Veteran actors Renuka Shahane and Rajesh Tailang join forces for ‘Ek Kadam’!

Renowned actors Renuka Shahane and #RajeshTailang join forces in the highly anticipated short film “#EkKadam,” directed by #RajeevUpadhyay. This poignant film explores the transformative journey of a housewife rediscovering her identity and independence.

Ek Kadam tells the story of Anuradha Solanki, a middle-aged housewife who has always depended on her husband, Mahendra, and never gone out alone. When Mahendra breaks his leg in an accident, Anuradha has to go out and take care of things herself. At first, she is very nervous and makes mistakes, leading to Mahendra scolding her. But as time goes on, Anuradha gains confidence and starts to find herself again.

Director Rajeev Upadhyay shared his experience of casting the lead roles: “As I wrote the script of Ek Kadam, I envisioned Renuka Shahane Ma’am as Anuradha. I texted her, shared the script, and she loved it, coming on board immediately. Rajesh sir also loved the script and joined soon after. I was ecstatic to have my first choices for the lead roles sooner than I imagined. Renuka mam and Rajesh sir turned into the characters of my film, bringing my vision to life. I am especially grateful to my producer, Amrita Dodani, for her unwavering support. Our film’s selection in various prestigious festivals and the awards we won were the icing on the cake.”

Renuka Shahane expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “When I first read the script of Ek Kadam, I was deeply moved by Anuradha’s journey. It’s a powerful story about rediscovering oneself amidst adversity. Working with Rajeev and Rajesh was a wonderful experience, and I hope the film resonates with the audience as much as it did with me.”

Rajesh Tailang also shared his thoughts, “The script of ‘Ek Kadam’ immediately drew me in. The character of Mahendra is complex, and the dynamic between him and Anuradha is compelling. It was a pleasure to work with Renuka and Rajeev. I believe this film carries an important message about empowerment and self-discovery.”

Producer Amrita Dodani remarked, “Women are often oppressed in this male-dominated society. As a woman, I relate to this deeply. ‘Ek Kadam’ is our effort to encourage women to break out of patriarchy, no matter their age or circumstances.”

Ek Kadam has garnered acclaim at various film festivals, winning numerous awards- Official Selection at Chitra Bharti Film Festival 2020 where it won Best Film and Best Actor Female awards, 2nd Shaheed Mela Film Festival, Screened at Mumbai’s prestigious Kala Ghoda Festival 2020 and Mumbai Rang Mahotsav, Official Selection at the 3rd South Asian Short Film Festival and the South Asian Film Festival of America 2020, Official Selection at Banaras Film Festival and the 8th Delhi International Film Festival 2020, Official Selection at Mumba International Short Film Festival 2023.

Ek Kadam, a 20-minute and 38-second film, has been released today on Humaravmovie, Hungama, Vodafone, and Airtel.

By Keerti Kadam