Post by KhushiDreamz on Jul 26, 2006 23:01:48 GMT -5
Bhawana Somaaya
Posted online: Friday, June 24, 2005 at 0000 hours IST
Only a decade ago, she was starring in insignificant films, churning out mechanical performances. She was over weight and according to many, over familiar. Her filmmakers predicted that she had the potential provided she made the right choices. She didn’t but even in that average phase, there were sparklers like Ghulam, Kuch Kuch Hota Hain and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham. Her severest critic confirmed that with a capable director, Rani Mukherjee was sparkling! Came Shaad Ali’s Saathiya remade from Mani Ratnam’s Tamil hit and all speculations were put to rest. Presented by Yash Raj Films and starring newcomer Vivek Oberoi, the film was a sensation. The following year proved a hat trick for the actress. Mani Ratnam’s Yuva, Kunal Kohli’s Hum Tum and Yash Chopra’s Veer Zaara launched her as the undisputed box office queen. Come 2005 and the Numero Uno star has dazzled show business. Her cup of success is brimming over. After the magnificent Black with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, she rocks with Abhishek Bachchan in Bunty Aur Babli, and next week romances with ghost Shah Rukh Khan in Paheli. We meet up with the hazel-eyed actress to find out why everyone in the film fraternity wants Rani Mukherjee.
How does it feel to be on everyone’s wish list? Had you ever anticipated such a phase?
When you are producing good work you automatically come on to everyone’s wish list. I feel privileged to have become a priority with my filmmakers and my fans. It feels wonderful to be appreciated but no, I had not anticipated this phase. It would have been immodest. It would be selfish to take sole credit for this. All success stories are a result of team work. In this case a combination of a good banner, competent director and effective co-stars. My story is no different. I have been fortunate to be offered a variety of roles. All this could not have happened if destiny wasn’t on my side.
What is the best compliment you’ve received in recent times?
(Blushes) There are so many of them, I don’t know which one to pick. I’m overwhelmed when directors tell me that they thought of me while writing the role. It’s the ultimate compliment to an artiste. Yash Chopra told me that he decided on casting me as Salma Siddiqui in Veer Zaara after Adi narrated him just two scenes of the film. It was the same case with Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Does the passion for a previous character fade away as the actor signs new projects and new roles?
Not necessarily, some characters live with the actor for a lifetime. I don’t think I can ever get rid of Michel Mcnally of Black. She will remain in my memory forever. Her triumph and anguish will remain a part of my psyche, no matter how many different roles I play in future. A few days ago, the film celebrated its 100th week. Sanjay and I were so emotional that we celebrated the moment with a quiet dinner. At the end of the evening, we felt something was missing and drove to Amit uncle’s sets all the way to Film City. The film remains special to all of us because the experience of shooting it was so unique. The unit shared truthful moments. The madness of Black can never fade away!
Do you have any memories of Bichoo and Hello Brother?
(Laughs) I was so bad in these films. Frankly, I was bad in most of the films in the earlier phase of my career. May be not so much in my performance but definitely in my appearance. There was a lot of puppy fat and I looked obnoxious. But to be fair the intentions of the filmmaker cannot be doubted. If the magic didn’t work it’s perhaps because the teamwork lacked chemistry.
Much is made about your chemistry with your heroes. Who do you think suits you the best on screen - Abhishek, Aamir or Shah Rukh Khan?
By opting one name I will be depriving myself of two good heroes (Laughs). I’m fortunate that Aamir and Shah Rukh were ready to pair with me when I was a rank new comer. It’s on the basis of those hits (Ghulam and Kuch Kuch Hota Hain) that other good films were offered to me. I can never forget Aamir and Shah Rukh’s faith and generosity. Both have been strong influences on my growing years as an actress. Don’t forget that they were superstars and ten years later, they are still ruling the roost.
Have the equations altered in your working relationships with them since then?
Both still treat me as a baby and are extremely proud of my success. I feel very privileged to have such special co-stars.
What have you learned from both?
It’s not possible to be in the position that Shah Rukh Khan is today without the kind of focus and determination he exhibits. He is easily the most intelligent co-star I’ve worked with. Aamir Khan is obsessed with details and quest for truth. He will not rest in peace until he has found the right chord in every scene and dialogue. It was Aamir who taught me how to do love scenes. Initially, I was very awkward and would withdraw as soon as the director called ‘cut’. But Aamir taught me that it is important to linger the eye contact a few seconds after the shot was over because it affects the continuity of the following scene.
And Abhishek Bachchan?
