After festival run, crowdfunded indie ‘Kaisi Ye Paheli’ to hit theatres

Having earned appreciation on the global festival circuit, writer-director Ananyabrata Chakravorty’s debut feature Kaisi Ye Paheli is set for its theatrical release across India on November 28, 2025. The dark-comedy murder mystery made its World Premiere at the New York Indian Film Festival 2025, where it screened in the Competition section and earned nominations for Best Screenplay and Best Debut Film. It also travelled to the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and will open the upcoming Yellowstone International Film Festival in Mumbai.

Set in a small hill town in Northeast India, the film blends humour and intrigue as it explores the emotional turmoil of a lonely mother trying to reconnect with her indifferent son. The story unfolds through an eccentric cast of characters, brought to life by an ensemble that marks notable returns and fresh debuts.

Actor Sadhana Singh, remembered for her iconic turn in Nadiya Ke Paar, makes a rare comeback in a leading role. Sukant Goel, known for his striking performances in Kaala Paani, Ghost Stories, and Monica O My Darling, plays the male lead in his first full-length feature. Rajit Kapur, 28 years after immortalising Byomkesh Bakshi on television, returns as a Bengali detective, while Chittaranjan Giri portrays a mysterious character from the Northeast.

Produced by Take Pictures, founded by Chakravorty and Nishu Dikshit, the film has been developed as a crowdfunded indie project. “I was certain the film belonged to the cinemas the moment I saw strangers enjoy it at the world premiere,” says Chakravorty. Dikshit adds that taking a first-time indie to theatres has been “surreal and deeply rewarding”.

Kapur calls the film’s theatrical release “a rare and heartening moment for an independent debut”. Goel describes the project as “a beautiful coming together of belief, effort and chance”.