Tisca Chopra’s directorial debut, *Saali Mohabbat*, featuring Radhika Apte, is set to premiere exclusively on ZEE5 Global later this year, promising a compelling blend of drama and psychological thriller.
Tisca Chopra is stepping into the director’s chair for the first time with her upcoming feature film, *Saali Mohabbat*. The film stars acclaimed actress Radhika Apte alongside Divyenndu Sharma, and is slated for an exclusive premiere on ZEE5 Global later this year. The ensemble cast also includes notable talents such as Anurag Kashyap, Anshumaan Pushkar, Sauraseni Maitra, and Sharat Saxena, contributing to the film’s anticipation following its appearances at prestigious film festivals, including the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the Chicago South Asian Film Festival.
Produced by Jio Studios in collaboration with Manish Malhotra’s Stage5 Production, *Saali Mohabbat* marks a significant milestone for the renowned designer, who is making his debut as a digital producer. The film is expected to showcase a strong aesthetic combined with deep emotional resonance, adding a new dimension to Malhotra’s creative portfolio. This project also highlights the successful partnership between ZEE5 and Jio Studios, following the success of previous releases such as *Hisaab Barabar*, *Mrs.*, and *Bhagwat*.
The narrative of *Saali Mohabbat* centers around Smita, portrayed by Radhika Apte, a housewife living in a small town. Her seemingly ordinary life takes a dramatic turn as she becomes entangled in a web of infidelity, deceit, and moral dilemmas. What begins as a domestic drama quickly evolves into a high-stakes psychological thriller, exploring the complex interplay between love and obsession, as well as truth and illusion.
From ZEE5 Global’s perspective, *Saali Mohabbat* is not merely a suspenseful thriller but also a profound exploration of the emotions that drive human decisions. The collaboration with Jio Studios and Manish Malhotra brings together a unique blend of visionary creativity and a commitment to impactful storytelling. Radhika Apte’s return to the platform adds to the excitement, as audiences anticipate another powerful performance from the actress.
The film embodies a shared vision of courage and authenticity. For Jio Studios, *Saali Mohabbat* represents their dedication to supporting bold, genre-defying narratives. Manish Malhotra expressed that Stage5 Production was established to champion original, craft-driven stories. Every aspect of the film—from development to execution—was approached with intention, rigor, and responsibility. The cast members have infused their performances with restraint and truth, resulting in a collection of memorable portrayals.
Tisca Chopra drew inspiration for *Saali Mohabbat* from her fascination with the unspoken power dynamics and silent expectations that exist within relationships, particularly from a female perspective. She aimed to capture the subtle strains that lie beneath domestic life, delving into themes of trust, betrayal, and self-identity. Directing the film has been both a daunting and liberating experience for Chopra, as she navigated vulnerable emotions while challenging the constraints often faced by women filmmakers. She credits the project’s authenticity and emotional depth to the unwavering trust and support from Manish Malhotra, Stage5 Production, Jio Studios, and ZEE5 Global.
As one of the most anticipated releases on ZEE5, *Saali Mohabbat* promises to captivate global audiences with its blend of cinematic artistry, emotional depth, and powerful storytelling, backed by a talented and respected team.
Source: Original article