Siddhant Chaturvedi’s First Look as V. Shantaram Unveiled for Indian Filmmaker Biopic (EXCLUSIVE)

The makers of upcoming biographical drama “V. Shantaram” have unveiled the first look of Siddhant Chaturvedi as the legendary Indian filmmaker.

The announcement poster introduces Chaturvedi in the title role of V. Shantaram, the auteur long celebrated as a visionary of Indian cinema. The film chronicles Shantaram’s remarkable journey from the silent era through the advent of sound and color, showcasing his evolution as one of India’s most influential filmmakers.

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V. Shantaram, born Shantaram Rajaram Vankudre in 1901, was a pioneering force in 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-language talkie, “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) were celebrated for their technical innovations and progressive social themes addressing issues like communal harmony, dowry, and prisoner rehabilitation. Known for his signature style of lavish sets, unique song picturizations, and visual symbolism — he used cinema as an instrument for social change throughout his career. He received India’s highest film honor, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, in 1985.

Written and directed by Abhijeet Shirish Deshpande, the project is presented by Rajkamal Enterttainment, Camera Take Films and Roaring Rivers Productions. Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kale and Sarita Ashwin Varde serve as producers.

“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 wasn’t just a pioneer of Indian and global cinema, he was a visionary who kept pushing forward no matter the obstacles. Stepping into his world has been my most transformative experience as an actor. His life moved me deeply and reminded me of the power of perseverance. It’s a lesson I hope to hold close, both in my work and in every moment of my life.”

Director Deshpande said, “V. Shantaram has been a huge source of inspiration for me as a filmmaker. His courage to experiment and his vision shaped so much of the cinema we know today. Telling his story is an honour and I hope we do justice to the man behind the legend. With this first poster, we are sharing a glimpse of that journey, with Siddhant Chaturvedi stepping into a 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 struggles and his innovations continue to inspire all of us who work in this industry. With this film, we hope to honour his journey in the most sincere way possible. As we unveil the first poster today, we are proud to have Siddhant Chaturvedi step into his shoes. His sincerity and commitment make him a fitting face to carry forward Shantaram ji’s legacy.”

Producer Varde added, “V. Shantaram isn’t just one of the greatest architects of Indian cinema, he is its heartbeat. Yet his extraordinary vision and contributions have often remained under celebrated. With this film, we hope to bring his legacy into the spotlight. Siddhant Chaturvedi was our first and only choice for the part. His passion and sincerity made him the natural choice to portray Shantaram-ji on screen.”