Ahilyabai Biopic to Roll Out in UP Next Year: Dev Maneria on Anushka Shetty and Historic Locations

Image Source: Internet

A long-awaited biopic on the legendary Ahilyabai Holkar is finally taking shape, with actor-filmmaker Dev Maneria confirming the project will start filming in mid-2026 in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Maneria, who recently visited Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Varanasi, has finalized locations for the shoot across these cities. The film aims to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the queen and will feature Maneria playing her husband, Khanderao Holkar. In the midst of location scouting, Maneria and actress Daisy Shah visited these destinations, planning to construct a set in Varanasi for the main shoot. Additional scenes will be filmed in Prayagraj and Lucknow, while some portions and montages will be shot in Indore, where the story is set. Maneria, who will also produce the film, is tight-lipped about the full cast, stating that they are in advanced talks with Anushka Shetty, but a formal announcement is pending. The title 'Ahilyabai' has already been registered for the film. The decision to shoot in UP was influenced by the state's Film Bandhu policies and subsidy facilities. Although Madhya Pradesh also offers subsidies and good facilities, Maneria chose UP for its more favorable location-wise. Meanwhile, Maneria is gearing up for the release of his feature film 'Bihu Attack', where he stars alongside Daisy Shah. The fictional story is set against the rich backdrop of Assamese culture and will be shot in Kashmir and Assam. Maneria's debut feature film promises to provide 'rooted and clean entertainment' with a talented ensemble cast, including Rahul Dev, Arbaaz Khan, Hiten Tejwani, and Yukti Kapoor.