Bollywood is witnessing a compelling trend of acclaimed actors portraying complex, corrupt godmen, a genre recently popularized by Bobby Deol in 'Aashram' and Jaideep Ahlawat in 'Maharaj' (2024). Now, veteran actor Chandrachur Singh is set to join their ranks, taking on the antagonist role in Huma Qureshi's highly anticipated upcoming film, 'Bayaan'. This marks an exciting new chapter for Singh, known for his recent comeback performances in 'Aarya' and 'Cuttputlli' (2022).
About 'Bayaan'
'Bayaan' promises a gripping narrative, with Huma Qureshi starring as a rookie police officer in Rajasthan. Her mission: to investigate a powerful cult leader, a 'Maharaj', accused of heinous crimes. The film delves into her struggle to secure a 'bayaan' or testimony against a villain who wields immense influence over the local police and political system. This challenging role showcases Qureshi's dedication to impactful storytelling.
Production and Festival Recognition
Huma Qureshi also serves as an executive producer for 'Bayaan', demonstrating her commitment to the project. The film is directed by Bikas Ranjan Mishra and produced by Shiladitya Bora's Platoon One Films, Summit Studios, and Guidant Films. 'Bayaan' garnered international attention, being screened at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2025, alongside other notable Indian productions like Neeraj Ghaywan’s 'Homebound' (2025) and Anurag Kashyap's 'Bandar'.
Star-Studded Cast and Release
Beyond the powerful performances from Huma Qureshi and Chandrachur Singh, the film boasts a talented ensemble cast:
• Sachin Khedekar
• Vibhore Mayank
• Swati Das
• Sampa Mandal
'Bayaan' is currently slated for a theatrical release in 2026, promising a thought-provoking cinematic experience for audiences.
Huma Qureshi's Vision for 'Bayaan'
In an August 2025 interview, Huma Qureshi expressed her enthusiasm for 'Bayaan', highlighting the script's brilliance and the directors' clear vision. She described the story as "India-specific, but told with a larger global audience in mind." The film's international backing, including support from the International Film Festival Rotterdam’s Hubert Bals Fund and script mentorship from Craig Mazin ('Chernobyl' fame) during the LA Residency, underscores its potential. Qureshi's decision to bet on this independent project reinforces her belief that passion is a driving force in moviemaking.
