05092024-LSTC-01.qxd 9/4/2024 11:41 PM Page 1 c m y b ‘JHUTH BOLNA PADTA HAI’ Nawazuddin Siddiqui talks about film promotions, revealing the contrast between on-screen truth and off-screen illusions. “When I am playing a character, I know that I have to stay true here. There, I am doing the enactment of being true — this film is so good, amazing, this and that,” says Siddiqui. TRIBUNE Life The boy who arrived Gurnaaz A CTOR Shantanu Maheshwari infuses charisma and dedication in his craft. Known for his versatility, Shantanu’s latest venture Auron Mein Kahan Dam Tha has garnered praise for his engaging performance and natural on-screen presence. When discussing what drew him to Auron Mein…, Shantanu opens up about his initial excitement about the project. “I remember this being the first time I checked who the director was,” he recalls. “The story impressed me. It was fast-paced without the usual songs or love stories.” Shantanu’s commitment to the role involved a rigorous process. “The audition process took multiple rounds over two months, followed by another two months of workshops,” he explains. “This was crucial for building the chemistry and intensity, especially between young Vasudha (Saiee Manjrekar and young Krishna (Shantanu Maheshwari), which forms the film’s core.” The workshops, he notes, played a significant role in developing the intensity needed for the characters, ensuring that the performance aligned with the film’s overall vision. “We needed to deliver a performance that complemented Ajay sir and Tabu ma’am.” Addressing his chemistry with Saiee, he praises the environment encouraged during the preparation phase. “We were comfortable with each other from day one, and the workshops were incredibly helpful. We did numerous exercises to delve into the scenes and refine our understanding,” he says. Adding that the director’s specific guidance helped them in shaping their performances, focusing on the importance of exploring different per- Poster out Shantanu Maheshwari, who has garnered praise for his performance in Auron Mein Kahan Dam Tha, will next be seen in films like Love in Vietnam and Crossfire and a web series, Campus Beach spectives and layers in their roles. To step into a role whose grown-up version is played by Ajay Devgn wasn’t so easy either. “Initially, I felt a lot of pressure,” he admits. “I began with watching Ajay sir’s movies to understand his style. Eventually, I asked if I needed to copy certain things or emulate his mannerisms or the way he talks, but the director advised me to stay true to my own approach and that conversation gave me a lot of confidence and helped me understand that the goal was to get the character right and see it evolve into Ajay sir.” Reflecting on his journey from a dancer to an actor, Shantanu shares how his passion for dancing has always been complemented by his acting career. “My first project was actually an acting role where dancers were selected based on their potential to act,” he explains. Although his idea was to take up a behind-the scenes job, he discovered a deep-seated passion for acting. “I wanted to work behind the scenes, perhaps as a photographer or in a similar role. However, when I started act- Farhan Akhtar has announced his new film 120 Bahadur, which is based on the battle of Rezang La. The film is set against the backdrop of the IndoChina war. CHANDIGARH | THURSDAY | 5 SEPTEMBER 2024 ❝ I’m very happy and grateful that now I have this freedom of choice as far as projects are concerned ing, I decided to give it my all.” For those who think he is an actor and those who call him a choreographer, Shantanu is clear he is both. “It was quite frustrating for me because when I acted, people would say I forgot dancing, and when I danced, they said I forgot acting. I wondered, why can’t I excel at both? I am equally passionate about both fields,” he says. Balancing is the key and it may be challenging but he does it. “I don’t try to mix them up but rather balance them within my projects,” he says, noting that maintaining this balance helps him understand rhythm better, essential for both dancing and acting. “For me, acting and dancing complement each other. After Gangubai, which became a significant breakthrough, people accepted me as an actor too.” As we talk about Gangubai and dance, he fondly recalls his experience of working on its songs. “The songs Meri Jaan and Jab Saiyaan hold special places for me. The one-shot sequence of Meri Jaan was particularly memorable. It felt like an international experience because that’s how international choreographers work,” he