Shantanu Maheshwari Reflects on ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ Three Years Later

On February 25, 2025, the acclaimed film “Gangubai Kathiawadi” marked its third anniversary since its release in 2022. To commemorate this milestone, actor Shantanu Maheshwari took to Instagram to express his profound gratitude and reflect on the transformative journey the film has been in his life.

In his heartfelt post, Maheshwari emphasized that portraying the character Afsaan was more than just a role; it signified the beginning of a new chapter in his career. He wrote, “Some films give you a role… some films give you a journey… and then there’s ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’… which gave me both and so much more. This film changed how people saw me as an actor… but more importantly, it changed how I saw myself. No words will ever be enough to express my gratitude to Sanjay Leela Bhansali sir… what he has done for me is beyond anything I could put into words—thank you for the trust, the belief, and the opportunity.”

Expressing appreciation for the film’s cast and crew, Maheshwari recounted his daily experiences on set: “I walked onto that set every day with my heart full and my mind wide open… I learned, I unlearned, I grew. From Shruti Mahajan ma’am, who first saw something in me… to Preetisheel who curated the look… to Alia Bhatt whose dedication was inspiring… to Sudeep Chatterjee sir who is so humble and loving… to Prerna Singh ma’am for being so understanding… to Kruti Mahesh for helping me and being you… and every single person behind the scenes—makeup, hair, assistants, lightmen, spot dadas—each one played a part in shaping this experience.”

Reflecting on his emotions during the filming process, he shared, “I was living every moment on that set… excited, overwhelmed, terrified, but determined. Keeping my emotions in check was the hardest part because deep down, I knew… this was special. And it always will be.”

Maheshwari also conveyed his admiration for director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, stating, “I wish I could meet Sanjay sir more often… just to soak in more of his brilliance… to learn from him… to understand how his mind creates such magic… every part of this film feels so fresh—right from my first audition to the final day of shooting ‘Meri Jaan’… to Kruti and her team setting the floor on fire with ‘Dholida’… some moments stay with you forever… and this film gave me a lifetime of them.”

Concluding his tribute, he addressed the audience, “And lastly… YOU… thank you for every bit of love you’ve shown me… then and now. The way you embraced me and my journey in ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ means more than I can ever express… I see it, I feel it, I hold it close to my heart. Forever grateful, forever thankful.”

“Gangubai Kathiawadi,” directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Alia Bhatt in the titular role, has been lauded for its compelling narrative and powerful performances. The film not only garnered critical acclaim but also achieved commercial success, grossing over ₹209.77 crore worldwide. It is credited with revitalizing the Bollywood industry post the COVID-19 pandemic and has received numerous accolades, including five National Film Awards.

Shantanu Maheshwari’s portrayal of Afsaan, alongside Alia Bhatt’s Gangubai, has been instrumental in the film’s success, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike.