Sheeba Akashdeep: 'I always need people with me'

Travelling is a passion for many. They enjoy going to new places, learning something new and come back all happy and ready to take their life ahead. 90s popular Bollywood star and known TV personality Sheeba Akashdeep talks about getting bitten by the travel bug and her favourite tourist destination.“Last trip I took internationally, I travelled to Boston. That's where my son studies and New York is now on my mind because that's where he lives,” she continues, “I love taking small trips even if it's for 2 days, I will travel in India. Recently I had the privilege of going to Tirupathi. So I like to take 2 or 3 days breaks also in and around India.”
Travelling is important. It opens your mind, it exposes you to different cultures, to different kinds of food, people, so many things open up for you. So Sheeba loves to travel.There are a lot of people who meticulously plan their holidays, while many others don’t. And, Sheeba shares being a bit of both.“Sometimes I go for this all girl vacation. We went to Greece, we have been to Bali, Budapest, Vienna, and we have been to quite a few destinations. We are going to Thailand as girls trip and we pretty much meticulously plan those, like where we will have coffee or where we will go for our meals and book our meals and then there are those impromptu overnight things where me and my husband, we picked our passports and reach the airports to go for holiday because we suddenly realise that we are free. So I like a bit of both. I have done that with my best friend and my husband. So I like the surprise element of the impromptu trip,” she says.
Have you ever travelled solo? “I have taken the longest flight ever alone all the way to Fiji. That was a work-related trip so I travelled alone but only in a plane. I'm not a solo traveller. I do not like to do anything solo.  That is not in my bucket list. I always need people with me. I am a very people’s person and touch wood, I always find the right company for anything I wish to do. So for a religious trip, I have a group for that, if it's a fun trip I have a bunch of people who are okay with that. So not going solo anywhere,” she ends.

Sneha Tomar opens up on getting married!

Actress Sneha Tomar, who has been part of shows such as Sherdil Shergill, Sasural Simar ka, Kaahan Hum Kaahan Tum, will be tying the knot soon. The actress says that she and her family are all set for the functions that lie ahead. “When it comes to functions, we have Haldi ceremony, Mehendi Ceremony, and of course the Sangeet lined up. For the Haldi ceremony, I'm actually going to wear a simple salwar suit because I thought a lehenga might be too much for the Haldi function. So, for the first event, I've chosen a plain yellow kurta with a pink dupatta. For the Mehendi ceremony, I'll be wearing a lehenga, and for the sangeet I've also decided on a lehenga. Of course, for the wedding, I'll be wearing a lehenga as well,” she says. 
The actress says that she met her fiancé Shubham Parihar who is a creative head of an OTT platform when she was shooting for a web series. “We first met while I was shooting for a Rajasthani web series called 'Mautana,' for 'STAGE' App and that's where we crossed paths. As such, there are no plans for the honeymoon because of the shooting schedule. I took a break due to this show, and I'll have to see how things progress and whether I need to pick up from where I left off. So, as of now, there are no plans,” she says. 
Talking about going back to work, post marriage, she says, “I definitely want to continue acting post marriage. My career is not going anywhere else. My future plans include exploring new projects, giving auditions, and, for now, I'm focused on getting clarity on this current show. In the meantime, there was another show that came up, but it's on hold due to scheduling conflicts. Initially, the dates they requested aligned with my availability, but now they need the dates that coincide with my wedding. So, let's see how things unfold!”
Meanwhile, the wedding will take place in Ahmedabad. “All my relatives, friends, and the entire family are in Ahmedabad, which is why everything is happening here. As for any other functions, there are no plans in Mumbai at the moment,” she says.

