Anushka
Sharma : Aditya Chopra will always be there for me
When Anushka Sharma green-lighted
Nikhil Advani’s Patiala House opposite Akshay Kumar, the trade thought
she had flown the coop. It was assumed that she was no longer controlled
by Aditya Chopra, her mentor.But reliable trade sources say that Adi still
takes an active interest in his protégée’s career.
Both Tarika Singh, who
looks after Anushka’s media relations and endorsement work, and John, who
looks after her film interests, have been appointed by Yash Raj. Both these
managers are reportedly expected to get the approval of Yash Raj (preferably
Adi’s) before they say yes to any film.
Anushka has clearly maintained
that she is eternally grateful to Adi for launching her in Rab Ne Bana
Di Jodi. While she has categorically stated that she is too professional
to give away the script of an outside banner to Adi before she approves
of it, Anushka is happy that her godfather continues to take an active
interest in her career. She has said, “I know if I ever want any career
advice, Adi sir will always be there for me.”
Grapevine now has it that
after her second assignment for Yash Raj, directed by Parmeet Sethi, the
Rab Ne … girl will be contractually left with one more film for the banner
that introduced her to Bollywood. However, she is free to sign any outside
film, like in the case of Patiala House, but the project must be approved
by Yash Raj.
This is the first time
in Bollywood history that a parent company is taking such a keen interest
in its ward. There have been past instances of producers who have introduced
stars asking for a commission from their discoveries. However, there has
not been any instance of a director personally appointing staff for his
protegee. And, making sure she makes the right career moves.