The world of Indian cinema is set to welcome a new face from a lineage steeped in musical and cinematic history. Zanai Bhosle, the granddaughter of legendary singer Asha Bhosle, is poised to grace the silver screen with her acting talents in an upcoming grand historical epic. Her cousin, the acclaimed actor Shraddha Kapoor, extended her heartfelt best wishes through a poignant Instagram post.
In a display of familial support, Shraddha shared an endearing picture on her Instagram stories this Monday, with a heartfelt note to her cousin Zanai. The picture captured an affectionate moment between the two, symbolizing the bond they share. The accompanying note conveyed Shraddha’s excitement: “Meri behen filmon mein aane vaali hai hum sab ko entertain karne. She will be playing Rani Sai Bai in a cinematic tribute #ThePrideOfBharat. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. All the best toh banta hai.”
This pronouncement is not just noteworthy for its celebration of a new talent but it also highlights a continuum of a celebrated family legacy. Shraddha Kapoor’s maternal grandfather, Pandit Pandharinath Kolhapure, shared kinship with two of India’s most cherished voices, Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.
Zanai Bhosle’s auspicious entry into the world of film will see her portraying Rani Sai Bhonsale, the wife of the revered Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This ambitious project named “The Pride of Bharat – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj” is helmed by filmmaker Sandeep Ssingh, who takes his first directorial bow in the cinematic landscape with this theatrical feature.
Asha Bhosle herself couldn’t contain her joy as she took to social media to announce the debut of her grandchild in the film: “I am truly overjoyed to see my lovely granddaughter @ZanaiBhosle joining the cinema world in the upcoming grand epic #ThePrideofBharat Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. I sincerely hope that she claims her destined position in cinematic history and wish her and @thisissandeeps all the very best.”
Filmmaker Sandeep Ssingh echoed the sense of privilege in pioneering Zanai’s cinematic journey, remarking on her multifaceted talent and the historical and cultural significance she carries in her heritage. He emphasized her skills as a dancer and performer, confident that she’ll bring to life the character of Rani Sai Bai with authenticity and passion.
“The Pride of Bharat – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj” aims to captivate audiences with its grand narrative when it releases on February 19, 2026, coinciding with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. Presented by Immerso Studio and Legend Studios, this film marks a grand commitment to retelling an important chapter of India’s past.
Simultaneously, Shraddha Kapoor continues to build her impressive portfolio. Having last appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Tu Jhoothi Main Makkar’ opposite Ranbir Kapoor, she is set to explore the horror-comedy genre in the much-awaited sequel ‘Stree 2’. The sequel reunites her with RajKummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, and Aparshakti Khurrana under the direction of Amar Kaushik. The team recently commenced filming in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh, and set an official release date with a fanfare announcement event in Mumbai.
‘Stree’, released in 2018, not only enjoyed critical acclaim but also achieved blockbuster status. With its sequel slated for release in August 2024, fans eagerly await to see if the follow-up can match or surpass its predecessor’s success.
The introduction of Zanai Bhosle to the cinematic world represents the continuation of a remarkable family tradition, promising to bring a fresh and vibrant talent to the forefront. As the Indian film industry prepares to embrace another member from the eminent Bhosle family, the anticipation among audiences and the industry alike is palpable.
*Please note, this article is based on information available up to the time of publication, and some details may have evolved since.
