Latest news with #RaakheeGulzar
Mint
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Sharmila Tagore, Raakhee draw Bengali viewers in with family films, defying local trends
West Bengal's theatrical business has received a boost lately after going back to doing what it does best: family films. This is while films in most other languages have put up a mixed box office show over the past few months, ranging from inconsistent (Tamil, Telugu) to disastrous (Hindi). Even though cinemas in the state were dominated by Bollywood over the past few years, the recent success of films featuring yesteryear stars such as Sharmila Tagore (Puratawn), Raakhee Gulzar (Aamar Boss) and Moushumi Chatterjee (Aarii) have helped the local industry reclaim some of its past glory. These movies emerged as hits when barely anything was working in theatres across languages, thanks to their appeal among family audiences. Aamar Boss grossed ₹4.15 crore in worldwide box office collections, while Puratawn and Aarii clocked in ₹1.52 crore and ₹33 lakh, respectively. While the figures aren't comparable to Hindi, Tamil or Telugu movies, they reflect significant demand for regional language cinema that is often limited to a single market. Also Read | The rise of small-town stories on OTT: Grassroots-themed shows are proving to be cost-effective, culturally rich 'There has been a trend of unconventional films resonating with Bengali audiences, often featuring veteran actors in fresh narratives such as Aamar Boss, which marked Raakhee Gulzar's return to a leading role in mainstream Bengali cinema," said Ashish Saksena, chief operating officer – cinemas, BookMyShow. 'Production houses have been instrumental in bringing culturally rooted stories to the forefront. Projects such as Bohurupi, Raktabeej and Haami have managed to successfully blend traditional themes with contemporary appeal, finding both critical and commercial appreciation." The Bengali box office is currently in a reflective phase, offering an opportunity for strategic recalibration, Saksena added. An area of improvement that could aid growth could be in optimising release schedules to avoid clustering major films around festive periods that only ends up competing for audience attention. With better planning and release strategies, films can be better positioned to shine individually and reach their full potential. Sure-shot bet Filmmaker Srijit Mukherji, known for hits such as Killbill Society and Shotyi Bole Shotyi Kichhu Nei, both released this year, agreed that one sure-shot, safe bet to box office success in Bengali cinema in the past 10 years is the family drama. 'Several filmmakers have shifted genres to ensure that the elderly come to theatres, in which case, multiple tickets are bought for the entire family. Economically, films starring elderly protagonists make sense," Mukherji added. Also Read | Regional content gains ground on OTTs even as Hindi dominates Experts pointed out the Bengali industry has long grappled with the dominance of Hindi films that continue to be hugely popular in the state. While a big Bollywood star vehicle can make ₹35-40 crore in box office collections, regional language films only clock up to ₹10-15 crore. That said, when the narrative is crafted to match the gravitas of senior actors, the cinematic experience not only evokes nostalgia but also speaks powerfully to contemporary audiences, resulting in impressive earnings. 'Bengali cinema has always had an emotional core and films that tap into that sentiment continue to thrive," said Ahana Kanjilal Dutta, group head, strategic communications, SVF (Shree Ventakesh Films) & hoichoi. 'Veteran actors bring a legacy and a familiarity that deeply resonates, especially with senior audiences who have cherished them for decades. There's a sense of cultural continuity and emotional relatability that these artists bring to the screen. When coupled with strong storytelling, their presence elevates the cinematic experience and generates a powerful pull at the box office." SVF has backed hits like Killbill Society and Shotyi Bole Shotyi Kichhu Nei this year. Also Read | Regional cinema's box office struggle: Why Marathi, Bengali, Punjabi films are losing out
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Raakhee Gulzar says working with Amitabh Bachchan in 'Ek Rishtaa' was a lot of fun: 'We speak only Bengali when we meet'
