Principal photography for the Bengali-language thriller “Chheledhora” will commence on March 1, 2024, in the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. This Indo-American co-production, led by writer-director Shieladitya Moulik, stars acclaimed actress Swastika Mukherjee and will be filmed in picturesque locations such as Itanagar and Ziro.
The narrative centers around Brishti, portrayed by Mukherjee, a divorced woman navigating the complexities of motherhood and personal turmoil. The storyline unfolds as Brishti impulsively “steals” her daughter for a birthday celebration, only to discover that the child has been genuinely abducted. This shocking revelation triggers a series of events that profoundly alter Brishti’s life.
Moulik describes “Chheledhora” as a multifaceted tale that blends family drama, thrill, and dark humor, featuring a morally complex female protagonist. He emphasizes that the film explores the themes of broken relationships and the unexpected courage that can emerge from them. “I’m deeply interested in flawed people who are still capable of love,” he explains. “At its heart, it’s about healing – how children, often unknowingly, become the moral compass for adults.”
Mukherjee, known for her diverse roles in films and series such as “Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!” and “Paatal Lok”, expressed her enthusiasm for playing Brishti. “She is impulsive, wounded, and deeply flawed, but her love for her daughter is fierce and instinctive,” Mukherjee stated. “This unexpected journey forces her to confront herself. At its core, this is a tender story about motherhood, forgiveness, and finding strength in fragile moments.”
Production Team and Vision
The film is co-produced by Handyyman and Sita22 Films, with Handyyman’s previous works including the streaming series “Hawa Badle Hassu”. Protiqe Mojoomdar from Handyyman highlighted the emotional depth and commercial viability of the script, making it an immediate choice for collaboration. “When I read ‘Chheledhora’, I felt an urgent instinct to come on board,” he noted.
Anindita (Ann) Mukherjee, co-founder of Sita22 Films, brings her extensive corporate experience to the project. She expressed her commitment to championing socially-conscious narratives. “Funding and co-producing this film reflects the kind of emotionally-layered stories I want my new production company to support,” she said, emphasizing the importance of portraying the vulnerabilities and resilience of women and children.
Cinematographer Vincenzo Condorelli, known for his work on films like “Cobalt Blue”, will capture the breathtaking landscapes of Ziro Valley. The production crew also includes line producer Suven Kumar Das, creative producer Jitin Hingorani, production designer Somanwita Bhattacharya, and costume designer Ajopa Mukherjee.
Production is expected to extend through the end of March, with additional casting details anticipated in the coming weeks. “Chheledhora” aims to resonate with international audiences, positioning itself for the festival circuit with its rich storytelling and complex characters.
