Disha Jha Hopes Sankalp Will Challenge Aashram’s Success Disha Jha, founder of Pen Papers Scissors Entertainment, expressed her desire for her upcoming project Sankalp to compete with the popular web series Aashram in an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle. The interview delved into her career journey, her father Prakash Jha’s influence, and her perspective on the evolving film industry. Jha began her career as a costume assistant on the film Rajneet, where she gained hands-on experience in set management and continuity. Over time, she expanded her role, working as an assistant director, art department coordinator, and eventually stepping into production for Chakravyuh. She described the modern production process as a blend of creativity and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of involvement in every stage—from script development to post-production. The interview highlighted the shift in the film industry, particularly with the rise of corporate studios in web series production. Jha noted that platforms like Jio Studios often engage early in the creative process, providing guidance and support. This approach, she explained, streamlines production and fosters long-term relationships. Sankalp, her first web show, benefited from this collaboration, with Jio Studios involved from the outset. When asked about the differences between producing for OTT platforms and theatrical films, Jha acknowledged the similarity in content creation but stressed the distinct audience engagement. While theatrical releases offer the thrill of a cinema experience, OTT platforms provide a more accessible format. She also mentioned the standardized procedures imposed by studios, such as brand guidelines and legal restrictions, which prioritize compliance without stifling creativity.#jio_studios #nana_patekar #disha_jha #pen_papers_scissors_entertainment #aashram
‘Sankalp’ series review: Nana Patekar anchors Prakash Jha’s game of thrones Prakash Jha returns to his Raajneeti universe with Sankalp, a flawed yet engaging series that explores mentorship and manipulation through a lens of moral ambiguity. The show, anchored by Nana Patekar, delves into the complexities of power dynamics and loyalty, though its narrative structure and visual approach face criticism for being overly bloated and repetitive. The series follows IPS officer Aditya Verma, played by Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, as he navigates a political rivalry with Delhi’s Chief Minister, Prashant Singh, and his strategist, Waqar. Tensions escalate as Verma questions his mentor’s manipulative methods, revealing a tense battle over control, revenge, and ideological clashes. Jha’s portrayal of power corridors and the relationship between kingmakers and rebellious disciples feels clichéd in the series format, despite its intellectual ambitions. Patekar’s character, Ma’at Saab, is a quiet strategist with layers of menace and authority, reminiscent of Jayaprakash Narayan’s role in mentoring political leaders. The series reimagines political succession in a democracy where bureaucrats and technocrats hold significant influence. However, Jha’s protagonist avoids grand ambitions, focusing instead on changing the Delhi State government—a low-stakes goal for a ten-episode series featuring powerhouse performances. The narrative struggles with repetitive scenes and unresolved character arcs, with twists that feel inconsistent. While the show avoids glossy escapism, its dialogue ranges from sharp to insipid, and its exploration of power, loyalty, and manipulation remains uneven. Female characters add layers of vulnerability and consequence but often function as enablers rather than autonomous forces.#nana_patekar #prakash_jha #waqar #mohammed_zeeshan_ayyub #prashant_singh
‘Sankalp’ Series Review: The Grassroots Allure of Prakash Jha’s Storytelling The 10-episode political drama stars Nana Patekar as a Patna-based kingmaker entangled in a complex web of power and loyalty. Set against the backdrop of a fictionalized India, the series explores themes of mentorship, ambition, and the murky dynamics of political influence. Directed by Prakash Jha, the show blends traditional storytelling with modern narrative techniques, offering a sprawling yet deeply rooted exploration of grassroots politics and systemic control. The story centers on Ma’at Saab, a revered figure who runs an educational institution called Gurukul, where he scours impoverished families for gifted children to mold into future leaders. Over three decades, he cultivates a network of loyal followers, including the ambitious IPS officer Aditya Verma, whose moral ambiguity and loyalty to his mentor become central to the plot. The series unfolds as a series of interconnected subplots, each revealing the intricate relationships and power struggles within this tightly knit group. Jha’s direction leans into the grandeur of his earlier works, such as Raajneeti, with a focus on political machinations and the personal costs of ambition. The narrative is populated with a cast of characters, each representing different facets of power and ideology. From the Delhi Chief Minister, who grapples with the chaos of governance, to the cunning party leader Waqar, the series balances political intrigue with human drama. The inclusion of a counterfeit-currency scam, a vlogger’s struggle against censorship, and a student-politics angle further diversifies the storyline, though some critics argue the plot becomes overwhelming in its complexity.#nana_patekar #prakash_jha #gurukul #delhi_chief_minister #waqar
Kranti Prakash Jha Shares Nervousness While Working With Nana Patekar On Sankalp Actor Kranti Prakash Jha, known for his performances in films and web series, is preparing for the release of his new political thriller Sankalp. Directed by Prakash Jha, the series features veteran actor Nana Patekar in a significant role. Jha recently reflected on his experience working with Patekar, admitting he felt nervous initially but found support from the senior actor. Jha described his nervousness as a mix of excitement and apprehension, comparing the opportunity to work with Patekar to a dream come true. However, he noted that Patekar's approach helped him gain confidence. "He explained things very well, almost like a teacher," Jha said, highlighting the mentorship he received. The actor emphasized that the guidance from both Patekar and director Prakash Jha was crucial in shaping his performance. He credited their experience and understanding of the craft for elevating the scenes he was part of. "My best came out because of Prakash sir, and the scene I did with Nana sir turned out well because of him," he added. Jha also revealed that working with Prakash Jha had been a long-standing dream. He recalled a conversation with his father years ago, where his father advised him to meet the director from Bihar. "It has been around 10 to 12 years since then, and now that dream has finally come true," he said. In addition to Sankalp, Jha has appeared in projects like Raktanchal, Batla House, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, and Samrat Prithviraj. The series is set to premiere on March 11.#nana_patekar #kranti_prakash_jha #prakash_jha #sankalp #raktanchal
