Q: How did Main Vaapas Aaunga come your way?
Vedang Raina: It all started with what I assumed would be a routine industry meeting with Imtiaz sir. Actors often meet directors and producers without any specific project being discussed; it’s usually a way of getting acquainted and understanding whether there might be a creative fit in the future.
What surprised me was the length of the conversation. Most such meetings wrap up within ten or fifteen minutes, but this one went on for over an hour. We spoke about Kashmir, music, art, culture, and life in general. Interestingly, there was no mention of a film. I walked away thinking that he was one of the most fascinating people I had ever met.
Several months later, I met him again. By then I hoped there might be a role somewhere in the picture, but he still didn’t approach it conventionally. Instead of presenting a script, he narrated situations and story ideas while observing my reactions. The screenplay wasn’t complete at the time. He only had a broad narrative and a few scenes worked out. The moment I realised he was considering me for the film, I immediately agreed. There wasn’t even a finished script to read, but my trust in him was enough. If Imtiaz Ali felt I belonged in his story, that was all the assurance I needed.

Q: As a representative of Gen Z, what kind of impact would you like to have through your work?
Vedang Raina: I don’t think in terms of influencing an entire generation. My first responsibility is to choose roles that genuinely excite me. If I don’t feel challenged or inspired by a character, I know I won’t be able to give my best performance.
What I want is to keep experimenting with different kinds of roles and continue growing as an actor. Beyond that, it’s difficult to gauge how people truly perceive you today. Social media creates so much noise that it’s often impossible to distinguish genuine appreciation from publicity-driven narratives.
Even when I see positive reactions to our work, I sometimes wonder how much of it reflects real audience sentiment. Everything feels amplified online. So rather than focusing on my impact, I prefer concentrating on the work itself and trusting that sincere effort will eventually connect with people.

Q: Do you believe you’ve earned a place among the industry’s respected young actors?
Vedang Raina: I would like to reach that stage one day, but I don’t think it’s for me to decide.
To be honest, fame has never been my primary motivation. Financial security has always felt more important because that’s something I haven’t always had. More than popularity, I want filmmakers and audiences to see me as a dependable actor.
My ambition is simple: to keep improving with every project. If people eventually say that I am committed, hardworking, and capable of delivering a strong performance, I will consider that a far greater achievement than fame itself.

Q: Since this is a period film, how did you prepare for your character?
Vedang Raina: In many ways, Keeno is the most different character I’ve ever played. He couldn’t be further removed from my own personality.
He’s a young Sikh man who is shy, reserved, and socially awkward. He’s not someone who can confidently express his emotions, especially around women. In his own mind, he thinks he’s charming and composed, but the reality is quite the opposite—he becomes nervous and flustered very easily.
That contrast fascinated me. Instead of approaching the role with preconceived ideas, I decided to surrender completely to Imtiaz sir’s vision. I arrived on set without any agenda of trying to appear heroic or glamorous because the character didn’t require that.
I treated myself like a blank canvas and absorbed whatever guidance he offered. My only goal was to faithfully execute his interpretation of the character. If I have managed to do that, I feel I’ve succeeded.

Q: You have often spoken about your love for music. What was it like working with A.R. Rahman?
Vedang Raina: Honestly, when you’re working with A.R. Rahman, there’s no question of trying to “vibe” with him—he’s A.R. Rahman.
The opportunity itself felt surreal. He wasn’t physically present during the recording sessions because he was travelling, while I was recording from Mumbai. Most of our interactions happened virtually through FaceTime.
Even those brief conversations meant a lot to me. For anyone who loves singing, the chance to record for Rahman sir is a dream. I remember being incredibly nervous whenever I spoke to him. My biggest hope was simply that he would like my voice enough to keep it in the film. Thankfully, that worked out, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Q: The film deals with Partition and displacement. Which scenes affected you the most emotionally?
Vedang Raina: The Partition sequences were undoubtedly the most difficult.
Before preparing for the role, I had only heard stories from family members and older generations. But visiting the Partition Museum in Amritsar changed everything. Reading personal testimonies, seeing photographs, and learning about the experiences of people who lived through that period made the history feel painfully real.
One particular sequence connected deeply with me. There’s a song in the film called Woh Nahi, which follows my character’s emotional transformation. Initially, he is carefree, deeply in love, and completely attached to his home and community. Then everything is taken away from him.
At one point, he cries out, “I will come back,” addressing not only the woman he loves but also the homeland he is being forced to leave behind. Losing that sense of belonging changes him forever. Portraying that emotional evolution was challenging but immensely rewarding. Much of the credit goes to Imtiaz sir, who helped shape and guide every aspect of that journey.

