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10 Bollywood Celebrities who went through dramatic weight loss transformations
Bollywood

10 Bollywood Celebrities Who Went Through Dramatic Weight Loss Transformations

by jummy84
written by jummy84

10 Bollywood Celebrities who went through dramatic weight loss transformations. (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Behind the glitz and glam of Bollywood celebrities, lies several stories of challenge and hard work, not just on their craft but also their appearance. Over the years, many Bollywood stars have shown that with determination, discipline, and a lot of hard work, dramatic transformations are possible. Their journeys are truly inspiring and serve as motivation for anyone looking to embark on their own fitness journey. Here’s a look at ten stars who shed the kilos, underwent dramatic weight loss transformation and left us all inspired.

1. Bhumi Pednekar

Bhumi Pednekar made her debut in Dum Laga Ke Haisha as an overweight bride, perfectly fitting the role. However, post the film, Bhumi decided to transform her body and lost a whopping 21 kilos! For Bhumi, it wasn’t just about looking good but also about feeling healthy. She adhered to a strict diet of home-cooked meals, reduced her sugar intake, and committed to a rigorous workout regimen. Today, Bhumi is one of the fittest actresses in Bollywood, constantly inspiring fans with her dedication to health and fitness.

2. Sonam Kapoor

The fashionista of Bollywood, Sonam Kapoor, wasn’t always the lean diva we see today. Before making her debut in Saawariya, Sonam lost 35 kilos! Her weight loss journey involved a disciplined lifestyle, balanced diet, and regular workouts. Sonam, who battled PCOD, followed a strict diet plan that included high protein and low carb meals, combined with regular pilates and cardio exercises. Today, she is a style icon, known for her chic looks and inspiring fitness journey.

3. Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt’s chirpy persona is as charming as her weight loss journey. She shed 16 kilos for her debut film, Student of the Year. Alia was determined to get fit and worked closely with celebrity trainer Yasmin Karachiwala. Her routine included a mix of cardio, strength training, and yoga, along with a balanced diet focusing on fresh and organic foods. Alia’s transformation is a testament to her hard work and determination, making her one of the most admired young actresses in Bollywood.

4. Arjun Kapoor

Arjun Kapoor’s weight loss story is a true inspiration. Once weighing 140 kilos, Arjun decided to get fit before stepping into Bollywood. For his debut film Ishaqzaade, he lost around 50 kilos through intense training and a strict diet regimen. Arjun’s journey was challenging; he worked out twice a day, combining cardio, weight training, and circuit training, and followed a strict diet plan. Today, he is one of Bollywood’s hottest heartthrobs, proving that dedication and hard work can transform one’s life.

5. Sara Ali Khan

Sara Ali Khan’s transformation journey is nothing short of incredible. Battling PCOD and being overweight, Sara lost 30 kilos before her Bollywood debut. She followed a disciplined routine that included pilates, cardio, and strength training, and adopted a balanced diet rich in proteins and low in carbs. Her transformation has made her an inspiration for many young women, showing that with the right approach, one can achieve their fitness goals.

6. Adnan Sami

Adnan Sami’s weight loss journey is well-known. Once weighing 230 kilos, Adnan lost around 130 kilos with sheer determination and medical assistance. Adnan’s journey was not easy; he underwent a rigorous diet plan and exercised regularly under medical supervision. His transformation is remarkable, making him look fitter and healthier than ever. Adnan’s story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

7. Fardeen Khan

Fardeen Khan took a break from Bollywood, and when he returned, his transformation was jaw-dropping. Having gained a significant amount of weight, Fardeen worked hard to lose it all. He followed a strict diet and workout regimen, which included a mix of cardio, weight training, and yoga. His new fit avatar left everyone stunned and impressed, proving that it’s never too late to get back in shape.

8. Kareena Kapoor Khan

Kareena Kapoor Khan has always been known for her stunning looks. However, after her pregnancy, she gained some kilos. With immense dedication and her love for yoga, Kareena quickly got back into shape. She followed a balanced diet and a rigorous workout routine that included pilates and yoga. Within months, Kareena was back to flaunting her fit figure, setting fitness goals for all new moms.

9. Jackky Bhagnani

Jackky Bhagnani’s weight loss journey is equally inspiring. Initially quite chubby, Jackky lost 15 kilos through a combination of diet control and a rigorous workout regime. His dedication turned him into a fitness icon for many. Jackky’s transformation involved regular gym sessions, a balanced diet, and a focus on overall health and wellness, making him one of the fittest actors in Bollywood.

