Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] : As the release date of Pune Highway nears, the film’s cast and creators are ramping up promotions, sharing insights into the emotional and creative journey behind the adaptation of this long-celebrated stage play into a gripping cinematic thriller.
Directed by Rahul da Cunha and Bugs Bhargava Krishna, Pune Highway traces the complex journey of childhood friends whose bond is put to the test by a shocking murder. Actor Amit Sadh described the film as “dosti yaari ki film hai”, or a story of friendship, underscoring how a sudden violent event disrupts their long-standing camaraderie.
“It’s a story of friends who grew up together, lived together… however, years later, their bond takes a dramatic turn due to unforeseen circumstances. There’s a murder, and because of that, their friendship and their life get impacted,” Sadh said.
The film is based on Rahul da Cunha’s original play, which was performed in nine countries over the past two decades. The transition from stage to screen, however, wasn’t just a literal one—it involved significant creative evolution.
Jim Sarbh praised the film’s expansive adaptation. “Sometimes when a play becomes a film, it stays too loyal to the stage format. But film is a visual medium—you can do so much more. I really like how they didn’t limit themselves,” Sarbh noted.
Manjari Fadnnis, who plays Natasha, described her character as a spirited and fiercely loyal figure within the male-dominated friend group. “She’s very pampered, a complete brat, and will go to any lengths to protect them,” she shared.
Co-director Bugs Bhargava Krishna recalled the project’s long gestation, dating back to the early 2000s. “Rahul wrote the play 20 years ago. We toured it across 9 countries. Every day I’d tell him, ‘This should be a film.’ And now, finally, here we are,” he said.
Newcomer Ketaki Narayan, also part of the cast, shared her nervous excitement at working alongside seasoned actors. “I gave my 100% in the audition, and luckily, I got selected,” she said.
Pune Highway was previously screened at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa in 2023, receiving positive early feedback for its taut storytelling and emotional depth.
With themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the psychological toll of trauma, Pune Highway promises a powerful cinematic experience that bridges theatrical intensity with cinematic flair.