'I would’ve been crazy had I not done this film', says 'Sarfira' Akshay Kumar

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar's milestone 150th film, 'Sarfira', hits theatres nationwide, marking a significant moment in his illustrious career. To celebrate this occasion, Akshay took to social media to share his thoughts on what makes 'Sarfira' so special, along with some exclusive behind-the-scenes images that highlight the dedication and enthusiasm that went into the making of the film. In his heartfelt message, Akshay Kumar expressed, "'Sarfira' means crazy, and looking back, I feel I would’ve been crazy had I not done this film. So I’m glad I did. This journey began almost three years back, and it’s finally out for you all to witness and hopefully cherish. 'Sarfira' is the story of a dream and the stubbornness to fulfill that dream, something we all can learn from. I’m so proud to be a part of this film and glad that 'Sarfira' is my 150th film. I hope you get a chance to catch it in cinemas soon. #Sarfira is now all yours."
'Sarfira' is set against the dynamic backdrop of start-ups and aviation, promising to captivate audiences with its powerful narrative. The film tells an inspiring story that motivates the common man to dream big and chase their aspirations, no matter how impossible they may seem. Akshay Kumar, known for bringing the stories of unsung heroes to the silver screen, is set to dominate in a genre he is most loved for.
The talented cast also includes Paresh Rawal, Radhikka Madan, and Seema Biswas, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles. At the helm of 'Sarfira' is National Award-winning director Sudha Kongara. The early positive response from critics and audiences sets a promising tone for the film's release, building anticipation among moviegoers eager to witness this inspiring tale on the big screen. 'Sarfira' is more than just a film; it is a celebration of dreams, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of goals.

Bad Newz: Popular actor wanted to be a Dentist

Popular actor and singer Ammy Virk is all set to make a mark in the Bollywood with his upcoming movies “*Khel Khel Mein*” and “*Bad Newz*,. During a recent interaction, Ammy Virk, a name synonymous with melodious Punjabi music and charismatic acting, revealed an intriguing aspect of his past that he initially aspired to be a Dentist. Reflecting on his academic life, Ammy shared that he was a dedicated student, pursuing a B.Sc in Biotechnology from Punjabi University, Patiala, with the intention of entering the medical field along with making music.
"I was shooting for my album songs while pursuing my degree. There was a important moment when I had to shoot in Chandigarh during my Bachelor of Dental Surgery exams. Despite my best efforts, the college could not allow me to give exam on an alternate date, putting me in a spot. However, that was the moment I decided to focus on my music completely and there is no looking back now," Ammy recounted."
He also mentioned the support of his classmates, who tried to help him avoid failing his exams. Ammy’s passion for music was evident from a young age, often participating in singing competitions during his school and college days. Today Ammy Virk is celebrated not just for his soulful voice and engaging performances, but also for his inspiring journey from aspiring dentist to successful actor and musician.*Bad Newz* starring Ammy Virk, Vicky Kaushal, Tripti Dimri is releasing in theatres on July 19, 2024.

'It’s a reflection of your own self': Anuj Arora on fashion

Actor Anuj Arora, who has been a part of TV shows like Burey Bhi Hum Bhale Bhi Hum, Bandini, Thodi Khushi Thode Gham, Behenein, and the web series Anarchy, says fashion for him is a personal choice. He believes it’s a reflection of one’s personality. He said, “Fashion for me is very personal. It’s a reflection of your own self and state of mind. Fashion is what actually portrays you, your personality, and your statement.” He feels it is quite normal for people to follow trends each season. “For those who love clothes and experimenting, it’s always an opportunity to change with the season. Actors and influencers are expected to keep trying new things, which also brings in a personal touch,” he said.
Anuj, too, loves to follow trends and mentioned that it brings positivity and energy. “I love clothes and trying new styles because wearing something fresh and seasonal brings a lot of positivity and energy. My go-to clothing includes harem pants and an oversized T-shirt,” he said. He loves to experiment and enjoys when he is playing a character whose fashion sense is completely opposite to his. He said, “In one of my web series, I played a very different character with a style rooted in the 80s, featuring boot cuts, bell bottoms, and silk printed shirts—things I wouldn’t normally wear due to the loud color combinations. However, these elements made a huge difference in the character and contributed significantly to the characterization. I am willing to go to any lengths to make my character look the way it should.”
And he doesn’t mind promoting such characters in their costumes on public forums or at events. “If it’s important for the marketing and promotion of the films, and I have to don the costume according to my character, I don’t mind it. However, I enjoy wearing trendy clothes because it brings out my true self. It’s not necessary to be in character all the time. If I am attending a public or private gathering, I prefer wearing something different to break the monotony and let me be myself,” he said.
Though he is not much of an accessory person, he wears things that make him feel comfortable and confident. He added, “I have close friends with whom I discuss what to wear, and if they advise something, I follow that.” What is your date night outfit? “I love casual attire. A pair of blue jeans with a white or black shirt, or maybe a denim jacket and a plain white T-shirt,” Anuj ended.

