A biographical film on pioneering Indian filmmaker V. Shantaram is currently in development, with the project being planned to coincide with the filmmaker’s 125th birth anniversary. The update about the film was shared by Kiran Shantaram, who said that the project is intended to revisit and document the legacy of one of the most influential figures in the history of Indian cinema. According to him, the makers are targeting a theatrical release on November 18, 2026, which marks the milestone anniversary of V. Shantaram’s birth.
V. Shantaram is widely regarded as one of the key pioneers who helped shape the early decades of Indian filmmaking. His career extended across several major transitions in the film industry, beginning in the era of silent cinema and continuing through the introduction of sound and later the adoption of colour films. Over time, he became known for experimenting with narrative form, visual style and thematic content while also addressing social issues through cinema.
The upcoming biopic is expected to chronicle different phases of Shantaram’s life, highlighting his creative journey as well as the broader environment in which his films were produced. The project aims to present both his artistic achievements and his influence on the development of Indian cinema. According to Kiran Shantaram, the film seeks to document the ideas and perspectives that guided the filmmaker’s work and shaped his approach to storytelling.
Actor Siddhant Chaturvedi has been cast to portray V. Shantaram in the biographical drama. The casting was confirmed during the project announcement, where Kiran Shantaram expressed confidence that Chaturvedi would be able to represent the filmmaker’s personality and professional journey on screen. The role involves portraying a figure who was not only a director but also a creative innovator and social commentator through cinema.
The film is expected to revisit some of Shantaram’s most well-known works, including Do Aankhen Barah Haath, Navrang and Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje. These films are frequently cited in discussions about the evolution of Indian cinema because of their distinctive storytelling techniques and their engagement with social themes. They also reflect Shantaram’s interest in combining artistic expression with narratives that address broader societal concerns.
Many of V. Shantaram’s films were notable for their visual style and technical experimentation. He explored the possibilities of colour cinematography, music, choreography and elaborate staging to create memorable cinematic experiences. His work often integrated artistic design with storytelling in ways that were considered innovative for the time. At the same time, several of his films addressed social issues, reflecting his belief that cinema could play a role in encouraging dialogue and awareness about social change.
For Siddhant Chaturvedi, portraying V. Shantaram represents a significant challenge in his acting career. The actor gained widespread recognition after appearing in Gully Boy, which helped establish him as a prominent emerging actor in Hindi cinema. Taking on the role of a historical figure like Shantaram requires careful engagement with archival material, historical context and the filmmaker’s lasting cultural impact.
The biographical project also aims to introduce the story of V. Shantaram to younger audiences who may not be familiar with his contributions to Indian cinema. At the same time, it provides an opportunity for existing admirers of his work to revisit the filmmaker’s legacy through a contemporary cinematic narrative.
The film is being developed with participation from members of the Shantaram family along with other collaborators from the film industry. Their involvement is expected to help ensure that the portrayal of the filmmaker’s life reflects both historical research and personal insights into his career and achievements.
If the project proceeds according to schedule, the film’s planned release in 2026 will align with the 125th birth anniversary of V. Shantaram. The biopic therefore aims to serve both as a cinematic interpretation of his life and as a commemorative effort marking the legacy of a filmmaker whose work influenced generations of Indian storytellers.