‘Tripling’ wouldn’t have worked on any other kind of medium'-Amol Parashar on OTT validation and more

Celebrated as one of the most loved and iconic shows out there, TVF ‘Tripling’ continues to win audiences with its heartwarming storyline and relatable characters. Centred around the escapades of three siblings - Chandan, Chanchal, and Chitvan - on a road trip, the show emerged as a prime OTT release and garnered immense popularity for its relatable portrayal of familial bonds and the rollercoaster of emotions. One has to credit the show’s success to the honest and real chemistry between the characters which strikes the right chord with viewers. 
As TVF ‘Tripling’ remains a favourite of the audiences three seasons later, the show’s cast Sumeet Vyas, Maanvi Gagroo and Amol Parashar speak to Filmfare Companion’s Sneha Menon Desai in ‘In The Making’ presented by ZEE5 and Film Companion. The actors open up about their relationship as on-screen siblings, being among the first to try digital content, being in the making, and more.
Excerpts: 
When asked about their initial thoughts about doing TVF ‘Tripling’ and if they realised that the show would make it so big, Sumit Vyas said, “With tripling, we were a little afraid because it was the second or third web series to come out in India. It was the first web show which was scaled up. A lot of firsts were happening so we were just hoping that it lands and people watch it.”
Opening up about how the show has managed to stay relevant for the audiences and receive such an outpour of love, Maanvi Gagroo shared, “It’s just the fact that there is nothing else out there which is like this. I still have people come up to me and they are like we have never seen a sibling show and to be represented like this because it’s not too sanitised, nor is it like we are constantly fighting. It’s the novelty of the concept which still clicks.”
Further, Amol Parashar revealed the secret behind the crackling chemistry shared by the trio saying, “I think siblings are eventually long-term friends without the Romance. It’s the banter, and thankfully, the three of us had known each other before we ended up in the show. We had worked with each other in different capacities and knew each other fairly well to be comfortable with taking digs and improvising and being confident and secure enough with each other.”
Moving forward, Sumit Vyas was asked about being the jack of multiple things and not boxing himself when it comes to being an actor and a writer. He said, “The one thing that I can, it’s the perspective. You do get perspective when you write and then you come back to acting because when you’re writing you’re essentially doing all the parts. You’re thinking of all the characters so you kind of become every one of them. Imagining, thinking for and against them and then you come back to playing one part. You tend to become a little more giving and understanding. You’re thinking less just about yourself.”
Meanwhile, an audience and critics favourite, Maanvi Gagroo spoke about her varied range of characters and growing with every character personally. She expressed, “While playing the character, my emo is that I try to find some truth in it which means I try to find some resonance within me of the character. So yeah there are parts you carry and there are some resonances and familiarities.”
Lastly, the ‘Tripling’ men Sumit Vyas and Amol Parashar shared their thoughts on getting OTT validation. Sumit Vyas said, “I would say the viewing pattern on OTT, is very cutthroat because television viewing is a bit of habitual viewing. Film in the theatres, you pay the money so most likely you will sit through the film. But OTT is a very personal viewing experience so the chances of you not liking and sticking to that are very slim. So that’s why the validation you get, it feels something.”
Amol Parashar further added, “It’s also a certain kind of audience. OTT has reached a certain demographic which wands towards certain kinds of stories, which is why a show like ‘Tripling’. It wouldn’t have worked on any other kind of medium.”

Pranjali Singh Parihar on her show Dalchini

Actress Pranjali Singh Parihar, who plays the role of Kala, says that she loves the feedback she has been receiving for the role. She adds that she also associates a lot with her character.“I’m overwhelmed from the response, each and every character is well explained and beautifully portrayed by our actors. There are times when I respond to people or situations the same way my character would do and then I have to remind myself that Pranjali and Kala are different!” she says.
She adds, “The content is improving and people are trying to bring something new to the table every time! My character is evolving and is getting stronger.” Talking about working with Dreamiyata Entertainment, and producers Ravie Dubey and Sargun Mehta, “It feels like working with a family! They have created a homelike environment and the efficiency of the team is commendable.”
Talking about shooting for the show, she says, “I learn a number of things on a daily basis. I get to perform different rasaa (Navrasas) in my character. I’m very grateful and thankful to the team for choosing me for playing Kala. It is a layered character and I get to perform and learn both at the same time.”
Talking about what it takes to give a good performance, she says, “I think being in sync with the team, story and director is very important. I loved working with Ameet sir, Satish sir and Sanjay sir (our directors). They get the best out of me. My co actors inspires me the most, I try to stay on set as much as I can because seeing them perform helps me learn a lot of things.”

