“I have portrayed enormous characters, but Makhan Singh in ‘Atithi Bhooto Bhava’ was something different,” says actor Jackie Shroff of his latest Bollywood release.
“Portraying a ghost was very exciting and thought it would be captivating for the audience to see me in this role as well. There are many instances and scenes that the audience will connect with. It’s a beautiful romantic movie! I am hoping that the audience enjoys it as much as we enjoyed making it,” he said.
A ZEE5 Global exclusive film, ‘Atithi Bhooto Bhava’ is a story of Srikant Shirodkar [Pratik Gandhi], a witty stand-up comedian who takes his relationships for granted including one with his beautiful, live-in girlfriend Netra Bannerjee [played by Sharmin Segal].
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Things take a turn when a Ghost named Makhan Singh, played by Shroff, enters their lives and asks Srikant to fulfil a promise made by him. Confused Srikant then realises that he was reborn as Makhan Singh – Darji (Grandfather) in 1975. The movie explores the journey of two love stories in different time zones and narrates how Makhan Singh helps and guides Srikant in his relationship with Netra.
Pratik Gandhi notes: “‘Atithi Bhooto Bhava’ is an entertaining film and full of emotions. I was inclined towards the script because it had a different narrative.
“In times when there are thrillers and murder mysteries, ‘Atithi Bhooto Bhava’ is a light-hearted romantic musical film which will connect with the audiences and make them believe in love again.”
Sharmin Segal, the other lead in the film, added: “I strongly believe that love should be expressed when felt and that’s one of the main messages of this film. My character Netra craves attention and affection from Srikant which he is unable to give her until he realises the value of love.
“The movie showcases a beautiful journey of two love stories and Jackie sir’s character helps our characters understand how rare it is to find love and how important it is to appreciate it. Love is a very complex emotion. There are multiple interpretations of love that exist. I wanted to understand whether, ‘True Love really exists’ and that’s why I couldn’t refuse this script.”
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Presented by Dr Jayantilal Gada of PEN Studios, the film also has Divinaa Thackur, Simran Sharmaand and Prabhjyot Singh in prominent roles as well. It is directed by Hardik Gajjar and has been streaming on ZEE5 Global since September 23.
Gajjar explains: “‘Atithi Bhooto Bhava’ is really close to my heart, but at the same time it's also an important film. In the times when there are countless platforms to express your views, we are finding it difficult to express our feelings.
“That feeling of true love is so pure, but sometimes why do we undermine the importance of expressing it? This film focuses on the same thing and also highlights that the power of love can transcend beyond life and death.”