Latest news with #PilooVidyarthi
News18
a day ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Piloo Vidyarthi 'Disappointed' With Sarzameen Role, Says Ibrahim 'Lacks Depth'
Last Updated: Piloo Vidyarthi, from Mandala Murders, expressed disappointment over her role cut in Sarzameen. She also spoke about Ibrahim Ali Khan getting trolled for his films. Actor Piloo Vidyarthi, who recently impressed audiences as Kalindi Shastri in Mandala Murders, is enjoying the love showered on her latest work. However, she remains candid about the ups and downs of her career. In conversation with News18 Showsha, Vidyarthi opened up about the satisfaction of being a part of a well-written ensemble, and the sting of seeing her work cut from films. The actor, former wife of Ashish Vidyarthi, revealed that she was extremely disappointed to see her role chopped to nothing in Kajol, Ibrahim Ali Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran's 'Mandala Murders is a step towards getting that one good role I've been waiting for," Piloo Vidyarthi told us, adding, 'Every character in the show was established in their own right. It was a beautiful experience. I had a similar experience in Vedaa too, but I wasn't as disappointed as with Sarzameen. Vedaa removed most of my parts as well, but they did somewhat establish my character. In Mandala Murders, I had a critical presence and people are recognising my work. That matters to me." Piloo Vidyarthi expresses disappointment over her role in Sarzameen Piloo Vidyarthi contrasted this joy with her disappointment over her recently-released film, Sarzameen. 'Beech mein main phas gayi hoon, na Sar hain na Zameen hain," she said, recalling how the project began with promise. After a detailed narration and look test, she shot extensively in Manali and Mumbai, playing a nanny-like figure, quite like that of 'Farida Jalal from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham", pivotal to a child's emotional arc. But when she saw the film, she realised, 'The makers have gone wrong somewhere because the director struggled to piece together the narrative." Her entire storyline had been removed. 'They didn't retain even 20 per cent of what was shot. I was disappointed, so I'm not promoting the film as well. Yes, we can talk about it since it was released, but I wasn't used at all. These things happen in our journey, so that's okay. But yes, it's disappointing when you prepare for a role and it's reduced to nothing," she admitted. As for why she didn't push back, Vidyarthi explained, 'As actors, especially in supporting roles, we don't always have the right to question such decisions." She also revealed that she recently shot for a film Yami Gautam in Lucknow, where the 'makers narrated the story to Yami" but not to her. 'These are the prices I pay because of the genre I'm in. Unless someone trusts me and gives me that role, I know these limitations exist," she admitted. Piloo Vidyarthi says she now chooses roles with meaning These experiences have shaped how Piloo Vidyarthi now navigates her career. 'I accept only projects where I feel my presence is significant. I want to be cast in roles that are meaningful and worthy of my craft," she said. Piloo Vidyarthi says Ibrahim Ali Khan lacks depth In the course of the conversation, Piloo Vidyarthi also spoke about working with Ibrahim Ali Khan in Sarzameen, who has been in the news for facing online trolling. 'Acting depends on your life experiences—how you have lived your life," she reflected. 'He was very nice to me, clicked photos. But I think he needs to have some depth. Star kids are also under a lot of pressure to live up to their parents. And Ibrahim comes from a family of big achievers. They have seen attention since forever. No one is bad." view comments First Published: August 10, 2025, 15:00 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Mandala Murders Actor Piloo Vidyarthi Backs Shanoo Sharma's Casting Process: 'She's Clear…'
Last Updated: Piloo Vidyarthi praised Shanoo Sharma's casting process for Mandala Murders. Recently, several actors called out Sharma for her 'weird' audition process. Piloo Vidyarthi, who has been earning praise for her portrayal of Kalindi Shastri in Mandala Murders, believes that the role's success had as much to do with trust as it did with her craft. In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, the seasoned actor credited casting director Shanoo Sharma for recognising her potential and giving her the platform to deliver. Please note, the interview was conducted days before Sharma was called out by several actors for her 'weird' casting process. It was YRF casting lead Shanoo Sharma who roped in Piloo Vidyarthi as Kalindi Shastri in Mandala Murders. Praising her stance, Vidyarthi told us, 'Shanoo Sharma knows what I can deliver. She has a different audition process. She didn't meet anyone for Kalindi. She knew and she called me and made me audition 2–3 times. She is clear about what she wants. She has been associated with YRF for a long time and knows her job. She knows that she wants me, she will extract that from me and pass it on saying, 'She is the one'. She has that hold. You need more such casting directors". The actor emphasised that this clarity of vision is rare but invaluable in the industry, especially for performers who thrive when directors and casting teams believe in them. Vidyarthi's journey with Mandala Murders was, in her own words, 'a satisfying experience" because the makers gave her character weight, space, and importance. Piloo Vidyarthi says Mandala Murders is not about black magic Speaking about Mandala Murders, and whether she believes in the supernatural herself, Piloo Vidyarthi told us, 'No, (laughs)." She then went on to speak about the show. She revealed that the brief she received wasn't about mysticism — it was science. 