10. Parineeti Chopra

Parineeti Chopra’s transformation from a bubbly girl-next-door to a fit diva is commendable. She lost 28 kilos, making her journey one of hard work and perseverance. Parineeti’s story is proof that with the right mindset, anything is achievable. Her routine included cardio, strength training, and a balanced diet focusing on healthy, nutritious foods. Today, Parineeti continues to inspire her fans with her dedication to fitness and health.

So next time you need some inspiration, just remember these incredible transformations!

Stay tuned to Koimoi for more such fashion and lifestyle stories and updates!

Must Read: From Varun Dhawan, Aditya Roy Kapur To Vedang Raina; Bollywood’s Leading Men In Black

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Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan And Aamir Khan In Aryan Khan’s The Ba***ds of Bollywood
Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan And Aamir Khan To Work Together For The FIRST Time In Aryan Khan’s The Ba***ds of Bollywood? Viral Video Spark Buzz – Watch

by jummy84
written by jummy84

For decades, Bollywood fans have eagerly hoped to see the industry’s three biggest superstars — Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan — share the screen in a single project. While each of them has delivered countless iconic films individually, and SRK and Salman have occasionally appeared together, the trio has never been seen together in one frame. This long-standing dream may finally be on the verge of coming true, as a recent viral video showing all three actors’ vanity vans side by side has sparked intense speculation about a potential collaboration that could be one of Bollywood’s biggest moments.

Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan And Aamir Khan For A Project

A video recently went viral online, showing three vanity vans parked side by side, each labelled with the names of the three Khans. In the background, the man filming is heard saying, “All three together. Which movie is it, brother?”

This clip has set off speculation that the three actors might be appearing together in Aryan Khan’s much-anticipated debut series, The Ba***ds of Bollywood. The show already boasts a star-studded cast including Bobby Deol, Lakshya, Sahher Bambba, Raghav Juyal, and rumoured cameos by Karan Johar, Ranveer Singh, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan.

Even more big names are expected to be part of the series, such as Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Saif Ali Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Sidharth Malhotra, Sara Ali Khan, Ananya Panday, Kriti Sanon, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Shilpa Shetty, Karisma Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, SS Rajamouli, and many others. The scale of the project has made fans even more excited.

Aamir Khan has previously said that all three Khans are open to working together, but only if they find the right script. So far, that hasn’t happened until possibly now.

While Shah Rukh and Salman have shared the screen several times, Aamir has never appeared with both of them at once. If the rumours are true, this project would mark the first time all three icons act together in the same frame a historic moment in Bollywood.

For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.

Also Read: Sahher Bambba Birthday Special: Floral Outfit, Mini Dress To Corset Gown, 5 Times The Ba***ds of Bollywood Actress Stole Our Hearts With Her Stylish Fashion Sense

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Before Rajkummar Rao in Srikanth, These 8 Bollywood Stars Played Blind Characters on Screen
Bollywood

Before Rajkummar Rao In Srikanth, These 8 Bollywood Stars Played Blind Characters On Screen

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Before Rajkummar Rao in Srikanth, These 8 Bollywood Stars Played Blind Characters on Screen
Before Rajkummar Rao in Srikanth, These 8 Bollywood Stars Played Blind Characters on Screen ( Photo Credit – YouTube )

Rajkummar Rao proved his acting prowess when he wonderfully portrayed the titular role in the 2024 film Srikanth. The actor did full justice to the character of Srikanth Bolla, a blind man who becomes a successful entrepreneur.

But before Rajkummar, quite a few Bollywood stars took on role of visually impaired characters and masterfully portrayed their challenges on screen. Here are 8 Bollywood actors who left an indelible mark on the audience’s hearts by playing visually challenged roles.

1. Rani Mukerji In Black

In 2005, Rani Mukerji was widely lauded for starring as a deaf-and-blind woman in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Black. The actress represented the trials and tribulations faced by specially-abled people by playing Michelle, a girl who could neither see nor hear. But, with the guidance of her stubborn teacher, Debraj, played by Amitabh Bachchan, Michelle explores her full potential and dreams of getting a college degree. Rani’s act in Black is counted among her finest performances. The actress swept almost all the Best Actress Awards that year, winning big at Filmfare, IIFA, Screen, Stardust, and Zee Cine Awards.

