audience, with utterance of meaningful dialogues and body language. In the role of Raghava Shastri , young talented Gashmir Mahajani is highly impressive. Besides his spontaneous reaction, he has a very good voice, which he has skilfully used, with proper diction, at different situations.

Girija Joshi, who has played the role of his wife, also seemed to be a perfect selection. She has looked nice in modern outfits, well suited to NRI’s. She has limited scope for acting, but, whatever to her share, she has displayed her potential. Nivedita Saraf surprises with her notable appearance in this film. With the kind of role she has played in this film, she is sure to find lots of offers, for such roles. Sharvari Jemnis, also gives a surprise, with the kind of character played by her. She has played her part, very realistically. Shweta Shinde, doesn’t have to do much, besides looking a smart RAW officer. Dr.Mohan Agashe and Sunil Abhyankar do well in the roles of ISRO scientists. In the role of ATS chief of Maharashtra , Hrishikesh Deshpande entertains more, with his style,
expressions and humour filled dialogues.

There are many popular artistes in guest appearance in this film, especially, in the post interval session. They are, Ravindra Mahajani, Sunil Barve, Vibhavari Deshpande, Sushant Shelar, Prasad Oak, Sandeep Pathak, Pramod Pawar and Mahesh Waman Manjrekar . and all of them have made their presence felt.

Narendra Bhide and Rohit Nagbhide have done well better in background music than for
the two songs, which give a customary feel. Mahesh Barate’s make up, Sonia Sahasrabudhe’s costumes and Prashant Misale’s cinematography, clever art work by Siddharth Tatuskar and above all, the screenplay and direction of Pravin Vithal Tarde & Pranit Kulkarni makes this film, technically more appealing. The tributes paid by the film makers to the brave officers of Maharashtra Police, while fighting the deadly terrorist attack in Mumbai, is to be highly appreciated. Last but not the least, Maharashtra being the land of well known Saints, with majority of the people having faith in their teachings; this film is sure to invite their attention.

Review

‘Carry On Maratha’ carries on with Bollywood formula

Aside 24 July, 2015 Ullhas Shirke

Rating: ★★★

Studio/presenter: Nanda arts , warrior brothers motion pictures.

Producers: Smt. Nanda Chandrabhan Thakur & Smt. Shashikala Kshrisagar

Directors: Sanjay Londhe

Genres: Romantic, Action

Censor: U/A

Duration: 120 Min.

Cast: Gashmeer Mahajani, Kashmira Kulkarni

There is nothing wrong in copying a formula from Bollywood , while presenting the theme of a love story in a Marathi film; provided, it is precisely presented. Latest released Marathi film ‘Carry On Maratha’ produced by Nanda Chandrabhan Thakur , co- produced by Shashikala Kshirsagar and directed by debutant Sanjay Londhe also presents one such love story , which is however set on the backdrop of Maharashtra – Karnataka border, for a change. This story revolves around Martand (Gashmeer Mahajani) a young dairy businessman from Kolhapur and an educated Kannada girl Kusum (Kashmira Kulkarni) belonging to a rich joint family in neighbourhood village located at Maharashtra Karnataka border.

So, we find Martand living with his grandmother , who has brought him up , after he loses t his parents in a tragic accident. While Kusum living with her uncle , aunt and strict grandmother, with her father undergoing jail sentence. So, we notice friendship happening between these two, when Martand meets this kannada speaking girl Kusum, during the break of his journey at a dhaba. Initially, they fight with each other; but soon turn good friends, with passage of events.

After their journey together , Kusum forgets Martand; but charming Kusum finds place in Martand’s heart. Circumstances bring them together once again, like a typical formula type love story. Then begins the real conflict, with family members of Kusum opposing Kusum’s friendship with Martand. At the same time, Appa ( Arun Nalawade) and his What’s App addicted son( Samir Khedekar) cook up plans against Martand. At the same time, Martand’s Grandmother ( Usha Naik) who knows some secret; doesn’t reveal it to Martand. But, Kusum does come to know the secret about her father.

Soon, with this popular recipe of twists and turns, we see the film progressing towards typical dramatic climax, which concludes with predictable end. But, the film does have its plus points. The director has tried to offer something in the form of message, to the people from different communities, with traditional rivalry. There are new locations selected for outdoor shooting, which have been captured skilfully, through the camera work of Arun Prasad.

Though some of the dialogues are in Kannada language, Kusum is quick enough to translate them into Marathi, through her local accent. So, people living in these two different states, will be able to learn each other’s language. With the help of good music provided by Bollywood music directors Shail and Pritesh; choreographers Sujit Kumar, Raju Khan & Adil Sheikh have attempted creative choreography, during song sequences. Make up by Subhash Shinde is perfectly done, for all the characters, while beautiful art direction by Sanjay Kharat needs special mention. Even costume designs of lead pair are novel, during song sequences.

