After weeks of speculation, it is confirmed now that Katrina Kaif has signed on to headline filmmaker Sriram Raghavan’s next directorial venture, tentatively titled Merry Christmas. The film will also feature Tamil star Vijay Sethupathi in a significant role.
The project was reportedly set to get off the ground in April, but with the leading lady Katrina Kaif contracting the novel coronavirus recently, many thought there would be some change in the plan of action. However, it seems everything is on track.
Producer Ramesh Taurani tells an online publication, “Our film was anyway supposed to start by April-end. Once Katrina gets better then we will decide on the shoot date. We will be filming in Mumbai, and were supposed to start with the readings. But it will now happen when Katrina gets better. We are hoping we should be able to start with the prep by April 21.”
Sriram Raghavan last directed Andhadhun (2018), which won actor Ayushmann Khurrana his first National Film Award. We hear that just like Andhadhun, Merry Christmas is also inspired by a short story and that it is a project that the director has been wanting to make for a long time now.
Meanwhile, Katrina Kaif has several other exciting projects in her pocket as well. While the actress has wrapped up Excel Entertainment’s horror-comedy Phone Bhoot with Siddhant Chaturvedi and Ishaan Khatter, she will soon join superstar Salman Khan on the sets of Yash Raj Films’ much-awaited film Tiger 3, which is currently being shot in Mumbai.
Kaif will also reunite with filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar for their female superhero film. Zafar is making it for the leading streaming media giant Netflix.
R Madhavan shares his experience portraying a father’s role for the first time alongside Ajay Devgn.
Actor addresses rumours about de-ageing technology, confirming he relied on diet and fitness instead.
Madhavan reflects on sequels and preparation for previous physically demanding roles like Saala Khadoos.
Nervous about a father’s role
At the trailer launch of De De Pyaar De 2, R Madhavan admitted he was initially nervous about playing Ajay Devgn’s on-screen father-in-law.
“I have never done a father’s role before, and competing with Ajay, I was very nervous,” Madhavan said. “I have seen other actors who are so busy when they come to the set, but Ajay sir is always present and dedicated. We have always felt connected.”
The actor also commented on the appeal of sequels. Devgn, who stars alongside Madhavan, stated, “I don’t mind sequels as long as there is a good script. I hope the film is liked by audiences. We all believe we have made a good film.”
Madhavan addressed recent rumours about de-ageing technology in his films, stating, “They’ve all been accusing me of de-ageing, but I don’t think I have the budget for that. It hasn’t happened.”
Instead, the actor relies on traditional methods of preparation, including fitness and diet adjustments, to meet the physical demands of roles.
Reflections on past roles
Madhavan reflected on the preparation for his earlier role in Saala Khadoos, a physically demanding sports drama. “When I went to train for Saala Khadoos, I consulted numerous dieticians and several people who advised me on how to lose weight and get fit, what diet to follow, what time to eat, and so on, but I couldn’t find anyone I truly resonated with,” he said.
The actor’s candid reflections reveal a focus on dedication and personal preparation rather than technological shortcuts, highlighting his commitment to authentic performances.
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