April 28, 2025: Veteran actor and filmmaker Anupam Kher has officially introduced newcomer Shubhangi as the lead actress in his upcoming directorial venture Tanvi The Great. The grand reveal took place at a press conference in Mumbai, where Bollywood icon Kajol did the honors of introducing the debutant.
The identity of the lead actress had been kept under wraps until today’s unveiling. Standing alongside Kajol, Shubhangi shared her excitement, saying, “Amazing, excited—and you (Kajol) are standing next to me!”
Praising Kajol for her enduring talent and charm, Kher said, “I just called her up and said I am unveiling Tanvi, will you come? She said, ‘Yes.’ There was no discussion—and she is here.” Expressing his admiration, he added, “…I learned a lot from you,” to Kajol.
Explaining why he chose Kajol for the event, Kher remarked, “She is the best looking, the best performer, and she is relevant today both as a person and as a performer. And she doesn’t take herself so seriously—that is the best part about her. If I had made this film a few years ago, I would have cast Kajol as Tanvi.”
The first teaser of Tanvi The Great, titled Meet Tanvi, was also released at the event, showcasing Shubhangi in the titular role. A student of Anupam Kher’s acting institute Actor Prepares, Shubhangi was chosen from among many aspiring talents trained by the school.
“When it came to casting Tanvi, I was determined to discover a fresh face and offer a newcomer this opportunity,” said Kher. “Shubhangi is an exceptionally bright talent. She has given her all to portray Tanvi—a story very close to my heart.”
Shubhangi expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am immensely grateful to Anupam Kher Sir and Actor Prepares for giving me this opportunity to be the face of such a special film. Playing Tanvi has been an overwhelming yet enriching experience.”
Tanvi The Great is scheduled to make its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival within the Marché du Film segment. The film is directed by Anupam Kher, features music by Oscar-winner M.M. Keeravani, and is co-produced by Anupam Kher Studios and NFDC.
The film also stars Game of Thrones actor Iain Glen and includes sound design by Academy Award-winner Resul Pookutty (Slumdog Millionaire).