Creators of the upcoming biographical drama”V. Shantaram» presented the first image Siddhant Chaturvedi like a legendary Indian director.
The promotional poster features Chaturvedi in the lead role of V. Shantaram, the author long known as the visionary of Indian cinema. The film chronicles Shantaram's remarkable journey from the silent era to the advent of sound and color, demonstrating his evolution as one of India's most influential directors.
V. Shantaram, born Shantaram Rajaram Vankudre in 1901, was an innovator of Indian cinema whose career spanned nearly seven decades. He founded two major film studios—Prabhat Film Company in 1929 and Rajkamal Kalamandir in 1942—and directed the first Marathi sound film, Ayodhyecha Raja, in 1932. His films including classics like Duniya Na Mane (1937), Do Aankhen Barah Haath (1957), Jhanak Jhanak Payal. Baaje (1955) and Navrang (1959) became famous for their technical innovations and progressive social themes, touching on issues such as communal harmony, dowry and rehabilitation of prisoners. Known for his signature style of lavish sets, unique song images and visual symbolism, he has used film as a tool for social change throughout his career. In 1985, he received India's highest cinematic award, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
Written and directed by Abhijeet Shirish Deshpande, the project is presented by Rajkamal Entertainment, Camera Take Films and Roaring Rivers Productions. Produced by Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kale and Sarita Ashwin Varde.
“Portraying V. Shantaram ji is one of the greatest honors of my life,” Chaturvedi said. “The more I read about his journey, the more humbled I felt. He was not just a pioneer of Indian and world cinema, he was a visionary who continued to move forward despite obstacles. Entering his world was the most transformative experience for me as an actor. His life touched me deeply and reminded me of the power of perseverance. This is a lesson I hope to learn both in my work and in every moment of my life.”
Director Deshpande said, “V. Shantaram has been a huge inspiration to me as a director. His courage to experiment and his vision have largely shaped the cinema we know today. It is an honor to tell his story and I hope we do justice to the man behind the legend. With this first poster, we share a glimpse of this journey where Siddhant Chaturvedi steps into the role we always believed he was meant to play.”
Producer Kale added, “V. Shantaram ji's legacy is one of the strongest pillars of Indian cinema. His vision, his struggle and his innovation continue to inspire all of us who work in this industry. With this film, we hope to honor his journey in the most sincere way. By unveiling the first poster today, we are proud to have Siddhant Chaturvedi step into his shoes. His sincerity and determination make him the right person to take Shantaram ji forward. heritage.”
Producer Varde added, “V. Shantaram is not just one of the greatest architects of Indian cinema, he is its heartbeat. However, his extraordinary vision and contributions often go unappreciated. With this film, we hope to bring awareness to his legacy. Siddhant Chaturvedi was our first and only choice for this role. His passion and sincerity made him a natural choice to portray Shantaram ji on screen.”
