Home / Arts and Entertainment / Indie Film Finds Its Voice: 'Nukkad Naatak' Hits Theaters
Indie Film Finds Its Voice: 'Nukkad Naatak' Hits Theaters
16 Mar
Summary
- Filmmakers chose theaters for 'Nukkad Naatak' despite initial OTT preference.
- The film was made on a modest budget, focusing on social issues.
- Street casting in Dhanbad was used to find authentic actors for the film.

Director Tanmaya Shekhar and debutant actor Moulsri's film 'Nukkad Naatak' has defied the trend of digital releases by premiering in theaters. Initially aiming for an Over-The-Top (OTT) platform debut, the filmmakers encountered selectivity from streaming services. They now hope that theatrical buzz will expand the film's reach online. The movie was produced on a modest budget, with a focus on delivering impactful storytelling in contrast to prevalent hyper-violent films.
Shekhar, a former data scientist, transitioned to filmmaking after finding his previous career unfulfilling. His personal experiences, growing up near an IIT campus and observing a nearby slum, inspired the film's narrative. Molshri, who also produced the film, detailed her own struggles as an aspiring actor before collaborating with Shekhar. The production involved significant resourcefulness, including street casting in Dhanbad and creative crowd scene management.
'Nukkad Naatak' centers on two best friends, Molshri and Shivang, who must enroll five slum children in a school after a canteen robbery. The film, released on February 27, aims to highlight nuanced social issues and real-life experiences, which the creators believe are often overshadowed by mainstream, violent cinema. They aspire for their film to reflect the world young audiences inhabit and aspire towards.