Q: How would you describe your friendship with Sharvari off-screen?
Vedang Raina: Sharvari and I developed a wonderful friendship during the making of the film, and I think that comfort translated naturally into our performances.
We spent a lot of time discussing the screenplay, analysing scenes, and understanding our characters. Both of us approach our work in a similar way—we enjoy breaking down scripts, making notes, and exploring details.
Whenever we had free time, we’d sit together and rehearse. In fact, we were so eager to discuss scenes with Imtiaz sir that we sometimes joked about tossing a coin to decide who would call him first and ask if he was available for a reading session.
Imtiaz sir told us it was probably the first time actors had actively requested rehearsals from him instead of the other way around. We considered that a compliment.
Outside of work, we also enjoyed exploring Punjab together, sampling local food, eating kulchas, drinking lassi, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. It turned into a memorable experience both professionally and personally.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview: Vedang Raina: My Ambition Is To Keep Improving With Every Project! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Q: The title Main Vaapas Aaunga carries a sense of longing and melancholy. How do you interpret it?
Imtiaz Ali: I feel that every human being carries within them a desire to return to something they have lost along the way. There is always a place, a person, a moment, or a feeling that remains unfinished in our hearts. Some people are fortunate enough to revisit it, while many spend their lives longing for it.
The title reflects that universal emotion. If you think carefully about your own life, you will probably discover something you wish you could return to. That yearning makes the title deeply personal.
The film revolves around a 95-year-old man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Though confined to his bed and losing touch with the present, one memory remains vivid. During Partition, he was forced to leave his homeland, his loved ones, and the woman he cherished. As he boarded the train that took him away, he made a silent promise to himself: “Main Vaapas Aaunga”—I will return.
Decades later, as his life draws to a close, that promise continues to live within him. While Partition provides the historical setting, the essence of the film is a love story.

Q: Partition continues to be one of the deepest emotional scars in the subcontinent’s history. What inspired you to tell a story set during that period?
Imtiaz Ali: Over the years, I have spoken to countless elderly men and women from Punjab, Bengal, and other regions who experienced Partition first-hand. Many of them are now in their late eighties and nineties. Some have forgotten much about their present lives, yet their memories of pre-Partition days remain astonishingly vivid.
What struck me most was that they rarely spoke about violence. Instead, they remembered the people they loved, the homes they grew up in, childhood belongings, neighbours, friendships, and small everyday moments. Those memories seemed untouched by time.
Cinema has often depicted Partition through its horrors—violence, displacement, and tragedy—and rightly so. But I felt there was another emotional truth that deserved attention: the enduring power of love and memory.
I remember meeting an elderly woman who, in her final days, kept reliving her journey during Partition. She repeatedly asked whether her childhood doll had been packed safely before the family fled. At that moment, she was not concerned about wealth or property. What mattered was that doll and the memories attached to it. That emotional attachment had survived an entire lifetime. Stories like hers inspired this film.

Q: In a world increasingly marked by division and conflict, what relevance does this story hold today?
Imtiaz Ali: I often think about how, during periods of social unrest, people gravitate towards art that offers hope and joy. In difficult times, tenderness becomes even more valuable.
This film emerges from that understanding. When life becomes harsh, people cling more tightly to love and human connection. The protagonist of this story experiences immense loss, yet he safeguards the memory of love throughout his life.
I believe cinema should fill emotional voids. At a time when anger and conflict dominate so many conversations, perhaps what audiences need most are stories that celebrate compassion, beauty, and emotional warmth.

