Siddhant Chaturvedi Embarks on Epic Journey as Legendary V. Shantaram in Grand Biopic

Get ready for a deep dive into Bollywood history! Siddhant Chaturvedi is stepping into the formidable shoes of cinematic pioneer V. Shantaram for an ambitious new biopic that promises to bring a forgotten legend back into the spotlight.

TL;DR

• Siddhant Chaturvedi will portray iconic filmmaker V. Shantaram in the upcoming biopic Chitrapati V Shantaram.
• The film, produced by Shantaram's son Kiran, aims to highlight the director's immense contributions to Indian cinema, including being the first to cast women and experiment with color films.
• Currently in pre-production, the project also features Fardeen Khan in a key, undisclosed role and is expected to begin filming soon.

Imagine a time when women rarely appeared on Indian screens, when selling film music rights was an unexplored frontier, and color cinema was just a distant, experimental dream. One man, V. Shantaram, challenged all these norms, shaping an industry that we now know as Bollywood. And now, his incredible story is finally headed to the big screen, with actor Siddhant Chaturvedi taking on the monumental task of bringing this visionary to life.

Sources confirm that Chaturvedi, who first captivated audiences in 2019's Gully Boy and recently impressed in Dhadak 2 (2025), has signed on for what's being described as his "biggest film to date and also his most ambitious one." The biopic, aptly titled Chitrapati V Shantaram, is currently buzzing in its pre-production phase, with Siddhant reportedly working hard to embody the legendary filmmaker.

Bringing a Cinematic Legend's Groundbreaking Story to Modern Audiences

So, who exactly was V. Shantaram, or Annasaheb, as he was affectionately known? He was a true titan of Indian cinema: a director, actor, producer, and writer whose career spanned over seven decades. Born in abject poverty in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Shantaram's journey was anything but ordinary. He famously learned the ropes of filmmaking under the tutelage of Baburao Painter in Pune, a humble beginning that would eventually lead to an unforgettable mark on the Hindi film industry. Source: [Bollywood Hungama, "MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Siddhant Chaturvedi to step into the shoes of iconic filmmaker V Shantaram", 12.11.2025].

The upcoming film aims to introduce this trailblazer to a new generation, showcasing how he redefined Indian cinema. "V Shantaram's contribution to the Indian film industry is immense, and with this film, the younger generation will learn about it," a source close to the production told Bollywood Hungama. This isn't just a historical account; it's a deep dive into the mind of a man who dared to be different.

One of Shantaram's most significant contributions was his pioneering spirit. He was, remarkably, the first Indian filmmaker to cast women prominently in his films. This was a radical move in an era where female roles were often played by men, shattering societal barriers and opening new avenues for women in the industry. Beyond that, he was also the first to sell film music rights, recognizing the commercial potential of a film’s soundtrack, and even the first director to experiment with color films. Source: [Zoom TV Digital, "Who is V Shantaram? Everything You Need to Know About the Filmmaker Set to Be Depicted by Siddhant Chaturvedi in the Forthcoming Biopic", Nov 12, 2025]. These were not just creative choices but strategic business and cultural innovations that shaped the future of cinema.

“V Shantaram's contribution to the Indian film industry is immense, and with this film, the younger generation will learn about it... This film will also educate viewers that he was a trendsetter - he was the first one to cast women, the first one to sell film music rights and the first filmmaker to attempt a colour film.”

— Source close to Bollywood Hungama

Global Acclaim and Personal Challenges of a Visionary Artist

Shantaram’s genius wasn't just recognized domestically. His films, produced at the famed Prabhat Studios, garnered international acclaim, winning awards at prestigious events like the Cannes, Venice, and Berlin Film Festivals. His 1957 masterpiece, Do Aankhen Barah Haath, even snagged a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film in 1959. This brought global attention to Indian cinema at a time when it was still finding its international footing. Source: [OTTplay, "Siddhant Chaturvedi lands lead role as cinema legend V. Shantaram in Chitrapati biopic, heralded as his 'biggest film'", Nov 12, 2025].

Lesser-known facets of his life will also feature in the biopic, including Charlie Chaplin's admiration for his work and his intriguing rivalry with Bombay's (now Mumbai) elite filmmakers. This suggests the film will not shy away from the drama and complexities of his journey, offering both enlightenment and entertainment. It's a high bar, one that Siddhant Chaturvedi is reportedly embracing with intense preparation, including a look test photoshoot where his resemblance to Shantaram was described as "striking."

The film will also delve into Shantaram's personal life, acknowledging his three marriages. He was first married to Vimla, with whom he had four children. Later, he wed actress Jayashree, having two children with her, and then married actress Sandhya. In total, he was survived by three wives and seven children when he passed away in Mumbai on October 30, 1990, at the age of 88. These relationships undoubtedly shaped the man and his art, adding layers to his compelling story.

The Ensemble and the Tremendous Responsibility of a Biopic

Siddhant won't be carrying this cinematic tribute alone. Fardeen Khan has also been roped in for a key role, though details about his character are being kept under wraps for now. This casting choice adds another layer of anticipation, hinting at the breadth and depth the filmmakers intend to bring to this historical narrative.