Abhishek is my buddy. He is junior to Shah Rukh and Aamir Khan and only two years older than me, so I’m at liberty to bully him. We are extremely comfortable with each other and can improvise the most complex or intimate scene without discussion or fear of being misunderstood.
That’s all?
That’s all, I wish people would stop seeing beyond our screen image for these rumours are bound to affect our spontaneity sooner or later.
Do you say this because you feel self-conscious with his father, Amitabh Bhachchan?
Nothing in the world can make me self-conscious with Amit uncle. We’ve done three films (Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Black, Bunty Aur Babli) together and in the coming months, there will be two more (Babul and Khabhi Alvida Na Kehna). I love him too much to be bothered about any judgements or speculations. When we are together, I stare at him unashamedly, so much so that on the sets of Bunty Aur Babli Abhishek would plead with me to also look at him. He’d say you cannot only stare at dad, you have to look at me too.
Apparently the film is creating big waves?
Yes, it’s a big hit and all of us enjoyed the process of making the film. Shaad Ali is completely mad behind the camera. His entire unit is very cheerful and would exude so much energy that as actors we are compelled to give our best. The film delivers an important message to all those who think they can just land in Bombay and became stars. It is not that easy. Show business is full of heartbreaks.
How sensitive are you to negative remarks from colleagues and critics?
No matter how hardened we may portray ourselves, negativity affects everyone. If someone harbours ill feelings towards me I’d rather not know. I don’t mind constructive criticism. So many times I’ve watched a rival’s film and felt how I wish I had done that role. There are times, I’ve even phoned a colleague and said so. I’m willing to accept similar reactions but not nitpicking. That’s destructive. There is sufficient stress in life to add further complexities.
You are playing an oppressed woman in Paheli in search of her identity.
Yes, it’s about women empowerment. In the olden days, a lot of regressive customs were resolved via folk tales. They were sensitive issues that could not be addressed for fear of dishonouring heritage. So learned men found a different way to do it via popular songs and stories. The film is inspired from a popular Rajasthani story Duvidha about a neglected housewife Laachi. In her loneliness, she is drawn to a ghost. The film is about her fight for dignity. Under the veil of tradition, she slowly but gradually finds courage to express her feelings.
And how was the idea of romancing a ghost?
The idea has to be attractive if the ghost is someone as gorgeous as Shah Rukh Khan. Women are going to crave for a ghost like him after this film.
This is your second film with his banner after Chalte Chalte. What kind of a producer is Shah Rukh Khan?
He is a very generous and a thoughtful producer. They had put up a huge set for a full month at Film City. But not once did he agonise over the extensions or the expenditure. The unit always got what they needed before asking. Being an actor, he was always thinking from a performer’s perspective. He was thoughtful during Chalte Chalte too but more weighed down. Those were difficult days for him with his back problem. We had a doctor on the sets all the time, also his masseur and one could see that it was an effort for him to stand before the camera. The reason there is so much tenderness in my eyes in the film is because I’ve been a witness to his agony. This time ofcourse, he was in a rocking mood and we had a lot of banter on the sets.
And how was the atmosphere on the sets of The Rising? Is it true that Aamir Khan offered you a choice to pick your role?
That’s true. Aamir sent me the script and said I could choose whichever part I wanted. I chose the smallest part, the role of a prostitute Herra. Aamir was surprised but added that the character was his favourite too. Over the months the script underwent many changes and as luck would have it Herra’s role was fleshed out in the final draft. I guess I was destined to play a pivotal role in the film.
It’s the first time you are playing a prostitute, were you worried about the change in image?
I’ve always played the good girl so it’s interesting for a change to break free from that mould. The character belongs to a different era and I had to adopt a seductive body language for the role. I had to learn to be uninhibited. Heera represents the tribals captured and sold to brothels frequented by the white soldiers of The East India Company. I’m hoping my fans will not be too shocked by my portrayal.
How did your family react to the make over?
I would not do anything on screen that would be embarrass my family. I was initially awkward in the costumes but gradually I overcame my shyness. My family is always in the knowing of what I’m doing because one of my parents, either mom or dad is always on the sets with me.
It’s always the family, the friends or the shooting that gets the priority. Does that leave any time or space for Mr. Right?
When Mr. Right will arrive there will be all the time and space for him. My antennas are always up but as of now, I think it is better that he waits for a while, atleast for two years. Let me finish my stock of assignments. I don’t want to quit at this stage and regret that I did not grab all the chances that came my way. After that, I’ll be hold and behold, waiting…!
Is it that simple, can love be kept on hold?
