As Bharatiya audiences increasingly embrace films rooted in devotion, spirituality, history and cultural heritage, stories inspired by real-life icons and timeless values are finding renewed relevance. Among the films benefiting from this growing interest is Sant Tukaram, the acclaimed 2025 Hindi biographical drama starring Subodh Bhave and Sheena Chohan. Following the remarkable response to Hanuman Ansh and the rising popularity of culturally rooted storytelling, Sant Tukaram is now set for a theatrical re-release in February 2027, offering audiences another opportunity to experience the inspirational journey of one of Bharat’s most revered saint-poets.
Directed by Aditya Om, Sant Tukaram originally released across 300 cinemas in Bharat and chronicled the life and teachings of 15th-century poet-saint Sant Tukaram Maharaj. Renowned for challenging social discrimination through his spiritual teachings, Sant Tukaram championed faith, equality, compassion and devotion, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations. The film sought to bring these powerful messages to contemporary audiences, highlighting not only his spiritual journey but also the social reforms he advocated.
A key pillar of the film is the portrayal of Avali Jijabai, the saint’s wife, played by actress Sheena Chohan. Her performance received widespread appreciation and recently earned her the Best Actress in a Leading Role award at the Times Applaud Awards in Mumbai. Through her nuanced portrayal, Chohan brought emotional depth and authenticity to a historical figure whose support, strength and convictions played a significant role in Sant Tukaram’s life.
Announcing plans for the re-release, director Aditya Om explained that despite strong reviews during its initial theatrical run, the film faced legal complications that hindered its broader reach. According to the filmmaker, the timing is now right to bring the film back to cinemas and reintroduce audiences to the lives and teachings of Bharat’s great saints and spiritual visionaries. He expressed confidence that the renewed interest in devotional and culturally rooted cinema would help the film reach the larger audience it deserved from the beginning.
For Sheena Chohan, the re-release represents more than a second theatrical opportunity. It is a chance to reconnect audiences with stories deeply embedded in Bharat’s cultural and spiritual fabric. Reflecting on the reception of Hanuman Ansh and the growing appetite for authentic Bharatiya narratives, she emphasized that audiences continue to gravitate toward stories rooted in culture, faith and heritage. Having recently met the producers of Sant Tukaram, she expressed her delight that the film would once again reach moviegoers, allowing more people to engage with its central message that divinity resides within every individual.
The actress’s commitment to authenticity was a defining aspect of her performance as Avali Jijabai. Rather than relying solely on historical references, Chohan immersed herself in rural communities to better understand the lifestyle, values and perspectives of village women. She spent time in villages, shared meals with local families and worked alongside women in their daily routines. This firsthand experience enabled her to develop a deeper understanding of the resilience, compassion and determination that characterized Avali Jijabai’s life.
According to Chohan, Avali Jijabai was far more than a supportive spouse. She was a woman who stood alongside her husband in advocating for social transformation, particularly in relation to Dalit rights and women’s rights. Chohan was inspired by the historical figure’s unwavering belief that sincere conviction can become a force for meaningful change. This understanding shaped her portrayal, helping her present Avali Jijabai not merely as a historical character but as a symbol of courage, dignity and perseverance.
Beyond its spiritual dimensions, Sant Tukaram carries a broader social message centered on human dignity, equality and justice. Chohan believes this aspect of the story is one of the reasons it continues to resonate with modern audiences. Although the events depicted belong to a period nearly five centuries in the past, the issues of discrimination, social inclusion and human rights remain relevant today. In her view, the enduring appeal of such stories demonstrates that society continues to grapple with many of the same questions surrounding fairness, respect and equality.
The actress, who has also recently participated in discussions related to human rights at the United Nations in New York, sees a meaningful connection between the film’s themes and contemporary global conversations. She argues that the continued interest in historical narratives centered on justice and equality reflects humanity’s ongoing pursuit of these ideals. Cinema, she believes, possesses a unique power to keep such conversations alive, transforming historical experiences into living dialogues that inspire reflection and change.
The success of films like Hanuman Ansh has further reinforced the commercial and cultural viability of stories drawn from Bharat’s spiritual and civilizational heritage. For many years, mainstream cinema often prioritized contemporary narratives, but audiences are increasingly embracing films that explore mythology, history, faith and cultural identity. Chohan views this trend as evidence that people are seeking stories that offer not only entertainment but also deeper meaning and a sense of connection to their roots.
Looking ahead, the actress has an exciting slate of projects. In addition to the re-release of Sant Tukaram, she will soon be seen in the pan-Bharat film Jatasya Maranam Dhruvam and the Hindi web series Bhaayava. These projects add to a growing body of work that reflects her interest in diverse and impactful storytelling.
Despite exploring different genres, Chohan acknowledges a particular affinity for culturally rooted narratives. She is especially drawn to biographical dramas, epics and mythological stories that celebrate Bharat’s rich traditions and history. At the same time, she enjoys experimenting with action and comedy, believing that versatile actors should be willing to explore a broad spectrum of characters and experiences.
For Chohan, films such as Sant Tukaram represent far more than professional achievements. They serve as vehicles for preserving cultural memory, celebrating human values and introducing Bharat’s extraordinary stories to audiences around the world. As Sant Tukaram prepares to return to theatres in February 2027, the film offers a timely reminder that the teachings of Sant Tukaram Maharaj and the strength of Avali Jijabai continue to hold lasting relevance. Through its messages of faith, equality, justice and compassion, the film stands as an example of how cinema can bridge the past and present while inspiring future generations.
Ultimately, the re-release of Sant Tukaram arrives at a moment when Bharatiya cinema is increasingly embracing stories that are both culturally authentic and universally meaningful. For Sheena Chohan, this represents a broader movement that she is proud to be part of, one that demonstrates how Bharat’s rich heritage contains stories capable of touching hearts not only at home but across the world. As audiences eagerly await the film’s return to the big screen, its enduring message remains clear: great stories rooted in humanity, faith and equality never lose their power.
