Inspired by the animated character featured in movies like ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Life of a Pie’ producers Dadasaheb Shinde and Nikhil Bhagat are now making a Marathi film ‘Yashwanti’. For the past three years both of them were working on the creation of this animated character of the mountain lizard, which has a big relevance to Maharashtra’s history. On Saturday evening, they announced the launch of their film, with the release of film’s specially designed poster and disclosing the animated character, which will be part of the film’s story, happening in the modern time.

Actually, in history of Maharashtra, ‘Yashwanti’ has a special significance during Shivaji’s time, when a steep cliff leading to the fort was scaled by Tanaji and his team with the help of this domesticated mountain lizard colloquially known as a ‘ghorpad’ in Marathi.

The film is to be directed by Jalinder Kumbhar and the screenplay and dialogues are being written by Sanjay Pawar. Actually, the film’s poster was to be unveiled by film maker Mahesh Manjrekar, who was the guest of honour; but, since he could not reach in time, the film’s artistes did that job. Mr. Manjrekar, who later arrived, felicitated all the unit members of the film, who were present on the occasion, for this press conference.

Very confident about their film’s story, both Dadasaheb and Nikhil felt that it was the first experiment to be tried in Marathi on the lines of Hollywood. “There are many films, with animated characters linked with the live characters in the film; but the film should have a good script, to keep the audience engaged.” said Dadasaheb Shinde. Director Jalinder Kumbhar said that he was all excited to work on such a subject, while screenplay and dialogue writer Sanjay Pawar said that it was a challenge for him, to work on such an unusual script.

Suparna Shyam, who is making her debut in Marathi films, was dressed up in black western outfit, for this occasion. She has been paired with Amey Wagh, who is also making his debut as a hero; as he has only performed character roles in Marathi films before. Pooja Pawar Salunkhe, is now making a comeback to Marathi films, after a long gap. She too plays an important role in this film, along with another talented actress Pari Telang ( ‘Lakshya’ serial fame) . All of them were present on this occasion, along with Shubhangi Latkar and other unit members, finalised so far. The other artistes of the film are Kishore Kadam, Rahul Solapurkar, Vidyadhar Joshi, Sagar Talashikar & Mangesh kadam.

Sandeep Patil will be the cinematographer of this film, while Sidharth Tatoskar will be the art director. Executive producer Praveen Wankhede, editing by Asish Mhatre and music by Avinash Vishwajeet are the other credits. The actual shooting of this film will begin soon.