Q: Is there a Partition-related film that left a lasting impression on you?
Imtiaz Ali: Tamas had an extraordinary impact on me. I found it deeply moving and remarkably balanced in its portrayal of one of history’s most painful chapters. The performances were outstanding, and the storytelling was incredibly powerful. Since it was based on the work of acclaimed writer Bhisham Sahni, it carried tremendous emotional authenticity. It remains one of the most memorable works on Partition that I have seen.

Q: Partition narratives are usually associated with tragedy. How did you ensure that love remained central to the story?
Imtiaz Ali: I never consciously tried to create a balance between pain and romance. My focus remained on telling an honest love story.
At its heart, the film is about an elderly man who continues to hold on to the memory of a woman he loved many decades ago. Partition creates the circumstances that separate them, but the emotional core is their connection.
For him, this woman represents much more than a romantic relationship. She embodies home, identity, beauty, comfort, and everything he lost when he was forced to leave. Once I understood that emotional truth, the story naturally took shape around it.

Q: You are returning to theatres with this film after some time. How has the theatrical landscape evolved over the years?
Imtiaz Ali: The experience has changed dramatically, particularly after the pandemic. Audience expectations and viewing habits are very different today.
Certain genres immediately command attention on the big screen because they rely on scale, action, or spectacle. Love stories, however, demand patience and emotional investment. Their impact unfolds gradually.
With Main Vaapas Aaunga, the challenge was to create a love story that feels immersive and compelling enough to engage contemporary theatre audiences while remaining emotionally honest. That balance was extremely important to me.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview: Imtiaz Ali: My Focus Remains On Telling An Honest Love Story! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

CB: In Governor, you portray S. Venkitaramanan, the bureaucrat who played a pivotal role in transferring India’s gold reserves overseas during the 1991 economic crisis. How difficult do you think that decision must have been for him?
MB: I would call it an act of courage rather than merely a bold decision. He understood that the country had reached a point where conventional solutions were no longer enough. When a nation is faced with a severe financial emergency, extraordinary measures become unavoidable. The logic behind his decision was quite straightforward. Just as an individual relies on savings during difficult times, he believed the country should use its most valuable assets to survive a crisis.
Naturally, such a move was not easy to accept. While political leaders may have recognised its necessity, pledging national assets to secure financial relief was emotionally and politically challenging. Families part with their most cherished possessions only when they have exhausted all alternatives. In the same way, Venkitaramanan applied a deeply human principle on a national scale.
What makes his achievement remarkable is that he managed to persuade policymakers despite the prevailing political uncertainty. He enjoyed the confidence of leaders like Rajiv Gandhi and economists such as Dr. Manmohan Singh. Executing such a sensitive operation discreetly and helping pull India back from the brink of a financial collapse was an extraordinary accomplishment.

CB: Audiences have appreciated how convincingly you have captured his speech patterns and personality. How did you approach that aspect of the role?
MB: It demanded extensive preparation. Since the film is intended for a Hindi-speaking audience, accessibility was important. At the same time, the character came from a distinct cultural and linguistic background, which had to be reflected authentically.
The challenge was to preserve the flavour of his roots without making the character difficult for audiences to connect with. Furthermore, Venkitaramanan was an accomplished IAS officer. He was highly educated and articulate, so it would have been inaccurate to portray him as uncomfortable in Hindi or English. I therefore incorporated subtle regional influences while ensuring his sophistication remained evident. Thankfully, viewers seem to have connected with the portrayal, and the positive response has been reassuring.

CB: Apart from language and mannerisms, what other preparations went into building the character?
MB: Character creation is never an overnight process. It develops gradually through continuous research and observation. You keep reading, gathering information, discussing ideas with the director, and studying every available reference.
Since my academic background is in History and not Economics, I had to invest time in understanding the economic environment of that period. I familiarised myself with concepts such as GDP, fiscal deficits, and balance-of-payments issues because they were central to the story.
At the same time, I tried to understand the man behind the title. How did he behave? What influenced his posture, gestures, and overall presence? Body language often reveals a person’s inner world. Combining factual research with emotional understanding is what ultimately shapes a convincing performance. By the time all these elements come together, the transformation into the character has already begun.

