Actor Yogesh Soman to portray Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj in ‘Abhang Tukaram’!
The holy town of Dehu recently resonated with an endless chorus of “Dnyanoba Mauli – Tukaram,” accompanied by the rhythmic beats of cymbals and mridangam, filling the air with devotion. Amidst this spiritual atmosphere, devotees witnessed a divine moment – the living embodiment of Sant Tukaram Maharaj came alive through the film Abhang Tukaram. The occasion was the visit of the film’s cast to Dehu. Despite a drizzle of rain, the devotional fervor remained undeterred, and the audience experienced the darshan of Sant Tukaram Maharaj “with their very eyes.”
Veteran actor #YogeshSoman, dressed in traditional Warkari attire – turban, tilak, tulsi mala, and chiplya (hand cymbals) – appeared in the role of Sant Tukaram Maharaj, leaving the devotees spellbound. Alongside him, actress Smita Shewale will be seen essaying the role of his wife, Avalibai.
Sant Tukaram Maharaj resides eternally in the hearts of Maharashtrians through his immortal abhangas. With his nectar-like verses, he revealed eternal truths of life and offered a profound philosophy of living. Now, this spiritual legacy will come alive on the silver screen through Abhang Tukaram, directed by #DigpalLanjekar, releasing on 7th November. The film is presented by the renowned banner Panorama Studios, produced by Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, with Murlidhar Chhatwani and Ravindra Aute as co-producers.
Director Digpal Lanjekar shared, “Tukaram’s abhangas embody spirituality and the deeper meaning of life. Through this film, we are making an effort to carry these teachings to the younger generation, and Panorama Studios has given us strong support in this noble endeavor. I am grateful to their entire team.”
Speaking about the project, Kumar Mangat Pathak, Chairman of Panorama Studios, said, “Regional cinema beautifully captures folk literature, folk music, and everyday life, which makes it more relatable for audiences. Our studio has always been committed to supporting films with strong concepts.”
Echoing the sentiment, Murlidhar Chhatwani, CEO (Distribution and Syndication) of Panorama Studios, added, “With a powerful script and stellar performances, we stand firmly behind this project.”
The story and dialogues of Abhang Tukaram have been written by Yogesh Soman, while the screenplay and direction have been helmed by Digpal Lanjekar, who earlier showcased his deep understanding of the Warkari tradition through Sant Dnyaneshwaranchi Muktai. The soul of the film lies in its Warkari music, with as many as 10 abhangas being featured. Renowned singer-composer Avadhoot Gandhi has composed the film’s music.
The cast includes Mrinal Kulkarni, Sameer Dharmadhikari, Ajay Purkar, Avadhoot Gandhi, Virajas Kulkarni, Abhijeet Shwetchandra, Nupur Daithankar, Ajinkya Raut, Nikhil Raut, Bipin Surve, Sachin Bhillare, Ishmita Joshi, Rudra Kolekar, Abhir Gore, and Tejas Barve.
On the technical front, Sandeep Shinde has handled cinematography, while Sagar Shinde and Vinay Shinde managed editing. Makeup is by Atul Maske, costumes by Saurabh Kamble, background score by Mayur Raut, and sound design by Nikhil Lanjekar and Himanshu Ambekar. Action sequences are designed by Babbu Khanna, choreography by Sumit Salunkhe, and art direction by Pratik Redes and Sanjay Karole. Post-production is led by Sachin Bhillare, VFX by Shock & Awe Films, and visual promotions by Catalyst Creates.
The marketing is spearheaded by Jay Gotecha (Cineman Entertainment), while Ketaki Gadre Abhyankar serves as the executive producer.
By Keerti Kadam