Mumbai, December 2 (NationPress) Actor Siddhant Chaturvedi has astonished his followers with his remarkable transformation into the iconic filmmaker V. Shantaram. He is set to portray the leading role in a biopic dedicated to the legendary director.

On December 2, Siddhant shared several images of his portrayal of V. Shantaram on his social media platform. His striking resemblance to the revered filmmaker has elevated expectations among fans for both the film and his performance. In a sincere message, Siddhant expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support received for the film's poster, stating that the timing to narrate this tale of rebellion and the splendor of Indian cinema is impeccable. He described the experience as beyond words.

The actor emphasized that this project feels like a dream come true, saying, “From a boy who quietly dreamt in frames to now standing in the presence of a legend… AnnaSaheb – V. Shantaram. Every artist yearns for that unique narrative that challenges their authenticity, spirit, and passion. This is my moment.” He concluded with a Marathi phrase, 'हो आता करूया' (Yes, let's begin)… Picture Start! Recently, the creators of the biopic, “V. Shantaram”, revealed the first glimpse of Siddhant as the esteemed filmmaker.

The photo shared online showcases Siddhant in an eye-catching period costume, complete with traditional Indian garb and a Nehru cap, confidently positioned next to a classic film camera. The background features a magnificent eagle soaring against a cloudy sky, enhancing the cinematic ambiance.

The caption read, “The Rebel Who Redefined Indian Cinema Is Back Where He Belongs—On the Big Screen.” This historical biopic aims to depict the life and artistic brilliance of one of India’s most innovative storytellers, chronicling his extraordinary journey from the silent film era to the introduction of sound and color, establishing himself as a pivotal figure in Indian cinema. Siddhant shared that the more he delved into V. Shantaram's life, the more humbled he became.

He stated, “He was not only a forerunner of Indian and global cinema, but also a visionary who continually advanced despite adversities. Immersing myself in his world has been an incredibly transformative journey as an actor. His story profoundly moved me and illustrated the strength of resilience, a lesson I intend to cherish in my craft and throughout my life.”

The film's director, Abhijeet Shirish Deshpande, remarked, “V. Shantaram has been an immense source of motivation for me as a filmmaker. His bravery to innovate and his vision significantly shaped the cinema we recognize today. It is a privilege to tell his story, and I hope we honor the man behind the legend.

With our first poster, we are offering a glimpse into that journey, with Siddhant Chaturvedi stepping into a role we have always believed he was destined to play.” For those unfamiliar, V. Shantaram was born as Shantaram Rajaram Vankudre in 1901 in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.

His illustrious career spanned nearly seventy years, during which he established two prominent film studios: Prabhat Film Company in 1929 and Rajkamal Kalamandir in 1942. He directed the first 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).

He was awarded India’s highest film honor, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, in 1985.

The film is being both written and directed by Abhijeet Shirish Deshpande, and is produced by Rajkamal Entertainment, Camera Take Films, and Roaring Rivers Productions. The producers include Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kale, and Sarita Ashwin Varde.

–IANS