CB: Have you ever felt the burden of carrying an entire film as its central performer?
MB: The only burden I willingly carry is the responsibility of delivering an honest performance. That pressure never goes away. My focus is always on ensuring that every character feels genuine and distinct.
I have never wanted audiences to see repetitions of my previous work. Each role should have its own identity, its own voice, and its own emotional landscape. Maintaining that individuality from one project to another is the challenge that keeps me motivated.

CB: Earlier, you were speaking about Chinmay Mandlekar. As an actor himself, does that give him an advantage as a director?
MB: Absolutely. It makes a tremendous difference. Whenever I encounter difficulties during a scene, Chinmay immediately understands what I am going through because he has experienced similar situations himself.
Acting is often misunderstood by those watching from the outside. It is similar to spectators analysing a cricket match from the stands without realising how quickly a fast bowler delivers the ball. Only the player on the field truly understands the challenge.
Likewise, only an actor can fully appreciate the emotional and technical complexities involved in performing before a camera. Chinmay recognises those challenges instinctively and knows how to guide actors through them. That understanding made our collaboration on Governor extremely rewarding, just as it did when we worked together on Inspector Zende. His sensitivity towards the actor’s process is one of his greatest strengths as a director.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview: Manoj Bajpayee: Maintaining Individuality From One Project To Another Keeps Me Motivated! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Over the years, Chitrangada has impressed viewers with memorable roles in films such as Inkaar, Desi Boyz, Yeh Saali Zindagi and Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster 3, while also being part of grand commercial entertainers like Housefull 5. Her acting is marked by a rare blend of sensitivity and strength, where quiet restraint often speaks louder than words. With her versatility, natural beauty and expressive power, she has carved a distinctive space for herself in Hindi cinema. She also stepped into film production with Soorma.

In recent times, her performances in OTT projects like Gaslight and Khaki have taken her craft to a new level, earning her renewed appreciation. Now, with Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders set for release, Chitrangada spoke to our Sr Editor Keerti Kadam, about her journey, her characters and the evolving landscape of storytelling.

Your performances in Gaslight and Khaki were widely appreciated. Now, your character in Raat Akeli Hai feels strikingly different and refreshingly new. Do you feel that OTT platforms have broadened the horizon of roles and opportunities for you?

Absolutely. To be honest, I sometimes feel I should have embraced OTT a little earlier. Perhaps I was late, but the phase I’m in now—working with such gifted directors, writers and actors—has been incredibly enriching and inspiring. Their perspectives push you to unlearn, relearn and rediscover yourself as an actor. OTT has emerged as the perfect medium for me because it allows space for layered characters, bold themes and nuanced storytelling. You’re not confined to conventional formats; you can experiment freely and take creative risks. In that sense, OTT has opened up a vast, exciting and hopeful new path for me.

Your character in this film is intense, complex and emotionally charged. How close—or distant—is it from your real personality?

It’s both close to me and completely different at the same time—it occupies a very intriguing middle ground. The character carries immense emotional complexity, layered with tension, pain and vulnerability. To explore those depths, I had to prepare myself mentally, and it took time to unravel her inner knots. Yet, she never felt entirely alien to me. There were moments when I thought, if I were in her place… (laughs) perhaps I, too, might have taken an extreme step—maybe even committed a murder. As an actor, when you step into such characters, you begin to discover hidden facets within yourself, and that’s what makes the process so thrilling.

What is Honey Trehan like as a director? Did he guide you closely through scenes?

Honey sir is a true perfectionist. I’ve worked with many directors, but collaborating with him feels like attending an acting masterclass. I learned so much during this journey. What truly stands out is the love and respect he has for his actors. When you sense that your director believes in you, cares for you, and genuinely wants to bring out your best, it pushes you to give more than a hundred percent. There were moments when capturing a particular emotion felt challenging, but the process of reaching it eventually became very beautiful. Overall, it was a deeply fulfilling and joyful experience.

