The actor has begun filming for director Rahul Dholakia’s untitled historical political drama, and already the early whispers suggest he may be giving one of the most timely, topical and talked-about performances of his career as Sukumar Sen, India’s first Chief Election Commissioner, who oversaw the first ever general election in the newly independent nation.
Democracy Gets Its Day A Friday, as Saif Steps into History’s Shoe
As the country prepares for yet another cycle of a national election, Dholakia’s film couldn’t be more timely. At its centre is Sukumar Sen, a civil servant who is relatively unseen in cinema but pivotal to the world’s largest experiment with democracy.
This film won’t only be about elections. It will be about identity, about integrity, and the tedious attainment of the democratic process, and this is the moment Saif, who has a demonstrated flexibility as an actor, finds a restrained, real and relevant role.
Production Update: Delay → Determination
The film’s shoot was originally scheduled to begin on January 20 but was paused due to a health scare involving Saif Ali Khan. It was only right that the production team put the actor’s well-being first! They have recommenced filming as of this week.
A friendly, albeit tired, Saif was recently seen leaving Versova Jetty and is now on the second half of the Mumbai schedule. The movie seems to have built up enough momentum for filming to continue this week and potentially go into mid-year if sources are correct, with new historical sets being built for the second leg.
Pratik Gandhi Amongst the Cast
Also seen part of the cast is Pratik Gandhi, who has recently risen to consistency post-Scam 1992, ironically positioned and relatable to politically charged roles. Although nothing has been revealed about his role yet, it was cute to see him paired with Saif – but it also suggests some narrative tensions, ideological fractures, and plausibly some dramatic spice regardless of later evidence.
What to Expect: Not Another Biopic
This isn’t your usual period dramedy. With Rahul Dholakia (best known for Raees) directing, you can expect a film that is great on tonal sharpness and visual sense but layered breadth in a political sense. Our colleagues said it is more ‘procedural thriller meets constitutional film’, which is a fresh note for a Bollywood tonic to strike.
Meanwhile, Jewel Thief Drops April 25 on OTT
While fans eagerly await Saif’s new political incarnation, they won’t have to wait long to see him do something. Saif’s upcoming OTT movie, Jewel Thief, will release on April 25 and promises to show a completely different shade of the actor: slick, suspenseful, and sharp-witted.
BoxOfficeWorldwide Verdict:
With a script rooted in India’s electoral DNA, a lead performance that demands gravity, and a director who isn’t afraid to go political—this untitled Saif-Rahul Dholakia film could quietly become the most important film of 2025.
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