2. Kajol In Fanaa

Kajol impressed the viewers and critics alike when she played Zooni Ali Beg, a visually-challenged woman from Kashmir, in the 2006 film Fanaa. The Kunal Kohli directorial follows Zooni, who falls in love with a tourist guide, Rehan (Aamir Khan), during a trip to Delhi. While Rehan eventually helps her in getting her eyesight back, Zooni remains unaware of his real identity. Kajol’s nuanced portrayal of a girl whose character graph goes through several ups and downs earned her the Best Actress trophy at the 52nd Filmfare Awards.

3. Ayushmann Khurrana In Andhadhun

Andhadhun was the film that boosted Ayushmann Khurrana’s Bollywood career and made him an A-list star. The 2018 film follows a visually impaired piano player, Akash (Ayushmann), who gets embroiled in a violent run and chase when he witnesses a former actor getting murdered. Whether Akash was blind or pretending to be one is still a mystery, and Ayushmann’s enchanting performance only made the story even more ambiguous. Andhadhun was directed by the maestro, Sriram Raghavan and starred powerhouses of talents like Tabu and Radhika Apte. Ayushmann bagged the National Film Award for Best Actor and a Filmfare Best Actor (Critics) Award for his portrayal.

4 & 5. Hrithik Roshan & Yami Gautam in Kaabil

Sanjay Gupta’s Kaabil told the heart-wrenching story of a visually challenged couple, Rohan and Supriya, played by Hrithik Roshan and Yami Gautam, respectively. The two fall in love and live a happy married life until one day, when some local goons assault Supriya and she ends up committing suicide. Rohan then quests for justice and, despite being blind, uses his other senses and skills to get revenge. Hrithik’s performance in the film was hugely appreciated, as he portrayed both the shades of a vulnerable lover and a menacing killer. Yami was also praised for her role portraying a woman who succumbs to a heartbreaking tragedy.

5. Sanjay Dutt In Dushman

Sanjay Dutt has played various roles in his career, including that of a blind man in the 1998 hit Dushman. A remake of the Hollywood film Eye for an Eye, Dushman revolves around Naina, played by Kajol, who wants to avenge her twin sister’s assault and murder by the sadist killer and r*pist, Gokul (Ashutosh Rana). Sanjay Dutt appears as a visually impaired Army veteran, Major Suraj Singh Rathod, who trains Naina in her mission and ends up having feelings for her. Several stars rejected the challenging role before it landed in Dutt’s lap, and the actor played it to perfection, winning over the hearts of audiences and critics.

7. Naseeruddin Shah In Sparsh

Back in 1980, Naseeruddin Shah essayed the role of Anirudh, a blind principal at a school for visually impaired children, who falls in love with a sighted teacher, Kavita, played by Shabana Azmi. The film beautifully captures the essence of the relationship between the two, as Anirudh starts to feel unsure about their future owing to his condition. Still, the couple keeps helping children at the school. Naseeruddin mesmerized the viewers with his subtle acting and won the National Film Award for Best Actor. He went on to play a blind man again in the 2015 film Welcome Back, albeit in a comic role.

8. Deepika Padukone In Lafangey Parindey

Deepika Padukone was still in the initial phase of her career when she starred as a blind woman in the romantic drama Lafangey Parindey. She played Pinky Palkar, an aspiring skater who loses her eyesight in an accident. Nandu (Neil Nitin Mukesh), who was responsible for the accident, starts to train Pinky and helps her prepare for a skating competition, and the two get romantically involved. Though the film was a box-office dud, Deepika’s portrayal of a young girl who strives to achieve her dreams despite being blind enchanted the viewers.

For more such stories, check out Bollywood Features

Must Read: Exclusive: Sunny Deol’s Astrological Insight & Forecast — Fresh Collabs & Financial Highs Set Stage For A Power-Packed Phase That Will Prove “Sau Sonar Ki, Ek Lohar Ki” Again

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Bollywood Mourns! Ashish Warang's Sudden Demise Leaves Industry In Shock! | Glamsham.com
Lifestyle

Bollywood Mourns! Ashish Warang’s Sudden Demise Leaves Industry In Shock! | Glamsham.com

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Veteran actor Ashish Warang, who was noted for his powerful supporting acts in Hindi films, died on Friday, September 5, at the age of 55. Although the official reason for his death has not been announced, reports indicate that the actor had been dealing with some health issues for a while. The news has sent shockwaves among fans and peers alike, given Warang’s versatility and commitment to his craft.