Many people fondly compared you to Smita Patil. Did you ever feel that resemblance yourself?

Yes, very much so. During my very first film, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, many people pointed it out to me. The look of that phase—the sarees, the simple bun, the calm in the eyes, and the restrained emotional expression—made several people see a glimpse of Smita Patil in me. Honestly, that remains one of the greatest compliments of my life. She wasn’t just an actress; she was an entire university of sensitive, soulful acting.

One moment, in particular, remains etched in my memory. At the first screening of my debut film, filmmaker Ketan Mehta—who had worked extensively with Smita Patil—was present. At that time, I didn’t even know who he was. After the screening, he came up to me with tears in his eyes. He didn’t make a long speech; he simply said, “You are rare,” and walked away. Later, when I learned who he was, I truly understood the weight of those two words. The warmth of that moment and the quiet, heartfelt appreciation he offered are memories I will cherish for a lifetime.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview : Chitrangada Singh: Many People Saw a Reflection of Smita Patil in Me first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

With years of experience behind him, Sanjay Kapoor has seamlessly transitioned from light-hearted roles to intense, layered and complex characters. His upcoming film, Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, features him in a pivotal role. In this context, he spoke to our Sr Editor Keertikumar Kadam. Here are some excerpts from the conversation:

In Murder Mubarak, you were seen in a lighter, more playful space, whereas Raat Akeli Hai appears dark and intense. What difference did you personally feel between these two roles?

There is a very clear difference. Just by watching the trailer of Raat Akeli Hai, one can sense how serious, tense and emotionally intense the atmosphere of the film is. In Murder Mubarak, we were also solving a case, but the tone there was lighter, quirky and more entertaining. Here, however, everything is far more layered—the intensity of each scene, the actors’ body language, the tempo of the dialogues—everything carries a deeper, darker weight.

Every actor approached their role with utmost seriousness, and that added a certain gravitas while working on the film. The genre, treatment and performance style of these two films are completely different, and for me, Raat Akeli Hai turned out to be a very fresh and enriching experience.

Coincidentally, people are talking about an “Akshaye Khanna 2.0” and “Sanjay Kapoor 2.0” phase. How do you look at this?

(Laughs) Honestly, I don’t know whether it’s 2.0 or 3.0, but if I have to sum it up in one phrase—it’s God’s grace. I’m continuously getting good opportunities, and more importantly, chances to work with fine directors. That, for me, is the biggest blessing.

Over the last six or seven years, a certain pattern has emerged in my career. When a capable director—someone like Honey (Trehan) calls me, I silently pray, “I hope the role is good… even if it’s small, let it be impactful.” Because the value of a role is never about its length, but about its substance.

There are times when you work for 25 days and still feel unsatisfied, and then there are occasions when just six or seven days of shooting give you the fulfillment of a hundred days. The opportunities I’m receiving today, the trust of directors, and the chance to work with such committed teams—that is my real reward. Labels like “Sanjay Kapoor 2.0” don’t concern me. I’m simply happy that I keep getting opportunities to prove myself all over again.

Sanjay ji, do you take fitness or grooming tips from Anil Kapoor? You still look remarkably young and handsome. Is there a ‘secret diet’ followed by the Kapoor family?

(Laughs heartily) Well, maybe Anil takes tips from me! Why does everyone assume that I’m the one taking tips from him? (Laughs) To be honest, no one in our family really takes tips from anyone else. In fact, we Kapoors are great food lovers—we enjoy good food, sweets, everything!

That said, there is one thing I always follow: discipline. If you live a disciplined life, take honest care of yourself, and keep your mind clear and positive, it naturally reflects on your face. There’s no superfood or secret diet involved.

It’s all about a regular routine, moderation, and being honest with yourself. There’s no scientific mystery here—just simple, balanced and disciplined living. That’s the real ‘secret recipe’.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview : Sanjay Kapoor: I’m happy that I keep getting chances to reinvent myself! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Know About Outfit of Banita Sandhu’s custom Amit Aggarwal look! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

“This album is something that I was called to make,” Raja Kumari shares. “Certain events in my life, like the cancellation of my tour two years ago, led me towards spirituality. After that, I kept getting visions of Kedarnath Temple, so I didn’t waste time and visited the shrine. As I stood before Lord Shiva, I asked what I should do next, and the answer was clear—surrender. Since then, I knew this was the first project I had to create.”