Uday and Majnu bhai to return! Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar roped in for Welcome 4 Fans of the iconic comedy duo Uday Shetty and Majnu bhai are in for a treat as Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar have reportedly agreed to reprise their roles in the upcoming installment of the Welcome franchise, titled Welcome 4. The duo will reunite with Paresh Rawal, who will once again portray Dr Ghungroo, completing the return of the original trio. This reunion marks a significant moment for the franchise, as it brings back the characters that defined the series’ humor and charm. Suniel Shetty, who is part of the cast of Welcome to the Jungle, expressed his excitement for the return of the original actors, calling it a revival of the franchise’s core spirit. The news of the trio’s return has generated immense anticipation among fans, who have long awaited the possibility of seeing the characters reunited. While Kapoor and Patekar will not appear in Welcome to the Jungle, which is set to release in June, their involvement in Welcome 4 signals a continuation of the franchise’s legacy. Paresh Rawal, who has been a staple of the series since its inception, took to social media to acknowledge the news, sharing a celebratory message with a folded-hands emoji. His positive reaction has further fueled excitement among followers, many of whom have been eagerly awaiting the return of the original cast. Suniel Shetty, who has worked with both Kapoor and Patekar in the past, highlighted the unique comedic energy that the trio brings to the franchise. He described their performances as irreplaceable, noting that their distinct styles have become synonymous with the Welcome universe. Shetty’s comments underscore the significance of their return, as the franchise continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.#anil_kapoor #paresh_rawal #nana_patekar #welcome_4 #suniel_shetty
Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar are set to reunite as their iconic characters Uday Shetty and Majnu Bhai in the upcoming installment of the Welcome franchise, Welcome 4. The announcement comes as the production team begins work on the fourth film, following the success of the first three entries in the series. The original 2007 film Welcome, directed by Anees Bazmee, remains a beloved comedy known for its memorable scenes and humor, with its legacy continuing through the sequel, Welcome 2, and the recently released Welcome to the Jungle. According to a report by Mid-Day, the creators of Welcome 4 have already started working on the project three months ahead of the release of Welcome to the Jungle. The film will feature the return of Uday Shetty, Majnu Bhai, and Dr. Ghungroo from the original cast. A source close to the production revealed that the script for Welcome 4 is in advanced stages, with Firoz and his writing team crafting a story that integrates the three characters organically into the plot. The source emphasized that the narrative will be entirely new, distinct from the previous films. Paresh Rawal, who played the character of Dr. Ghungroo in the original film, confirmed the news on his social media platform, writing, "JAI HO 🙏" in celebration. While the OG Welcome cast is set to return, details about the inclusion of Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif remain uncertain, with the production team keeping the cast of Welcome 4 under wraps. The film will also introduce new characters, including multiple lovable "don" figures known for their comedic timing and antics rather than their underworld activities. Top actors are in talks for these roles, and the project is positioned as part of a broader family universe that blends humor, glamour, and action.#anil_kapoor #paresh_rawal #nana_patekar #welcome_4 #anees_bazmee
‘Welcome 4’: Paresh Rawal, Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar to reunite as scripting begins The ‘Welcome’ franchise is preparing for its fourth installment, with Paresh Rawal, Anil Kapoor, and Nana Patekar set to reunite as their iconic characters Uday Shetty, Majnu Bhai, and Dr Ghungroo. Scripting for the film is in advanced stages, and the story will feature new, comedic antagonists while maintaining the franchise’s signature humor. The third film in the series, ‘Welcome to the Jungle,’ is scheduled for a June 26 theatrical release, marking the end of its final song shoot. Producer Firoz A. Nadiadwallah is bringing back the trio for their roles in ‘Welcome 4,’ though the narrative will differ significantly from previous entries. The film aims to integrate the characters organically into a fresh storyline, avoiding direct rehashes of past plots. Rawal will also appear in ‘Welcome to the Jungle,’ but he will portray a different character than Dr Ghungroo. The project is designed to balance nostalgia with innovation, offering audiences a new chapter in the franchise’s comedic universe. The ‘Welcome’ series has historically featured memorable antagonists, including the late Feroz Khan and Naseeruddin Shah. For ‘Welcome 4,’ the filmmakers are introducing multiple new villains who will focus on comedic antics rather than traditional underworld themes. These characters are expected to be lovable and humorous, fitting the franchise’s tone. Top actors are currently in discussions for these roles, which will expand the series’ genre appeal to include humor, glamour, and action. The franchise’s success has solidified its place in Bollywood’s comedy landscape, with fans eagerly anticipating the next installment.#anil_kapoor #paresh_rawal #nana_patekar #welcome_4 #firoz_a_nadiadwallah
