Sudhir Mishra back to British Raj; to develop Indian period drama set in 1840

Sudhir Mishra

After offering a searing commentary on caste in Serious Men (2020), director Sudhir Mishra has found his next subject in the pages of history. The filmmaker is currently developing a period drama that traces the rise of the British Raj in India during the 19th century. "The story is based in 1840. It's about time we tell our own stories. We owe it to the next generation so that they know the story [of our freedom]. The show takes a hard look at what the Brits did to us, and how they established [their rule] over the country."

Mishra has envisioned the web series, backed by Applause Entertainment, as a three-season offering. "I have written the first season. Given the nature of the subject, the series has to be mounted on a massive scale, and it will take us time to roll the project," he says. Ask him if he plans to reunite with Serious Men actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui for the historical venture, and the director points out that the narrative will demand a fair share of international actors. "I would love to work with Nawaz again. If I have a role for him, I will go to him. It will be an international show and will include Western actors alongside Indian artistes."