Meet a transparent person

Pravina Deshpande, who has done films like Ready, Ek Villain, Monsoon Out, Khamosh Adalat Jari Hai, Jalebi, Bose: Dead/Alive, Avrodh, and Rocket Boys, to name a few, says though she is different with different sets of people, she doesn’t have a specific side that she keeps just to herself.She said, “We are surely different with different sets of people depending on how much we know them or our comfort with them. You feel that people should not wrongly judge you. With your own set of people, family, and friends, there are no such thoughts.” “I am quite a transparent person. There is no side of me that is only for myself,” she added.
When asked to describe herself, she said she is a positive, empathetic, patient, resilient, and creative person. And she agrees that it surely takes time for her to analyze herself in words. She added, “I do not complicate things. For me, it’s one step at a time, and I take life as it comes.” For Pravina, self-validation is important, and she added, “Only after that do I seek validation, which comes from a source of confidence that is my elder son or his wife, who is my daughter from another mother, not only makes things easier for me. It creates a strong bond while I discuss things, that’s so important.”
She also believes that staying in our comfort zones is going to take us nowhere. She said, “Ravindranath Tagore had said, ‘You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.’ That’s so true.” How has moving out of your comfort zone helped you? “I am from Raipur in Chhattisgarh, from a very comfortable background where my father was a very reputed doctor. All my siblings are doctors, and my husband is a structural engineering consultant. My own education, being an MSc in life sciences with a diploma in pathology, made coming into the entertainment industry itself challenging. I am talking about 1997–1998. Meeting people, going for auditions at Mahalaxmi, shooting late nights for daily soaps over the years, and driving back from Madh Island sometimes alone as late as 2 a.m. requires a lot of adjustments and strength both from within and from family, mainly my husband. This has helped me grow and be what I am today,” Pravina ended.

'I am very happy and want to continue growing graduall'y: Sayli Salunke

Sayli Salunkhe, who is seen as Vedika in Prateek Sharma and Parth Shah’s Pukaar: Dil Se Dil Tak, which is produced under their banner, LSD Studios, is happy with the way her career is moving and wants it to grow gradually. “When I look back at myself from ten years ago, I feel a sense of pride. I think, ‘Oh my god, what have I accomplished?’ I feel proud of myself and grateful to my parents because, without them, I wouldn't be here today. I am very happy and want to continue growing gradually. Sudden growth can pull you down just as quickly, so I want to enjoy this journey and take my time,” she said.
“This slow process is what brings true enjoyment. I would say I have a beautiful life. God is with me, my parents are with me, and I have everyone's blessings. I feel like I am a blessed child, and many things are happening in a lovely and easy way for me. I am very happy,” she added.Coming from a middle-class background, she never imagined seeing herself on-screen, and she is happy to see herself in a better career prospect now. “I am very happy to see myself in a better position now because otherwise, I might have been working in a corporate job. But at some point, I felt that I wouldn't be able to do it all,” she said.
“It has been a very beautiful journey, and I have learned many wonderful things along the way. Every journey has its ups and downs, and mine is no different. In fact, this is how we grow as individuals. I never thought I would become an actor, but these things just happened, and it has been a lovely journey,” she added.For Sayli, growth and life ambitions are important. She feels that if one doesn’t have any motive or desire for something in life, they can't grow.
“If you stay at one stage in life, you can only enjoy it for so long. Growth is necessary for everyone. You will grow when you have ambitions and a set goal in your life. Once you have a goal, you feel the need to keep moving forward. Without ambitions, I think we remain stuck, both as individuals and in our work. So, I believe having ambitions is extremely important,” she ended.

'I have gained weight and even grown a belly': Manmohan Tiwari on his role in Mishri

Kumkum Bhagya, Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya, Hum Hain Na, Jay Bharti, and Gudiya Humari Sabhi Pe Bhaari-fame actor Manmohan Tiwari is currently seen in Mishri. He said that he has put on weight to portray his character perfectly. Not just that, he has even coloured his hair to make himself look older on-screen. He said, “To prepare for the negative lead in this show, I have gained weight and even grown a belly. I dye my hair daily to make myself look older and meet the character's demands. This effort is to ensure that the character stands out and truly comes to life, conveying exactly what it needs to and leaving a strong impression on the audience.”
Manmohan has mostly played negative roles on-screen; however, he mentioned that he has done positive roles as well in shows like Gudiya Humari Sabhi Pe Bhaari, Hum Hain Na, and Jay Bharti. He added, “In Kumkum Bhagya, and Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya, I have played negative characters. I also have another show coming up on Dangal where I'll be playing a negative role. I enjoy playing negative characters more.” Future plans? "My future plans are to continue acting and doing my best work. I want to keep entertaining you all,” he ended.