Tag: Sant Tukaram

  • Sheena Chohan: The Train Debut to Sant Tukaram Lead

    Sheena Chohan: The Train Debut to Sant Tukaram Lead

    In an industry overflowing with glamour, few stars shine with both artistry and authenticity. Sheena Chohan, the versatile actress and human rights advocate, has carved a cinematic journey built not on lineage but on talent, hard work, and purpose. Her evolution from regional cinema to the national stage mirrors her unwavering belief in substance over spotlight.

    The Roots of a Performer

    Born in Chandigarh and raised in Calcutta, Sheena grew up in a home that valued education, curiosity, and creativity. Her mother, an educator, nurtured her love for learning, while Sheena’s imagination drew her toward performance.

    Her artistic foundation was laid through five years of theatre training under acclaimed director Arvind Gaur, where she mastered the discipline of truthful performance. Alongside acting, she trained in contemporary dance and earned a brown belt in martial arts, balancing strength and grace — qualities that became her trademark.

    “Theatre taught me truth in performance — to feel before acting,” Sheena often says.

    From Mammootty to the Global Stage

    Sheena made her cinematic debut opposite superstar Mammootty in the Malayalam film The Train, directed by National Award-winner Jayaraj. Rather than chase mainstream fame, she ventured into independent cinema, taking bold creative risks.

    Her collaborations with Buddhadeb Dasgupta, one of Bengal’s greatest auteurs, and her lead role in Ant Story (directed by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki) earned her Best Actress nominations at both the Dubai and Shanghai International Film Festivals. The film’s later acquisition by Netflix took her artistry to a global audience.

    The Middle Struggle and Rise

    Without a Godfather or industry backing, Sheena’s journey demanded resilience. But her discipline and self-belief kept her grounded.

    “Discipline is my anchor,” she has said — a motto that carried her through challenging years.

    Her breakthrough came in the OTT space, where she delivered compelling performances in acclaimed web series like The Fame Game (Netflix) opposite Madhuri Dixit, and The Trial (Disney+ Hotstar) alongside Kajol, playing Jasmin Lobo — a character remembered for its quiet strength and emotional depth.

    Sant Tukaram and a Pan-India Breakthrough

    Sheena’s Bollywood debut in Sant Tukaram marked a defining chapter. Portraying Avali Jijabai, the saint-poet’s devoted wife, she brought emotional nuance and spiritual authenticity to the role. Her preparation involved reading Marathi texts and studying classical depictions of Avali, reflecting her commitment to depth and realism.

    Now, with projects spanning Hindi, Bengali, Malayalam, and Telugu, Sheena is poised for a pan-India breakthrough, earning admiration for her conviction, craft, and cultural versatility.

    Beyond the Screen: A Voice for Human Rights

    Off-screen, Sheena Chohan shines as a South Asia Ambassador for United for Human Rights, reaching millions through her advocacy for justice and equality. Her efforts were recognised globally when she received the Human Rights Hero Award at the United Nations in New York — cementing her status as not just an artist, but a humanitarian.

    A Star with Purpose

    Sheena Chohan’s story is one of self-belief, substance, and soul. In an era of fleeting fame, she stands out as a reminder that authentic talent and purpose-driven artistry endure far beyond trends.
    As she rises toward pan-India stardom, Sheena continues to embody what true cinema and humanity stand for — grace, grit, and growth.

  • Tuka Mhane Kahe Kabira – A Musical Dialogue of Two Paths of Bhaktimarg: Saguna and Nirguna

    Tuka Mhane Kahe Kabira – A Musical Dialogue of Two Paths of Bhaktimarg: Saguna and Nirguna

    Mumbai, September 2025: Pancham Nishad proudly presents “Tuka Mhane Kahe Kabira”, a unique evening of devotional and spiritual music that celebrates the timeless philosophies of Sant Tukaram and Sant Kabir. The concert will be held on Thursday, 25th September 2025, 6:30 pm onwards at Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi, Mumbai.

    Saint Kabir and Saint Tukaram, though separated by regions, languages, and traditions, remain united in spirit—one rooted in devotion to Lord Vithoba (Saguna Bhakti), the other immersed in the formless divine (Nirguna Bhakti). Tukaram’s Abhangas capture the beauty of Vithoba and the philosophy of everyday life, while Kabir’s verses confront life’s truths with disarming simplicity. Despite humble professions—Tukaram as a trader and Kabir as a weaver—both transcended worldly duties to embrace a higher calling, finding the divine in daily life, whether in trade or in weaving.

    In this programme, acclaimed vocalist Jayateerth Mevundi will bring alive the soulful Abhangwani of Sant Tukaram, while Bhuvanesh Komkali will render the profound Kabirwani, weaving together two timeless voices in one powerful musical dialogue.

    Adding depth and context, Dr. Dhanashree Lele will guide the audience as the content narrator, presenting insights into the philosophies of these two paths, as represented by the saints in Marathi and Hindi, respectively. The evening will be enriched with an ensemble of accomplished co-artistes: Mandar Puranik (Tabla), Dnyaneshwar Sonawane (Harmonium), Sukhad Munde (Pakhwaj), Ninad Mulaokar (Flute), and Suryakant Surve (Additional Rhythms).

    Speaking about the programme, Jayateerth Mevundi said: “Sant Tukaram’s Abhangas are not just devotional verses; they are reflections of life itself. Every line carries the rhythm of the common man’s struggles and surrender to Vithoba. Singing them is like conversing with the divine.”

    Bhuvanesh Komkali added, “Kabir’s poetry compels us to face the truth. His words are sharp, fearless, and liberating. To present Kabirwani on such a platform is both a responsibility and a joy.”

    Shashi Vyas, Founder-Director of Pancham Nishad, shared: “Kabir and Tukaram may differ in language, geography, and bhakti traditions, but their core message is one—the eternal search for truth. Through ‘Tuka Mhane Kahe Kabira’, we aim to weave their voices into a single musical dialogue, interspersed with studious narration by Dr. Dhanashree Lele, resonating with today’s audience.”

    Event Details:

    Title: Tuka Mhane Kahe Kabira

    Date & Time: Thursday, 25 September 2025, 6:30 pm onwards

    Venue: Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi, Mumbai

    Tickets: Available on www.bookmyshow.com (with a limited number of seats reserved)