Veteran actor Anupam Kher has officially stepped back into the director's chair after over two decades, unveiling the lead of his new film Tanvi The Great at a special event in Mumbai. The film introduces Shubhangi, a fresh face who plays the titular character—and to mark the moment, Kher invited none other than acclaimed actress Kajol to do the honors of unveiling her.
At the launch, Kher spoke candidly about the long journey that led to this moment, his emotional connection to the story, and how Kajol would have been his ideal lead had the film been made years earlier.
Speaking about the gap between his directorial debut Om Jai Jagdish (2002) and this new venture, Kher shared:“Until now, I only worked as an actor… It took me 23 years to return as a director because when I directed Om Jai Jagdish, it wasn’t my story. It was written by Rahul Nanda. I was very excited at the time—a successful actor who was also getting to direct.”
He explained that the experience taught him something vital: “I decided I would only direct again if I found a story that truly touched my heart—and one that, through my heart, could reach the hearts of audiences around the world.”
That story, he revealed, came to him in a conversation four years ago. What followed was a three-year journey of collaboration, writing, and dedication. “I gathered a group of amazing people who are not just brilliant at their craft, but also full of heart. Today, it feels like we are delivering a baby. I’m happy, excited, and grateful that my family is here with me.”
In a particularly touching moment, Kher acknowledged the presence of Kajol at the event and revealed that she had been his dream casting choice for the film years ago:“If I hadn’t found Shubhangi, and if I had made this film earlier, I would have cast Kajol in the lead role.”
He went on to praise Kajol’s talent, warmth, and authenticity, drawing from his personal experience working with her: “She is much younger than me in terms of experience, but in performance, she is far more brilliant than I am. And I’m not saying this just to flatter her—she is a sparkling actor, very real and grounded.”
With Tanvi The Great, Kher is set to deliver a story that he believes has the power to move hearts—one rooted in passion, purpose, and humanity.