Gemboree at Karjat!
by: Sandipan Dalal
- mumbaimirror.com
Here is taking a first look at Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa-Akbar. Although we can barely see Hrithik's and Aishwarya's faces, they surely look like the perfect royal couple with Hrithik wearing a shining armour with intricate designs and Ash wearing real jewellery.
The story goes that fashion designer and stylist Neeta Lulla determined the design for Hrithik's metal armour after a month-long research. The actor is also sporting a headgear with precious stones (not seen in the picture).
Aishwarya is sporting heavy saris replete with zardozi work and other embroidery. Sources close to the actress tell us that she was literally weighed down by all the jewellery that she wore while shooting.
For the sake of authenticity, Ashutosh Gowariker has used pure gold and diamond jewellery in the film. When quizzed about it, Neeta Lulla says, “Yes I have designed Hrithik's armour and Aishwarya's saris. But I cannot talk about it till Ashutosh gives me permission to do so.”
Apart from Hrithik and Aishwarya, members of the royal family (mostly played by junior artistes) are also wearing expensive jewellery in the film.
A source from the sets says, “All cast members wear real gold, rubies and diamonds. Also, swords and a rakhi that Ash ties on her brother are studded with real precious stones like rubies, emeralds and sapphires. A popular jewellery brand has provided all the jewellery. In keeping with the Mughal times, they are very heavy.”
The sets of Jodhaa-Akbar in ND Studios, Karjat houses a protected cell where all jewellery and other precious accessories have been safely stored. The room has special security measures too.
A unit member from the studios says, “The security measures have been beefed up ever since Ashutosh has been shooting for his film here. No one is allowed to go to the jewellery room except for the lead actors.”
After a day’s shoot, an assistant director ensures that the jewellery has been safely kept back in the cases. Also, the actors have to go through various checkpoints and other frisking procedures before they step out of the sets.
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