We are excited to present the 22nd episode of FilmiTalks - Entertainment Podcast presented & Hosted by Mr.Raj Israni. For this episode he is in the conversation with the very talented Praveen Hingonia. He is best known for his incredible achievement of playing 9 different roles in movie Navras Katha Collage which is written & directed by himself. The movie has been showcased in different Film Festivals like Kashi , Ayodhya & even Cannes 2024 and has earned 40 awards across various categories.

Praveen's roots in theater paved the way for lead roles in popular shows like Tulsi and Palkhi. A passionate writer who has been writing bound movie scripts with about 30 plus scripts ready to bring new stories to life. In this episode he talks about his inspiration behind the movie Navras Katha Collage, fulfilling his childhood dream of playing multiple roles, a tribute to Sanjeev Kumar’s performance in Naya Din Nai raat. He also shares his views on various topics like the importance of positive mindset, depression, divorce and what acting is in a true sense.

Tune in to explore the navras of acting, gain profound insights into the craft & understand deeper meaning behind it through the lens of Praveen!

Timestamps

00:00 Precap

00:41 Introduction of the guest

01:26 Early life and career

03:45 Love for films & watching films on VCR

04:44 Turning point in life

06:33 Encounter with fraud casting

07:40 Introduction to NSD but admission to SRC

08:08 Coming to Mumbai & support of parents

09:17 First work as lead in Tulsi

09:52 How theatre helped & learnings from his guru

10:41 Working as lead in Mashra ki Hoor

11:30 Realizing what acting truly is

14:51 How long it took to land the first job

15:41 Journey as an actor

16:02 Working as lead in Palkhi

17:25 Talking about his directorial movie Navras Katha Collage

18:11 Talks about positive attitude & manifestation

19:35 What is Navras Katha Collage about?

21:05 Views on divorce

23:09 The power of a 'yes' mindset

24:17 Navras getting showcased at Rajasthan International Film Festival, Himachal Film Festival, Kashi Film Festival, etc.

25:23 Tribute to RAW agents through Veer Ras in Navras movie, Veer Ras which is based on Bhagat Singh

26:44 Journey in writing

29:57 Side hustle of running a restaurant

32:06 First film written: Head Constable Jijaji

33:39 Cameo in Ishqbaaz

34:35 Teaching acting

35:04 Message of positivity

38:36 Writing the play named Calendar

40:02 Nepotism in the movie Navras Katha Collage

44:10 More about Navras & tribute to Sanjeev Kumar

For the 21st episode of Filmi Talks - Entertainment podcast, presented by Raj Israni, Host Ashmeta Bakkshi brings you in depth conversation with actor & model Navya Singh. Born as a boy in a conservative sikh family after experiencing gender dysphoria, she started presenting herself as a woman. She is brand ambassador of Miss Transqueen India beauty pageant which is India's 1st national trans-women beauty pageant contest & the national finalist of Miss Universe India 2024.

Before becoming a model, she worked as a dancer in films and television serials. In 2017, she appeared on television in the crime show Savdhaan India on Life OK Channel, and in the music video Shiver by Monica Dogra. Her first appearance as a model was at the Lakme Fashion Week in 2016, where she was the only trans woman who participated. She has modeled clothes designed by Wendell Rodricks and Archana Kochhar. Currently she is working in the colors Tv serial Krishna Mohini.

Don’t miss the unfiltered conversation with Navya as she walks us through her life journey.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Precap

00:48 - Introduction of the guest Navya Singh

01:25 - Welcome of Guest by Host Ashmeta Bakkshi

01:56 - Talking about the secrets behind her beauty and fitness 

02:44 - When was Navya Singh born

03:51 - Changing into a girl after being born as a boy 

06:22 - How Navya broke her decision to change her gender to parents 

08:04 - Insensitive incident of being ra... at the age of 14 

10:05 - The realization of being different from others

12:15 - Did Navya ever feel she went against God's creation after changing herself 

13:35 - Talking about today's open-minded society, acceptance and awareness

15:40 - Talking about why Navya went for a gender change operation 

16:42 - Motherhood made Navya decide to change her gender

18:05 - Talks about her dating life 

18:52 - Loving animals and being a pet-parent 

20:15 - Her professional journey acting debut, classical singing and other

23:18 - Navya's bittersweet experience in the entertainment industry

24:43 - Hypocrisy in the entertainment industry

26:06 - Navya's take on 'Nepotism'

