Film industry a very powerful carrier of messages: Swara Bhasker

Actress Swara Bhasker says the film industry is a powerful carrier of messages, specifically when it comes to raising awareness about different social issues.

The Nil Battey Sannata actress was in Gurugram to help raise awareness about autism in association with the school Autism Centre for Excellence at the launch of skincare brand Kiehl's India's new store at Ambience Mall .

She says autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder which is a "rampant phenomenon", is considered a taboo subject in India.

Swara told IANS: "The film industry is a very powerful carrier of messages. Since the industry involves people who have a vast following, the individuals become tools to communicate varied messages to their fans.

"We as an industry try to make movies which help people understand the issues at hand. I'm so honoured to be that message carrier, spreading awareness about autism and negating any inhibitions that are associated with the same. I'm so glad that a powerful beauty name like Kiehl's is bringing light to the topic so people change their perception of autism."

Akshaye Khanna once 'feared' media

Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna, known for his skilled acting, says for the longest time he had a fear of facing the media. However, he now understands its importance in the business of cinema.

Akshaye, son of late actor Vinod Khanna, maintained the image of a recluse for a long time in his career which started with "Himalaya Putra" in 1997.

Asked why, Akshaye told IANS: "I do not know why. Quite wrongly, for the longest time, I thought that the media people -- all the journalists -- are here to criticize me, to pull me down and to put me under a bad light. So, I kept avoiding... and I maintained a distance."

He has overcome it.

"I sat down and analysed the role of media to promote an art form. Now I know that you people are here as our collaborator, to promote a film, so that it can reach out to the larger audience.

"I think with time, age and experience, we understand things better. Fearing the media and press was one such wrong thing on my part. Now I am comfortable talking to journalists. Even the involvement of media in our lives has changed. Media plays an important part in the business of cinema, I have learnt it," he added.

It's always good to romance: Salman

Bollywood star Salman Khan, who will soon be seen in Tiger Zinda Hai -- as an action hero with a romantic touch -- says it's "always good to romance".

"It is not good to fight, but always good to romance," Salman said of his role in the Ali Abbaz Zafar directorial. The movie also features Katrina Kaif.

Their latest song "Dil diyan gallan", a love ballad shot in a classic Yash Chopra reminiscent songs, has been loved by fans.

Salman said the fate of Tiger Zinda Hai -- a sequel to the 2012 released Ek Tha Tiger -- will be known soon.

"It is coming out on December 22. Two songs have been released, and they are really good.

"Everyone has really appreciated the songs. And now on December 22, we will find out the destiny of the film," Salman said on the sidelines of the Star Screen Awards here on Sunday.

Salman has not been in good health, and lack of rest is not helping him at all.

"The environment is not suiting me these days. I am suffering from viral, which refuses to leave me because I am not getting any break.

"I was at a Summit recently, then I graced IFFI, and I have to host 'Bigg Boss' on the weekends. And on top of that, the 'Tiger Zinda Hai' dubbing is going on. So, I am not getting any rest."