Actress Sonali Bendre is stepping into a new professional chapter as she takes on the role of presenter for the upcoming film 'Solha', written and directed by Saaikat Bagbaan. The film, produced by Rose Movies and CarryOn Pictures, is set for a theatrical release on 16 October.

A New Chapter for Sonali Bendre

Known for her work in films such as 'Sarfarosh' and 'Hum Saath-Saath Hain', Bendre has long been associated with meaningful cinema. Her decision to present 'Solha' marks her first foray into film presentation — a role she describes as deeply personal. She said the project resonated with her immediately upon hearing the story.

"Presenting Solha feels incredibly meaningful because it marks the beginning of a new chapter for me. I've always been drawn to stories that stay with you long after they've ended… stories that make you pause, reflect, and perhaps even see life a little differently… and that's exactly what Solha left me with," Bendre said.

Why 'Solha' Connected with Her

Bendre explained that the film's core themes of hope, resilience, and the quiet strength of ordinary people aligned with values she holds close, particularly in light of her own life experiences in recent years.

"When I first heard Solha, it instantly connected with me. At its heart, it's a story about hope, resilience and the quiet strength that lives within ordinary people. Those are values I've come to hold even closer over the years, which made this feel like the right story to begin this journey with," she added.

Her Vision as a Presenter

Bendre outlined an aspirational approach to her new role, signalling an intent to champion emotionally resonant films and introduce audiences to emerging storytellers. "As I step into this role as a presenter, I hope to champion films that move people emotionally while introducing audiences to storytellers and voices that deserve to be discovered. I couldn't have asked for a more fitting first step than Solha," she said.

Director Saaikat Bagbaan on the Collaboration

Director and writer Saaikat Bagbaan expressed that finding a collaborator who believed in the story as deeply as the team did was central to the film's journey. "Every filmmaker hopes to find collaborators who believe in the story as deeply as they do, and that's exactly what happened with Solha. From the very beginning, the vision was to tell an honest, emotionally rooted story that celebrates hope and the resilience of ordinary people. Having Rose Movies come on board and Sonali Bendre present the film gives this journey an incredible sense of encouragement," Bagbaan said.

About the Film

'Solha' is a production of Rose Movies and CarryOn Pictures, with Bagbaan serving as both writer and director. The film arrives in cinemas on 16 October and is being positioned as an emotionally grounded story aimed at connecting with mainstream audiences. All eyes will now be on whether Bendre's debut as a presenter translates into box-office momentum for the film.