27:17 - Struggle of being an outsider in the entertainment industry

28:57 - Casting couch experience 

32:31 - How social media has impacted today's generation 

33:22 - Talking about her recent show on Colors TV serial Krishna Mohini

35:01 - Getting Botox & Fillers

38:30 - Not being a party person 

39:52 - Performing with LGBTQ artists 

40:58 - Controversy around Vijay Raaz's transgender role in Gangubai

42:19 - Recent opportunity for transgender actors to get into the industry 

43:05 - What is Pride Month & Hypocrisy of big brands during Pride Month  

47:25 - How Navya became a Tarot reader and a spiritual person 

48:45 - Positive and negative energy 

51:58 - Law of Attraction & Manifestation

53:20 - A change Navya wants to do in society

In the 20th episode of Filmi Talks - Entertainment podcast Host Raj Israni is in conversation with media-preneur Utpal Acharya. His extensive experience includes pivotal roles in almost all premium studios and multiplex chains in India, such as Sony Pictures, UTV, Viacom18, INOX, and Reliance Entertainment. Additionally, he has served in a global capacity with Cinepolis Gulf, overseeing their Box Office, Programming, and Sales divisions.

Utpaal Acharya is renowned for his expertise in various facets of the film industry, including Releasing,Sales,Acquisitions,Distribution, Revenue Monetisation, Production. Throughout his career, Utpaal has been involved in the production and distribution of more than 800 films across multiple languages in India as well as Hollywood. His innovative approach to content creation and monetization has solidified his reputation as an experienced content-preneur. Some of the notable films he has worked on include “Singham” , “Ghajini” ,”Don 2”, “Swades” , “Rang De Basanti” , “Khosla Ka Ghosla” , “Jodhaa Akbar” , “Singh Is Kinng” & “Jab We Met”.

Don't miss out on this insightful episode with Utpal Acharya as he shares guidance for upcoming producers and media-preneurs.

00:00 Precap

01:05 Introduction of the Guest

02:29 Early Life & education

03:45 Campus placement in Sony pictures

06:55 Meeting Ronnie Screwvala

07:40 Emergence of tv Corporatization

12:38 What is "Content Engineers"

13:35 How to decide which content is good

14:29 Test Marketing

18:06 First project in sony pictures

20:44 Projects in Utv

21:46 Why Saawariya didn't work commercially

23:13 How to enter the industry

25:52 Post Covid-19 effects on the Multiplexes, Movies & Content consumption by audience

29:30 Relevance of Panchayat

30:25 Big stars vs Content

31:16 Interesting story of Khosla ka Ghosla

35:17 Backstory of Munna Bhai MBBS

40:40 Backstory of Jab We Met

44:00 POV of multiplex

47:49 Multiplex raising the prices for the big banner movie

52:35 Concept of mini-plex

55:01 Business aspect of Multiplex

59:55 How Rajshree production looked into aspects of theaters with perspective of audience

1:02:15 Truth behind Box Office collection

1:05:56 Upcoming projects

In the 19th episode of Filmi Talks, hosted by Raj Israni, we sit down with Varadraj Swami, the writer-director behind films like Kabaad- The Coin (2021), Romantic Tukde (2023), and Dassehra (2018). Swami shares insights from his journey in the film industry, shedding light on the thought process behind his films and the challenges of modern filmmaking. Timestamps: 00:00 - Precap 00:56 - Intro 04:36 - Early life 05:30 - How was the thought of making a movie born in Varadraj's mind 11:35 - Changes in the world of casting: Now vs. Then 13:00 - Working with Naseeruddin Shah’s son, Vivaan Shah 14:50 - A chat about casting with expert Mr. Raj Israni 22:15 - The effect of COVID-19 on the entertainment industry & need for entertainment during a crisis 28:24 - The boom of OTT during lockdown 32:25 - Survival of movie theaters after lockdown 36:45 - The backstory behind Manjhi – The Mountain Man 48:15 - Criticism in the Bollywood industry 49:00 - Talks about spirituality 50:46 - Transition in cinema 57:29 - Writing and institutes 1:02:59 - Speaking about the thought process while writing for big-screen movies Tune in this Friday to explore Swami’s perspective on casting, cinema’s evolution, and the survival of theaters post-lockdown.

Episode out now! 🎬 Meet the versatile filmmaker and film marketer, Saurabh Varma. With over 27 years of experience in the Indian film industry, Saurabh has played a pivotal role in marketing and producing over 1000 films across multiple languages.