Samridhii Shukla: Everything depends on a good leader, and Rajan Shahi is one such leader

Samridhii Shukla plays the role of Abhira in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai post leap. The show is produced by Rajan Shahi’s Directors Kut Production. She is on cloud nine to have bagged the part.“I am very happy and I think anybody would be. It's something that dreams are made of, a perfect channel, a perfect production house, a perfect show, everything is like all the stars are aligned and it's the best thing, best opportunity and best ground anyone can ask for,” she says.
The show has been running for 15 years, which is a huge achievement. “It is extremely rare and especially in today's time, most shows don’t, they barely complete 100 episodes. And then we have rare shows like ‘Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai’ that completed more than 4000 episodes, it’s a big thing and it is not possible without the dedication of the team, of Rajan Shahi sir's team and the best part about their team is that they are one for all and all for one, they believe in togetherness, they believe in family, they believe that everyone is there for each other and  we have to stand by each other and that’s what he has instilled in us. Now that we have come abroad for the new journey, we are there for each other and we have to stand by each other no matter what, nobody from outside can say anything to us. It’s us against everyone else together and the best thing is that we are under Rajan Shahi sir’s umbrella. There are so many people because of his amazing leadership. Even after so many years too they are still in the show. Many people leave this life behind but then there are a few like Romesh Karla sir, our director, who is so passionate about his work and has been there since the inception of the show. I believe everything depends on a good leader, and Rajan sir is one such leader, who inspires us all. It takes sweat and blood and a lot of hard work and perseverance to make a show work and be a hit for so many consistent years. And to trust someone with such a great responsibility, I will forever be grateful. Also the coordination of the in house production members. Team work makes the dream work stand true in DKP.,” she adds.
Speaking about her role, she adds, “Abhira is very different from anything that I have done before. It requires a lot of spontaneity, energy and she is vibrant, full of energy and is very impulsive but in a very innocent way. She'll say anything and then she will realise later. She speaks first and thinks later, she is that sort of person. She is someone who stands for the right always no matter how hard, no matter who is there in front of them, she will never be shy about it. She will stand for what she believes in.”
Samridhii is someone who will stand for the right, much like Abhira. “If I believe in something, I do it. I am a rebel, if necessary. And I am a rebel with a cause and I don't think anything is bad about it. I like standing for what is right,” she ends.

Actress Rashmi Gupta spill the beans on her tattoos

Saathiya 2 actress Rashmi Gupta has two significant tattoos on her waist and they are quite close to her heart. The two tattoos are Karma and Scorpio. Sharing some details on them, she says, "I decided to get a Karma tattoo because I strongly believe in the concept of karma, where one's actions always have consequences. It represents my trust in the idea that negative actions eventually lead to unfortunate outcomes.  I chose to get a Scorpio tattoo because I am a  November born. While I recognize that astrology and numerology are subjective beliefs, I personally resonate with the traits commonly associated with Scorpios. I see myself as straightforward, sharp, and blunt, and these qualities hold personal significance for me.”
Although Rashmi is not a big fan of tattoos,  she opted for these two for specific reasons. She adds, "Despite my general dislike for tattoos, these specific ones carry a deep and meaningful connection to my beliefs and identity.I got the karma tattoo because I constantly talk about karma and strongly believe in its principles. It's something I always emphasize, and having it on my body serves as a constant reminder in my life. The importance of karma led me to make an exception and proudly display it on my body.”
So how  do these tattoos resonate with you personally or professionally? She adds, "I didn’t want to end up with random tattoos without any meaningful reason behind them. As I mentioned before, I believe in being genuine and authentic. Having a reason behind each tattoo is important to me. It's not just about the design; it's about the personal and professional values associated with it. Personally, I strive to be true to myself, and this reflects in the choices I make for my body. Professionally, it's crucial for me to maintain integrity and honesty, both at home and in my work. I want my actions to be a reflection of my beliefs, ensuring there's no room for cheating or deception.”
While doing tattoos we all know the process is painful and requires meticulous after-care. On this, Rashmi says, "Yes I agree, getting the tattoo was a bit painful, especially for someone like me who is quite scared of pain . However, where I got it done, the process felt like small pricks and a bit of tickling. It was bearable, but still, it was somewhat painful. Despite that, I can say it was a positive experience. Initially, there was some discomfort, but now, there's no pain at all. I'm happy with how it turned out, and overall, I'm doing well. As of now, I don't have any plans for future tattoos. As I mentioned earlier, I'm not someone who is inclined towards getting tattoos, and it takes a lot for me to overcome that hesitation. While I deeply believe in karma and have expressed it through a tattoo, the idea of getting more tattoos in the future doesn't appeal to me. I prefer to keep my body as it is without adding any more ink.”

