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Mint
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Films of Bollywood stars shine on OTT platforms but their web shows falter
Mainstream Bollywood stars may not have faced stranger things. They are stuck in an odd dichotomy of appearances on streaming platforms. While their box office hits are equally successful on OTT platforms, original shows that feature top actors often don't find similar traction. According to experts, recent box office successes such as Raid 2 and Kesari Chapter 2 featuring Bollywood stars such as Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar find considerable draw on streaming platforms and figure consistently among the top five films for weeks. However, web originals starring movie actors such as Saif Ali Khan (Jewel Thief), Sidharth Malhotra (Indian Police Force), Varun Dhawan (Citadel: Honey Bunny) and Sara Ali Khan (Ae Watan Mere Watan) failed to live up to expectations. Experts said web shows starring mainstream film faces are often conceptualized to accommodate the actor and are not a compelling story to tell. Movies, on the other hand, land up on OTT with the advantage of marketing and buzz in cinemas. When it comes to online content, audiences are quick to dismiss sub-par programming, given the abundance of entertainment options across languages. 'The marketing and PR push around theatrical films is so aggressive and creates such a halo effect around them that people end up watching them almost by default on OTT, especially if the film has done well in theatres," film producer Shariq Patel explained. There is a readymade audience for a film that has been released in cinemas, and an OTT release only translates into repeat viewership. Meanwhile, streaming platforms operate very differently, often limiting the promotional push to markets such as Mumbai and other metros. It is also likely that the viewer may not know of a web show if the algorithm isn't specifically designed to recommend it. As a result, till date, theatrical remains the beacon of what most actors aspire for. Quite complacent A senior executive at a streaming platform said on condition of anonymity that OTT services are also quite complacent once a mainstream star or big banner is on board to helm a web original. 'They think their job ends once these names come on board and they don't see the need to go the hard mile of being creatively involved or pushing the envelope," the executive said, adding that this is why the biggest hits on OTT aren't shows starring typical Bollywood names, be it Panchayat on Prime Video or Criminal Justice on JioHotstar. Also, because the production house has already made money upfront when the show is commissioned by the platform, there is little incentive to work hard or hunger to get noticed, as is the case with newer or smaller content studios. Experts emphasized that these days, thematic depth and conviction matter more than who stars in a show or a film. 'Just star power is not enough on the big or the small screen. The audience can access fresh narratives in any language with just a click, and they know a good project from one that is not up to the mark," film producer Anand Pandit said. 'The audience traction today is dependent on the quality of content, be it on OTT platforms or in theatres. The stars have their loyal audience, but their fans too want their icons to work in projects that are worthy of their presence."
Mint
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Shilpa Shetty looks back at Apne as film clocks 18 years
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 29 (ANI): As the 2007 family drama 'Apne' clocked 18 years since its release, Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty took a moment to look back at the emotional journey of the film. The 'Dhadkan' actress marked the film's anniversary on Sunday by sharing a special video on her Instagram Stories. The video showed scenes from the film, including clips of Shilpa with veteran actor Dharmendra and co-stars Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. It was set to the film's emotional track "Apne To Apne Hote Hain," adding more to the nostalgia. Directed by Anil Sharma, 'Apne' was a major film at the time, especially for fans of the Deol family. It was the first time Dharmendra appeared on screen with both his sons, Sunny and Bobby. Though the trio had acted in different combinations before, 'Apne' was the first to bring all three together in one story. Shilpa Shetty played a key role in the sports drama, which focused on a former boxing champion, Baldev Chaudhary (played by Dharmendra), who wanted to restore his lost honor through the success of his sons, Angad (Sunny Deol) and Karan (Bobby Deol). The film also starred Katrina Kaif and Kirron Kher. The film showcased Dharmendra's warmth as a father and his undiminished star power, proving that even after decades in the industry, he could still captivate audiences. 'Apne' hit theatres in June 2007 and received a lot of praise from the audience. On the work front, Shilpa was last seen in Rohit Shetty's web series 'Indian Police Force', where she played a police officer. The series also starred Sidharth Malhotra and Vivek Oberoi in lead roles and premiered earlier this year on Amazon Prime Video. (ANI)
India.com
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet actress who started earning at 12, became a star, became mother at 20, divorced twice, daughter works with Salman Khan; She is..., daughter is...
