When Barun Sobti met Sourav Ganguly

Barun Sobti was in Kolkata on the auspicious days of Ashtami and Navami during Durga Puja to shoot for his next Bolly flick, Mitali Ghoshal's 22 Yards.

In a particular shot in Barisha Players' Corner pandal, a puja presided over by cricketer Sourav Ganguly in his para, Barun's character of cricket agent Ron Sen was upposed to shoot for a Puja sequence. "It's like a homecoming of Ron, who is generally engrossed in work. It's a moment of soul searching for him as he comes back to his roots. He was reminiscing about his childhood," said Barun, dressed in a yellow kurta with baggy blue pants and red chappals, complimented by a full blown beard.

Dada, as Sourav is fondly called in Kolkata, met Barun for the first time during Sandhi Puja and made sure he was comfortable. "This is the first time I am seeing Durga Puja for real. It is overwhelming," he said. In a break between the shoot, he also donned a dhoti kurta and posed as the ideal Bangali Babu for The Times of India.

The crew later shifted to Mamata Banerjee's para Puja — Kalighat Milan Samiti — where they shot a montage sequence, with Barun donning a black kurta for the role. "It was a very good experience shooting in the two pandals. A lot of fans of Barun were waiting to catch a glimpse of him, but they were very well-behaved. We were welcomed warm heartedly. Though we shot between spells of rain, the organizers were very cooperative," said director Mitali Ghoshal, who is in Mumbai at present to record a song with Salim-Sulaiman. She added that they went pandal hopping to Ballygunge Cultural and nearby places, before heading for a long drive and coffee, so Barun could soak in the flavour of Puja in Kolkata.

The next schedule of the film will be shot in the last week of October and early November in Kolkata. "It will be a long schedule. Hopefully some of the songs will be shot in that schedule," said producer Partho Rudra.

Well, Barun will also be seen playing an instrument traditionally played during Durga Puja. To know what's that, keep following this space.

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-16/news-interviews/43105238_1_barun-sobti-ron-sen-durga-puja

Barun Sobti dons a dhoti kurta

Can a zamindar also be a youth heartthrob? It was a question worth asking as Barun Sobti dressed up in a regal blue dhoti kurta, designed by Pranay Baidya, exclusively for CT on Navami.

Barun, who took time out from the shooting schedule of Mitali Ghoshal's 22 Yards, looked at home at the Barisha Players' Corner pandal (this is Sourav Ganguly's para puja), where the crew had pitched their cameras. He spoke to us about his first Durga Puja in Kolkata — and chatting with Dada. Excerpts:

How's your first Durga Puja in Kolkata?

Achchha lag raha hai yaar. It's raining and the weather is nice. This is my first time and it's overwhelming. We went pandal-hopping yesterday to Ballygunge Cultural and other places.

What did Sourav tell you when he met you at his para puja?

This is the first time I met him. We first met during Ashtami's Sandhi Puja. Whenever he comes out, the activity level goes up and the dhakis start playing loudly, so we couldn't talk much. But he is a very nice person. He asked me a couple of times if this was the first time I was seeing Durga Puja and when I said yes, he seemed pretty proud of his own culture.

You are playing a cricket agent in 22 Yards. And now, your favourite cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has announced his retirement. Your feelings?

The time when we would switch off the TV after Tendulkar got out has gone... but it's his career and his choice. Obviously, he is a very wise man. I will miss watching him bat.

Tell us about this particular scene which you are shooting in the pandals.

We are shooting a Durga Puja sequence. It's like a homecoming of my character of Ron Sen, who is generally engrossed in work. It's a moment of soul searching for him as he comes back to his roots.

You have danced to Yaar bina chain kahan re for Main Aur Mr Riight. Tell us about the experience. Is it comparable to the original?

I don't know about comparisons. I was told it was supposed to be fun and cute, and it turned out to be fun. It was very hard work for me, because I was working days and nights.

How are you liking the dhoti? When did you wear one last?

I think I have worn one before, but not in recent memory. But I feel more like a Punjabi in it, than a Bengali!

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-16/news-interviews/43106023_1_durga-puja-barun-sobti-ron-sen

Won't get Rs100 crore film right now: Barun Sobti

After winning over millions of hearts through his TV show Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon (IPKKND), Barun Sobti is now switching gears. With his debut film Main Aur Mr Riight (MAMR) ready to release, this unassuming actor talks about his strengths and weaknesses. He also throws light on the acceptance of TV actors in the film industry.

What challenges did you face while shooting for your debut film?

The only challenge was to keep awake as at that time I was simultaneously shooting for my show IPKKND and the film. The decision of working on both mediums at one point got bad. The transition from TV to films wasn’t overwhelming since an actor’s ultimate job is to act. I think people take acting way too seriously. In MAMR, I play a wannabe model who worships Salman Khan. It was funny as I look nothing like him and I had to imitate him.

