On ‘World Theatre Day’, &TV artists share how theatre experience set a foundation for their acting career

On ‘World Theatre Day’, &TV artists share how theatre experience set a foundation for their acting career

Quoting Oscar Wilde, "I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being." -. On ‘World Theatre Day’, theatre artists turned television actors from &TV shows talk about their love for theatre and how it has been a foundation to their acting careers. These include Anita Bhabi (Vidisha Srivastava, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai), Bhimrao (Atharva, Ek Mahanayak - Dr B.R. Ambedkar), Mahadev (Sidharth Arora, Baal Shiv), Ram Prasad Mishra (Ambrish Bobby, Aur Bhai Kya Chal Raha Hai?) Rajesh Singh (Kamna Pathak, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan). 

Vidisha Srivastava, who recently entered &TV’s Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai as new Anita Bhabi, shares, “World Theatre Day is a celebration for those who can see the value and importance of the art form. Theatre is the oldest form of art and, with time, has evolved a lot. Theatre helps promote social discourse, dialogue, and potential social change, and I feel blessed that I have got the opportunity to work in that space with some amazing people in the early days of my career. As an actor, the knowledge you gain from performing in theatres allows you to be the best version of yourself”. 

Siddharth Arora essaying Mahadev in &TV’s Baal Shiv, shares, “My entire training to be an actor has been through theatre. After attending an NSD (National School of Drama) workshop in Varanasi, I began my journey as an actor. When I came down to Mumbai, I worked for a bank and did my theatre plays simultaneously. Then I eventually got into the television industry, but my love for theatre did not fade away. I still do theatre and keep attending workshops like I recently did, AdiShakti in Pondicherry. It is only because of the theatre that I have an opportunity to act with people worldwide. I still take theatre workshops because I believe that if you want to grow as an actor, you must keep yourself associated with theatre, as that is the best medium to learn and explore your acting skills. The theatre is an indispensable part of my life”.

Atharva essaying young Bhimrao in &TV’s Ek Mahanayak - Dr B.R. Ambedkar, shares, “My first exposure to theatre happened when I was three and a half years old. My parents enrolled me to participate in a workshop. It was my first time on stage. I was quite fascinated with it, and that is how my love for theatre started. It soon became my hobby and opened a window of opportunities for me. After that, I participated in quite a few workshops, which set a foundation for my acting career. Interestingly, working with theatre productions teaches us many life skills. It improves one’s oral communication and problem-solving skills, builds confidence to speak in front of large audiences, teaches working under pressure and independently, and more. I owe a lot to the theatre, which has shaped me as an actor. Thanks to it, I have been given this wonderful opportunity to essay the young Bhimrao’s character in &TV’s Ek Mahanayak – Dr B.R. Ambedkar, which I must say is a role of a lifetime!” 

Ambrish Bobby essaying Ramesh Prasad Mishra in &TV’s Aur Bhai Kya Chal Raha Hai? shares, “Coming from a regular middle-class family, I completed my studies as a commerce and accounting graduate and worked at many organisations as an accountant. While working at an office, I was spotted by a life insurance agent working on plays who invited me to a drama rehearsal. That's how my journey began as a theatre artist. After that, there was no turning back. I left my job and worked with renowned theatre directors from Lucknow like Sangam Bahugana, Lalit Singh Pokhariya, and Raja Awasthi, among others. Whatever I am today is because of the theatre, and that's why it holds a special place in my heart. Whatever learning I have taken to be an actor is only through theatre. As an artist, you learn manners through theatre, which gives you a personality in how you represent yourself, how you are polite, how you react, and many other things. Rangmanch has the power to make a person a complete artist”. 

Kamna Pathak essaying Rajesh in &TV’s Rajesh Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, “I did my first stage show when I was five years old, and that's how my journey in theatre started. Theatres have taught me valuable lessons that have helped me become a better actor and have also given me the confidence to succeed in the entertainment industry. During my journey with theatre, I worked with some legendary artists, like M. S. Sathyu, Sourabh Shukla, Manoj Joshi, Hema Singh, and others. I have many learnings from my theatre days, but the most prominent one would always be "The show must go on." Whatever the situation is, once the show gets started, it must keep going. There is no second chance in theatres because there are no retakes. Cinema and television are directed mediums, whereas theatre is an actor medium. Once the play is started, there is no one to direct you. Even if you make the smallest mistakes, you must cover them up. I believe that theatre is the most difficult medium to master because it allows for direct interaction with the audience and immediate response, giving you confidence as an actor. The theatre has played a crucial role in my journey as an actor. I miss doing theatre a lot, but in the future, if time allows me, I would love to be back on stage and be a part of some great shows”. 

