19022025-LSTC-01.qxd 2/18/2025 7:58 PM Page 1 c m y b VARUN, SUNNY ON BORDER 2 SET Varun Dhawan has shared an adorable behind-the-scene photo with Suny Deol from the set of Border 2. The shooting for the much-anticipated sequel of the 1997 epic is currently taking place in the cantonment of Jhansi. TRIBUNE Lead role Life Director Krishnakumar Ramakumar’s film on the great scientist G D Naidu, featuring actor Madhavan in the lead role, has been titled G.D.N, the makers announced on Tuesday. LUDHIANA | WEDNESDAY | 19 FEBRUARY 2025 In the comfort zone Nonika Singh P When stars meet Ameesha Patel-Hrithik Roshan’s reunion ignites fans’ wishes for Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai 2 Actors Hrithik Roshan and Ameesha Patel’s recent reunion sparked a wave of excitement among fans on social media The duo, which shared screen space in the iconic Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, has left fans eagerly hoping for a sequel. As photos and videos from their reunion went viral, many are now demanding Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai 2. Ameesha also took to her Instagram handle and shared a heart-warming photo of herself posing with Hrithik, adding their popular song Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai to the post. For the caption, the Gadar actress wrote, “About last night — lovely evening with Sonia’s Rohit — for me, you’ll always be my Duggu Brosnan first and then @hrithikroshan the superstar later.” Notably, fans were quick to react, with many demanding Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai 2. Echoing similar sentiments, one fan commented, “Really looking forward to watching them together as a lead pair opposite each other! Really wish a producer-director is reading this!! Big fan of @ameeshapatel9 & @hrithikroshan.” Another said, “Vote for Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai 2.” Directed and produced by Rakesh Roshan, Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai marked the Bollywood debut of both Hrithik and Ameesha. Meanwhile, at the star-studded success bash of Netflix’s The Roshans, Hrithik shared a heartwarming moment with Ameesha. The glitzy event was attended by an array of celebrities, including Rekha, Neetu Kapoor, Ameesha Patel, Anu Malik, Saba Azad, Shabana Azmi, Javed Akhtar, Bhushan Kumar, Sam Kaushal, Mallika Sherawat, Pashmina Roshan, Jeetendra, Alka Yagnik, Jackie and Tiger Shroff, Anupam Kher, Vaani Kapoor, Siddharth Anand, Udit Narayan, and David Dhawan, among many others. — IANS ASSION drives cinema. Only with Reema Kagti’s new directorial Superboys of Malegaon, it’s not just the makers of the film whose ardour is evident but also those whose story she is telling. Based on the life of Nasir Shaikh and other amateur filmmakers in the Indian city of Malegaon, it is indeed an aspirational story of an underdog’s triumph. After the film’s world premiere at Toronto International Film Festival last year, where it moved audiences to tears, the makers are now ready for its India release. At the virtual launch of the trailer, Reema shares how filmmaking is only a backdrop, and Superboys of Malegaon is more importantly about friendship. Indeed, as she herself hails from small town, inspirational tales of hinterland do have an extra allure for her. She states, “Small town is my comfort zone. However, if I feel a connection to a story, whatever be the odds, I will go ahead and find means to make it.” Authenticity is inbuilt in our cinema for it comes from a truth, we only make it cinematic and may be add a lie to it, says Zoya Akhtar whose movie The Superboys of Malegaon is ready for its India release Being authentic Zoya Akhtar, whose Tiger Baby, along with brother Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, has produced the film, observes that they don’t go out of the way to make their films raw and real. She adds, “Rather authenticity is inbuilt in our cinema for it comes from a truth. We only make it cinematic, may be add a lie to it.” Of course, Nasir can only see truth in this cellu- THE CAST OF THE SUPERBOYS OF MALEGAON loid adaptation of his life and is more than happy with BAFTA nominee actor Adarsh Gourav’s portrayal of him. Nasir says, “Adarsh has gone far beyond my expectations. Even before I could add anything to how he should play me, he would get it right as if he was reading my mind.” For Adarsh having Nasir around was a blessing, not because he wanted to imitate him, but hoped to understand the space from which Nasir’s dreams emanated and how he realised them. Writer baap hota hai ADARSH GOURAV While spending time with Nasir, Adarsh even asked his real character to make a film which Adarsh produced. Adarsh laughs, “A lot of meta things were happening around us.” Adarsh might be playing the main protagonist, however, he is not the only talented actor aboard the cast of the film. Vineet Kumar Singh, Shashank Arora and Anuj Singh Duhan play