The prerequisite for an actor is good looks, acting and dancing abilities. But you are a self-confessed bad dancer... 

The criterion of dancing was true in the 1990s. Today, dancing is not an important element in films being made in India or the ones I want to be a part of. Personally, I know I'm not a good dancer. I’m not keen on doing films that require me to dance much anyway.

What kind of films are you looking at? 

I know I won’t be offered Rs100 crore films right now or a song with 500 dancers. I’ve heard intriguing projects. People approach you for the work they have seen you do. I don’t think people see me as a lover boy dancing around, so I haven’t received a role of that kind. I'm going to do roles that appeal to me.

What’s your take on the surge of TV actors into films?

I think people are coming-of-age now. Maybe the differentiation between film and TV stars is fading away. While you can be trained and groomed to be a better actor, seasoning happens only to TV actors. TV actors shoot every day and that makes a difference to the project. They are hard-working but that’s not taking anything away from the film actors.

Do you see yourself doing TV again in the future?

Maybe. I left IPKKND as shooting a daily was consuming. Now I've been approached by producers for weeklies, so let’s see.

MAMR was ready to release for the longest time. The long wait must have been frustrating.

Filmmaking is a lengthy process. We were being ambitious to think we would be able to release early this year, but now we are coming soon. Post-production and other elements take time. These processes are not in our control.

Quick Five

A question you have been asked numerous times?

People still ask me about IPKKND a lot. I owe a lot to the show, so I don't have any problems talking about it.

Any unbelievable scene that you have done?

I had to cry in a scene in IPKKND which I thought would be tough but it turned out well.

A show you like on TV currently?

Big Boss is doing great. People go mad when it's on air.

An actor you feel is popular?

Karan Singh Grover is very good and popular too.

A habit that you want to give up?

I am pretty happy with myself. I am not saying I am flawless but I am content with the way I am.

http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Television/Won-t-get-Rs100-crore-film-right-now-Barun-Sobti/Article1-1134886.aspx

Style and the Man - Telegraph

He is not much of a “looks-looks” person and doesn’t fuss over his style. Barun Sobti looked smoking hot at the t2 shoot with Suzanna Mukherjee, his co-star in 22 Yards (directed by Mitali Ghoshal for MS Productions). The TV heart-throb talks style with t2...

So you are not a fashion person?

I won’t make an effort to find out what’s in fashion and what’s not. I just pick up stuff that I like and wear it.

How would you describe your personal style?

Denims and shirts. Very basic.

What are you most comfortable in?

I don’t care about comfort too much. I can wear anything and be comfortable as long as it is not too tight. Nothing worries me. I can wear anything you will make me wear!

According to you, what are the five essentials in a man’s wardrobe?

Pyjamas, first of all, I think. Then good denims, good shirts, good suits... and I like hats. Good suits are essential because to dress up for occasions, you need to look good.

What kind of hats do you like?

I like any kind of headgear, actually. I also like caps and bandanas. I think people with bad hair like headgear! (Laughs) It’s difficult for me to manage my hair. I cannot make my hair look good if I have a bad hair day. I am very famous for losing things. So I buy a lot of hats, but I don’t know how many I have in my wardrobe right now! I must be having 70 bandanas, hats and caps in all. Bandanas and knit bands dominate my wardrobe these days.

Where do you shop for hats and bandanas?

All kinds of places, but I found these knit bands only in Lokhandwala.

Do you have a fashion fetish?

I have phases yaar, I would say. Right now, it’s the don’t-really-care phase. (Laughs) I have phases when I like to indulge. Then I like to buy accessories like shoes particularly, and also sunglasses a lot.

What are the colours you like?

I like dark colours. Black and blue are absolute favourites. Most of my wardrobe is in black and blue.

Do you experiment?

In real life, even putting on clothes and heading out is a trouble because I am that lazy! Sometimes, I do put in an effort. (Smiles)

Do you think it is frustrating for TV stars to stick to one look for continuity’s sake?

I wouldn’t say it is frustrating because someone who doesn’t care won’t be frustrated. Someone who cares a lot about looking great all the time would. I do not. I remember I had gone to the UK for a show. We were doing a meet-and-greet session. A kid asked me, ‘Why do you always wear a black suit? [Referring to his character Arnav Singh Raizada in Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?] That’s when I realised that there weren’t too many colours that I was doing on the show! My answer was, ‘No, that’s not true! I have two — one grey and one black!’

Durga Puja is here. What’s festive dressing for you?

As a kid, I remember it used to be traditional. We would have a small puja and then we would all go out, burn crackers and trouble people! Now, I prefer western, like a suit. I like dhotis though.

Any plans of trying a dhoti?

There is a project that I am looking at right now which is a period film. If I do that, then I’ll be wearing a lot of dhoti.