Before the flashing cameras, chart-topping TRPs, and OTT stardom, she was just a 12-year-old with a job — and a quiet fire to build a life on her own terms. We're talking about none other than Shweta Tiwari, the beloved face of Indian television, best known for her iconic role as Prerna in Kasautii Zindagii Kay . But her journey to stardom began long before the fame. Earning at 12, dreaming big In a candid conversation with Pinkvilla , Shweta revealed that she began working at just 12 to support her own tuition and buy things her mother couldn't afford. Her first salary? rs 500 a month. 'I used to pay for my classes and buy the fancy clothes I liked — because my mom would always say no,' she shared. That early sense of independence laid the foundation for a career that would span over two decades — and counting. From side roles to superstar status By 15 or 16, Shweta had already entered the entertainment industry. What started with blink-and-miss appearances quickly turned into lead roles. With Kasautii Zindagii Kay , she became a household name, earning the kind of love and longevity most actors dream of. A mother at 20, twice divorced, still standing tall Shweta embraced motherhood early, welcoming daughter Palak Tiwari when she was just 20. She once shared how she fell in love the moment she held Palak hours after her birth: 'It was love at first sight.' Her personal life, however, wasn't without struggles. Shweta went through two high-profile marriages and divorces — first with Raja Chaudhary and later with Abhinav Kohli. Through it all, she remained fiercely protective of her children and continued working relentlessly. Palak Tiwari — Following her own path Palak, Shweta's daughter, is now carving out her own space in Bollywood. Having worked closely with Salman Khan in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan , Palak has been grabbing attention for both her screen presence and fashion-forward persona. The next-generation star seems to have inherited her mother's grit and charisma in equal measure. Still evolving! Shweta recently appeared in Rohit Shetty's Indian Police Force on Prime Video, and she's now set to feature in his multi-starrer film Singham Again , alongside Ajay Devgn, Deepika Padukone, and Akshay Kumar. She's not just making appearances — she's making statements. From child earner to single mother to celebrated actress, Shweta Tiwari's story isn't a fairytale — it's one of grit, grace, and unapologetic survival.
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Raid 2 actor Ashish Gokhale: 'It's comforting when legends like Ajay Devgn are that supportive on set'
Actor and doctor Ashish Gokhale , who is known for his performances in Rohit Shetty's web series Indian Police Force and films like Shaitaan, 420 IPC, Bholaa, and Gabbar Is Back, is currently seen in Raid 2 . In an exclusive interview with ETimes , Ashish reflected on balancing medicine and movies, his preparation process for emotionally complex characters, and his bond with Ajay Devgn . You've been part of some intense, high-stakes dramas like 420 IPC, Shaitaan, and Raid 2. How do you prepare for such emotionally and physically layered supporting roles? I come from a theatre background, so that discipline stays with me. Every script is different, and it offers only a certain amount of information about a character. I spend time decoding not just the character, but their characteristics and motivations. For instance, in 420 IPC, I played a negative character, and the tone was very different from Shaitaan, where I portrayed a confident, dominating police officer. That role was especially challenging because I had to interrogate three people—played by Ajay Devgn sir, R. Madhavan sir, and Jyotika ma'am. My character was assertive, but he wasn't dealing with criminals—he was interrogating a chartered accountant from a respectable family. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Egypt: New Small Electric Car For Seniors. Prices Might Surprise You. Electric Cars | Search Ads Undo So, the body language had to balance professionalism with suspicion. It was a fine line. That scene was done in a single take, and all three of them clapped for me after it. That meant a lot. With Raid 2, I didn't get a written script during the audition. I was told to improvise a scene where I play a powerful officer chilling in his office, unfazed by an incoming income tax officer. I had to come up with the dialogues on the spot and deliver in a distinct Madhya Pradesh dialect. That got me selected. Later, director Raj Kumar Gupta sir sat me down and said, "You won't have a lot of dialogues, but I want your presence to register. " I created a backstory for the character—a dual personality of sorts. Outwardly respectful to seniors, but internally dismissive. To physically embody that, I even adjusted my posture and added padding to my shirt to match the 1989 setting and give him a chubbier look. I drew inspiration from two of my uncles who were income tax officers. Do you approach supporting characters differently than lead roles—especially when sharing screen space with stars like Ajay Devgn? Absolutely. A supporting character