The makers of the upcoming biographical drama ‘V. Shantaram’ have released the first look of Siddhant Chaturvedi, who plays the legendary Indian film director.
The announcement poster features Chaturvedi in the title role of V. Shantaram, an author long hailed as a visionary of Indian cinema. The film chronicles Shantaram’s remarkable journey from the silent era to the emergence of sound and color and shows his evolution as one of India’s most influential filmmakers.
Born Shantaram Rajaram Vankudru in 1901, V. Shantaram was a pioneer in Indian cinema, a career that spanned nearly seven decades. He founded two major film studios, the Prabhat Film Company in 1929 and the Rajamal Karamandir in 1942, and directed the first Marathi talkie film, Ayodhyecha Raja, in 1932. His films include classics like Duniya Na Mane (1937), Doo Aanhen Barahas (1957) and Janak Janak Payal. Baaje’ (1955) and ‘Navrang’ (1959) were praised for their technological innovations and progressive social themes that addressed issues such as community harmony, dowry, and prisoner rehabilitation. Known for his lavish sets, unique song visualizations, and his signature style of visual symbolism, he used film as a vehicle for social change throughout his career. In 1985, he won the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.
Written and directed by Abhijeet Shirish Deshpande, the project is presented by Rajkamal Entertainment, Camera Take Films and Roaring Rivers Productions. Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kher and Sarita Ashwin Varde are the producers.
“Playing V. Shantaram Ji is one of the greatest honors of my life,” Chaturvedi said. “The more I read about his journey, the more humble I felt. He was not only a pioneer in Indian and world cinema, but a visionary who kept moving forward no matter the obstacles. Stepping into his world was my most transformative experience as an actor. His life deeply touched me and reminded me of the power of perseverance, a lesson I will keep in mind in my work and in every moment of my life.”
Director Deshpande said, “V. Shantaram has been a huge source of inspiration for me as a filmmaker. His courage to experiment and his vision have shaped much of the cinema we know today. It is an honor to tell his story. We hope to do justice to the man behind the legend. In this first poster, we share a glimpse of that journey. Siddhant Chaturvedi steps into the role we believed he was meant to play.”
Producer Kale further added, “V. Shantaram ji’s legacy is one of the strongest pillars of Indian cinema. His vision, his struggles and innovations continue to inspire all of us working in this industry. With this film, we follow his journey in the most honest way possible. I am honored to have Siddhant Chaturvedi stand in his shoes as we unveil our first poster today.His integrity and dedication make him the right face to carry forward Shantaram Ji’s work.” heritage. ”
Producer Varde said, “V. Shantaram is not only one of the greatest architects of Indian cinema, but also a central figure in Indian cinema. But his extraordinary vision and contributions are often unappreciated. With this film, we I hope to highlight his achievements. Siddhant Chaturvedi was my first and only choice for the role. His passion and sincerity made him the natural choice to play Shantaram Ji on screen.”
