Connect with us

Entertainment

Even after two National Awards, Manish Saini to remain rooted in Gujarat

Published

on

Manish Saini
Manish Saini

Ahmedabad, Aug 27 (IANS) Manish Saini is one of the few writer-directors in the world of Gujarati cinema, to have clinched not one but two National Awards for his creative endeavours.

His first triumph stemmed from the movie “Dhh” in 2017  (starring Naseeruddin Shah) and he later secured the coveted Golden Lotus for his film “Gandhi & Co.” at the 69th National Film Awards, 2023. However, what truly sets him apart is his thematic niche — a storyteller whose cinematic tales orbit around the world of children.

In a candid conversation, Saini unveiled his artistic approach, confessing, “My childhood is a vivid part of me; it lives on within me. I find it remarkably effortless to write about children and even guide them through the directorial process. While romantic dramas and the complexities of adulthood might intrigue others, I find myself drawn to the unfiltered perspectives of children. The purity and innocence with which they perceive the world is a constant fascination for me.”

ALSO READ:  Fasting, film promotions leave Hina Khan sleep deprived, tired and unwell

Amidst the backdrop of a burgeoning trend where Gujarati filmmakers often eye a Bollywood transition after garnering local recognition, Saini treads a different path.

He candidly shared, “The Bollywood landscape is bustling with competition, where a script often languishes for six months before even being considered. I remember once pitching a script to a Mumbai studio, only to be advised that sports-themed films were the current trend. I returned to Ahmedabad and began penning a sports-themed script. However, upon returning, I was told that sports films were not resonating well with audiences anymore!”

In the realm of cinematic craftsmanship, Saini recognizes Gujarat’s unique advantages. He expressed, “Gujarat offers a relatively smoother journey in filmmaking. Within six months, I can weave a film here. The ease of securing a producer and realizing the creative vision makes the journey all the more satisfying. As for Bollywood aspirations, I have no plans to tread that path.”

Hailing from Haryana, Manish Saini embarked on his creative journey in the cultural haven of Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He enriched his artistic acumen at the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, an institution renowned for fostering creative minds.

ALSO READ:  Shamita Shetty has endometriosis, to undergo surgery: Listen to your body

Reflecting on his early days, Saini recounted, “After completing my studies at NID in 2009, my friend Aditya Gupta and I ventured into the realm of scriptwriting”

“Once we crafted our narrative, I approached multiple producers and financial advisers, hoping for a green light. Yet, as is often the case for emerging directors, I encountered rejections aplenty. It was then that I chose to mobilize funds from my circle of relatives and friends, birthing my directorial debut ‘Dhh’ in 2017.”

Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Saini’s creation “Gandhi & Co.” emerged, featuring seasoned actor Darshan Jariwala alongside Jayesh More, Druma Mehta, and young talents Reyaan Shah and Hiranya Zinzuwadia. The film’s script germinated during the lockdown and was brought to life towards the end of the initial wave of the pandemic.

Saini reminisced, “Like many others, I found myself confined to a room during the lockdown. Amidst cooking meals and navigating the unfamiliar terrain, I wove the story of ‘Gandhi & Co.’ Shooting commenced as the first wave of the pandemic subsided.”

ALSO READ:  Vicky Kaushal reveals his father was once suicidal as he couldn’t find a job

On  Gandhi & Co.,  he said “When the topic of Gandhi is depicted on screen, the outcome often leans towards preachiness. I was determined to steer clear of that path. The essence of ‘Gandhi & Co.’ lies in its warmth, its humour, and the ability to leave smiles lingering even after the credits roll. Importantly, the film conveys its message without adopting a preachy stance.”

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Entertainment

FDCI Couture Week: Malaika dazzles in Siddartha Tytler’s black & golden lehenga

Published

on

By

FDCI Couture Week: Malaika dazzles in Siddartha Tytler’s black & golden lehenga

FDCI Couture Week: Malaika dazzles in Siddartha Tytler’s black & golden lehenga

New Delhi, July 26 (IANS) Model-actress Malaika Arora on Friday turned muse for fashion designer Siddartha Tytler as she walked the ramp for his collection at the FDCI India Couture Week.

Malaika upped the hotness quotient in a black and golden glittering lehenga.

For makeup, the ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’ girl went all glam with glossy lips, golden eyeshadow, kohl-rimmed eyes, and contoured cheeks.

Her long tresses were left open with a silver tiara as the hair accessory. She opted for silver bangles and matching ‘jhumkas’ to round off the look.

