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Saif Ali Khan to Lead Adaptation of ‘Black River’ in Collaboration with Hansal Mehta
Last Updated: April 08, 2025, 17:46 IST
Hansal Mehta and Saif Ali Khan Team Up for Thrilling Adaptation
In an exciting development for Indian cinema, actor Saif Ali Khan is set to headline the film adaptation of Nilanjana S. Roy’s highly praised novel, ‘Black River’. This project will be directed by Hansal Mehta, known for his remarkable storytelling and character-driven narratives. While the collaboration between Mehta and Khan was anticipated, it is now confirmed that they will bring Roy’s gripping 2022 novel to the silver screen.
Nilanjana Roy took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express her excitement for the adaptation, stating, “It’s official! Thrilled (and thank you, Saif and @mehtahansal, for your faith in Black River)”. Her enthusiasm reflects the anticipation surrounding the project, as fans eagerly await the visual interpretation of the captivating story.
According to sources, Saif Ali Khan has secured the rights to adapt ‘Black River’, which tells a harrowing tale centered on the murder of an eight-year-old girl in a village near Delhi, delving into the ensuing investigation. The narrative confronts pressing issues such as vigilante justice, religious strife, corruption, and the experiences of migrants, making it a poignant reflection of societal themes. Khan is not only set to star in this adaptation but will also co-produce it through his collaboration with Mehta’s production house, True Story Films. Currently, the project is in the developmental phase, with creative teams working diligently on the screenplay, with filming expected to start by mid-2026.
Saif Ali Khan’s portrayal of Ombir Singh, the dedicated officer tasked with unravelling this complex murder case, is keenly awaited. Both Khan and Mehta are focused on ensuring that the film remains true to the essence of the novel while appealing to a broader audience, which highlights their commitment to quality storytelling.
In addition to this promising venture, Saif Ali Khan has a busy slate ahead. He is currently working on a Netflix project directed by Rahul Dholakia, and his film ‘Jewel Thief’ is set to premiere on Netflix on April 25. Moreover, he will also be featured in the much-anticipated ‘Race 4’. Khan’s diverse and engaging choices reflect his dynamic presence in the film industry, one that continues to evolve with each project.
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