Her classical roots play a significant role in the album, especially in The Destroyer. “Shiv Tandav has always been a dance I loved as a child. Dressing as Shiva, enacting destruction and creation—it’s always been a part of me. I incorporated the jati from my childhood compositions to honor my years of training.” She also ensured proper pronunciation of Sanskrit verses, believing that “there’s a different energy when you speak the words correctly.”

For Raja Kumari, Maha Shivratri is now deeply personal. “I spend the night in meditation, receiving the high-frequency energies of this sacred time. As a hopeless romantic, I’m also inspired by Shiva and Parvati’s love story, which led me to observe the Sola Somvaar Vrat.”

With Kashi to Kailash, Raja Kumari hopes to bring devotional music into modern times. “I want this album to be a part of people’s celebrations.”

By Keerti Kadam

The post Singer, songwriter, and classical dancer Raja Kumari to release ‘Kashi to Kailash’! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Her talent has not gone unnoticed, as she has shared screen space in major ad campaigns alongside luminaries like Ranbir Kapoor and Pankaj Tripathi. Now, destiny has led her to yet another milestone—working with UV Films, under the creative vision of producer Pradeep Ji and director-writer Ricky Sandhu. As her co-star eloquently put it, some roles are tailor-made for certain actors, and for Sristi, this one feels like it was written just for her.

Sometimes, fate intervenes in the most unexpected ways. Though this role was initially offered to someone else, it eventually found its way to her. When she finally met the director, he had already seen one of her auditions. Unlike the usual rigorous discussions, he simply said, “Just do it. I believe in you.” That unwavering faith became the foundation of her performance.

During an engaging conversation with our Senior Editor, Keerti Kadam, Sristi Maheshwari Vaidya shared insights into her latest project, her transition from television to films, and her thoughts on the ever-evolving digital world.

“This Role Was Meant for Me”

When did you realize this role was destined for you? Did you read the script beforehand?
When I stepped onto the set, Sir handed me the script and said, “This is your character. I’ve seen your auditions, so just remain as you are. Make sure it doesn’t feel fake.”

There’s a difference between delivering lines naturally and over-rehearsing. Sometimes, when the camera rolls, people ask you to repeat something you did spontaneously, but in doing so, it may lose its authenticity. No one is perfect, and in my opinion, a true performer is someone who constantly evolves rather than striving for perfection.

“Perfection Is a Journey, Not a Destination”

Would you compare yourself to Aamir Khan, who is known for his perfectionism?
Oh no! Even Aamir Khan himself admits that he is still learning, which I truly respect. He is a perfectionist in his own way, but as an audience, we must appreciate artists for what they bring to the table. Even today, when I step onto a set, I feel butterflies in my stomach because every project is a fresh challenge. I trust my director completely—that’s why I consider myself a director’s actor.

“From Television to the Silver Screen”

Is this your first film?
No, this is my second film. My first was with T-Series, where I played the lead opposite Rahul Bagga. The legendary Rajpal Yadav was also part of the cast.

You started in television and are now transitioning into Bollywood. Do you plan to continue both?
Absolutely! As a performer, I will never limit myself. If a strong television role comes my way, I will definitely consider it. Television and advertisements helped me establish myself in Mumbai, and for that, I will always be grateful.

Coming from a traditional Marwadi family, I could have taken a simpler route, but I chose to experience struggles because true value is understood only when you’ve earned something through hard work. I embraced every challenge along the way, and that’s what makes this journey so fulfilling.

“Meet Althea: The Social Butterfly”

Tell us about your character in the film.
I play Althea—a lively, social-media-savvy college girl who enjoys swiping through dating apps like Tinder and Bumble. She’s fashionable, confident, and has an attitude reminiscent of Poo from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Her vibrant personality is bound to bring a smile to the audience’s face and leave them in splits!

