Dr. Nilesh Sable’s upcoming Marathi directorial venture has reached a significant stage, with around 80% of the film completed and 37 prominent Marathi actors already part of its ensemble. The filmmaker recently opened up about the project in an interview, offering an update on its progress, the thinking behind its unusually large cast and his effort to create a theatrical experience that stands apart from his popular television work. Sable is best known for his long association with Zee Marathi’s Chala Hawa Yeu Dya, but he has made it clear that the film will follow a different path.
The scale of the cast is one of the project’s most interesting features. According to Sable, 37 established Marathi artistes are currently involved, and that number could rise further as the remaining portions are completed. Rather than treating the ensemble as a publicity device, he has stressed that every actor has been included because the story demands the character. For him, a large cast has value only when the script gives each performer a reason to be there.
The project becomes even more intriguing with Bhau Kadam in the cast. Their association goes back to Chala Hawa Yeu Dya, where the duo became familiar favourites. However, this collaboration is moving into a different space. Kadam has praised the scale of the new film and has also revealed that Sable has written and acted in the project while taking charge of direction, making the film a demanding creative responsibility.
The production has not moved without challenges. Heavy monsoon rain recently forced the team to pause the remaining outdoor shoot. Instead of allowing the interruption to push the team into a hurried schedule, Sable has continued with a measured approach. The story and title have been kept away from premature publicity.
His thinking is particularly clear when he discusses the importance of the script. Sable believes a film cannot depend on well-known actors alone. The 37-member ensemble exists because the narrative needs multiple characters, and the performers are expected to have roles that belong to the story.
Sable has said that the television show and his film have different formats, treatment and storytelling needs. After spending about a decade associated with the comedy programme, he now appears keen to show audiences a side of his creativity that cannot be reduced to his television identity.
The director is also thinking carefully about theatre audiences. A trailer or teaser can influence whether viewers decide to buy a ticket, making the finished presentation especially important. Rather than announcing everything quickly, Sable is taking time with the project and aiming to create something that gives audiences a genuine reason to experience it in a cinema hall.
His career makes this transition all the more interesting. Sable, an Ayurvedic doctor with an M.S. qualification, entered entertainment after winning Maharashtracha Superstar in 2010. He subsequently worked across acting, writing, direction and television hosting, with Chala Hawa Yeu Dya becoming his most recognisable association. His move into feature filmmaking brings together several parts of his career. Colleagues have also pointed to his disciplined writing process, reflecting how seriously he treats the script before production. That preparation could be valuable for a film balancing so many characters and performers.
With production nearing its final stretch, the film now has three clear talking points: its ensemble of 37 Marathi actors, its story-led casting and Sable’s determination to make a film that stands on its own. The careful pace keeps attention on what matters most — the story, characters and theatrical experience.