Finally, any plans to go pandal-hopping since you will be in Calcutta during the Pujas, shooting for 22 Yards?

I have seen Durga Puja in films, but Mitali told me that I might not have seen the authentic ones. I am going to see it this time!

What does Barun Sobti look best in? Tell t2@abp.in

STYLIST JESSICA GOMES SURANA DECODES THE LOOKS

BARUN

1. Since he is confident of his body, I gave him a plunging neckline, which he carried off well and was happy to wear. Keeping in mind the season, the fabric was a little thicker… very light-knit. He has a very nice body!

2. Barun has a boyish look, but he is very hot and sexy. I gave him Raghavendra Rathore pants that are super-stylish and in fashion. He’s got loads of attitude to carry off those trousers, which were modified Jodhpurs.

3. We also played a lot with his hair. We gave him a wacky look.

4. The footwear was super comfortable. It was semi-formal… brown leather ankle chappals from Inc. 5... very smart and it kind of toned down the whole look.

top tip: Anybody can pull off this look, but my only advice is that if you don’t have the confidence (and your chest is not done!), do not go for it. If you are conscious of the neckline, try a boatneck or a kurta with a nice neck. And keep the occasion in mind.

SUZANNA

1. She’s in a flowing gown by Ditiya Roy. Suzanna’s pretty and petite. I felt she needs to look the person she is. To keep it girlie, I gave her florals. The colours are nice and sober with a hint of coral. She’s got a lovely body and a soft, nice attitude, but an attitude for sure to carry off that willpower dress.

2. For her lips, the idea was to keep it pop. The eyes are soft, natural brown. Her hair has bouncy natural curls.

Top tip: If you have bigger shoulders, try a shrug.

http://www.telegraphindia.com/1131010/jsp/t2/story_17443856.jsp#.UmT82nAy2So

Barun Sobti to shoot in Kolkata during Durga Puja

He will be shooting in a Durga Puja pandal presided over by Sourav Ganguly.

Heartthrob of millions, Barun Sobti, will be shooting in a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata on Nabami, October 13 for his Bollywood film 22 Yards. And it is not just any puja pandal, but the one presided over by Kolkata's own dada, Sourav Ganguly, in Behala. The recce for the shoot is already over. "It is a very special scene. Audience will be surprised by it," said a source from the sets. Barun, who will be arriving in the city on October 12, will shoot for a scene that will only feature him and nobody else. He plays a Bengali, Ron Sen, in the film. Barun and director Mitali Ghosh remained unavailable for comment. We do hope he enjoys his first Durga Puja in Kolkata!

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-10/news-interviews/42899844_1_barun-sobti-durga-puja-pandal

MAMR Updates from Cast and Crew!

So now we know Barun Sobti will be dancing to Yaar Bina Bappa Da's classic, excitement for MAMR is building... At least to say if you were not excited then you are now! So today we got to speak to Adeeb and Neha Gosain.

On the issue of promotions and release date Adeeb said to us that 'Thanks a lot, we shall surely keep you posted on our plans! Also certain fans have misrepresented my tweet. I mentioned 'private screening' around the 20th of this month - NOT the release. would just wish to clarify. Thanks a mil!'

Adeeb also went on today that a December release are 'rumours!' Additionally we have learnt that the release date has not been finalized yet.

Cast member Neha Gosain whom we also chatted to, spoke to us about the first look.

'I am already excited. I heard that they were to release the first look on Diwali but if they are doing it earlier even better' says Neha who plays the character of Niyati in the film.

We promise to bring you more news about MAMR as soon as we can!

Keep smiling Sobtians.

-Admins

Bappi Da's 'Yaar bina chain kahan' revived for 'Main Aur Mr Riight'

Mumbai: Music composer Bappi Lahiri's hit 'Yaar bina chain kahan' picturised on Anil Kapoor and Amrita Singh in the film 'Saaheb' is being recreated in upcoming film 'Main Aur Mr Riight'. 

The film produced by Pooja Gujral and directed by Adeeb Rais is a romantic comedy that will mark the debut of popular television actor Barun Sobti of 'Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon' fame and former VJ Shenaz Treasurywala. 

The song has been picturised at Ballard Pier where the original song was shot.

"It was not easy to re create the whole song as the place has changed a lot after so many years. Even the costumes and the dance moves are replicated of that original song," Gujral said. 

Just like the original, the new version has also been sung by Bappi Lahiri. However since S Janaki, who sang the original was not available, Hema Sardesai has been roped in to sing alongwith with Bappi da. 

"We chose this song because it fits in the story and suits our characters perfectly," Gujral added.

Read more at http://ibnlive.in.com/news/bappi-das-yaar-bina-chain-kahan-revived-for-main-aur-mr-riight/426944-45-75.html