In an event marked by anticipation and excitement, celebrated director Sandeep Reddy Vanga unveiled the much-awaited trailer of film ‘Dukaan’ that marks directorial debut of screenwriter duo Siddharth-Garima.
The writer duo has earlier worked with Vanga on his directorial Kabir Singh as dialogue writers and wrote the lyrics of Satranga song for Vanga’s last release Animal. They have been associated with films like Toilet Ek Prem Katha, Ram-Leela as screenwriters and have written lyrics for Pinga, Deewani Mastani, Mohe Rang Do Laal from Bajirao Mastani and Nainowale Ne from Padmavat to name a few.
Set in Gujarat, ‘Dukaan’ unfolds the poignant tale of Jasmine (portrayed by Monika Panwar), a young woman embarking on a courageous journey as a surrogate mother. Through Jasmine’s narrative lens, the film delves into crucial themes of dignity, freedom of choice, and the autonomy of women engaged in commercial surrogacy—a subject rarely explored in Hindi cinema.
Crafted meticulously over four years, the script of ‘Dukaan’ reflects Siddharth-Garima’s unwavering commitment to authenticity, resonating not only in its narrative depth but also in its captivating musical score seamlessly interwoven into the fabric of the film.
Monika Panwar, acclaimed for her role as ‘Gudiya’ in the hit OTT series ‘Jamtara: Sabka Number Aayega,’ leads the cast alongside Sikandar Kher, Soham Majumdar, Monali Thakur, and a cameo appearance by Vrajesh Hirjee.
“I know Siddharth-Garima’s journey with this film and I hold them in regards because I think they are wonderful writers, one of the best in this country.” Said Sandeep Reddy Vanga at the event.
“Through our film, we aim to navigate the emotional roller coaster experienced by couples undertaking the journey of surrogacy, while also delving into the ethical and moral complexities often brushed aside in societal discourse. We hope ‘Dukaan’ sparks meaningful conversations with its poignant social message, inviting audiences to join us in experiencing it on the big screen,” shared Siddharth-Garima, known for their cinematic narratives rooted in powerful themes.
“We also kind of feel surrogates as writers because you write, get attached to something and then hand it over to filmmakers. The idea of Dukaan, also kind of germinated from there.”
‘Dukaan’ promises a poignant exploration of a subject profoundly relevant to contemporary society.
The film produced by A Jhunjhunwala and S K Ahluwalia under banner Waveband Productions and Siddharth Garima’s Kalamkaar Picture Productions, will release theatrically on April 5 this year.
Trailer link