Line producer Shaukat Shaikh entered the field of acting a few years back, only to learn that his first love was hospitality as well as being in the line of production. Shaukat owns multiple properties in Lonavala, Pune, India and often gives these out to dignitaries.
“We own hotels, resorts, and villas in Lonavala. Over the years, we’ve sold some of these beautiful properties to different people, including celebrities and those in line production. Building relationships with them, treating them like family, and hosting them in our villas during vacations has created strong bonds based on trust and mutual respect,” he says.
Shaukat, who was born in Lonavala and brought up in Mumbai, says that he initially wanted to become an actor. “After completing my acting course at the Kishore Namit Kapoor institute in 2005-2006, I established connections with directors and producers. Based in Lonavala, people often approached me for assistance, asking if I knew anything about the industry,” he says. He adds, “While helping them, I transitioned to becoming a line producer, a role that wasn’t widely recognised at the time. Witnessing the challenges actors faced during shoots made me realise acting wasn’t my calling. The intense atmosphere on sets and the chaotic coordination appealed to me, leading me to find being a line producer more entertaining and adventurous. It involves connecting and coordinating with actors, producers, directors, and various production houses, making it a fun experience for me..”
Talking about how he got into real estate, he says, “People would often approach me, asking for help in acquiring houses due to various issues like legal disputes or getting stuck with problematic properties. Initially, I started assisting a few individuals, and soon, others like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Anees Bazmee, Abbas Mastan, and many more sought my help in finding suitable plots, lands, or villas. Despite not intending to enter the real estate business, I found myself involved, leveraging my family’s extensive land holdings in the process. I operate on trust, ensuring a direct transaction without involving third parties, fraud, agents, or commissions. Those who have purchased properties through me, including actors, are content, and I’m pleased to contribute in this way by helping them with real estate matters.”
Ask him what he would like to say about the future of the hospitality industry after the pandemic, he says, “Lonavala has become highly sought after, especially after Covid. With the Atal Setu road already in place and another one coming up in the next six months, along with the upcoming airport near Panvel, Lonavala is easily accessible from Mumbai. After the pandemic, many individuals with financial means are looking for second homes with spacious lawns and gardens here, preferring the tranquility and fresh air over city life. Lonavala’s demand has surged, and it has become a prominent destination for those seeking a retreat. The area thrives on tourism, with hotels and resorts catering to business and leisure travelers. Celebrities, once aware of its appeal, invest in Lonavala properties, contributing positively to the region’s future. This growth not only benefits Lonavala’s economy but also provides employment opportunities for locals. Investing in Lonavala, as well as nearby places like Kandala and Karjat, is considered a wise choice due to the pure nature and clean air, providing a refreshing contrast to the pollution in Mumbai, ranked sixth in terms of air quality issues,” he says.
