How did Ranee Productions come about?
It was a rather strange coincidence. You see, I wanted to keep busy and needed something substantial to do. I have always been interested in fashion and music, so I started off by promoting fashion shows.
I hosted high-profile shows like Manish Malhotra and Ritu Beri, but eventually it became monotonous and not challenging enough. I then decided to go a step further and bring music to Kenya. My first show was Adnan Sami, followed by Sean Paul, which was such a success. That is when I realised this was my calling and I stuck to it!
How do you handle difficult celebs?
I have never worked with any difficult ones. Most celebs are professional and know what they want. If you ensure that their shows are successful, then everything will run smoothly.
How do you balance work and family?
I divide my time, get my priorities right and manage my time well. Everything just falls into place.
What can we expect from you soon?
I have two shows lined up. There is Davido on March 28 at Carnivore and Mika Singh and Kanika Kapoor on April 18. Yes, Nairobi will be seeing lots of entertainment from us this year. As our tag lines goes, ‘Entertainment beyond imagination.’ It’s overwhelming to receive great support from our audiences and corporates and that encourages us to keep on placing Kenya on the world map of entertainment.
A local celebrity you enjoy working with?
Recently, I worked with Churchill. What a wonderful man! So humble and down-to-earth.
If you were not doing, what line of business would you have pursued?
I would have been a lawyer like my daughter. We truly inspire one another and motivate each other in everything we do. Whatever field or profession you pick, you must have the passion and zeal for it.
One change you would like to see in the entertainment scene?
Working together and growing Kenya’s creative industries. We need support from the government and local artistes too. We have a long way to go, but I believe if we continue supporting one another, we can take this industry to a new level.
What is Rani’s fashion mantra?
Simplicity and confidence.
Three must-have items in your purse?
Money, money and more money!
Pet peeve?
People wasting time.
You would never get caught dead wearing...
My flat shoes. I need to be seen.
What’s your comfort food?
Crisps, since you can find it in any corner of the world.
A skincare routine you cannot do without?
Washing my face every night followed by Nuoxygen night cream before sleeping.