elaborates, praising Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s direction and vision. From past to present and future, as Shantanu continues to evolve in his career, he remains focused on taking on diverse roles and contributing to compelling stories. “I want to be part of good stories and give my 100 per cent to each project,” he says. And he has several projects on the horizon, including the films Love in Vietnam and Crossfire, as well as a web series titled Campus Beach. While details remain under wraps, he is enthusiastic about the opportunities these projects present. “I’m happy and grateful that I have this freedom of choice right now,” he says. Copy that Kareena Kapoor Khan plays a cop in The Buckingham Murders Kareena Kapoor Khan, who is awaiting the release of her upcoming thriller The Buckingham Murders, talked about what connected her to the role of a cop in the film. The Jab We Met actress was in Mumbai for the trailer launch of her movie along with director Hansal Mehta and co-producer Ektaa R Kapoor. “I think a mother’s love has no language. It’s a feeling. So, I think being a mother I understand that a mother’s love has no specific language. It’s in her eyes — her love, her pain, you can see it in her eyes,” Kareena said. — ANI ‘He is unpredictable’ Chandni Amar Akbar Anthony Laila Majnu On Rishi Kapoor’s birth anniversary, we celebrate the actor’s legacy with five iconic movies On the occasion of Rishi Kapoor’s birth anniversary, it’s the perfect time to remember and celebrate the legendary actor’s remarkable contribution to Indian cinema. Known for his versatile roles and undeniable charm, Kapoor’s filmography is a treasure trove of memorable performances. His career, which spanned over four decades, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Here’s a look at some of his iconic films that continue to resonate with audiences and showcase his extraordinary contribution to the world of film. Bobby (1973) Rishi Kapoor’s debut as a leading man in this Raj Remembering Rishi Kapoor-directorial marked a significant moment in Bollywood. Playing the role of Raja, the charming and rebellious young lover, Kapoor captured the hearts of millions. The film’s music, coupled with his youthful exuberance, made Bobby a classic, setting the stage for his illustrious career. Chandni (1989) In this Yash Chopra classic, Rishi Kapoor starred opposite Sridevi in a tale of love and loss. His portrayal of the devoted lover, Rohit, showcased his ability to convey deep emotional range and vulnerability. Chandni remains one of the most memorable films of the late ‘80s, and Kapoor’s performance was a key highlight. Karz (1980) In this Subhash Ghai directorial, Rishi Kapoor took on the role of a man haunted by his past life. Karz, with its unique blend of reincarnation and thriller elements, demonstrated Kapoor’s versatility. His intense performance, combined with its unforgettable soundtrack especially Meri Umar Ke Naujawano (Om Shanti Om), made ‘Karz’ a standout film in his career. Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) A quintessential Bollywood classic, this film featured Rishi Kapoor in one of his most memorable roles as the jovial and loving Akbar. Directed by Manmohan Desai, the film is celebrated for its engaging storyline and Kapoor’s effortless comedic timing, which c m y b added a layer of charm to the movie. Laila Majnu (1976) In this romantic drama, Rishi Kapoor played the role of Majnu, a character based on the tragic love story of Laila and Majnu. His portrayal of a passionate lover with a tragic fate highlighted his ability to immerse himself fully into his roles and contributed to the film’s enduring appeal. Rishi Kapoor died on 30 April 2020 at the age of 67. — ANI Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah shared his experience of working with Pankaj Kapur in the series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack. He appreciated the acting skills of Pankaj Kapur, saying, “It is such a joy to work with him because he’s unpredictable and you know that this is a person who’s thoroughly done his prepara- Naseeruddin Shah shares his experience of working with Pankaj Kapur in IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack tion. And, I also make it a point to be completely prepared. It’s like playing ten- nis where you envy his game and you also respect it at the same time.” Kapur also praised his coactor and said, “Such kind words from somebody you deeply admire. When I’m working with him there’s a sixth sense within me which is always ready to learn, to see what he is up to, what new I can learn from him.” — ANI