Actor Rahul Khanna too walked the ramp for Tytler’s collection wearing a black velvety sherwani.

Tytler launched his fashion brand in 2002, and his collection exudes sophistication and elegance, boasting ensembles that showcase interesting structures, bold colours, and sharp cuts.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Malaika has been the judge on reality shows like ‘India’s Best Dancer’, ‘MTV Supermodel of the Year’, and ‘India’s Got Talent’.

ALSO READ:  Ram Sampath on new series 'Tribhuvan Mishra': 'Wanted vibrant, quirky music'

She last featured in the show ‘Moving in with Malaika’.

On the other hand, Rahul made his Bollywood debut with Deepa Mehta’s ‘1947 Earth’ (1999) alongside Aamir Khan and Nandita Das.

He has since been a part of projects like ‘Elaan’, ‘Raqeeb’, ‘Tahaan’, ‘Love Aaj Kal’, and most recently, ‘Lost’.

Rahul also featured in the dystopian series ‘Leila’ starring Huma Qureshi in the lead.

–IANS

sp/arm

Continue Reading

Entertainment

‘Shyam Dhun Lagi Re’ tells story of Lord Krishna devotee Adi Kavi Narsinh Mehta

Published

on

By

‘Shyam Dhun Lagi Re’ tells story of Lord Krishna devotee Adi Kavi Narsinh Mehta

‘Shyam Dhun Lagi Re’ tells story of Lord Krishna devotee Adi Kavi Narsinh Mehta

Mumbai, July 26 (IANS) The upcoming mythology show ‘Shyam Dhun Lagi Re’ will follow the story of Adi Kavi Narsinh Mehta and his devotion to Lord Krishna.

The show stars Neelu Vaghela, Krishna Bhardwaj, Paresh Bhatt, and Hitu Kanodia. ‘Shyam Dhun Lagi Re’ is a regional show that tells a rooted story from the west coast of India.

The makers of the show organised a media event at a hotel in the Vastrapur of Ahmedabad. The lead actors of the show Krishna Bhardwaj and Paresh Bhatt were dressed in the outfits of their respective characters for the event.

Actor Krishna Bhardwaj, who essays the role of Lord Krishna in the show, shared: “Stepping into the divine shoes of Lord Krishna for Shyam Dhun Lagi Re is a profound honour. This role allows me to connect deeply with the rich spiritual heritage and cultural essence of Gujarat. Colors Gujarati’s commitment to delivering ‘Assal Gujarati Nu Assal Entertainment’ is evident in the meticulous production and heartfelt storytelling of this show.”

ALSO READ:  Aniruddh Dave recalls filming physically challenging scenes during Covid recovery phase

He further mentioned, “I am thrilled to bring to life the cherished tales of Lord Krishna and his devotee Narsinh Mehta, hoping to inspire and touch the hearts of our audience.”

‘Shyam Dhun Lagi Re’ will premiere on Colors Gujarati.

–IANS

aa/dan

Continue Reading

Entertainment

‘United State Of Gujarat’ to tell story of US return daughter hustling to unite her family

Published

on

By

Trump vows to bring peace to West Asia if re-elected

Trump vows to bring peace to West Asia if re-elected

Mumbai, July 26 (IANS) The upcoming show ‘United State Of Gujarat’, which stars Sana Shaikh and Raj Anadkat, tells the story of a girl who returns to her homeland in Dwarka from the USA to bridge the gap between her mother and her grandmother.

The show is set against the backdrop of Dwarka and is an engaging family drama that promises to take viewers on a captivating journey across continents, exploring the lives and experiences of the global Gujarati diaspora.

The show also stars Ami Trivedi, Ragini Shah, Apara Mehta, Vandana Vithalani, and others, and blends tradition with emotion, encapsulating the essence of ‘Vatt Thi Gujarati’ (born in Gujarat) versus ‘Dil Thi Gujarati’ (heart that beats for Gujarat).

The makers of the show organised a media event at a hotel in the Vastrapur of Ahmedabad. The lead actors of the show were dressed in the outfits of their respective characters for the event.

ALSO READ:  Hindi film 'Kooki' from Assam screened at Cannes, evokes interest among foreign buyers

Talking about the show, Raj Anadkat said: “I am thrilled to be back on TV with a vibrant and flamboyant character, Keshav. Gujarati fans will definitely love this character and the show which boasts of Gujarati culture and traditions – assal Gujarati nu assal entertainment che. Working with COLORS Gujarati is going to be a great experience and I’m grateful for this opportunity.”

