The star cast of Stree 2 graced the stage of Celebrating Cinema 2024

Celebrating Cinema 2024 officially started with legendary filmmaker Subhash Ghai inaugurating this year's film festival on Wednesday. Accompanying him were Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee from Stree 2, along with producer-director Amar Kaushik, Milind, and writer Niren Bhatt.

At the event's beginning, Subhash Ghai expressed his joy at having the opportunity to spend time with some of the most talented individuals in the country. He referred to Abhishek as an emerging star. Following this, a media round began, allowing journalists to pose questions.

• Aparshakti and Abhishek, you just interacted with the students. How was your experience?

Aparshakti-  My journey has been wonderful. It's great that Celebrating Cinema is happening under Subhash Ghai's mentorship. He inspired us to start watching cinema and taught us to dream. Two of my favorite films by him are Ram Lakhan and Taal.

Abhishek- Today has been fantastic for me. I’m sitting here with Sir. Once you become an actor, fame becomes a topic of discussion, but meeting your childhood hero, conversing with him, and hearing his praise is a greater form of fame. It’s significant for us to represent the film industry. If our words and actions inspire the students, that’s a huge achievement for us. Student life is a time for exploration and learning, and I’m very happy to be a part of this.
Anil Kaushik- We all feel elated. It feels amazing to receive praise from someone whose work is celebrated worldwide. There was a time when people would proudly say they were going to watch a Subhash Ghai film. When we get an invitation from him, it feels incredible. When I interact with students, I want their energy to fuel my future projects. This is just the beginning, and I hope to keep making films that bring me back here repeatedly to hear praise.
Subhash Ghai responded, expressing happiness that people from all walks of life have come to watch Stree 2. He emphasized that the film caters to all age groups and has been very successful, promising continued success due to its entertainment value.

• How does it feel to receive praise live on stage?

Subhash Ghai- When I receive such compliments, I feel immense joy. It often feels like it’s my first time being praised. However, when I praise someone else, it feels different. Every compliment I receive feels fresh, and those who praise me seem incredibly wise!

• Regarding your journey from the popular TV show Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashma to Stree 2, what can you share?

Niren Bhatt-  I started in theater, then regional cinema, followed by television, and now films. My journey has been fulfilling. I was at Celebrating Cinema after Bala, and I always feel happy to be here. Years ago, as a struggling writer, I never had the opportunity to interact with successful filmmakers. If my presence here inspires even a few people, it means a lot to me. This event gathers all those interested in cinema, whether struggling writers in their 40s or aspiring directors.

• Many films are being re-released these days. Should Taal also be re-released?

Subhash Ghai- Yes, we are re-releasing Taal in theaters starting September 27, as there has been demand for it.
Following this, the artists present shared their experiences related to Taal. Anil Kaushik recounted his experiences in Chamba. Subhash Ghai discussed the challenges of making sequels, noting that while creating new films is difficult, taking an old film's essence and adapting it to a new world is an even greater creative task.

• When a movie achieves great success, how do you handle the pressure?

Anil Kaushik- Yes, there is definitely pressure. I can’t deny that. When a film is a hit, everyone praises you, but it's essential to focus on your next project. It has been nearly a month since the success of Stree 2, and I want to concentrate on my upcoming work without letting the success get to my head.

• Do you want to explore genres beyond horror films?

Anil Kaushik- Absolutely! I want to explore many genres beyond horror. There’s still plenty of scope for making horror films, but we often mix humor in our narratives. I believe audiences are incredibly perceptive; they know exactly what works and what doesn’t.
Celebrating Cinema is a remarkable platform where cinema enthusiasts learn from esteemed filmmakers, directors, and actors. It's not just about acquiring knowledge about cinema; it’s about hearing the experiences and stories of those who have made their mark in this field.

By Priyanka Yadav

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