Shankar Mahadevan attended workshops for his acting debut

Playback singer and music composer Shankar Mahadevan is kicked about making his acting debut in the Marathi film Katyar Kalijat Ghusali. The musician, who didn���t hesitate in greenlighting this project, says, ���This film is a legendary musical play and it���s almost 70-years-old. It���s an Indian Broadway of sorts, where the actors also sing their own lines. Pandit Jeetendra Abhisheki���s original scores are classical masterpieces.
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Actor Subodh Bhave, who also directed this film, approached us (Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy) to compose its score. That���s when he asked me if I could play one of the central characters ��� Panditji ��� in the film. Since I was singing Panditji���s lines, I decided to give acting a shot.���
The film is being made on a grand canvas by its producers, Essel Vision. ���The play was restricted to one stage. But we���ve shot the film in many locations. I���d say this one will be a collector���s item,��� says Shankar.
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Within two years of its inception, the production house has made a name for itself in the Marathi industry, with films like Duniyadaari, Timepass and Lai Bhaari being recognised for its content and presentation. It also brought the Golden Lotus back home with its Elizabeth Ekadashi winning the National Award four years after Natarang.
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About his stint in front of the camera, Shankar says, ���Understanding the language of the lens was a challenge. I had to also understand the character���s graph and temperament. Panditji���s character is similar to what I am in real life; so, it was easier for me to relate to it. Subodh briefed me well in advance and made me feel comfortable on the set. I also attended workshops. Actors like Sachin Pilgaonkar, Subodh and Sakshi Tanwar, and the crew made me feel welcome.���
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LISTEN: Songs of Shankar Mahadevan on Gaana.com
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