Manoj Bajpayee to Portray Mahatma Gandhi in Sudhir Mishra’s Upcoming Feature Film
National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee is set to portray Mahatma Gandhi on screen for the first time in an upcoming theatrical feature directed by Sudhir Mishra. The film is produced by Anubhav Sinha and Narendra Hirawat under the banner of Benaras Mediaworks, with NH Studioz presenting the project.
What Happened
The makers have announced a new feature film centred on a lesser-known chapter from the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Rather than presenting an extensive life chronicle, the narrative is set against the backdrop of India’s Independence and centres on a critical 21-day period. The story examines Gandhi’s personal and political circumstances as he made the choice to depart from Delhi at the exact moment the city was emerging as the nation’s political centre.
Director Sudhir Mishra explained the premise, stating that the project focuses on an unexpected choice made by Gandhi. According to Mishra, Gandhi chose to walk away from the emerging centre of power, but in doing so, he did not retreat; rather, he reinvented himself. Mishra noted that while historical accounts record the outward developments of that time, the film explores the personal journey and the factors underlying that decision.
Key Highlights
- Manoj Bajpayee will depict Mahatma Gandhi, marking his first time playing the historical figure.
- Veteran actor Saurabh Shukla has joined the cast in a key role.
- The film is directed by three-time National Film Award winner Sudhir Mishra, marking his return to theatrical cinema after a hiatus.
- The production is backed by Anubhav Sinha and Narendra Hirawat under Benaras Mediaworks and presented by NH Studioz.
- The storyline is confined to a specific 21-day period during India’s Independence, focusing on Gandhi stepping away from Delhi.
Why This Matters
The project represents a notable creative partnership between director Sudhir Mishra and producer Anubhav Sinha. Sinha is known for helming socially relevant titles such as Mulk, Article 15, and Thappad, while Mishra has directed acclaimed films including Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, Dharavi, and Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin, having secured National Film Awards for Yeh Woh Manzil To Nahin, Dharavi, and Main Zinda Hoon. The feature also provides an intimate, narrowed lens on India’s Independence era through a specific historical episode rather than standard biographical coverage.
What to Watch Next
Further details regarding the characterisations, supporting cast, and production timeline are yet to be officially announced by the filmmakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is playing Mahatma Gandhi in the film?
Manoj Bajpayee has been cast to play Mahatma Gandhi, marking the actor’s first time portraying the leader.
What time period does the film cover?
The film focuses on a specific 21-day window during India’s Independence when Mahatma Gandhi decided to step away from Delhi.
Who is directing and producing the project?
The film is directed by Sudhir Mishra and produced by Anubhav Sinha and Narendra Hirawat under Benaras Mediaworks, presented by NH Studioz.
Source: Based on reporting from Bollywood Hungama.