Speaking about the performances of the artistes, Gashmeer Mahajani and kashmira Kulkarni are highly impressive. If Gashmeer has used in his own voice in this film, then he is really too good, with his knack of combining the pause and diction well . Many a times, with his smart looks, he reminds you of Arjun Rampal, during his young days. Kashmira has good screen presence. In the supporting roles, Shantanu Moghe does well, in the role of Sudama. One wonders, as to why this youngster with good physique, hasn’t been able to find good roles ? The two look alike characters with beard, played by karim Hajee and Amin Hajee remind you of typical south Indian film characters. After ‘Swades’, Kishori Ballal finds a negative role this time, which she has performed very convincingly. Good support is lent by other artistes like Omkar Kulkarni, Arun Nalawade, Samir Khadekar, Devika Daftardar , Amey Kumbhar and Sachin Deshpande & others.

All in all, ‘Carry On Maratha’ has succeeded in offering standard entertainment, through its engaging screenplay, except for the lengthy road journey undertaken by the lead pair in the initial stages, on a highway.

TV Watch

‘Dholkichya Talavar’ to present popular Singers as Anchors

Aside 23 July, 2015 Shweta Khot

We have seen many popular singers in the role of judges, in music reality shows on Marathi television. We have also seen them perform in such shows, either in guest appearance or as performers. Now, Colors channel will present well known popular Marathi singer Adarsh Shinde as show anchor of their forthcoming dance based music reality show ‘Dholkichya Talawar’. This show, which is supposed to be different from the usual reality shows, has already generated lot of interest among music lovers.

The show will be aired on Colors channel from 27th July at 9.30 pm, every Monday and Tuesday. Along with Adarsh Shinde, there will be popular singer Nandesh Umap, also playing the role of another anchor , to present this programme. 12 glamorous dancing actresses will perform in this show. Both Aadarsh and Nandesh are very excited to watch themselves, in this new role. Even otherwise, along with our Marathi film stars, our Marathi singers have also gained lot of popularity, because of their wonderful title songs for all the TV serials. So, the selection of these two singers to present such a programme, is just the right decision.

Now, talking about new serials, ‘Nanda Soukhyabhare’ has arrived on Zee Marathi at 7.30 pm time slot. Through its promos, it has already given a hint that it would be a Saas bahu serial in days to come. But, watching the street smart Swanandi played by Rutuja Bagwe, in initial episodes, does remind us about the character of Runji in ‘Runji’ serial .Pallavi Patil, who plays the role of Runji, was also shown street smart in the initial episodes of that serial. Anyway, it remains to be seen, how this new serial progresses further.

In Zee Marathi’s interesting detective serial ‘Asmita’, we have been watching the central character of Asmita very weak and dull, for the past few episodes. This has almost taken away interest of many female viewers, from this serial. It also gives an impression that she is either not well or lost interest in this serial. But, don’t think it is so. Asmita, you have inspired many young women viewers. So, bounce back quickly, with your daring acts of investigation. We are even missing Daji. It’s high time, he returns back to this serial.

Featured, Interviews

Talented Pritam Kagne is also in the race

Aside 21 July, 2015 Shweta Khot

In our Marathi film industry, every year about a dozen of new faces make their debut. Some of them attain instant success, while others take their own time to establish themselves. Young and talented Pritam kagne , falls in the second category. Pritam is not only passionate about acting; but she is also committed to her social responsibility, as a good human being.

An audiologist and speech therapist by profession, Pritam did work for a while , at a hospital in Pune. But, her interest in acting, opened the doors for her, three years ago. Pritam made her debut in Marathi films,through Pravin Raja karle’s film ‘Bokad’ . This was followed by a character of a model, she played in ‘Navra Majha Bhavra’, which was the debut film of Nilesh Sable. Thereafter Pritam did a Malyalam film ‘Mr. Bean’, in the lead role, which gave her, a lot of confidence. Simultaneously, she also made her debut on Marathi stage, with the comedy play ‘Ajab Lagnachi Gajab Goshta’ and went on to win Best actress award, for her performance.

Pritam has now bounced back into Marathi films, besides managing two good roles in Hindi films. She is playing lead role opposite Santosh Juvekar in the film Mile jab Chora Chori’. She is also playing the role of late Gopinath Munde’s younger daughter Pritam Munde, in the biopic ‘Sangharshayatra’, which will release soon. Then , she has a comedy film ‘Jangadgutta’ with Sameer Dharmadhiklari. Besides two important Hindi films, Pritam’s new film ‘Halaal’ also goes on the floor soon.