Raakhee Gulzar fondly remembers her time filming 'Ek Rishtaa,' highlighting her enduring friendship with Amitabh Bachchan, which began with 'Reshma Aur Shera.' She recalls their youthful camaraderie and Bachchan's playful nature. Gulzar also admits to being addicted to 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' during filming and praises Akshay Kumar's early discipline and success. Marking 24 years of Ek Rishtaa : The Bond of Love , veteran actress Raakhee Gulzar fondly recalled her experience working on the iconic film in an exclusive interview with ETimes. She also reminisced her enduring camaraderie with Amitabh Bachchan . She further shared behind-the-scenes stories from the set and reflects on her journey in cinema and future plans. Excerpts... What do you remember of Ek Rishtaa? I think it was one of the last Hindi films I did. I don't know how I was persuaded. What was it like working with Amitabh Bachchan? by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 37 Candid Photos of Kate Middleton Plays Star Undo We have done some of our most successful films together. Our relationship started with Sunil Dutt Saab's Reshma Aur Shera. We both had supporting roles. Amit was completely besotted by Waheeedaji. We all were. We had quite a lot of fun doing this film. We were young, spirited, impulsive, and adventurous. We had nothing to lose. Amit was a lot of fun, bahot masti karte the. Ek Rishtaa came a good thirty years after Reshma Aur Shera. Was he a changed person? Not for me. He was still the same. Do you know we speak only in Bengali when we meet? He insists on it. I am told you insisted on the installation of a television set on the set of Ek Rishtaa so you would not miss any episodes of Kaun Banega Crorepati ? (Laughs) Suneel Darshan must have told you. I plead guilty. I was completely addicted to KBC and wouldn't miss a single episode. When KBC was on, I wouldn't shoot. You mean the entire cast and crew would wait? No, they did other scenes until KBC finished playing. Akshay Kumar , who played your son in Ek Rishtaa, had played the same role earlier? Yes, in fact, he played my son in his first film Saugandh . He was always very disciplined and hardworking. I am happy to see him doing such good work. Why don't we see you more often on screen? I recently did a Bengali film Aamar Boss. That was a good experience. I am happy the film is doing well. If I am offered something as interesting, I would readily agree.
Time of India
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Aamar Boss' trailer starring Raakhee Gulzar tells heartwarming story of mother and son
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) The trailer of the upcoming Bengali film 'Aamar Boss' has been unveiled, and it promises a heartwarming yet thought-provoking cinematic journey. The film marks veteran actress Raakhee Gulzar's return to the silver screen after 22 years. The film has been directed by Nandita Roy and Shiboprosad Mukherjee, and also stars the latter. The trailer presents a story of Shubhra Goswami (played by Raakhee Gulzar) and her son Animesh Goswami (played by Shiboprosad Mukherjee). It gives a glimpse of two stark sides of Animesh. At home, he is the devoted son who is gentle, caring, and attentive to his aging mother. He lovingly feeds her, dines with her, and shares precious moments that reflect a deep familial bond. But at the workplace, a different Animesh emerges who is a hard-nosed, demanding boss who doesn't shy away from reprimanding employees or making tough decisions, even at the cost of their jobs. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Senior Living 1 & 2 BHK Homes from ₹ 73.99 Lakh* TVS Emerald Serene Springs Book Now Undo Everything takes a dramatic turn when Shubhra Goswami decides to step into her son's office world. Her unexpected presence not only challenges the toxic dynamics of the corporate environment but also brings about an emotional and societal transformation. Raakhee Gulzar said, "Some stories do more than just entertain - they leave a lasting impression. Aamar Boss is one of those rare stories: sincere, heartfelt, and profoundly touching". For Nandita Roy, working with Raakhee was an incredible experience. She called the veteran actress a thorough professional on set, as she was focused, graceful, and completely immersed in her role. Nandita said, "Watching her bring Shubhra Goswami to life was truly moving. 'Aamar Boss' is a story for everyone, across ages and backgrounds. It speaks to the heart, explores the complexities of relationships, and challenges the way we view age, work, and care. We've made this film with a lot of love, and we hope it connects deeply with audiences". Shiboprosad Mukherjee said, "'Aamar Boss' is more than just a film, it's a conversation about the balance we struggle to maintain between our personal and professional lives. Working with Raakhee di has been an absolute honour. Her presence on set, her energy, and the depth she brings to the character of Shubhra Goswami made every scene magical". 'Aamar Boss' delves into generational gaps, familial bonds, and the humanity often lost in the corporate grind. The film is poised to be one of the most talked-about releases of the year.
