Srijit Mukherji takes over from Rahul Dholakia on Shabaash Mithu

Director Srijit Mukherji has stepped into the role of director for the Mithali Raj biopic, Shabaash Mithu.

Mukherji will take over from Rahul Dholakia who was on the project till now.

The makers revealed the change in leadership, with Dholakia releasing a statement confirming it.

Dholakia tweeted, "I won't be directing the fabulous script written by Priya Aven and conceived by Ajit Andhare."

He added, "I won't be part of the dream, but I am and will always be there for them to realize their dream. COVID messed up everyone's schedules, mine was no different. Ajit has a vision and a plan for the film and the way to realize it. I wish him and the team the very best for it." 

In a statement released by the makers, Dholakia further said, "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.”

Mukherji has already collaborated with Viacom18 on the upcoming Netflix anthology Ray, which is set to be released on 25 June. This will be his first major Hindi feature film since Begum Jaan (2017).

In a statement, the filmmaker 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 kick-start the journey to bring this exhilarating story to the silver screen soon.”

Shabaash Mithu was announced in 2019, with Taapsee Pannu in the role of Indian cricketer Mithali Raj. The first poster was released in January 2020 before the film went on the floors. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and the countrywide lockdown that ensued led to delays in production.

Ajit Andhare, chief operating officer, Viacom18, said, "COVID disruptions have required rescheduling of shoots 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."

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Andhare added, "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."

Shabaash Mithu is being produced by Viacom18 and was initially scheduled for release in February 2021. No fresh release date has been set.