His illustrious career includes notable positions such as Chief Creative Officer at Hitflik and Content Engineers, and CMO at Jio Studios, with strategic roles at INOX, Reliance Entertainment, and PVR Cinemas. Saurabh has directed, and written, films and series like "Tiwari" with Urmila Matondkar, "Vicky Velingkar," and "Mickey Virus." His short film "Girl in Red" boasts 19 million views on YouTube, highlighting his creative storytelling.

👉 Watch the full episode now! :

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Hosted by Mr Raj Israni , in this episode Saurabh Varma not only shares his experiences but also provides valuable guidance for aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals.Tune in for an exciting and insightful episode!

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In the 17th episode of Filmi Talks, hosted by Raj Israni, we feature the multi-talented duo Siddharth–Garima. In this episode, they delve into their journey in the entertainment industry, discuss the importance of writers in cinema, and share their perspective on the controversial film Kabir Singh, with Garima firmly stating, "I stand by Kabir Singh."

This episode is a treasure trove for aspiring writers and filmmakers as Siddharth–Garima talk about the creative process behind some of their most notable works. They discuss the challenges they faced and the insights they gained while working on movies like Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and the recent release Dukaan, which marks their debut as producers. They also touch on the reality of the entertainment industry, including issues like unequal pay, the casting couch, and the mental toll of the industry's pressures.

Known for their outstanding work as screenwriters and lyricists, Siddharth Singh and Garima Wahal have collaborated with directors like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, and Dinesh Vijan. Their impressive filmography includes hits like Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, Kabir Singh, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Animal, and Kalki 2898 AD. Don't miss this insightful episode, where they also share their experiences working with legendary composers and actors, and provide advice for aspiring and struggling actors. Tune in to get a behind-the-scenes look at Bollywood's most creative minds.

In the 16th episode of Filmi Talks, we are thrilled to host veteran actor Rakesh Srivastava, known for his iconic role as Lallanji in the popular TV show Lapataganj. Hosted by Raj Israni, this episode delves into Rakesh Ji's illustrious career-spanning TV serials like Sonpari, Baap re Baap, and Lapataganj, along with notable movie roles in Maine Pyar Kiya, Maseeha, Rukke Padge, Son of Sardaar, and Dasvi.

Rakesh Ji shares his journey from aspiring actor to becoming a beloved TV star, including his early life, education, and inspiration from legends like Raj Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan. He discusses the nuances of working in television versus movies, his memorable TV characters, and the challenges he faced as an outsider in the entertainment industry.

This episode is packed with insights, advice for young actors, and anecdotes that highlight Rakesh Ji's passion and dedication to his craft. Don't miss this engaging conversation that promises to entertain and inspire.

Episode Highlights:

- Early life and education

- Pursuing a degree in drama and acting

- Choosing acting as a career after watching Raj Kapoor on screen

- Introduction to radio with All India Radio

- Story of 'Pehli Kamai'

- Starting an acting career in Mumbai

- First acting break in Maine Pyar Kiya

- Successful TV career and the difference between movies and TV

- Memorable characters from TV shows

- Playing Lallanji in Lapataganj

- Working as a dubbing artist

- Sharing his writings

- Advice for young artists

- Directing anti-smoking doc-dramas

- Inspiration from Raj Kapoor, Guru Dutt, Amitabh Bachchan, and Nutan

- Making his kids proud

Don't miss this episode filled with Rakesh Ji's valuable experiences and insights, as he takes us through his journey of becoming 'a lion of television.' Tune in today!

In the 15th episode of the Filmi Talks Entertainment Podcast, hosted by Ashmeta Bakkshi, we welcome the multi-talented Trupti Khamkar, who has been a prominent figure in Marathi and Bollywood movies, as well as a writer and stand-up comedian. With a career spanning since 1998, Trupti recently shined in the hit Bollywood movie Crew alongside Kareena Kapoor, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon. She has also starred in Govinda Naam Mera, Tumhari Sulu, and the Marathi movie Zombivli. Trupti was featured in the British historical series Beecham House.

This episode is filled with humour and wit as Trupti shares her journey in the entertainment industry, talks about her personal life, and offers insights into her experiences. She discusses her destiny as an actor, working in international shows like Beecham House, and the differences between Indian and international films. She also talks about the challenges of being a versatile actor, her stand-up comedy work, and her views on marriage and depression. Tune in for an entertaining and insightful conversation with Trupti Khamkar.

