Srijit Mukherji has replaced Rahul Dholakia as the director of Shabaash Mithu. A biopic of Indian cricketer Mithali Raj, the upcoming film stars Taapsee Pannu in the lead role.
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 Mukherji 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.”
A popular Bengali director, Srijit made his Hindi debut with 2017's Begum Jaan. He has helmed two segments in the upcoming Netflix anthology Ray.
“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," Srijit said.
Even though Rahul Dholakia couldn’t continue with the project, owing to change in schedules amidst the pandemic, he remains fond of the script and the team.
Rahul 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.”