Creating a biopic, especially one about such a towering figure, comes with its unique set of challenges. The film needs to balance historical accuracy with engaging storytelling, satisfying both cinephiles and general audiences. Capturing the essence of a visionary like Shantaram, with his pioneering spirit and complex personal life, is a tremendous responsibility. The filmmakers must navigate the delicate balance of celebrating his legacy while also presenting a nuanced portrayal of the man behind the legend, ensuring sensitivity, particularly concerning his multiple marriages, which will be a significant aspect of the narrative. This calls for meticulous research and a respectful approach to character development.

Example: Imagine a scene where a young V. Shantaram, fresh from learning under Baburao Painter, pitches the radical idea of casting real women in his next film to skeptical producers. The resistance is palpable; tradition dictates male actors play female roles, ensuring a "respectable" set. Shantaram, however, stands firm, articulating his vision not just for authenticity but for the sheer talent these women possess, eventually convincing them to take a leap of faith. This small triumph isn't just about a casting decision; it’s a quiet revolution against entrenched norms, a moment that echoes through the decades to shape the very fabric of Indian cinema.

What This Means for Siddhant Chaturvedi and Future Audiences

For Siddhant Chaturvedi, this role is a significant turning point. After showcasing his versatility in films like Bunty Aur Babli 2 (2021), Gehraiyaan (2022), and Kho Gaye Hum Kahan (2023), playing V. Shantaram offers him a chance to demonstrate a new depth and range, potentially cementing his status as a leading actor capable of tackling complex biographical roles.

The film is expected to commence filming soon, likely within the next couple of months. As the project moves forward, audiences can look forward to not just a film, but a cinematic education – a chance to connect with the roots of Indian cinema and understand the extraordinary efforts of the individuals who built it from the ground up.

Practical Takeaways for Film Enthusiasts

• Discover a Pioneer: Get ready to learn about V. Shantaram’s pivotal role in shaping Indian cinema, from introducing female actors to pioneering color films.
• Siddhant's Transformative Performance: This biopic is poised to be Siddhant Chaturvedi’s most challenging and defining role yet, offering a new dimension to his acting career.
• A Star-Studded History Lesson: With Fardeen Khan in a key role and the promise of three actresses playing Shantaram’s wives, the film is set to be both informative and dramatically engaging.
• Global Legacy on Screen: Explore Shantaram’s international recognition, including his Golden Globe win and Charlie Chaplin's admiration, highlighting Indian cinema's early global impact.

FAQs about the V. Shantaram Biopic

Q: Who was V. Shantaram, and why is he a cinema legend?

A: V. Shantaram, also known as Annasaheb, was a pioneering Indian filmmaker, actor, producer, and writer whose career spanned over seven decades. He's considered a legend for his groundbreaking contributions, including being the first to cast women in films, sell music rights, and attempt a color film, earning international acclaim for his socially conscious Movies.

Q: What is the title of the V. Shantaram biopic?

A: The upcoming biographical film is titled Chitrapati V Shantaram. "Chitrapati" is an honorific, often translating to "Master of Cinema" or "Filmmaker."

Q: Who else is starring in Chitrapati V Shantaram?

A: Besides Siddhant Chaturvedi in the titular role, actor Fardeen Khan has been cast in a significant, though currently undisclosed, role. The film will also feature three actresses portraying Shantaram’s three wives.

Q: When is the film expected to release?

A: The film is currently in its pre-production phase, with principal photography expected to commence soon, likely within the next couple of months. An official release date has not yet been announced.

Sources

• Bollywood Hungama: "MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Siddhant Chaturvedi to step into the shoes of iconic filmmaker V Shantaram" (Last Updated 12.11.2025)
• Zoom TV Digital: "Who is V Shantaram? Everything You Need to Know About the Filmmaker Set to Be Depicted by Siddhant Chaturvedi in the Forthcoming Biopic" (Updated Nov 12, 2025)
• News18.com: "Siddhant Chaturvedi To Step Into V Shantaram’s Shoes In Upcoming Biopic | Details Inside" (Last Updated: November 11, 2025)
• OTTplay: "Siddhant Chaturvedi lands lead role as cinema legend V. Shantaram in Chitrapati biopic, heralded as his 'biggest film'" (Last Updated: 10.44 AM, Nov 12, 2025)
• M9News: "Gully Boy to Legendary Filmmaker: Exciting Biopic" (Updated 09:20 Nov 12, 2025)
• BizAsiaLive: "Siddhant Chaturvedi to play V Shantaram in biopic; Fardeen Khan also roped in" (11 November 2025)
• Filmfare: "Siddhant Chaturvedi to Play V Shantaram in a Biopic?" (Published on Nov 11, 2025)
• Times Now: "Siddhant Chaturvedi, Fardeen Khan To Unite For Filmmaker V. Shantaram Biopic? Here's What We Know" (Updated Nov 11, 2025)
• Pinkvilla: "Exclusive: Siddhant Chaturvedi to play V Shantaram in biopic; Fardeen Khan joins the cast" (Published on Nov 11, 2025)
• Hindustan Times: "Siddhant Chaturvedi to play director V Shantaram in upcoming biopic?" (Isha Sharma, Nov 11, 2025)