Anubhav Sinha to cast Bhumi Pednekar opposite Rajkummar Rao in upcoming social drama Bheed

Anubhav Sinha's world is filled with unforgettable women. They are the epitome of strength, grit, and, most importantly, women with unmistakable voices. Whether it's Taapsee Pannu in Mulk, Sayani Gupta in Article 15, or the solid ensemble of actresses who made Thappad what it is, 

Sinha's universe is full of well-fleshed out, well-rounded female characters out to make a difference. It's no surprise, then, that he cast Bhumi Pednekar in his upcoming socio-political drama. The film, which marks Sinha's reunion with Bhushan Kumar following the massive success of Thappad, was announced last week and stars Rajkummar Rao. 

Rao and Pednekar will also appear in the much-anticipated Badhaai Do next year, for which they have already completed filming. 

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Bhumi was the perfect choice for a film of this nature. She is an assured actress and a woman with a mind of her own. That’s the quality this character needs to have. I couldn’t have asked for a better cast. These are performers who not only shine every time they are on screen; they elevate the written word to create magic on screen. I am blessed to have the team I am working with. I couldn’t have asked for a better collaborator than Bhushan Kumar who is immensely supportive at every step along the way. He is the kind of visionary who believes in the diversity of cinema and choose to tell stories that are gutsy and off the beaten path.

- Anubhav Sinha

"Anubhav Sinha's working process is so effortless that I couldn't have asked for a better work partner," says Bhushan Kumar. Bheed is yet another project that I am extremely proud of. It's a tough storey, and he's cast some great actors in it. Bhumi is an incredible performer, and there could not have been a better choice for the part." 

Sinha, like Thappad, Mulk, and Article 15, brings to the forefront an everyday subject that requires a conversation with Bheed. The socio-political drama will be shot in and around Lucknow, where Sinha recently conducted extensive research. As the unit continues its extensive pre-production over the next few weeks, the film is expected to go into production in November. 

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Being a part of an Anubhav Sinha film is a great honour and privilege," Bhumi exclaims. He believes, like me, that movies have the power to change people's minds. It is our responsibility as artists to tell such stories. The same can be said for Bhushan Kumar, who encourages his writers, directors, and actors to be bold, giving them the confidence that comes from being the inspired producer that he is. This is an exciting subject, and I can't wait to embark on this film's journey." 

Bheed is produced in collaboration by Bhushan Kumar's T-Series and Anubhav Sinha's Benaras Mediaworks.