‘United State Of Gujarat’ will premiere on Colors Gujarati.

–IANS

aa/dan

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Kartik Aaryan's wishes to Indian athletes at Paris Olympics: 'Strength to all you Champions'

Published

on

By

Kartik Aaryan's wishes to Indian athletes at Paris Olympics: 'Strength to all you Champions'

Kartik Aaryan's wishes to Indian athletes at Paris Olympics: 'Strength to all you Champions'

Mumbai, July 26 (IANS) Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan has extended warm wishes to the Indian athletes, who are participating in the 2024 Paris Olympics, saying ‘more strength to all you Champions’.

Kartik, who recently essayed the role of India’s first Paralympics gold medallist Murlikant Petkar in the biographical sports drama ‘Chandu Champion’ took to Instagram, and shared a still from his movie, holding onto a medal, and smiling proudly.

He wrote in the caption: “Wishing All the best to the athletes representing our nation at the Paris Olympics 2024. Playing an Athlete in #ChanduChampion has been an incredible experience and honour. The feeling of holding the medal and seeing the Indian flag on top cannot be expressed in words. More strength to all you Champions!! Give your best and make us proud.”

A fan commented on the post and said: “Soon we will see Indian athletes with Olympic medals”. Another user said: “This particular scene gave goosebumps and tears of joy. Proud Indian.”

ALSO READ:  Ram Sampath on new series 'Tribhuvan Mishra': 'Wanted vibrant, quirky music'

A fan said: “Champion.”

India has sent a huge contingent of 117 sportspersons to Paris for the Olympics, aiming to surpass the historic seven medals won at the previous edition in Tokyo.

India will compete in 16 out of the 32 sports featured in this year’s Olympic Games.

‘Chandu Champion’ is written and directed by Kabir Khan, and jointly produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Kabir.

Kartik made his acting debut in 2011 with the romantic comedy buddy drama ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama’.

He then went on to feature in movies like ‘Akaash Vani’, ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2’, ‘Guest in London’, ‘Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety’, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’, ‘Dhamaka’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’, ‘Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar’, and ‘Satyaprem Ki Katha’.

The handsome hunk next has ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ in the pipeline.

–IANS

sp/dan

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Bryan Adams to bring his ‘So Happy It Hurts’ world tour to India in December

Published

on

By

Bryan Adams to bring his ‘So Happy It Hurts’ world tour to India in December

Bryan Adams to bring his ‘So Happy It Hurts’ world tour to India in December

Mumbai, July 26 (IANS) The Canadian singer-songwriter, and musician, Bryan Adams is all set to bring his full-fledged electrifying musical journey ‘So Happy It Hurts’ world tour to India in December, this year.

The musical tour will kick start on December 10 in Shillong and Meghalaya and will visit cities like Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, finally wrapping up in Hyderabad on December 16.

The tour will mark Bryan’s sixth visit to India after the 1993-1994 tour, multi-city gigs in 2001, 2006, and 2011, and his last outing being with the ‘Ultimate Tour’ in 2018.

This massive tour promises a night of unforgettable music, spanning the music icon’s illustrious career. The audiences can expect a career retrospective from his catalogue like ‘Summer Of ’69’, ‘Everything I Do I Do It For You’, ‘Please Forgive Me’, ‘Run To You’, ‘18 Till I Die’. The tour will also have an introduction to his Grammy-nominated 2022 album ‘So Happy It Hurts’.

ALSO READ:  Kalki expresses her wish to be remembered as being 'relevant' 10 yrs from now

The India tour is an extension of Adams’ global run in the US, UK, Europe, and Canada.

“I’m incredibly excited to be coming back to India! There’s a unique connection I feel with the Indian audience. Your passion for music is truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to perform all your favourite songs– the old ones and some new ones too. This tour is a celebration of music that has connected people across generations. Get ready to rock,” Bryan said.

The show is presented and produced by SG Live in collaboration with EVA Live.

Deepak Choudhary, Founder & Managing Director, EVA Live said: “There’s a definite resurgence of interest in legendary acts across India. Fans are rediscovering the power and emotion of the timeless classics, and legendary artists like Bryan Adams are proving that great music truly transcends generations. This tour is a testament to this reality.”

The tickets will be available to HSBC Visa credit cardholders from August 4. The general sale of the tickets will commence on August 7, which will be available on the Live tab on the Zomato app.

ALSO READ:  Ram Sampath on new series 'Tribhuvan Mishra': 'Wanted vibrant, quirky music'

–IANS

sp/dan

Continue Reading

Trending