Warang carved a space for himself in Bollywood with his powerful supporting roles, particularly as a policeman. His performances in Sooryavanshi, Mardaani, Simmba, Cirkus, and Ek Villain Returns were much admired by people all over. His ability to bring authenticity to these roles made him a familiar and admired person in Indian cinema.

Warang was blessed to have worked with several of the greatest stars of the industry throughout his years. Some of his biggest collaborations include Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Ranveer Singh, John Abraham, and Ashutosh Rana. He also used to work regularly with master director Rohit Shetty, who consistently used to include him in his films.

Apart from his contributions to Hindi cinema, Warang also worked in Marathi television, films, and advertisements, expanding his creative horizon even more. His presence was also cherished in the regional entertainment sector, where he continued to deliver performances that were remembered.

Warang was also known to share snapshots of his professional life on his social media platforms. His Instagram profile featured some behind-the-scenes moments with celebrities such as Ranveer Singh, Kartik Aaryan, Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit Nene, Amitabh Bachchan, and even cricketer Shikhar Dhawan.

While the world weeps at his sudden death, fans remember him for his humility, industriousness, and for the legendary characters he brought to life on television. May his soul rest in peace.

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The Surprising Confession! This Bollywood Star Admits His Role "Didn't Come Naturally" | Glamsham.com
Lifestyle

The Surprising Confession! This Bollywood Star Admits His Role “Didn’t Come Naturally” | Glamsham.com

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Known as the Greek God of Bollywood, this versatile actor has been a part of numerous iconic performances in a career spanning over two decades. With a range of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, they’ve established themselves as a prominent figure in Indian cinema. Starting from Jodhaa Akbar to Dhoom 2, Koi Mil Gaya to Agneepath, Hrithik has left everyone mesmerized again and again. However, one film where even he felt he had come short was the 2003 romantic drama Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon, alongside Kareena Kapoor.

“I Wasn’t Mature Enough for That Role” – Hrithik Confesses
During an honest interaction with fans through a Film Companion interview (as pointed out in a Reddit thread and covered by BollywoodShaadis), Hrithik spoke of how difficult it was for him to deal with the character Prem Kishan. As per a question of whether he ever found any role difficult to relate to, Hrithik immediately mentioned Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon.

“I wasn’t mature enough to appreciate that side of myself,” he admitted. “I usually don’t do characters that are so far from my natural self. That hyper, euphoric, uppity ‘wo ho ah ah’ energy don’t come so naturally to me.”

To the delight of the audience, Hrithik made light of one of his own scenes from the film, mimicking a popular line, “Oh Aunty, oh no,” in a squeaky voice. His mock self-deprecation elicited laughter, demonstrating his capacity to laugh at his own earlier faux pas.

Hrithik Gears Up for ‘War 2’
In the coming days, Hrithik will be back in action on the big screen with War 2, helmed by Ayan Mukerji and produced by Aditya Chopra. Featuring Jr NTR and Kiara Advani alongside him, the action entertainer sequel to the 2019 blockbuster is set for a worldwide release on August 14, 2025, in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. The film will face a box-office clash with Rajinikanth’s ‘Coolie’.

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Giorgio Armani passes away at 91
Bollywood

Italian Fashion Designer Giorgio Armani Passes Away At 91| Bollywood Bubble

by jummy84
written by jummy84

The fashion world has bid farewell to one of its brightest luminaries, Giorgio Armani, the legendary Italian designer whose name became synonymous with modern elegance and who built an empire rooted in his vision, has passed away at the age of 91 in Milan. Born in Piacenza on July 11, 1934, Armani’s legacy endures through the Armani Group, which announced that its founder departed peacefully, leaving an indelible mark on design and entrepreneurship.

Giorgio Armani Passed Away At 91

More than just a designer, Armani was a philosopher-king of fashion. In 1975, he sold his Volkswagen Beetle to fund his dreams — and within seven years, he graced the cover of Time magazine. His empire grew from tailored suits and red-carpet gowns to hotels, homewares, and chocolates, cementing his status as Italy’s most successful designer and one of its most astute businessmen. By 2019, his company was generating 2.1 billion euros, and his personal wealth was estimated at a staggering $11 billion.

