Mumbai: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-anticipated film "Gangubai Kathiawadi" starring Alia Bhatt and Ajay Devgn will be screened at the 72nd Berlin International Film Festival in February. The screening will also mark the world premiere of the film that is set for theatrical release on 18 February 2022.

"Gangubai Kathiawadi" has been chosen to be screened as part of Berlinale Special, a segment of the film festival which is dedicated to showcasing exemplary cinema. This year’s selections are films that have been shot during the pandemic. “We are happy to premiere Gangubai Kathiawadi and to be continuing the tradition of the Berlin Film Festival being a special setting for Indian movies, this time with a film that joins the usual craft in shaping camera movement and the choreography of bodies with a subject that is socially relevant, also beyond in India,” stated artistic director of Berlin International Film Festival Carlo Chatrian. “From the very beginning we were taken by the story of Gangubai, an exceptional woman dragged into exceptional circumstances."

As Sanjay Leela Bhansali celebrates 25 years in the world of cinema, this will be his tenth film. “The story of Gangubai Kathiawadi has been very close to my heart. My team and I have given it all to make this dream possible. We take pride and honour in showcasing it at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival,” said Bhansali.

Producer Jayantilal Gada of Pen Studios added, “I believe in Mr. Bhansali and his craft. It gives me great joy that our film will be presented at the Berlin International Film Festival and I am proud to associate with him for it. Alia has given a great performance and I am thankful to Ajay Devgn too for being a part of this project. It’s a story that will engage and appeal to global audiences.”