Tune in to watch Baal Shiv at 8:00 pm, Ek Mahanayak - Dr B.R. Ambedkar at 8:30 pm, Aur Bhai Kya Chal Raha Hai? at 9:30 pm, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 pm and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 pm airing every Monday to Friday only on &TV!

It is easy to make people emotional, but it isn't easy to make them laugh”, says new Anita Bhabi, aka Vidisha Srivastava

Actor Vidisha Srivastava recently entered &TV’s cult comedy show Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai as the new Anita Bhabi. While the industry is abuzz with her entry, we spoke to her about stepping into the shoes of Anita Bhabi, behind the scenes fun, her first encounter with the comedy genre and more. Excerpts from the interview:

1. How does it feel to be the new Anita Bhabi? What was your first reaction when you were selected for the role?

Anita Bhabi is an iconic character who enjoys massive popularity and fan following. I feel elated and honoured to be given this opportunity. When I got selected, my first reaction was, ‘Oh my gosh! Is this really happening!’. I was ecstatic. I have always enjoyed watching the show for its entertaining characters and humorous plots. I had never imagined that I would be a part of it as one of its lead characters one day. I am thrilled to take on this huge mandate and, most importantly, share the screen with the accomplished and talented actors Aasif Sheikh, Rohitashv Gouri, and Shubhangi Atre. I am grateful to Sanjay and Binaiferr Kohli Ji for believing in my abilities and giving me this wonderful opportunity. I feel truly blessed. Everyone around me, especially my friends and family, has been on top of the moon ever since they knew this.

My family is an ardent fan of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, and they watch the show regularly. So, when I was approached for the Anita Bhabi role, my entire family got super excited. None of us had imagined that an opportunity to essay Anita Bhabi’s role would come my way one day. Even during the auditions, my family was eager to know how it went and if I got selected. And when I broke the news to them, they couldn’t contain their happiness. It was like a mini celebration at home. 

2. What are the similarities and dissimilarities between Vidisha and Anita Bhabi? 

There are only similarities. Anita Bhabi is contemporary and 'today's a woman'. Her personality is quite strong and stands out, one of the most important aspects of her character. She has a mind of her own and is quite bold. She stands up for what she believes in and never gets bogged down easily. And I am somewhat like this in real life. So, when I was chosen for the role, I could relate to her and fit in easily.

 

3. Who is your favourite character other than Anita Bhabi from the show, and why?

While each character is quite entertaining and has its unique traits, Vibuti Narayan Mishra is my favourite. It is played by my favourite actor – the very talented and accomplished actor, Aasif Sheikh Ji. Secondly, the role offers variety and has many characters within a single role. It is just not easy to carry them so beautifully and at ease. I have thoroughly enjoyed each of these fun characters. His comic timing is so perfect. Hats off to him. And now, I am blessed to get an opportunity to work closely with him. There is so much to learn from him.

4. You’ve started shooting recently. Tell us about your first day at the shoot and about the behind-the-scenes fun that happens on the set of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai

It's just been a few weeks since I started shooting for the show, but it seems like I already know them all and have a special connection. I was a bit nervous on my first day, but everyone made me feel very comfortable, especially Rohitashv Ji, with whom I shot the very first scene. He is not just an amazing co-star but an extremely humble person. Let me tell you a secret: all the artists in this show are so much into the characters that they don't miss a single chance to make you laugh. We keep cracking jokes and pulling each other’s legs, which helps us stay happy and energetic and give our best for each shot. While shooting for a dance sequence during our Holi track, TMT (Tika, Malkhan, and Tillu) suddenly started singing the song in their unique style, and everyone on the sets was in splits. It is fun to be surrounded by such happy and fun-loving people.

5. The comedy genre is new to you. How easy or difficult it has been to adapt to it? What are the other genres you like or would like to explore?

As an actor, I believe you will stagnate if you don’t accept new challenges, learn, and evolve. I always look forward to exploring new genres, especially comedy. I have been part of the fantasy, mythological, historical, and romantic dramas. But this time, I was mentally prepared to explore a comedy genre, which pushed me to get out of my comfort zone. I must say, comedy is the most difficult genre. It is easy to make people emotional, but it isn't easy to make them laugh. Many nuances like expression, comic timing, and body language come into play to make people laugh, and one must work extremely hard to get that right.

6. Anita Bhabi has a lot of grace and style and wears stylish sarees. Does Vidisha, too, like Sarees? What is your style quotient? What kind of clothes, makeup, and accessories do you prefer?