significant parts in this film written by Varun Grover. Some of the film’s dialogues like ‘writer baap hota hai’ drive home the importance of writers in the art of movie-making. In answer to a query, Varun remarks tongue-in cheek, “I have always felt that writer’s role in cinema is very important, it is the first time I have verbalised it in so many words.” Talking about his writing process, Varun shares, “Even when characters are imaginary, as in a film like Masaan, we try to find reality in them. But here the big plus was having access to Nasir’s archives of his own life. He has preserved every small detail from press clippings to success parties of his films.” Small town is my comfort zone. However, if I feel a connection to a story, whatever be the odds, I will go ahead and find means to make it. ZOYA AKHTAR REEMA KAGTI, DIRECTOR Hence in his words, “The film is not a by the numbers biopic, but one where emotional dimension was easy to tap into.” While etching out even the smallest of characters, he had the blockbuster Sholay in mind, where each small cameo was memorable. Incidentally, among the many hit movies that Nasir made was Malegaon Ke Sholay too. Indefatigable spirit Cinema of the people for the people of his town… whoever heard of such novel ideas? Precisely the reason why earlier his remarkable journey leapt into a documentary Supermen of Malegaon, and now has been frozen in the movie Superboys of Malegaon. In fact, Reema found many parallels, similar influences in her and Nasir’s story. As she puts it, “It was heartening to know his trials and tribulations. While I moved from a small town to Bombay to make my dreams come true, he achieved it all living in the same town and even made spoofs which were relevant to his milieu.” Zoya sums up Nasir’s indefatigable spirit thus, “Grabbing any opportunity with both hands rather than waiting for others to show the way is the real essence of his zeal for making films.” Come February 28, watch how Nasir and his friends’ enthusiasm captured the magic of cinema with limited resources. From Alia Bhatt to Richa Chadha to Soha Ali Khan, here are actresses who are making waves with their own fashion labels Brand bargain Bollywood actresses are not just ruling the silver screen, but are also making a mark in the world of fashion with their own labels. Balancing their successful acting careers with entrepreneurial ventures, these stars are redefining style and flair. Here’s a look at some leading ladies who are proud owners of their own brands. From sustainable-wear to high-end fashion, they’ve got it all covered. ISLAND-INSPIRED AESTHETICS Manushi Chiller, Dweep Dweep is a sustainable fashion brand cofounded by former Miss World and actor Manushi Chhillar, alongside renowned stylist Sheefa J Gilani. Rooted in their shared passion for art, oceans and clothing, Dweep embodies a harmonious blend of islandinspired aesthetics and environmentally conscious practices. The journey of Dweep began in 2016, during Manushi’s tenure as a Miss India contestant. HEARTFELT MISSION Kritika Kamra, Cinnabar TIMELESS ELEGANCE Actress Kritika Kamra has embarked on a heartfelt mission to support and revive local arts and artisan communities in Madhya Pradesh. Alongside her mother, Kritika has launched Cinnabar, a fashion initiative aimed at empowering artisans from her hometown of Chanderi, a region renowned for its exquisite handloom craftsmanship. The initiative not only promotes traditional Chanderi handloom work, but also provides a platform for local weavers to showcase their exceptional skills. Soha Ali Khan, House Of Pataudi EMPOWERING LOCAL ARTISANS Richa Chadha, Ehaab Richa Chadha, in collaboration with husband Ali Fazal, cofounded Ehaab, a distinctive homegrown fashion brand. Drawing inspiration from the cultural heritage of Lucknow, Ehaab is devoted to celebrating India’s rich handcrafted traditions and empowering local artisans. More than just a fashion label, Ehaab embodies a mission to preserve and promote the artistry of craftsmen who have safeguarded India’s cultural legacy for generations. c m y b House of Pataudi is an ethnic-wear clothing brand co-owned by Soha Ali Khan and Saif Ali Khan, inspired by the rich cultural heritage and legacy of the Pataudi family. The brand encapsulates the essence of royalty with its exquisite designs, intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics. Offering a wide range of traditional attire and sarees, House of Pataudi blends timeless elegance with modern aesthetics. PASSION FOR SUSTAINABILITY Alia Bhatt, Ed-a-Mamma Alia Bhatt shared that during her pregnancy, she struggled to find stylish maternity clothing in India, which inspired her to launch Eda-Mamma. Combining her passion for sustainability and children, Alia envisioned a brand that nurtures young minds while sharing meaningful stories. Meanwhile, Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd signed a joint venture with Ed-a-Mamma in 2023.