Episode Highlights:

- How being an actor was always in her destiny

- Talking about her typical Indian father

- Working in international shows like Beecham House

- Differences between working in Indian films and international films

- How art is secondary in developing countries like India

- Getting praised by Vidya Balan for her work in Tumhari Sulu

- Receiving a call from director Anurag Kashyap after watching a scene from Tumhari Sulu

- Ekta Kapoor watching Trupti's audition for ALT Balaji's web series Girgit

- Playing a maid in Govinda Naam Mera

- The downside of being a versatile actor

- Discussing the Marathi movie Zombivli

- Writing Marathi stand-up comedy 'Baba Lagin'

- Dealing with being single and unmarried after 35 years

- Her views on getting married and having children

- Connecting with a divine power inside you

- Depression and how it differs for rich and poor people

- A message to her 20-year-old self

In the 14th episode of the Filmi Talks Entertainment Podcast, host Raaghav Parmar sits down with actor Satish, known for his roles in Khakee - The Bihar Chapter, Mrs Undercover, Kaala, and Tavvai. He has also done multiple TVCs featuring big names like Amitabh Bachchan, and Rohit Shetty. With a rich background in theatre and a degree from NSD, Satish shares his journey in the acting world.

In the episode, Satish Badal shares his working experience in the theatre and film industry. He also talks about working with Radhika Apte, his early life aspirations to become a singer, and his first stage experience. Discover the struggles he faced while pursuing theatre and his time at NSD Sikkim. Satish also discusses about the NSD National School of Drama and acting schools in India. Satish shares acting tips for young actors as he talks about the art of acting, and its connection with spirituality.

Don’t miss Satish's valuable advice for young actors and his heartfelt stories from his acting career. Subscribe to Filmi Talks for more inspiring episodes!

Episode Highlight:

Sharing experience working with Radhika Apte

Wanting to become a singer at the start of my career

First stage experience

Struggles while pursuing theatre

Moving to Kolkata to join Alternative Living Theatre

Getting admission into NSD Sikkim

Learning Chhau dance in Jharkhand

Talking about the 90's filmmaking style

The difference between Commercial movies and artistic movies

The reason behind not working in TV serials

What is the NSD (National School Of Drama) and how do enter NSD

Acting schools in India and how they help in an acting career

Learning Experience in NSD

Talking about the art of acting and how it is connected with spirituality and honesty

Enacting scene on the spot

A thought of leaving acting as a career

How being financially independent is important in Mumbai

Is having Godfather in an industry important?

Enjoying working in Khakee- The Bihar Chapter and Mrs Undercover

The first film of the career Mrs Undercover

Upcoming projects- Sherlock Holme's Hindi adaption with K K Menon and a Movie with Rajkummar Rao

Advice for young actors

In the 13th episode of the Filmi Talks Entertainment Podcast, join host Raj Israni as he engages in an enlightening conversation with the accomplished actor Saurabh Dubey. With a career rich in diverse roles across TV and film, Saurabh shares his incredible journey from his early days in the entertainment industry to becoming a prominent figure in Bollywood.

Saurabh discusses his family's reaction to his decision to pursue acting, the hurdles of being an outsider in Mumbai, and how the industry has evolved over the years. He provides a candid look at the realities of transitioning from theatre to film, his experience receiving his first paycheck, and the challenges of working on a film that never saw the light of day.

Hear about his notable role as Nehru, which he has portrayed an impressive eight times, his experiences on the movie Amavas, and his extensive work in over 65 daily soaps. Saurabh also shares his insights on the differences between TV and film acting and offers valuable advice for aspiring actors.

Tune in for an episode filled with captivating stories, industry insights, and practical advice from Saurabh Dubey. Subscribe to Filmi Talks for more engaging content and exclusive conversations from the entertainment world!

Highlights:

Early journey into the entertainment industry

Family's reaction to becoming an actor

Challenges of being an outsider in Mumbai

Differences between the entertainment industry then and now

Reality check of the industry

Challenges coming from a theatre background

Experience of receiving the first paycheck

Working on the movie Amavas

Transition from theatre to TV and film

First movie Sangharsh and meeting Mahesh Bhatt

Differences between TV and movies

Working in over 65 daily soaps

Memorable roles, including playing Nehru eight times

Molding according to different characters and roles

Advice for the younger generation of actors

Don’t miss this episode for a deep dive into Saurabh Dubey’s career and his candid insights into the entertainment world!