Mumbai, Dec 1 (NationPress) The creators of the highly anticipated biopic titled “V. Shantaram” have revealed the first look of Bollywood star Siddhant Chaturvedi portraying the iconic Indian filmmaker.

Siddhant, in collaboration with the production house Camera Take Films, took to Instagram to showcase this striking look. The image features Siddhant in a captivating period costume, clad in traditional Indian garb complete with a Nehru cap, confidently positioned next to a vintage film camera. The background is adorned with a majestic eagle spreading its wings against a dramatic cloudy sky, enhancing the grand cinematic atmosphere.

The caption read: “The Rebel Who Redefined Indian Cinema Is Back Where He Belongs — On the Big Screen.”

This historical biopic highlights the vibrant life and cinematic brilliance of one of India’s most innovative storytellers. The film chronicles his remarkable journey from the silent film era to the emergence of sound and color, establishing him as a pivotal figure in Indian cinematic history.

“Taking on the role of V. Shantaram-ji is one of the greatest honors of my life,” Siddhant expressed in a statement.

The actor further mentioned that the more he delved into V. Shantaram’s story, the more humbled he became.

“He was not only a pioneer of Indian and global cinema, but also a visionary who relentlessly pursued his dreams despite facing numerous challenges. Immersing myself in his world has been my most transformative experience as an actor.”

“His life profoundly moved me and serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance. It’s a lesson I hope to carry with me in my work and throughout my life,” Siddhant added.

Director Abhijeet Shirish Despande remarked: “V. Shantaram has been a significant source of inspiration for me as a filmmaker. His courage to innovate and his vision shaped much of the cinema we cherish today. Telling his story is a privilege, and I hope we do justice to the man behind the legend. With this first poster, we are offering a glimpse of that journey, with Siddhant Chaturvedi stepping into a role we always believed he was destined to play.”

Brought into the world as Shantaram Rajaram Vankudre in 1901, V. Shantaram was a formidable presence in Indian cinema whose career spanned nearly seven decades.

He established two major film studios: Prabhat Film Company in 1929 and Rajkamal Kalamandir in 1942, and directed the first-ever Marathi-language talkie, “Ayodhyecha Raja,” in 1932.

His notable works include “Duniya Na Mane” (1937), “Do Aankhen Barah Haath” (1957), “Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje” (1955), and “Navrang” (1959).

These films were celebrated for their technical advancements and progressive social themes, addressing significant issues like communal harmony, dowry, and rehabilitation of prisoners. In 1985, he was honored with India’s highest film award, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Producer Subhas Kale stated: “V. Shantaram ji’s legacy is one of the strongest pillars of Indian cinema. His vision, struggles, and innovations continue to inspire everyone in our industry. With this film, we aim to honor his journey sincerely. As we unveil the first poster today, we are proud to have Siddhant Chaturvedi embody his legacy. His dedication and authenticity make him the perfect choice to carry forward Shantaram ji’s legacy.”

“V. Shantaram is not only one of the greatest architects of Indian cinema; he is its heartbeat. Yet, his remarkable vision and contributions have often gone unrecognized. With this film, we hope to bring his legacy into the limelight. Siddhant Chaturvedi was our first and only choice for this role. His passion and dedication made him the natural selection for portraying Shantaram ji on screen,” added producer Sarita Ashwin Varde.

Written and directed by Abhijeet Shirish Despande, this project is brought to life by Rajkamal Entertainment, Camera Take Films, and Roaring Rivers Productions. Producers include Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kale, and Sarita Ashwin Varde.