‘EITHER REALISTIC OR BIG-BUDGET FILMS ARE WORKING NOW’

Film director Manoj Sharma feels that currently, in cinema, there is a very wide gap in terms of film making — either realistic films are working, or big-budget fantasy films backed by a good story-line.

The UPite says, “The scenario has changed completely. On one side we have sensible and realistic cinema like Badhai Ho and on the other side we have larger-than-life films like KGF, RRR and Pushpa... which are backed by a good story-line. Both work in their space and are doing well. Middle path wali masala film ka zamana khatam ho gaya! But, if we make big-budget commercial films with big stars but it is not backed with a good story then too it won’t work. Audience has become very sensible; you can’t fool them with showbiz.”

After being assistant director in films like Tahelka and Policewala Gunda ,he turned director with Altaf Raza’s hit song Tum To Tehre Pardesi and has directed multiple films.

However, Sharma feels that this trend too will change. “I have been part of 18 films so far and have witnessed the changing taste of the audience. We need to be in a realistic zone now. Pehle jaisa nahi chalega ki maa ne awaaz di aur beta darwaza tod kar kahin se bhi aa

Music maestro AR Rahman’s daughter Khatija Rahman got married to audio engineer, Riyasdeen Shaik Mohamed in the presence of close family members and friends. The music composer shared a family photo from the wedding ceremony, which also had a portrait of his late mother, Kareema Beegum.

Sharing the picture on Instagram, Rahman wrote, “May the Almighty bless the couple... thanking you in advance for your good wishes and love @khatija.rahman @riyasdeenriyan #nikkahceremony #marriage.” Khatija also shared a picture to announce her wedding on Instagram. She wrote, “The most gaya. Now, we have to justify it in a realistic space. Today everyone wants to make films like Pushpa but trust me this trend too will change in the next two-three years!”

His next release has been shot on the outskirts of Lucknow after the second lockdown with Ganesh Acharya and other actors.

“The dance-based film Dehati Disco is my fifth film that I have shot in UP. It can be my turning point as a director. Besides, I have shot Chal Guru Hoja Shuru in my hometown Khurja, Prakash Electronics in Agra, Sharmaji ki Lag Gai in Varanasi-Kanpur and Khali Bali in Lucknow. Time to shoot films on sets is a passé, everyone wants to now shoot in real locations and audiences connect with it. I am currently writing my next film Calling Shiva which is a story of a Kashmiri Pandit and we want to shoot it in Delhi and Kashmir.”

He has also completed the film O2 that was shot in the rural pockets of Ludhiana. ”

The filmmaker plans to release Khali Bali, starring Dharmendra, Rajniesh Duggal, Vijay Raj and Madhu, in August. “Though it was shot more than two years back, it’s a horror-comedy and that genre works if the content is good. Thereafter, I plan to make a sequel of Sharmaji…as it did very well on OTT. We intend to call it Vermaji Ki Lag Gai and scale up the production.” awaited day in my life. Married to my man.” The bride and groom were seen dressed in white wedding ensembles in the photo, which also had the music composer posing along with his elder daughter Raheema, wife Saira Banu, and his son AR Ameen, standing behind the couple.

Rahman’s colleagues and various singers showered congratulatory messages, as did his fans. Singer Harshdeep Kaur wrote, “Congratulations to the entire family!” Singer Shreya Ghosal wrote, “Hearty congratulations @khatija.rahman @riyasdeenriyan God bless the beautiful couple.” Neeti Mohan also wrote, “Many many congratulations Khatija and @riyasdeenriyan.” Singer

PMANOJ SHARMA,

Writer-director

Chinmayi Sripaada wished too: “Congratulations kannamma. So so happy for you (sic)”. Khatija and Riyasdeen got engaged in January this year. Just like her father, Khatija is also a singer-musician. She has sung various songs including Rock a Bye Baby (Mimi; 2021).

AA complicated issue at work is settled to the satisfaction of all through your efforts. Some of you may be busy doing up your place. Time to initiate on the property front. LOVE FOCUS: Expect something positive to happen.

LUCKY NUMBER: 3

White

TLUCKY COLOUR:

Businesspersons will be able to win more deals. You will get the financial support you seek. You may need to travel. Chance of acquiring a vehicle or a major household item. LOVE FOCUS: You are likely to bring your romantic life back on track. LUCKY NUMBER: 5 LUCKY COLOUR: Aqua Green

GYou will stabilise financial front. Some perks and incentives can be expected by professionals. Peaceful existence is indicated on home front. A journey may prove entertaining. LOVE FOCUS: Compatibility may become an issue in your married life. LUCKY NUMBER: 18 LUCKY COLOUR: Coffee

CSome of you are on the verge of becoming financially independent. You will not let your focus waver on the professional. A good deal on the property front is possible. LOVE FOCUS: Not offering a helping hand to spouse may be resented. LUCKY NUMBER: 2 LUCKY COLOUR: Peach

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ ARRAHMAN*

The family photo shared by AR Rahman on Instagram