Giorgio Connection With India

India held a special place in Armani’s creative soul. During a visit in 1994, he fell in love with the country’s rich culture, heritage, and vibrancy. Inspired by this journey, he crafted collections that captured India’s spirit, showcasing them with his signature elegance on Milan’s runways. Armani once reflected on his drive: “Perfectionism, and the need to always have new goals and achieve them, is a state of mind that brings profound meaning to life.”

Final Walk On The Runaway

Armani’s farewell was as iconic as his career — during Milan Fashion Week’s F/W 2025-26 womenswear show titled Roots, he was escorted by two shimmering models. At 90, he was still meticulously overseeing every detail backstage, a testament to his unwavering perfectionism. The runway, designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, became the stage for his poignant last bow.

Funeral arrangements are scheduled at Teatro Armani in Milan from September 6 to 7, open to the public from 9 am to 6 pm.

For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.

Also Read: Canary Yellow Ensemble, Schiaparelli Gown To First Ever Gucci Saree, 4 Iconic Looks From Alia Bhatt’s Wardrobe At Cannes 2025

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Alia Bhatt on co-parenting Raha with Ranbir Kapoor while working together in Love and War: ‘It does take a village’ | Bollywood
Bollywood

Alia Bhatt on co-parenting Raha with Ranbir Kapoor while working together in Love and War: ‘It does take a village’ | Bollywood

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Sept 04, 2025 06:16 pm IST

Managing parenting while co-starring, Alia Bhatt discusses the challenges and joys of working with husband Ranbir Kapoor.

Alia Bhatt is no stranger to balancing a hectic film schedule with family life, especially when working alongside her husband, Ranbir Kapoor. In a recent interview with Grazia, Alia opened up about how the couple has been managing parenting duties while co-starring in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love and War without letting their roles as actors or parents take a backseat.

Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt welcomed daughter Raha in 2022.

Alia talks about co-parenting with Ranbir

“It sounds cheesy, but there are no cons to this—only pros,” Alia said candidly when asked about working with her husband. The only real challenge, she explained, is managing their daughter Raha’s schedule. “We’ve shot most of the film at night, so we’re usually with her during the day. There are days he’s shooting, days I am. We’re not always on set together,” she added.

The actor also revealed that Raha has occasionally accompanied them to work and seems to enjoy being on set. She also acknowledged the support system around her. “She’s got a very busy life herself with classes, playdates, grandparents, and activities. It does take a village, in a sense, and I feel very grateful for all my loved ones and the privilege that I have with this support system,” she said.

Alia’s upcoming projects

Alongside her personal milestones, Alia Bhatt has an exciting slate of upcoming films. She is set to headline Alpha, an action-packed thriller directed by Shiv Rawail. In it, she plays a high-ranking officer in a fictional all-female combat unit under YRF’s Spy Universe. The film promises a gritty and intense portrayal of Alia in a never-before-seen avatar.

She is also reuniting with husband Ranbir and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali for Love and War, a period romantic drama starring Vicky Kaushal. The film marks Alia and Ranbir’s second collaboration after Brahmāstra, and expectations are already sky-high.

News / Entertainment / Bollywood / Alia Bhatt on co-parenting Raha with Ranbir Kapoor while working together in Love and War: ‘It does take a village’

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Alia Bhatt reviews Kalyani Priyadarshan's Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra: ‘I’ll always be eager to show my love, support' | Bollywood
Bollywood

Alia Bhatt reviews Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra: ‘I’ll always be eager to show my love, support’ | Bollywood

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Sept 04, 2025 01:14 pm IST

Alia Bhatt thinks Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra is “a fresh blend of mythic folklore and mystery.” The film

Actor Alia Bhatt has showered praise on Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, which has emerged as a hit at the box office. Taking to her Instagram Stories, Alia called the film a “fresh blend of mythic folklore & mystery.” She shared a poster of Lokah and penned a brief note.

Alia Bhatt praised Kalyani Priyadarshan-starrer Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra.

Alia Bhatt pens sweet note for Lokah

Alia wrote, “Such a fresh blend of mythic folklore & mystery! So happy to see the love it’s getting. This is a step in cinema that I will always be eager to show my love & support for!” Lokah stars Kalyani Priyadarshan in the lead role.

Alia shared a poster of Lokah and penned a brief note.
Alia shared a poster of Lokah and penned a brief note.

