Shabaash Mithu, starring Taapsee Pannu, will now be directed by Srijit Mukherji, making it one of the most awaited films of 2022. The movie is based on the life of Mithali Raj, the captain of the Indian Women’s ODI cricket team.
Speaking about the change of guard, Ajit Andhare, COO, Viacom18 Studios said, “Covid disruptions have required rescheduling of shoot and as a result Rahul is moving on from Shabaash Mithu. It’s unfortunate that after sharing and nurturing this dream for a long time Rahul has to part ways. His contribution will remain, I thank him for that and wish him the very best. Srijit Mukherjee will now take over the director’s mantle. Srijit has worked with us closely on Ray and our plans of making a cricket film together will now come to fruition. I am sure he will bring all his passion and craft to this dream film.”
Speaking about his next directorial venture Shabaash Mithu, Srijit Mukherji said, “Being a cricket buff and researcher, Mithali’s tale has always been an inspiration to me. I was excited since I had first heard of this film being made and now that I am a part of it I look forward to kickstart the journey to bring this exhilarating story to the silver screen soon.”
Despite the fact that Dholakia was unable to complete the project due to scheduling conflicts during the pandemic, he still admires the script and the crew.
Rahul Dholakia said, “There are some films which you know you have to do. Shabaash Mithu was that film. Covid messed up everyone’s schedules, mine was no different. Unfortunately, I won’t be directing the fabulous script written by Priya Aven and conceived by Ajit Andhare on the life of the legendary cricketer Mithali Raj. The passion of a studio head like Ajit Andhare who sat with us on all discussions- in covid, in lockdowns; at all times, the passion of a writer like Priya who worked very hard to strike the balance between emotion and cricket is commendable. Taapsee’s passion to immerse herself in the character made it a delight to work with her. Ajit has a vision and a plan for the film and the way to release it. I wish him and the team the very best for it.”
(Also read: After Haseen Dillruba, Taapsee Pannu’s next film also takes the OTT turn; details inside!)
Shabaash Mithu tells the story of Mithali Raj, one of the finest female cricketers in the world, and covers the highs and lows, disappointments and moments of elation in Mithali’s life. Taapsee Pannu plays Mithali.