Anita Bhabi has an oomph factor. She is quite graceful and stylish. She knows how to slay on screen with her classy and elegant look. My style statement is similar to hers, simple, elegant and graceful. But I prefer comfortable clothing, with limited accessories. I am a no-makeup person, and whenever I have to get ready for any occasion, I do subtle makeup and keep my hair open to make me look sassy. I always choose the dress that gives me comfort, with limited accessories. Like Anita, I also love wearing sarees with stylish blouses, but at the same time, I am also a woman who is in unconditional love with her jeans. I will never give up on my favourite pair of jeans, which go with any stylish top, heels, and accessories. 

Watch Vidisha Srivastava as new Anita Bhabi in &TV's Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, airing every Monday to Friday at 10:30 pm

Pan Nalin’s ‘LAST FILM SHOW’ hits International Cinemas with its first Theatrical Release in Spain in March 2022

Mumbai 21st March 2022: Award-winning filmmaker Pan Nalin’s Gujarati film, Last Film Show (“Chhello Show”), which opened at the Spotlight section of Tribeca Film Festival, is all set to hit International cinemas in the coming weeks—becoming the first Gujarati film to find overseas release in the post-pandemic world. As India celebrated Holi on 18th March, Last Film Show, produced by ‘Jugaad Motion Pictures’ and ‘Monsoon Films’, colours the global horizon with its theatrical release in Spain. Ready to take on the cinema screens across Spain as “La Ultima Pelicula”, Last Film Show is the first Gujarati film to be dubbed entirely in Spanish. Last Film Show’s release in Spain only marks the beginning of the film’s release in more cinema theatres across the globe, including Germany, Israel, Taiwan and soon, India. This Indo-French co-production, which is represented by French giants, UGC and ORANGE Studio, has already garnered tremendous appreciation on the global film circuit by sweeping top accolades at prestigious International film festivals like Tribeca, Seminci, Mill Valley, among others.

 

Last Film Show is a sweet ode to the magic of cinema, told through the eyes of a young boy in the remote village of Saurashtra in Gujarat. Speaking of the film, Pan Nalin, best known for his films, “Samsara”, “Angry Indian Goddesses” and “Valley of Flowers”, says, “When we were making the film, we didn’t realise that the world would go this way. The film celebrates the big-screen experience of going to cinema halls and watching a film with family and friends, which is irreplaceable”.

"The disappearance of India's single-screen culture and 35mm celluloid film largely forms the backdrop of Last Film Show. The film is released at a time when the film industry globally is witnessing the death of the 35mm format. The new formats have opened doors for storytellers, and films like Last Film Show have the potential to connect with audiences globally, breaking all language barriers”, says Dheer Momaya, the co-founder of Jugaad Motion Pictures and producer of Last Film Show.

 

Shot in the beautiful, scenic landscapes of the grassroots of India, the film will put heritage tourism in Gujarat on the global map. The film stars six young boys from indigenous tribe communities of Gujarat. The film also highlights some of the amazing vistas of India like beautiful railway stations, natural vistas of Saurashtra, breathtaking lakes of Gujarat, Lions, and wildlife of Sasan Gir, including long picturesque stretches that are unique to the state. To Pan Nalin, shooting the film in real locations from villages to railways to schools made him feel nostalgic about his childhood. “Everything seemed the same to me. Even though people have moved forward in life, the tradition and the culture is still preserved”. Loosely based on Pan Nalin’s own experiences, who was born in a small village in the Amreli district of Gujarat, Last Film Show tells the story of a young boy who begins a lifelong love affair with cinema when he bribes his way into a rundown movie palace and spends a summer watching movies from the projection booth.

Speaking of why this is such an important story to him, producer Dheer Momaya says, “Pan Nalin’s origin story was so fascinating, that I was convinced it had to be told. Most writer/directors in India come from some sort of cultural/economically endowed backgrounds, and have had access to the basics of education and exposure to film (even if it was just the ability to watch) from a very young age. For Nalin it was quite the opposite, he was watching and making movies in his head before he even knew about the existence of cinema. Moreover, while this is a personal reflection of his life experiences, the themes explored through the story are quite universal. Last Film Show is a celebration of cinema, more than just a love letter. It accentuates the nostalgia that most of us feel about our relationship with the theatrical experience. It reminds me of that first time I watched a film in the cinema, and the astonished wonder I was left with. Something, we have come to take for granted in the digital age”.

