"Each character has multiple layers."
Rabindranath Tagore’s classic short story Shasti is gearing up for a contemporary cinematic revival, reimagined for modern audiences through a bold new lens.
The upcoming film Shasti, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Leesa Gazi, adapts Tagore’s moral universe into today’s media-driven society.
Rather than recreating earlier adaptations, the film reconstructs the narrative within present-day Dhaka, shaped by digital scrutiny.
The project stars Chanchal Chowdhury and Pori Moni as leads. Aanon Siddiqua and Orko Das will also have pivotal roles in the story
The title and ensemble cast were formally announced during a press conference held at a Dhaka hotel.
Media representatives, producers, and the principal cast attended, marking the official launch of the film’s journey.
At the centre of Shasti lies the mysterious death of Lucky, a well-known social media influencer.
Her sudden passing sparks public outrage, online speculation, and relentless pressure for instant justice across platforms.
Suspicion soon centres on Lucky’s sister-in-law Meera, who becomes the prime accused amid growing media trials.
As investigations unfold, the film examines whether Meera’s guilt is genuine or strategically constructed by public narratives.
Set against contemporary urban anxieties, the story explores fractured family relationships, buried resentments, and moral compromise.
While inspired by Tagore’s themes, the film will explore contemporary urban anxieties.
Chanchal Chowdhury described the project by saying:
“Working on a modern, psychological adaptation of Rabindranath Tagore’s timeless story Shasti is a rare opportunity for any actor.
“Each character has multiple layers, which makes portraying them on screen both challenging and rewarding.”
Pori Moni echoed similar excitement, stating: “The moment the director narrated the script to me, I agreed instantly.
“The way female characters are portrayed in this story within a contemporary context is truly commendable.”
Aanon Siddiqua, collaborating again with Gazi, shared: “Working on ‘Shasti’ is an extraordinary and exciting experience for me.”
She added that she is preparing intensely for what she described as one of her most demanding performances.
Orko Das, making his Bangladeshi feature debut, said: “This will be my first feature-length film in Bangladesh.”
Director Leesa Gazi explained the vision behind the adaptation, saying:
“Shasti grew out of an attempt to understand the time we are living in.”
She added: “Though its roots lie in Rabindranath Tagore’s short story, the film reflects today’s reality, the gap between real and virtual lives.”
The film is an international collaboration involving production houses from Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Hong Kong.
Principal photography for Shasti is scheduled to begin in Dhaka between October and November 2026.
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