'It's actually not what people think. It's a sci-fi series set in the Indian 1952 context. My character was part of a scientific cult… researchers and engineers who believed in natural energy transfers, from the arms, head, body, and mixing them. The story was about energy, not black magic." But public perception was very different. 'They were outcasts as witches. But that's what makes the story so fascinating. It's not ghosts or black magic. People in opposition used to comment that they are performing black magic, so burn them. But they didn't burn, they continued with what they are doing." Why is Shanoo Sharma making headlines? Recently, Isha Talwar, known for her acclaimed roles in Mirzapur, Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo, and Article 15, spoke out against a bizarre and uncomfortable audition experience she had with YRF casting director Shanoo Sharma. 'I was told I should have no inhibitions as an actor and hence should be able to cry at a table with Shanoo and her assistants watching me," Isha wrote as a reply to a user on Instagram. Calling the experience 'confusing and weird," she added that it 'shattered [her] confidence as a young girl in films." Isha criticised the lack of professionalism, arguing that casting directors should either arrange an appropriate space for auditions or cover the cost of a controlled venue. Choosing to stand by her principles, she declined to audition in such conditions and, as expected, lost the role. Still, she says she has no regrets about her decision. 'At least I didn't give in to the weird ask and surely didn't cry at a restaurant for a role!" she wrote, ending her post with the hashtag #DignityFirstAlways," she said. Soon after, Manipuri actor Bijou Thaangjam reacted to Isha Talwar's comment on Instagram, revealing that he had a similar experience with Shanoo Sharma too. Reacting to Isha Talwar's comment about her audition experience with Shanoo Sharma, Bijou Thaangjam commented, '@talwarisha I hear you! My very first film audition was with her, for Byomkesh Bakshy. I wasn't fluent in Hindi, not very confident, but hopeful to give it my best. And just like your experience, I was asked to perform a scene right in front of a café, the one that used to be called Bru World, Yari Road. I didn't give in. A few days later, her assistant called me back for a proper studio audition. But by then, I had already signed Mary Kom." Bijou played the role of Naobi in Omung Kumar's 2014 film Mary Kom, starring Priyanka Chopra. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Mandala Murders Actor Piloo Vidyarthi Reveals Whether She Believes In Black Magic: 'Won't Say…'
Last Updated: Piloo Vidyarthi discussed her role in Netflix's Mandala Murders, emphasising its scientific basis over black magic. She also revealed whether she believes in the supernatural.. When we caught up with Piloo Vidyarthi for a conversation about her layered and commanding performance in Mandala Murders, we knew we were in for an honest, thoughtful take on her career, life after her divorce from actor Ashish Vidyarthi, and more. And she surely didn't disappoint. Her latest show with Vaani Kapoor, Netflix's Mandala Murders, took a surprising turn in its final episodes, leaving the audience on the edge. The show blends supernatural elements with sci-fi and thriller. In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, we asked Piloo Vidyarthi if she believes in the occult and whether she thinks black magic exists. Here's what she had to say. Speaking about Mandala Murders, and whether she believes in the supernatural herself, Piloo Vidyarthi said, 'No, (laughs)." She then went on to speak about the show. She revealed that the brief she received wasn't about mysticism — it was science. 'It's actually not what people think. It's a sci-fi series set in the Indian 1952 context. My character was part of a scientific cult… researchers and engineers who believed in natural energy transfers, from the arms, head, body, and mixing them. The story was about energy, not black magic." But public perception was very different. 