Tanya Maniktala to lead Mira Nair's Amrita Sher-Gil biopic
What's the story
After four years of living with the story of Hungarian-Indian painter Amrita Sher-Gil, acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair has finally found her leading lady for the biopic. Contrary to earlier reports that suggested Ananya Panday was being considered for the role, Mid-Day has learned that Tanya Maniktala will play the titular character in Amri. This will be a reunion between Nair and Maniktala, who previously starred in her BBC television drama series A Suitable Boy (2020).
Film focus
Sher-Gil's life, art to be highlighted in 'Amri'
Nair had announced Amri soon after the premiere of A Suitable Boy. The period drama will highlight Sher-Gil's life, who is considered one of the greatest avant-garde women artists of the early 20th century.Her paintings, which captured everyday life in India, have influenced numerous Indian artists.However, little is known about her art in the West, a gap Nair aims to bridge through this project.Sher-Gil passed away in 1941 at 28.
Production details
Film to also focus on Sher-Gil's personal relationships
The film will be shot in India, Hungary, and France. Last month, Nair met Maniktala in Delhi to finalize her casting. The film will not only focus on Sher-Gil's rise as a painter but also on the influence of her father, Umrao Singh Sher-Gil Majithia, husband Viktor Egan, fiancé Yusuf Ali Khan, and friend Jawaharlal Nehru. In 2023, Nair had approached Vicky Kaushal, Jim Sarbh, and Naseeruddin Shah for pivotal roles.
Production timeline
When will the film go on floors?
If everything goes as planned, Nair will begin shooting for Amri by the end of this year. The film is expected to delve deeper into Sher-Gil's life and her contributions to art, while also exploring her personal relationships. Nair is best known for directing Salaam Bombay! and Monsoon Wedding.