Take Two

Neeru Bajwa turns producer, and signs singer-actors Diljit Dosanjh and Gurdas Maan for her first film.

It was supposed to be a tea party. So requested the invitation by Punjabi actor Neeru Bajwa, "to join her along with singer-actors Diljit Dosanjh and legendary singer Gurdas Maan" at JW Marriott on Thursday. One reached the venue, thinking of steaming cups of masala chai and conversations. But instead of tea, it was time to brew some questions. A beaming

Bajwa, looking every bit the "Punjaban" in an Anarkali dress, sat between the reigning men of Punjabi film industry — the quiet and humble Maan in a pair of jeans and a casual jacket, and the turbanator Dosanjh, looking very Bond-esque in a tuxedo and a scarlet tie.

However, the "woman of the moment" turned out to be Bajwa herself, who has now officially opened the doors of her much-awaited production house. Called Fresh Air Movies (we really wish the name could was a bit closer to Punjabi), the production house has been Bajwa's dream for more than two years now. "Work, funds, challenges of being a working actor in the industry and timing — everything had to be sorted out beforehand," she said. The production house is trying to bring in a fresh wave of stories, ideas and talent to the Punjabi cinema. Although she didn't speak it out loud, Bajwa diplomatically pointed out the lacunae in the Punjabi film industry. "We lack professionalism, quality subjects, a passion for filmmaking and most importantly, respect for women in the industry," she said.

She admitted that she has been one of the lucky few to have had superhits such as Jatt & Juliet and good work coming her way. "I had to work hard to reach here and fight my own battles and discriminations," she said.

... contd.

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