Best thing about this young actress is that, whenever she finds time, she visits her native town, Wanwadi, off karvenagar. Incidentally, Pritam’s father runs a school for speech and hearing impaired children here, on behalf of a NGO and Pritam spends some time with these children. Her original profession, helps her to share happy moments with these children. Indeed, a commendable work. Our best wishes to this talented actress and a committed social worker.

Review

‘Bioscope’ gives a new dimension to Marathi cinema

Aside 17 July, 2015 Ullhas Shirke

Rating: ★★★★
Studio/presenter: PSJ Entertainment
Producer: Abhay Shevde
Directors: Girish Mohite (Bail), Gajendra Ahire (Dil a nadan), Viju Mane (Ek Hota Kau), Ravi Jadhav (Mitra)
Genres: Drama
Censor: U/A
Duration: 120 Min.
Cast: Mangesh Desai, Smita Tambe, Sagar Karande, Uday Sabnis, Neena Kulkarni, Suhas Palshikar Kushal Badrike, Spruha Joshi, Angad Mhaskar, Sampada Joglekar, Vidyadhar Joshi Mrunmayee Deshpande, Veena Jamkar, Sandeep Khare

We have been hearing the stories about the growth of Marathi cinema. But, we had not seen a collective effort coming from a group of film makers, to give a new dimension to Marathi cinema. Now, that work has been done by four creative film makers in Marathi, namely Gajendra Ahire, Vijau Mane, Girish Mohite and Ravi Jadhav. And, they have received the compliment from none other than the living legend from Bollywood , Mr. Gulzar. The legendary lyricist and film maker has gone one step ahead, to narrate the gist of each one of their creation, in all the four short films, through his poetic words. And, this has given a polished look to the film.

Indeed, the makers of ‘Bioscope’ deserve all the praise , for taking this bold step, of presenting four different stories, inspired by the poems of renowned poets right from Mirza Ghalib to Sandeep Khare. The film opens with a short story ‘Dil E Nadaan’, which is inspired by Mirza Ghalib’s famous Ghazal .It peeps into the life of two former classical music artistes, Singer Padmabhushan Nirmaaladevi Indori ( Neena Kulkarni) and Sarangi player Mianji Saarangiwale (Suhas Palshikar) , who are in live in relationship for past 30 years. Set on the backdrop of Indore city, director Gajendra Ahire succeeds in presenting their emotions and their simple living, by selling the dried almonds. Wonderful performances by both the veteran actors and beautiful music and photography are the plus points of this short. The usage of Hindi with Marathi goes well with the backdrop of Indore.

From Indore, we come to the city of Mumbai, in the 90’s era, where we find a hard working Motor Garage owner Swapnil (Kushal Badrike) in love with beautiful Pakali (Spruha Joshi) living in the neighborhood. Swapnil has inferiority complex, being dark complexioned and unable to express his love. It is a emotive love story, very inventively presented by director Viju Mane, with the help of his team of sound designer, music director and cinematographer. Above all , Soumitra’s poetry on rain, goes very well with this story.

Post interval , we find a very touching tale ‘Baiil’, happening in the present time. It is about the tragedy of an educated farmer Punjabrao (Mangesh Desai) from Amravati. Punjabrao( Mangesh Desai) comes along with his colleague to join the protest march, on behalf of cotton growers association in Amravati. How he lands into trouble later and what forces him to commit suicide, is a tragic story expertly presented by director Girish Mohite. There are other artistes in this short, comprising of Smita Tambe, playing his helpless wife, Sagar karande, his cunning friend and Uday Sabnis as police officer. Loknath Yashwant’s poem on this subject, does leave a strong impact, which is narrated from a Bull’s point of view.

Finally, Ravi Jadhav takes us into the era, little before India’s independence, to show the emotions in the life of a young collegian Sumitra , who is shown as a lesbian. The director has very cleverly shown, how such people are treated at home and why she prefers to come and live in a Women’s hostel of the college. In the role of her roommate Urmi, Mrunmayee Deshpande looks beautiful, even in that black and white photography. In the role of Sumitra’s good friend Vinya, Sandeep Khare makes a good debut in acting . Incidentally, he has written the poetry for this short, which is inspired by Vijay Tendulkar’s story. Good costume design and brilliant performance by Veena Jamkar makes this film more effectual. There is nothing vulgar in this story. In fact, it shows the struggle of such people for their independence, even 67 years after country’s independence.

Now, when it comes to evaluating the presentation of each one of these shorts, they are all unique in their own way. A must watch film for lovers of artistic cinema.

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