Vishnupant “V.” Shantaram—known as Shantaram Rajaram Vankudre—was the visionary who gave Indian cinema a new perspective, new philosophy, and a new visual language. His extraordinary, inspiring, and illustrious life is now being brought to the big screen for the very first time through a grand and spectacular cinematic epic. From a simple studio worker to a director who created world-class masterpieces—his journey was a divine blend of struggle, experimentation, dedication to work, and deep love for art.
From the dance grandeur of Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje to the social thought of Do Aankhen Barah Haath, from the technical revolution of Amrit Manthan to the realistic storytelling of Neighbour (Nayak? / Nagrik)—every creation by V. Shantaram gave Indian cinema a new direction. His entire life stands as a shining tradition of struggle, creative passion, and an unshakeable belief in changing the world. Now, this extraordinary, inspiring, and majestic life is coming to the big screen as a mega biopic that will be visually grand, emotionally powerful, and cinematically iconic.
The first poster of the film V. Shantaram has just been released, and it has taken social media by storm. The impressive visuals and grandeur have created a new wave of excitement among audiences. In the film, Siddhant Chaturvedi will be seen portraying V. Shantaram— a role expected to be a major game-changer in his career.
Abhijit Shirish Deshpande, the acclaimed director of the hit film Ani… Dr. Kashinath Ghanekar, has written and directed this biopic. With magnificent visual design and artistic vision, he has taken the film to a remarkable height.
Director Abhijit Shirish Deshpande says, “Taking the name ‘V. Shantaram’ doesn’t just refer to one person—it brings before our eyes the entire philosophical tradition of Indian cinema. Depicting his struggles, his dedication, and his fearless experimentation on screen gave me a unique spiritual experience. My effort is that every frame of this film should convey the greatness of his personality to the audience.”
Producer Rahul Kiran Shantaram says, “For me, this film is not just a project—it is an emotion. It is a grand tribute from all of us to my grandfather’s achievements. V. Shantaram’s contribution to Indian cinema is immeasurable, and we want the new generation to understand its significance. The brilliance of his life, his vision, his perseverance— we want the world to experience all of it once again. That is why we are making this film with immense scale, technical excellence, and emotional sensitivity.”
Producer Subhash Kale adds, “When you utter the name ‘V. Shantaram’, you see the entire history of a tradition that shaped Indian cinema. It is a matter of pride—and inspiration—that a man from Maharashtra contributed so immensely to building a global-level film industry in our country. Every one of his experiments carried a new perspective, a new thought, and a unique expression of artistic mastery. Through this film, we have tried to bring the true spirit of that grandeur, that struggle, and that great legacy to the audience.”
Presented by Rajkamal Entertainment, Camera Take Films and Roaring River Production, the film is produced by Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kale, and Sarita Ashwin Varde.