Earlier, actor Akshay Kumar also talked about the film and praised Kalyani. “Talent runs in the family…suna thaa, ab dekh liya (heard before, saw now)! Hearing lovely things about the brilliant acting chops of @kalyanipriyan, Priyadarshan Sir’s daughter. My best wishes to her and the entire team of #Lokah on their Hindi version release. More power,” Akshay had posted on X (formerly Twitter).

About Lokah

Lokah marks the debut of Malayalam cinema’s first female superhero with Kalyani starring as Chandra, a powerful, mythology-inspired heroine navigating a modern world imbued with folklore and fantasy elements. Lokah is directed by Dominic Arun and produced by Dulquer Salmaan under Wayfarer Films.

The film has shattered box-office records, becoming South India’s highest-grossing female-led film, crossing the ₹100 crore mark globally within its first week. Critics have also praised the movie for its immersive world-building, gripping narrative, and standout performance of Kalyani.

The film also stars Naslen, Sandy, Arun Kurian, Chandu Salimkumar, Nishanth Sagar, Raghunath Paleri, Vijayaraghavan, Nithya Shri and Sarath Sabha.

Alia’s upcoming films

Fans will see Alia in YRF’s Alpha alongside Sharvari. Directed by Shiv Rawail, it also stars Bobby Deol. It is set to release on December 25. Alia is also gearing up for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War with Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.

News / Entertainment / Bollywood / Alia Bhatt reviews Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Lokah Chapter 1 Chandra: ‘I’ll always be eager to show my love, support’

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Pavithra Menon says her Param Sundari video is against stereotype, not Janhvi Kapoor: 'Not trying to steal anyone's job' | Bollywood
Bollywood

Pavithra Menon says her Param Sundari video is against stereotype, not Janhvi Kapoor: ‘Not trying to steal anyone’s job’ | Bollywood

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Malayalam radio personality and one-time actor Pavithra Menon had stirred the hornet’s nest when she criticised Janhvi Kapoor’s Malayalam accent in the latest release, Param Sundari. Pavithra received further support after her video was taken down for ‘copyright infringement’, something many saw as an attempt to stifle criticism. Now, after the film’s release, as many viewers echo her sentiment, Pavithra talks about why she spoke out and how her statement was misconstrued as one against Janhvi Kapoor.

Pavithra Menon talks about her video on Param Sundari.

In a chat with Hindustan Times from Dubai, where Pavithra works as an RJ, she says she spoke out against the stereotypes in the film with regard to Janhvi’s character because she felt uncomfortable seeing them. “In Kerala, we love easy humour, and we have the ability to take a joke on ourselves. And we’ve been doing that for many, many years. In the ’90s, when our characters were portrayed in a very caricaturish manner, we also took it as a joke, and we felt that it was fine, it was entertaining. I might be a little embarrassed by them portraying everybody as Madras, but we still watch those films. But it’s 2025 now. Look at how far the world has come and all we have achieved. So, to see that kind of off-putting caricaturish characterisation bothers us.”

‘What’s the harm in getting a dialect coach’

Param Sundari stars Janhvi Kapoor as a Malayali girl opposite Sidharth Malhotra’s Delhi boy in a cross-cultural romance. The film released in theatres on Friday and has received lukewarm reviews. Janhvi’s accent has been criticised by viewers and critics alike. Pavithra says, “You can get any actor from any part of the world to play any character. That is why we call them actors, but at least get a dialect coach. If you can have an intimacy director on the sets and pay money for it, what is the harm in getting a dialect coach? Recently, I got to know that the makers have also done that. To that, I want to say it’s very shoddy then.”

Giving an example from Hollywood, she adds, “So many Hollywood actors are American, but they do a British accent wonderfully. Why can’t our actors do that, too?”

‘We expect Bollywood to do better’

Pavithra says that most viewers in Kerala grow up on a staple diet of Hindi cinema, which is why stereotypes in Bollywood bother them more. “In Kerala, we all love Bollywood. We grew up on films of Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor and all the other stars,” she says, adding, “We understand that Hindi cinema is the biggest money maker internationally, when it comes to Indian films. Their scale has grown so much. So when that’s grown so much, why not get a little better? We expect better from you.”

Delivering an indictment of Hindi films, Pavithra says, “Frankly, nuance has never been the strength of Hindi cinema. Out of 10 films, maybe two are really good, where they show the reality, while the other eight are only to cater to the box office numbers. Over the last few years, since the pandemic, a lot of awareness has come into the audience I feel that Bollywood is taking their audience for granted and underestimating the audience even today. They don’t know we’ve all evolved. We’re not stuck in the 1990s. I’m not saying make a documentary, but there should be some reality to it.”