Nikhil Nanda: You can achieve your goals with a focused approach in Mumbai

Mumbai has been ranked as more expensive than Sydney, Berlin and Toronto. This does not come across as a surprise for those living there. Nikhil Nanda, industrialist, fitness expert, actor and entrepreneur, agrees with the survey.“Mumbai is a very expensive place to stay. Real estate is one of the highest and most premium in the world, however, I feel for a person to eat, drink, and get the basics, there is a wide variety of options from very cheap to very expensive. So to that extent, Mumbai is at both extreme ends from very expensive to very cheap,” he says.It is said that Mumbai is far more professional and career-oriented than other cities, “Yes, people have no time, they are very fast-moving and professional. They talk to the point and react and act to the point. Which I believe is a good thing,” he adds.
Speaking on the pros and cons of a city like Mumbai, he says, “Talking about the pros, it is a good city if you are looking for career growth or personal growth. You can achieve your goals with a focused approach. However, the cons are that social networks are very far away, and whatever is there is related to your work. So real time friends and real time social groups don't exist in Mumbai.”Mumbai is considered quite safe for everyone. “Mumbai is always safe, however, safety is always in context. So it is safe in the context of other cities, however in reality it probably can do much better than what it is,” he adds.
About the two changes he thinks should be done to make it a better city, he shares, “Better connectivity and a mature network like Delhi is going to be good. It's going to change the city for good. Secondly, I think if people can take their lives and themselves a little less seriously and if they are more relaxed, that is going to give a better quality index of life apart from just a professional index.”
The city leads a fast-paced life. Ask if she enjoys it or it adds to the stress and he replies, “As I said, life is very fast here. If somebody is focused on their professional goals, they will get a kick. If somebody wants a balance in life, it is going to be stressful. That's why I keep moving in and out of Mumbai just to keep my life balanced.”In terms of expenses, Nikhil thinks real estate is the most expensive in Mumbai.

Mehul Vyas: Developed Infra, urban planning improvements can enhance Mumbai’s livability

Mumbai has been ranked as more expensive than Sydney, Berlin and Toronto. This does not come across as a surprise for those living there Kyunki... Saas Maa Bahu Beti Hoti Hai actor Mehul Vyas agrees with the survey.“Mumbai is home to me. Being born and brought up here I consider myself lucky but I do acknowledge that it is very difficult to survive in this city as it is very expensive. It is the survival of the fittest. Mumbai is always on its toes. Hustle and bustle is the law of the land. As discussed before, living in Mumbai is so expensive, one has to be thoroughly professional and work-oriented to afford a lifestyle in Mumbai,” he adds.
Speaking on the pros and cons of the city, he adds, “Pros include diverse job opportunities, a vibrant culture, and a relatively safe local travel scene. Cons may involve high living costs, crowded spaces, and traffic congestion.” Mumbai is considered quite safe for all. “Mumbai is generally considered safe for local travel at night, with a well-connected and monitored public transportation system. However, like any large city, it's advisable to stay vigilant,” he says.
About the two changes he thinks should be made to make it a better place, Mehul adds, “Infrastructure development and urban planning improvements can enhance the city's livability. Addressing issues like traffic congestion and improving public spaces are key. The fast-paced lifestyle can be exhilarating for some but stressful for others. Balancing work and personal life is crucial to managing the city's pace effectively.”
In terms of expenses, real estate is one of the most expensive aspects of living in Mumbai, followed by dining out and entertainment. “The cost of living can vary depending on one's lifestyle and choices,” he says.