Shieva Munjal is getting launched as the lead in Jawahar L. Jairath’s forthcoming feature film Phaans – Ek Jasoos Ki Kahani. Releasing on 5th February 2010, J. C. Film Productions’ film is directed by A. Chitransh and produced by Jawahar L Jairath. Star cast of the film includes Kanan Malhotra, Moin Khan, Jawahar, Vidya Sinha, Raza Murad, Shieva, Reshma Modi, Amita Nangia, etc. Music is by Dilip Sen.
What is your character in the film Phaans – Ek Jasoos Ki Kahani?
I am playing the character of an advocate by the name Sameera. My father Jatin dedicated his life for the benefits of our country. But in 1978, the Indian Army declares him a traitor. Unable to take such allegations, he commits suicide. To prove that my father was not a traitor, I agree to go to Pakistan as a spy, to collect some important documents that hold information about a planned terror attack as well as proof for my father’s innocence. That is Sameera’s mission. She is a strong and intelligent girl.
What is the story of Phaans – Ek Jasoos Ki Kahani?
The story is about Nuclear test at Pokharan in the year 1998. It was the year when India and Pakistan were on the verge of a war. It is also the story of an Indian spy Jawahar who risks his life to save the country from war but in the end all he gets is the loss of his son, prestige and family name. It all turns around when his granddaughter Sameera accepts the responsibility to enter Pakistan and get the secret documents on ISI planned terror activities in India. The question is whether Sameera will manage to get the documents. She wants to clear the name of her father as traitor.
How did you get this role?
Through regular audition I got this role. I was in Mumbai and was called for a screen test. After the initial audition, I was called in three or four times more to check on my dialogue delivery, etc. Three days later I was signed to play the role of Sameera.
Anything interesting during the shoot?
We were shooting at Film City in Mumbai and I was at the top of the hill. I am afraid of heights and I made the mistake of looking down. Suddenly I was falling down, but luckily, a stuntman happened to see all this. He came for my rescue. I could have broken my neck or back. It was quite a fall. Otherwise we used to play pranks and jokes on the sets. It was a big happy family.
Comment on your producer and co-star Jawahar and Vidya Sinha?
He is very very nice human being. He is playing the role of my grandfather, who is shown as a retired spy. Vidya Sinha is playing his wife and my grandmother. I used to tease them to pamper me all the time because that is what the grandparents are supposed to do. I enjoyed shooting with them.
How did you prepare for your role?
The producer, Mr Jawahar’s uncle’s friend, is in the police force. He taught me everything related to my characters. Besides that, I am an avid cinema viewer. And believe me, watching the performance of others is the best way to learn the craft.
Have you done any other work before Phaans – Ek Jasoos Ki Kahani?
No, I have not done any film. This is my first Hindi Feature film but I have done 2 Punjabi albums and 2 albums for MTV. I have also done commercial ads for Haywards 5000, Dazzler Nail polish, Hit mosquito repellent, etc., and print ads for Health Total, Wills Life Style, Pinnacle, Honda City, etc. So I do know how to face the camera.