The main credits in the film includes Bhavin Rabari (as Samay), Bhavesh Shrimali (as Fazal, Projectionist at the Galaxy Cinema), Richa Meena (as Baa, Samay’s mother), Dipen Raval (as Bapuji Samay’s father), Paresh Mehta (Galaxy Cinema Manager), Vikas Bata (as Nano), Rahul Koli (as Manu), Shoban Makwa  (as Badshah), Kishan Parmar  (as S.T.), Vijay Mer  (as Tiku), Alpesh Tank   (as Teacher Mr. Dave), and Tia Sebastien (as Leela Mila).

When the magic of movies conquers nine-year young Samay’s heart, he moves heaven and earth in pursuit of his 35mm dreams unaware of heartbreaking times that await him. Watch out for this masterpiece by writer-director Pan Nalin. him. Watch out for this masterpiece by writer-director Pan Nalin.

                                                                        ******

Synopsis:

Set in the remote Indian countryside of 2010, Last Film Show is an ode to cinema and the wonder movies create for all those who experience its magic. After watching a movie at the Indian Galaxy Cinema, young, free-spirited SAMAY’s life turns upside down as he passionately falls in love with films. He steals money from his father’s struggling small tea shop, and skips school to watch movies. Samay and his gang passionately begin to create their own 35mm movie of their dreams. Soon Samay’s father discovers his nine-year old son’s ‘immoral’ obsession with the movies and physically punishes him and warns him to stay away from the ‘filthy’ world of films. For Samay it is too late as he is already smitten by the world of movies. Continuing to pursue his obsession with the movie, Samay’s path crosses with FAZAL, the projectionist at the Galaxy Cinema. They strike a deal. Samay will let him eat the delicious food that his mother has lovingly made for him.- in return for Fazal letting him watch movies all day from the projection room. In no time their "food-for-films" deal turns into an endearing long- lasting friendship. Soon however, the unlikely duo will be forced to make heartbreaking choices as an era of change is sweeping through the countr

On World Hearing Day Josh foundation organized a sports event for underprivileged children in order to support the initiative started by WHO Hearing for Life.

On World Hearing Day Josh foundation organized a sports event for underprivileged children in order to support the initiative started by WHO Hearing for Life.  

MUMBAI, 3rd March 2022.

Josh foundation celebrated "WORLD HEARING DAY" by organizing an event called ‘Fitness Fest - 2022’ for the hearing impaired children with the support of Dynacons. More than 350 hearing-impaired children participated in this event and put forward their capabilities. Josh foundation believes that sports are good not only for physical fitness but also for mental health. Besides this, it also develops qualities such as sportsmanship, communication and boosts their morale. It was an event filled with motivation and encouragement held on 3rd March 2020 at All India Balkan-Ji-Bari, Santacruz (W) Mumbai.

This initiative was designed by the Coresport Republic and the Venue partner was All India Balkan-Ji-Bari. International Rifle Shooter Neha Milind Sapte motivated kids by playing with them and sharing her personal experience. International Table Tennis Champion Pathik Mehta was also present and he showed some of his champion tricks to kids. At the event, various activities such as martial arts, hop race, three leg race, relay race, basketball, gymnastics, tug of war, and many more were conducted.

While in conversation with Dr.Jayant Gandhi, founder of JOSH foundation he said, "We have specially arranged this fest to uplift the lives of these impaired children and make them feel 'included.' Josh foundation is helping these budding kids by providing hearing aids. These kids are not dumb, infact they are reaching great heights in field of architecture, web designing, etc."

Devangi Dalal, co-founder of Josh foundation said, "Hearing is very important for communication and this importance of hearing we need to learn from hearing-impaired children. Keep the volume down, use earplugs in noisy surroundings, limit the time spent in noisy surroundings, use smartphones apps to monitor your voice levels and get regular hearing check ups. These are the 5 parameters highlighted by the WHO on this World Hearing Day."

JOSH Foundation with the Support of Dynacons presents Fitness Fest 2022.

JOSH Foundation with the Support of Dynacons presents Fitness Fest 2022

JOSH Foundation with the support

of Dynacons organized Fitness Fest for hearing impaired children. 350+ children participated in this event to celebrate world hearing day. This year's theme of WHO was "To hear for life, listen with care." Founders of Josh Foundation Devangi Dalal and Dr. Jayant Gandhi expressed their vision behind holding this event. They were also supported by venue partner All India Balkanji Bari, Coresport designed the concept and Kshitij was their event partner. The Guest of Honour Neha Sapte (International Rifle Shooter), Pathik Mehta (Table Tennis Champion) encouraged these kids by playing with them and encouraged them to lead a life with positive attitude.