‘Not against Janhvi’

When Pavithra’s video was first picked up by the media, she was referred to as an actor. She tells us that she has done a few roles in short films a few years ago, but would not identify herself as an actor anymore. “I am not an actor. When reports said that a Malayalam actor spoke against Janhvi, that’s a whole different conversation. That is not what is happening. It’s not professional jealousy. Honestly, I was not trying to steal anybody else’s job, but just saying, do the job properly. So if somebody doesn’t speak my language well, I would want to point that out,” she clarifies.

Pavithra adds that her video was never meant to be a jibe at Janhvi Kapoor either. “Janhvi honestly looks like a very down-to-earth person. I have met her a couple of times when she’s come to Dubai for her promotions,” she says, “I think the problem here is that not enough information is given to these guys (the actors) on how to go about it. Had somebody with knowledge of Malayalam heard them, they would have helped.”

Param Sundari released in theatres last Friday to mixed reviews from critics. After a decent opening at the box office, the film saw a sharp drop in collections. It has, so far, earned just ₹37 crore net in six days.

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Anurag Kashyap's daughter Aaliyah slams audience for ignoring ‘good cinema’ like Nishaanchi, Dhadak 2: ‘So frustrating’ | Bollywood
Bollywood

Anurag Kashyap’s daughter Aaliyah slams audience for ignoring ‘good cinema’ like Nishaanchi, Dhadak 2: ‘So frustrating’ | Bollywood

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap released the trailer of his upcoming film Nishaanchi, which introduces Aaishvary Thackeray in his debut role, on Thursday. The director’s daughter, Aaliyah Kashyap, took to social media to share her frustrations about people wanting ‘good cinema’ but refusing to support such films when they release in theatres. Here’s what she said. (Also Read: Nishaanchi trailer out: Aaishvary Thackeray shines in double role in Anurag Kashyap’s quintessential masala film. Watch)

Aaliyah Kashyap penned a long note on her Instagram stories, drumming up support for her dad Anurag Kashyap’s upcoming film.

Aaliyah Kashyap calls out people for not supporting ‘good cinema’

Aaliyah took to her Instagram stories to call out people who want ‘good cinema’ and yet rarely support films like Nishaanchi and Dhadak 2 when they run in theatres. She wrote, “It’s honestly so frustrating to see people CONSTANTLY say they want ‘good cinema’ but when good films actually release, hardly anyone goes to the theatre. This has been seen with so many films recently like Dhadak 2. And then years later they suddenly become cult classics or hidden gems.”

Adding that she would appreciate it if people watched Nishaanchi in theatres on 19 September, she wrote, “My dad @anuragkashyap 10 new film Nishaanchi comes out on September 19th, and I’ve seen firsthand the amount of love, work, and heart everyone involved has poured into it. If we really want good, impactful and meaningful cinema, we can’t just appreciate it in hindsight. Great cinema doesn’t get better with time, it deserves to be seen NOW.”

Aaliyah Kashyap urged the audience to watch Nishaanchi in theatres.
Aaliyah Kashyap urged the audience to watch Nishaanchi in theatres.

On critically acclaimed Bollywood films struggles

In another Instagram story, Aaliyah reflected how, unfortunately, this was nothing new for the audience as films like Lunchbox and October had struggled at the box office. “And honestly this isn’t something that’s new or just happening now. Some of the most amazing and critically acclaimed Bollywood films (Udaan, Lootera, Lunchbox, Masaan, October etc.) struggled at the box office when they were released. They don’t get that support when it actually matters and when audiences don’t show up, it makes it that much harder for more films like that to get made,” she wrote.

Aaliyah Kashyap wrote of how films like Udaan and Lootera didn't do well at the box office.
Aaliyah Kashyap wrote of how films like Udaan and Lootera didn’t do well at the box office.

About Nishaanchi

Nishaanchi is directed by Anurag and written by Prasoon Mishra, Ranjan Chandel, and Anurag himself. It features Aaishvary in dual roles and also stars Vedika Pinto, Monika Panwar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Kumud Mishra in significant roles. It is backed by Ajay Rai and Ranjan Singh under the Jar Pictures banner, in association with Flip Films.

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