'They were outcast as witches. But that's what makes the story so fascinating. It's not ghosts or black magic. People in opposition used to comment that they are performing black magic, so burn them. But they didn't burn, they continued with what they are doing." Piloo Vidyarthi reveals whether she believes in black magic She traced back her thoughts on black magic and said, 'I won't say that I disbelief it completely because during my bad days, I do tend to think whether someone has done something to me (laughs). Then when the situation turns, these thoughts don't occur." Piloo Vidyarthi speaks about her acting process, Dimple Kapadia's performance in Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo Smiling at the love her performance received, Piloo Vidyarthi opened up about her process. 'I don't watch series to perform. I socialise. I have a very small circle of close friends… I watch content but not with the intention to pick up anything, because acting can never be picked up." For her, acting is instinctual. 'It's my take on things. It develops organically. Good performances definitely feed you, but I believe if you're a good actor, you don't try to act. The moment you try to act, it becomes… acting," she explained the process. This grounded philosophy extends to her admiration for seasoned performers. 'When I saw Dimple Kapadia in Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo, she wasn't 'acting'. She was that character. That's what makes it so beautiful." For her, the joy lies in working with good directors and sincere co-actors. 'Monica Chaudhary was brilliant. We had worked together earlier on The Wedding Story. My theatre colleague played Vikram Singh's mother — such a beautifully layered performance." Piloo Vidyarthi talks about Mandala Murders co-star Vaani Kapoor Piloo Vidyarthi also spoke about Vaani Kapoor, who worked with her in Mandala Murders. 'She's very natural," said, recalling her time on set with Vaani. 'She and I spoke briefly about our scenes. She had come all the way prepared. But what stood out to me was how consistent she is. Whether it's with the director, her co-actors, or the crew, she's the same – always calm, focused, and collaborative. That, I believe, is her strength," she expressed. Apart from Mandala Murders, Piloo Vidyarthi was also a part of Kajol, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Ibrahim Ali Khan's Sarzameen. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
02-08-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Piloo Vidyarthi On Retaining Ex-Husband Ashish Vidyarthi's Surname: 'What Do I Have To Prove?'
Last Updated: Actor Ashish Vidyarthi, 61, married Rupali Barua in 2023. His ex-wife Piloo Vidyarthi discussed life post-divorce, modern relationships, and her openness to love but not marriage. It was the year 2023. Actor Ashish Vidyarthi, 61, emerged as the newsmaker of the year after he announced his wedding to Assam-based fashion entrepreneur Rupali Barua. Soon after, the actor appeared in front of the camera multiple times to douse the commotion around his second wedding. However, one person remained silent while Ashish became news – his first wife, Piloo Vidyarthi. The duo parted ways on an amicable note after 22 years of marriage, and it's been two years since then. However, the surname 'Vidyarthi' still flashes brightly on Piloo's Instagram profile. In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, the actor spoke about life after divorce, why she still uses Vidyarthi as her surname, and her current outlook on love and companionship. When asked about still using the surname 'Vidyarthi', Piloo explained, 'The Indian system is complicated. There are so many things you need to consider before altering your name or surname. I am still struggling to change my address on my Aadhar card. If you marry again, the surname change becomes easier." She added that for her, the name carries a history and doesn't need to be altered unless there's a strong reason. 'I don't find a powerful reason to change it. Neither Ashish has a problem with it nor I. Actually, what do I have to prove my changing my surname? It has worked for me." Talking about ex-husband's Ashish's current wife, she said, 'Rupali is now writing Barua [referencing to the fact that she was Piloo Barua before her wedding]. I write Vidyarthi and she never has any issue with it. She is also a very simple person." View this post on Instagram A post shared by RAJOSHI VIDYARTHI (@piloovidyarthi) Piloo Vidyarthi on 'moving on' from her divorce to Ashish Vidyarthi Piloo offered a thought-provoking take on modern relationships, calling most marriages 'pretentious and dishonest." She spoke with honesty about how both she and Ashish are 'different kinds of human beings" who went their separate ways with mutual respect. 'He found a person he deserves. A clean soul," she said, expressing goodwill for her ex-husband, further adding, 'It's over and I've moved on." Piloo Vidyarthi reveals if she is open to love When asked if she herself had moved on from her divorce, the Akelli star replied in affirmative: 'Yes, I have. I don't feel a lack of anything. I don't miss any luxury. But sure, there are small things, like not having a partner." However, she clarified that she has no intentions of remarrying, 'I'm open to love if at all, but not remarriage at this point in time." The actor also shared her thoughts on the world of online dating apps and joked, 'It doesn't work for me. I can't meet people like that." Yet she remains hopeful, 'If a connection happens naturally, I'm open to it." Piloo Vidyarthi had two back-to-back releases on July 25. She was a part of Dharma Productions' Sarzameen, starring Kajol, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Ibrahim Ali Khan, and Yash Raj Films' Mandala Murders, featuring Vaani Kapoor. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Vaani Kapoor Bring Up Fawad's Abir Gulaal On Mandala Murders Set? Piloo Vidyarthi Reveals
