Netflix to release Chaitanya Tamhane’s The Disciple on 30 April: See trailer

Chaitanya Tamhane’s The Disciple (2021) is finally having its digital premiere on 30 April on Netflix. The film, which is backed by Oscar-winning Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón, had its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival last year, winning the FIPRESCI International Critics Prize (FIPRESCI is short for Federation Internationale de la Presse Cinematographique) and the Best Screenplay award.

The Disciple features Aditya Modak as Sharad Nerulkar, an Indian classical vocalist, along with Arun Dravid, Sumitra Bhave, Deepika Bhide Bhagwat and Kiran Yadnyopavit. Nerulkar wants to follow in the footsteps of his guru but wonders if the hard work and dedication to his passion is worth it in the end. A new trailer, released by Netflix, shows Nerulkar growing frustrated with the lack of progress in his passion, even as he gets advice from others.

Looking back at the Marathi film’s journey, writer-director Tamhane said he was "beyond happy" to have a global audience for his second film. “The Disciple is a true labour of love and a story very close to my heart," he said. "It is the journey of a Hindustani classical vocalist’s struggles, dreams and artistic journey in contemporary Mumbai. We were blessed to have an extraordinary talent like Aditya Modak portray the protagonist, Sharad Nerulkar, through whose eyes we immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of Indian classical music.”

Producer Vivek Gomber added, “I’m incredibly excited to share the film with the world, we have waited a long time to do so. I am thrilled and grateful to have Netflix as our streaming partner. With their global appeal and reach, I have no doubt the film will find a discerning audience worldwide. I sincerely believe this is a universal story and will speak to all of us with dreams and aspirations.”

The feature film was also screened at the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival, where it won the Amplify Voices award. The film has also been nominated for Best International Feature at the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

Watch the trailer below and let us know if you are keen to watch the film.