might have fewer lines, but the depth can be just as strong—if not stronger. I always believe that an actor must read between the lines. It's not just about the written dialogue; it's about the silences, the pauses, the unspoken layers. In Shaitaan, I made a conscious choice to speak with my eyes. That's something I've always admired about Ajay sir—he does so much with just his gaze. I wanted to bring that intensity into my portrayal as well. Ajay sir is very generous. He's not just a great actor but a wonderful co-star who helps you elevate your performance. It's comforting when legends like him are that supportive on set. You've now worked with Ajay Devgn in multiple projects. What has your experience been like with him and your co-stars in Raid 2, including Riteish Deshmukh, Vaani Kapoor, Saurabh Shukla, and Supriya Pathak? Raid 2 is actually my third project with Ajay sir after Bholaa and Shaitaan. I've spent over a year on set with him over the past few years, and it feels like we're a little family now. He's truly been a mentor to me. Riteish sir is a sweetheart—so chilled out, so approachable, no ego whatsoever. The same goes for Vaani Kapoor ma'am, Saurabh Shukla sir, and Supriya Pathak ma'am. Such lovely, humble people. There's zero attitude or insecurity on that set, and that creates a beautiful space to work in. Riteish Deshmukh Shines in Raid 2 Being an outsider in the film industry, have you faced difficult times? Of course, I've had my share of tough days—but I don't dwell on them. Everyone does. I choose to focus on the good things coming my way now. Difficult times shape you. They make you tougher. I like to say difficult roads make good drivers. Those challenges helped me discover new paths. Even now, there are struggles, but I'm enjoying the journey. When did you realize you wanted to act—and how did that coexist with your medical journey? Acting has always been my true passion. But when I decided to pursue it seriously, the world—especially my family—was against it. My parents are doctors, and they had a hospital set up for me in Konkan. They wanted me to stay back and run it. They used emotional blackmail, too—it was tough. No one supported me at the time except for one senior doctor, my mentor, who encouraged me and stood by me. Without him, I might not have made it to Mumbai. Did anyone warn you about the emotional burden of this industry? Yes, many did. This industry is unpredictable. Until you get your footing, survival is hard. I always tell young people—make sure you have an education, a fallback, something that lets you earn your bread and butter. You can chase your dreams, but you shouldn't have to beg or borrow to live. I've never taken a single rupee from anyone—not even my parents. I wanted to stand on my own two feet. And I have. Have there been any mentors—formal or informal—who've influenced your journey in the industry? Honestly, everyone I meet teaches me something—whether they're from the industry or from my medical practice. My patients, my co-actors, even someone I might chat with briefly. I observe, absorb, and learn from each and every person. In that way, I feel like the whole world is my mentor. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
India Today
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Shilpa Shetty's emotional message for son Viaan who's officially a teenager now. Watch
Actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra celebrated a major milestone in her family, as her son Viaan turned 13, officially a teenager now. On this special occasion, Shilpa shared an adorable video montage on her official Instagram the video, Shilpa included Viaan's journey chronologically from his earliest days to his teenage entry. The video is filled with photos of Viaan as a toddler, including heartwarming moments from his childhood, from festive celebrations and playful antics to dressing up as Lord the video was a touching message from the proud mother. 'A huge milestone are officially a TEENager now, my son. My darling, these years are a time for discovery and exploring your passion. Just remember to stay curious, work hard and have fun. Mumma and Papa are so proud of you, my jaan. Happy 13th Birthday Viaan-Raj stay happy and healthy always (sic)," Shilpa wrote in the caption. In a recent interview with Money Control, Shilpa talked about her own school days and how parenting has evolved over the decades. 'I was quite an average student, and had my group of friends. But we are talking about 30 years ago! Things were different then, people were different, and those days we kids listened to our parents! I have an 11-year-old who is going on 30 and does not listen to me! It's just a different time.'advertisementShilpa Shetty married businessman Raj Kundra in 2009. The couple welcomed their son Viaan in May 2012 and later their daughter, Samisha, in the work front, Shilpa was recently seen in Rohit Shetty's action-packed series 'Indian Police Force', where she starred alongside Sidharth Malhotra and Vivek Oberoi. She is now gearing up for her next big-screen appearance in the Kannada action film 'KD – The Devil', co-starring Dhruva Sarja and Sanjay Watch