Last Updated: Piloo Vidyarthi, who worked with Vaani Kapoor in Netflix's Mandala Murders, revealed whether the latter spoke about shelved film Abir Gulaal with Fawad Khan on sets. Actor Piloo Vidyarthi played a key role in Netflix's recent release, Mandala Murders. She shared screen space with Vaani Kapoor in the supernatural thriller and opened up about her experience working with the actress. While Vaani has often been admired for her on-screen charm, Vidyarthi highlighted something far more enduring – her consistency, professionalism, and grounded approach to her craft. In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, Piloo Vidyarthi also revealed whether she and Vaani also had any conversations about the latter's shelved film with Fawad Khan, Abir Gulaal, while they were shooting for Mandala Murders. Piloo Vidyarthi Says Vaani Kapoor Is 'Natural' And 'Consistent' 'She's very natural," Piloo Vidyarthi said, recalling her time on set with Vaani. 'She and I spoke briefly about our scenes. She had come all the way prepared. But what stood out to me was how consistent she is. Whether it's with the director, her co-actors, or the crew, she's the same – always calm, focused, and collaborative. That, I believe, is her strength," she expressed. When asked whether Vaani ever brought up Abir Gulaal, the much-discussed shelved project she was meant to do with Fawad Khan, Piloo clarified that there were no such conversations. 'They don't talk about these things. Bombay actors are extremely professional. Personal or shelved projects don't come up in casual chats," she explained. 'In our case, it was just about the work. We mostly spoke about the scenes we were doing. That was it," she added. For the unversed, Fawad Khan was to return to Indian films with Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor. The film's first look was loved by the Pakistani actor's fans in India. However, Abir Gulaal is banned from release in India following the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025. Piloo Vidyarthi On Whether Dimple Kapadia's Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo Inspired Her Mandala Murders Role Mandala Murders brings together an ensemble cast and layered storytelling that has been garnering attention for its sharp writing and performances. Piloo Vidyarthi plays a key role in the recently released crime drama. She opened up about how her process of preparing for roles is less about imitation and more about absorption, letting emotions, stories, and characters organically shape her performance. When asked if she watched shows like Dimple Kapadia's Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo to get into the skin of her character, Vidyarthi shared, 'To perform my part, I didn't watch anything specific with that intent. I do watch a lot of content, but not to pick up anything consciously because acting, in my opinion, can never be picked up. It's about your individual take on things. I let my characters develop organically." When asked about Dimple Kapadia's performance in Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo, she added, 'She was incredible. She didn't look like she was acting — she just was. That's what stays with you as a performer. You need to mentally blend with your character." Piloo Vidyarthi On Deriving Inspiration From Mother Shakuntala Barua She reflected on how simply watching good actors perform can be inspirational, but not instructive in the traditional sense. 'When you watch great performances, they leave an impression on you, but it's not about mimicking them. My mother [veteran Bengali actor Shakuntala Barua] and I are two very different kinds of actors. I've grown up around her work, and I appreciate her style. Unfortunately, not everyone appreciates subtlety. If you're truly a good actor, you don't try to act. The moment you try, it becomes acting, not feeling." Piloo Vidyarthi On Being A Part Of Mandala Murders She fondly recalled a particularly atmospheric episode directed with a unique tone. 'In the third episode [of Mandala Murders], there was hardly any lighting, just ambient elements. It created a very specific mood. I love watching people who don't 'act' in the conventional sense. They just become," she shared. Piloo also appreciated the contributions of her fellow actors on Mandala Murders, including Monica Choudhhary and Kavita Bhardwaj, praising the layering and authenticity they brought to their parts. 'We'd worked together before in The Wedding Story, and Monica was just brilliant here too. Everyone, from directors to co-actors, brought such depth and subtlety. It made the entire process even more fulfilling." First Published: August 01, 2025, 15:07 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
