The grandeur and legacy of the Maratha Empire, led by the Peshwas in the 17th and 18th centuries, are about to grace the big screen with the release of the historical drama Phulwanti. Starring Prajakta Mali in the titular role, the film will hit theatres on October 11, 2024, and promises to be a cinematic journey through one of the most fascinating eras of Indian history.
Phulwanti: A Historical Drama Rooted in Maratha History
Phulwanti is based on a novel by renowned historian Babasaheb Purandare, whose work has extensively explored the Maratha Empire’s rich heritage. The film focuses on the lives of two iconic figures from the Peshwa era: Venkatadwhari Narasimha Shastri, a renowned scholar in the Peshwa court, and Phulwanti, a famous dancer from the same period.
Gashmeer Mahajani as Venkat Shastri
In Phulwanti, Gashmeer Mahajani portrays the scholarly and commanding character of Venkatadwhari Narasimha Shastri, a man of intelligence and influence in the Peshwa court. Mahajani’s look from the film, revealed in a motion poster on September 5, showcases his traditional Peshwa attire, complete with the iconic turban, angarkha, rudraksha beads, and classic Peshwa-style earrings. Mahajani expressed his excitement about portraying such a unique and profound historical figure, calling it a rare opportunity to bring to life a character of such stature and significance.
Prajakta Mali as Phulwanti
Actress Prajakta Mali plays the titular role of Phulwanti, a renowned dancer from the Peshwa era. Her character’s journey intertwines with that of Venkat Shastri, bringing to life the cultural and historical nuances of the time. Mali has expressed her enthusiasm for the project, noting the importance of telling Phulwanti’s story and how it reflects the richness of Maratha history.
Production and Direction
Phulwanti is produced by Mangesh Pawar & Company and Shivoham Creations Private Limited, with Panorama Studios presenting the film. The screenplay and dialogues are penned by Pravin Vitthal Tarde, and the film is directed by Snehal Pravin Tarde. The production team includes Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak, Mangesh Pawar, Shweta Mali, and Prajakta Mali.
Visual Grandeur of the Peshwa Era
Phulwanti is not just a film, but a visual and narrative exploration of the Peshwa period, showcasing the grandeur, politics, and cultural richness of the era. The film promises to offer a detailed look into the life and times of the Peshwas, with the Maratha Empire serving as the backdrop for a story of love, power, and cultural legacy.
Release and Anticipation
Set to release on October 11, 2024, Phulwanti is already generating excitement among history enthusiasts and cinema lovers alike. With a talented cast and a team of skilled filmmakers, the movie promises to be a grand retelling of a captivating chapter in Maratha history.