It can, if destiny is on your side. I know it will wait for me because I’m not dishonouring love.
Posted online: Friday, June 24, 2005 at 0000 hours IST
Only a decade ago, she was starring in insignificant films, churning out mechanical performances. She was over weight and according to many, over familiar. Her filmmakers predicted that she had the potential provided she made the right choices. She didn’t but even in that average phase, there were sparklers like Ghulam, Kuch Kuch Hota Hain and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham. Her severest critic confirmed that with a capable director, Rani Mukherjee was sparkling! Came Shaad Ali’s Saathiya remade from Mani Ratnam’s Tamil hit and all speculations were put to rest. Presented by Yash Raj Films and starring newcomer Vivek Oberoi, the film was a sensation. The following year proved a hat trick for the actress. Mani Ratnam’s Yuva, Kunal Kohli’s Hum Tum and Yash Chopra’s Veer Zaara launched her as the undisputed box office queen. Come 2005 and the Numero Uno star has dazzled show business. Her cup of success is brimming over. After the magnificent Black with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, she rocks with Abhishek Bachchan in Bunty Aur Babli, and next week romances with ghost Shah Rukh Khan in Paheli. We meet up with the hazel-eyed actress to find out why everyone in the film fraternity wants Rani Mukherjee.
How does it feel to be on everyone’s wish list? Had you ever anticipated such a phase?
When you are producing good work you automatically come on to everyone’s wish list. I feel privileged to have become a priority with my filmmakers and my fans. It feels wonderful to be appreciated but no, I had not anticipated this phase. It would have been immodest. It would be selfish to take sole credit for this. All success stories are a result of team work. In this case a combination of a good banner, competent director and effective co-stars. My story is no different. I have been fortunate to be offered a variety of roles. All this could not have happened if destiny wasn’t on my side.
What is the best compliment you’ve received in recent times?
(Blushes) There are so many of them, I don’t know which one to pick. I’m overwhelmed when directors tell me that they thought of me while writing the role. It’s the ultimate compliment to an artiste. Yash Chopra told me that he decided on casting me as Salma Siddiqui in Veer Zaara after Adi narrated him just two scenes of the film. It was the same case with Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Does the passion for a previous character fade away as the actor signs new projects and new roles?
Not necessarily, some characters live with the actor for a lifetime. I don’t think I can ever get rid of Michel Mcnally of Black. She will remain in my memory forever. Her triumph and anguish will remain a part of my psyche, no matter how many different roles I play in future. A few days ago, the film celebrated its 100th week. Sanjay and I were so emotional that we celebrated the moment with a quiet dinner. At the end of the evening, we felt something was missing and drove to Amit uncle’s sets all the way to Film City. The film remains special to all of us because the experience of shooting it was so unique. The unit shared truthful moments. The madness of Black can never fade away!
Do you have any memories of Bichoo and Hello Brother?
(Laughs) I was so bad in these films. Frankly, I was bad in most of the films in the earlier phase of my career. May be not so much in my performance but definitely in my appearance. There was a lot of puppy fat and I looked obnoxious. But to be fair the intentions of the filmmaker cannot be doubted. If the magic didn’t work it’s perhaps because the teamwork lacked chemistry.
Much is made about your chemistry with your heroes. Who do you think suits you the best on screen - Abhishek, Aamir or Shah Rukh Khan?
By opting one name I will be depriving myself of two good heroes (Laughs). I’m fortunate that Aamir and Shah Rukh were ready to pair with me when I was a rank new comer. It’s on the basis of those hits (Ghulam and Kuch Kuch Hota Hain) that other good films were offered to me. I can never forget Aamir and Shah Rukh’s faith and generosity. Both have been strong influences on my growing years as an actress. Don’t forget that they were superstars and ten years later, they are still ruling the roost.
Have the equations altered in your working relationships with them since then?
Both still treat me as a baby and are extremely proud of my success. I feel very privileged to have such special co-stars.
What have you learned from both?
It’s not possible to be in the position that Shah Rukh Khan is today without the kind of focus and determination he exhibits. He is easily the most intelligent co-star I’ve worked with. Aamir Khan is obsessed with details and quest for truth. He will not rest in peace until he has found the right chord in every scene and dialogue. It was Aamir who taught me how to do love scenes. Initially, I was very awkward and would withdraw as soon as the director called ‘cut’. But Aamir taught me that it is important to linger the eye contact a few seconds after the shot was over because it affects the continuity of the following scene.
And Abhishek Bachchan?