So, the film is centered around social media?
Yes! The entire film revolves around the impact of social media, but each character plays a different role in it. Althea’s arc, in particular, is designed to add a comic spark to the story.

“The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media”

Social media plays a huge role in people’s lives today—both positive and negative. Have you ever faced online trolling?

Social media is a double-edged sword. While it connects us, it can also distract us from what truly matters. I make it a point to step away from my phone when I’m with family because I don’t want my daughter to grow up seeing me constantly glued to a screen.

Children mimic what they see. If I prioritize real-life moments over virtual ones, she learns to do the same. That’s the balance I strive to maintain. Social media is a powerful tool, but if not managed wisely, it can pull us away from those who matter most. At the end of the day, nothing is more precious than quality time spent with loved ones.

Even now, as we sit here talking, we are enjoying a real moment, cherishing human connection—something that no number of likes or comments can ever replace.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview : Sristi Maheshwari Vaidya: Embracing the Art of Storytelling, One Role at a Time first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Many people say you resemble a famous actress. What are your thoughts on that?
(Smiles) Thank you! I guess this resemblance might be part of my destiny. Things are unfolding faster than I expected! (Laughs)

You’re a doctor as well as an actress. Do you still practice medicine?
Yes, I still have my clinic in Mumbai. However, I don’t manage it regularly. I believe that to truly excel in something, you have to give it your 100%. Right now, my full focus is on acting. If you ask me to choose between the two, I would pick acting because it brings me happiness. And I believe that following your happiness is your true destiny.

When did you realize that acting makes you happy?
Initially, I didn’t know that acting would make me happy. Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns, and you don’t understand why. But I believe everything is part of a bigger plan written by the universe. I became a doctor because I grew up in Kashmir, where I witnessed a lot of suffering due to militancy. Seeing people in pain made me want to save lives. But as we grow, our perspectives change. I have changed, and I continue to evolve every day. Life is about exploring different passions. Right now, I’m an actor, but in the future, I may also become a businesswoman or a motivational speaker. Life is a journey, and I want to experience it all.

Did you take formal training for acting, or did you learn on set?
We all have a bit of acting within us, but some techniques need to be learned. I didn’t do a long-term acting course because I believe that spending 3–4 years studying doesn’t necessarily make you an actor—time just passes. Instead, I attended workshops with different teachers to learn the basics—how to get into character, how to come out of it, and other essential skills.

Tell us about your character in Let’s Meet.
I play Riya, a corporate professional with a routine similar to my past life as a doctor—an 8 AM to 5 PM job with little social interaction. She isn’t active on social media, which is rare in today’s world. Her friends encourage her to join online platforms, and once she does, she meets Nikhil, played by Tanuj Virwani. He’s an extrovert who loves dating, but over time, he starts developing feelings for Riya. The rest of the story unfolds in the film.

When you heard the story, did you immediately say, “Let’s Meet”?
(Laughs) When I first heard the concept, I found it very creative. In today’s world, online interactions and relationships are common, but this story explores what happens after love begins. Interestingly, my casting was also done online. I didn’t meet the director or producer in person—my audition was conducted through a video call. It felt like my real-life experience mirrored my character’s journey.

What are your views on online love?
Times are changing. Our parents didn’t have mobile phones or social media; they had to meet in person. But today, people prefer quick interactions from the comfort of their homes. Everything—jobs, salaries, payments—is online, so why not love? The film reflects this new reality. I believe online relationships will become more common, and who knows? Maybe even breakups and divorces will happen online too! (Laughs)

Social media has both positive and negative aspects, including trolling. Have you ever faced it?
No, I haven’t experienced trolling so far. But I believe that everyone has different perspectives. What seems right to one person may seem wrong to another. I don’t let others’ opinions affect me. If something benefits me, I’ll go ahead with it. If it’s just negativity, I won’t entertain it. The best way to deal with trolling is to stay calm and not react.

