Jas Bhatia turns producer with Punjabi flick ‘Shareek’

Tribune News service

Amritsar, October 22

Believing that being a Punjabi in the film industry has its own advantages, actor Jas Bhatia gradually made a space for himself in Bollywood, with a series of big budget productions on his side. He says most successful actors in Bollywood today are either Khans or Punjabis.

The young actor has managed to gain some experience while working with big names like Pankaj KApoor, Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra and others. He was last seen sharing screen space with Farhaan Akhtar in “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” and with Ranveer Singh and Parineeti Chopra in “Kill Dil”.

Jas is all set to enter his home industry, Pollywood, with the same advantage. “Being a turbaned actor worked very well for me in Bollywood. So, I am hoping that the Punjabi film industry will definitely be a welcome change,” says Bhatia.

But before that he has turned a producer with upcoming Punjabi film “Shareek”. Starring Jimmy Shergil and Mahi Gill, the film is one of the most anticipated Punjabi films of 2015. He says, “I started my own production named Silver Sparrow Films based in Delhi. “Shareek” is our first production. This is a film about family disputes and personal affection. After a long time, a film with a serious subject will be screened in theatres. It has some really great storyline and actors.” With high hopes from the film, of which his father Gurpal Bhatia is an associate producer along with Ohri productions, Jas says he is open to good cinema, whether Hindi or Punjabi.

He says, “Today an actor only searches for a good role rather than screen time. If you are good in a three minute role, you’ll be noticed. Industry dynamics have changed now.” His first Punjabi film with Ohri Productions will again be a multi starrer with him in the lead role. “I cannot reveal much now as it is still in planning stages, but it will be exciting,” adds Jas.

As for his production dreams, that one has been checked off the list, he says, “I always wanted to make a film that reflects on my understanding of quality cinema. “Shareek” is all that. It is another step towards beginning of a parallel quality cinema in Punjabi film industry.” “Shareek” was released worldwide on Thursday.