Abhishek is my buddy. He is junior to Shah Rukh and Aamir Khan and only two years older than me, so I’m at liberty to bully him. We are extremely comfortable with each other and can improvise the most complex or intimate scene without discussion or fear of being misunderstood.
That’s all?
That’s all, I wish people would stop seeing beyond our screen image for these rumours are bound to affect our spontaneity sooner or later.
Do you say this because you feel self-conscious with his father, Amitabh Bhachchan?
Nothing in the world can make me self-conscious with Amit uncle. We’ve done three films (Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Black, Bunty Aur Babli) together and in the coming months, there will be two more (Babul and Khabhi Alvida Na Kehna). I love him too much to be bothered about any judgements or speculations. When we are together, I stare at him unashamedly, so much so that on the sets of Bunty Aur Babli Abhishek would plead with me to also look at him. He’d say you cannot only stare at dad, you have to look at me too.
Apparently the film is creating big waves?
Yes, it’s a big hit and all of us enjoyed the process of making the film. Shaad Ali is completely mad behind the camera. His entire unit is very cheerful and would exude so much energy that as actors we are compelled to give our best. The film delivers an important message to all those who think they can just land in Bombay and became stars. It is not that easy. Show business is full of heartbreaks.
How sensitive are you to negative remarks from colleagues and critics?
No matter how hardened we may portray ourselves, negativity affects everyone. If someone harbours ill feelings towards me I’d rather not know. I don’t mind constructive criticism. So many times I’ve watched a rival’s film and felt how I wish I had done that role. There are times, I’ve even phoned a colleague and said so. I’m willing to accept similar reactions but not nitpicking. That’s destructive. There is sufficient stress in life to add further complexities.
You are playing an oppressed woman in Paheli in search of her identity.
Yes, it’s about women empowerment. In the olden days, a lot of regressive customs were resolved via folk tales. They were sensitive issues that could not be addressed for fear of dishonouring heritage. So learned men found a different way to do it via popular songs and stories. The film is inspired from a popular Rajasthani story Duvidha about a neglected housewife Laachi. In her loneliness, she is drawn to a ghost. The film is about her fight for dignity. Under the veil of tradition, she slowly but gradually finds courage to express her feelings.
And how was the idea of romancing a ghost?
The idea has to be attractive if the ghost is someone as gorgeous as Shah Rukh Khan. Women are going to crave for a ghost like him after this film.
This is your second film with his banner after Chalte Chalte. What kind of a producer is Shah Rukh Khan?
He is a very generous and a thoughtful producer. They had put up a huge set for a full month at Film City. But not once did he agonise over the extensions or the expenditure. The unit always got what they needed before asking. Being an actor, he was always thinking from a performer’s perspective. He was thoughtful during Chalte Chalte too but more weighed down. Those were difficult days for him with his back problem. We had a doctor on the sets all the time, also his masseur and one could see that it was an effort for him to stand before the camera. The reason there is so much tenderness in my eyes in the film is because I’ve been a witness to his agony. This time ofcourse, he was in a rocking mood and we had a lot of banter on the sets.
And how was the atmosphere on the sets of The Rising? Is it true that Aamir Khan offered you a choice to pick your role?
That’s true. Aamir sent me the script and said I could choose whichever part I wanted. I chose the smallest part, the role of a prostitute Herra. Aamir was surprised but added that the character was his favourite too. Over the months the script underwent many changes and as luck would have it Herra’s role was fleshed out in the final draft. I guess I was destined to play a pivotal role in the film.
It’s the first time you are playing a prostitute, were you worried about the change in image?
I’ve always played the good girl so it’s interesting for a change to break free from that mould. The character belongs to a different era and I had to adopt a seductive body language for the role. I had to learn to be uninhibited. Heera represents the tribals captured and sold to brothels frequented by the white soldiers of The East India Company. I’m hoping my fans will not be too shocked by my portrayal.
How did your family react to the make over?
I would not do anything on screen that would be embarrass my family. I was initially awkward in the costumes but gradually I overcame my shyness. My family is always in the knowing of what I’m doing because one of my parents, either mom or dad is always on the sets with me.
It’s always the family, the friends or the shooting that gets the priority. Does that leave any time or space for Mr. Right?
When Mr. Right will arrive there will be all the time and space for him. My antennas are always up but as of now, I think it is better that he waits for a while, atleast for two years. Let me finish my stock of assignments. I don’t want to quit at this stage and regret that I did not grab all the chances that came my way. After that, I’ll be hold and behold, waiting…!
Is it that simple, can love be kept on hold?
It can, if destiny is on your side. I know it will wait for me because I’m not dishonouring love.