You mentioned that you will continue acting. Are you open to TV, films, and OTT, or do you have a preference?
I’m open to films and OTT, but I don’t want to do television. TV schedules are intense—you start at 8 AM and return home at midnight. I want to work on a project, dedicate 40 days to it, and then take a break before the next one. For me, acting isn’t just about making money. If it were, I would have stayed in my medical profession. I want to take on roles that I can fully live and experience.

Being a doctor, you must know where to set limits…
Absolutely! Too much of anything is harmful—even drinking too much water! The same applies to acting. If you get too immersed in a character beyond what’s necessary, it can affect your mental state. Knowing when to stop is essential.

Has your medical background helped you in acting?
Definitely. Everything we learn in life eventually helps us in some way. If I hadn’t been through my medical journey, I wouldn’t have the perspective and patience I have now. Even on set, if someone feels unwell, I can help them. It’s a great feeling to know that my skills from one profession can still be useful in another.

From saving lives in a hospital to bringing stories to life on screen, Suman Rana’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether in medicine or acting, her philosophy remains the same—live fully, embrace change, and follow your passion.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview : Suman Rana: A Doctor Turned Actress Living Her True Passion first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

A Stroke of Destiny: Landing the Role.
“Working behind the scenes connects you with countless people in the industry,” Anila muses. It was through one such connection that Shraddha Sohan Casting Company approached her for Let’s Meet. “Since I already play a TV actress in real life, slipping into this character felt effortless. My on-screen persona, too, is a television star, albeit with an intriguing twist—she’s entangled in an affair with the hero, and from there, the drama unfolds.”

The Challenge of Playing ‘Herself’.
Portraying a role that mirrors reality can sometimes be more demanding than embodying a fictional persona. “Films are more nuanced than television, where emotions are heightened and expressions are grander,” Anila explains. “But Ricky Sir gave me the liberty to explore my character fully, even encouraging me to infuse the dramatic flair reminiscent of Ekta Kapoor’s serials. The exaggerated makeup, the larger-than-life personality—it all came together beautifully. Adapting to cinema’s subtlety was an adjustment, but not an impossible one.”

Sisterhood on Set—or Lack Thereof.
Despite being part of a cast brimming with female energy, Anila reveals an interesting fact: “Not a single scene in the movie was shot together, so we never really crossed paths on set! Ironically, meeting everyone now, the camaraderie feels so real. It’s fascinating how energy aligns even without shared screen space.”

From the Backstage to the Spotlight: A Fated Journey.
Did she always dream of becoming an actress? Surprisingly, no. “Acting wasn’t even on my radar,” Anila confesses. “During my theatre days, I had firmly decided I wouldn’t pursue it. Watching actors face rejection after rejection as a creative professional only reinforced my belief that it wasn’t for me. But the universe had other plans. The pandemic changed everything, bringing me consecutive acting opportunities. Once you step in front of the camera, it becomes an addiction you can’t shake off. Even if someone offered me a stylist’s job today, I’d still choose being in front of the camera over working behind the scenes.”

A Dream Woven in Celluloid.
Making the transition from television to Bollywood is no small feat, and for Anila, it still feels surreal. “I feel incredibly blessed. Television gives you recognition, but seeing yourself on the big screen is an actor’s ultimate dream. That dream is now my reality, and it’s an indescribable feeling.”

A Stepping Stone, Not the Destination.
While Let’s Meet marks her foray into Bollywood, Anila views it as the first of many milestones. “This is definitely my dream debut, but it’s just the beginning. Every journey starts with small yet significant steps, and this film will always be special to me. That said, I’m eager to embrace bigger challenges ahead.”

Balancing Act: Television vs. Bollywood.
Does this mean she’s bidding adieu to television? “Not at all!” Anila exclaims. “I will continue to do television alongside films. Both mediums have their charm, and I see no reason to choose one over the other.”

From calling the shots behind the camera to owning her presence on screen, Anila Kharbanda’s journey is a testament to the unpredictable beauty of fate. And as she embarks on this new chapter, one thing is certain—her story is just getting started.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Interview : Anila Kharbanda: From Behind the Scenes to the Silver Screen first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.