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Manoj Bajpayee to Portray Gandhi in Controversial New Film

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. to-portray-gandhi-in-controversial-new-film.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 10:43 GMT by RepublicWorld
      Locales: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bihar, INDIA

Mumbai, India - February 16th, 2026 - Acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee is poised to deliver a nuanced and potentially controversial performance as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in director Sudhir Mishra's forthcoming film, tentatively titled 'Gandhi Viruddh Gandhi' (Gandhi Versus Gandhi). The project, announced earlier today, promises to move beyond the standard biographical depictions of the 'Father of the Nation,' instead focusing on a previously unexamined, and reportedly contentious, episode in Gandhi's life.

While the specifics of the narrative remain shrouded in secrecy, industry insiders suggest the film won't be a conventional cradle-to-grave biopic. Mishra, a director renowned for his complex characters and socially relevant themes - films like 'Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi' and 'Chameli' demonstrate his penchant for exploring the grey areas of human experience - is expected to present Gandhi as a multifaceted figure grappling with internal conflicts and external pressures. The title itself, 'Gandhi Viruddh Gandhi,' hints at a story centering on ideological or personal struggles within Gandhi himself, potentially examining a critical juncture where his principles were tested.

Bajpayee, consistently praised for his authentic and deeply immersive performances, is considered a perfect fit for the role. He's proven his ability to embody historical figures with both respect and vulnerability - his portrayal of various morally ambiguous characters suggests he's adept at showcasing inner turmoil. Sources close to the production describe Bajpayee as being deeply committed to understanding the complexities of Gandhi's character and the historical context surrounding the yet-to-be-revealed incident.

"This isn't about creating another hagiography," explained a source who requested anonymity. "Sudhir and Manoj are approaching this with a desire to show a human Gandhi, a man who, like all of us, was flawed and faced difficult choices. The story they're telling is about a moment where his deeply held beliefs were challenged, and he had to confront a version of himself he perhaps didn't recognize."

The choice to focus on a lesser-known aspect of Gandhi's life is a deliberate one. Many biographical films about Gandhi have concentrated on the well-documented periods of the Indian independence movement - his time in South Africa, the Salt March, his imprisonment. Mishra's approach suggests a desire to unearth a narrative that challenges existing perceptions and offers a fresh perspective on a figure often presented in idealized terms. This could mean exploring Gandhi's earlier, more radical ideas, or perhaps focusing on a disagreement with a key colleague within the Indian National Congress. The implications of this approach are significant; by highlighting a conflict, the film could spark debate and re-evaluate the legacy of Gandhi in contemporary India.

The production is expected to begin filming within the next few weeks, though casting for supporting roles remains largely unconfirmed. Industry speculation points toward a mix of established and emerging actors, with Mishra known for his ability to draw powerful performances from both. The film's producers are reportedly aiming for a late 2027 release, timed to coincide with a major anniversary related to the Indian independence movement.

The announcement of 'Gandhi Viruddh Gandhi' has already generated considerable buzz within the Indian film industry and among historians. While some express cautious optimism, others voice concerns about potential misinterpretations or controversial portrayals. Regardless, the film promises to be a significant cultural event, offering a potentially provocative and deeply insightful look into the life of one of the 20th century's most influential figures. The film's success will likely hinge on its ability to balance historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, and to present a complex portrait of Gandhi without diminishing his profound impact on the world.