Mumbai, April 3 – The teaser for the Gujarati film, ‘Dhabkaaro’, was unveiled on Friday. It offers a glimpse into the film’s world, introducing Aarjav Trivedi and Deven Bhojani in their respective roles. While Aarjav brings a grounded presence, Deven’s character stands out with a nuanced portrayal that hints at two contrasting aspects.
The teaser keeps things intriguing, offering just enough to spark curiosity about the story and its emotional depth.
The film is directed by Abhishek Shah, a National Award-winning filmmaker, known for ‘Hellaro’ and ‘Umbarro’. ‘Dhabkaaro’ promises a relatable and emotionally engaging story that will resonate with audiences across regions.
This film marks the first Gujarati film for Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment in their 75-year journey.
Produced by Yatin Panchasara, Kandisa Panchasara, Amar Desai, Jayminn Patell, Aayush Patel, Abhishek Shah, Mit Jani, and Prateek Gupta, with Dipti Dinesh Jindal serving as the associate producer. The film is written and directed by Abhishek Shah.
The film is scheduled to release in theaters on Gujarat Divas, May 1, 2026.
Meanwhile, Abhishek Shah, the director of the film, gained widespread recognition for his debut feature ‘Hellaro’, which won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film at the 66th National Film Awards. The film, set against the backdrop of rural Kutch, explores themes of patriarchy, gender roles, and female expression through the folk dance Garba. It was praised for its ensemble cast, grounded storytelling, and strong cultural context. Before entering feature filmmaking, Shah was involved in theatre and advertising, which contributed to his narrative style and visual sensibility.
‘Hellaro’ was also recognized for reviving interest in Gujarati cinema on a national scale, bringing regional storytelling into mainstream discussion. The film’s critical and commercial reception helped position Shah as a significant voice in contemporary regional filmmaking.
His work reflects an emphasis on authenticity, ensemble performances, and locally rooted narratives rather than formula-driven storytelling. His National Award win established him early as a filmmaker of credibility and influence within India’s regional film landscape.