In a momentous celebration of Indian cinema and social inclusion, veteran actor and filmmaker Anupam Kher hosted a special screening of his much-anticipated film “Tanvi The Great” for President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. The event, held just days ahead of the film’s worldwide release, marked a significant milestone not only for the film’s cast and crew but also for the broader conversation around representation, resilience, and the power of dreams in contemporary India.
The atmosphere at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre was electric as dignitaries, artists, and invited guests gathered for the special screening of “Tanvi The Great.” The anticipation was palpable, not only because of the film’s subject matter but also due to the rare honor of presenting it before the President of India. As the lights dimmed and the opening credits rolled, there was a sense that everyone present was witnessing a moment of cultural significance—a celebration of cinema’s power to reflect and shape societal values.
Anupam Kher, who has long been an advocate for inclusive storytelling, took a moment before the screening to address the audience. He spoke passionately about the journey of making “Tanvi The Great,” highlighting the challenges and triumphs involved in bringing a story about neurodiversity to the mainstream. Kher’s words resonated with many in the audience, especially those who have experienced or witnessed the struggles of individuals with autism and their families. His commitment to authenticity and empathy was evident in every aspect of the film’s production.
The film itself unfolded as a poignant narrative, weaving together themes of loss, hope, and perseverance. Shubhangi’s portrayal of Tanvi was both nuanced and powerful, capturing the complexities of living with autism while dreaming big. The character’s interactions with her mother, played by Pallavi Joshi, and her grandfather, portrayed by Boman Irani, added emotional depth and realism to the story. Audiences were visibly moved during scenes depicting Tanvi’s determination to overcome societal barriers and fulfill her father’s dream.
One of the most striking aspects of “Tanvi The Great” was its unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by differently-abled individuals in India. The film did not shy away from showing the prejudices, misunderstandings, and institutional hurdles that Tanvi encounters on her journey. Yet, it balanced these moments with scenes of kindness, support, and acceptance, offering a hopeful vision of what is possible when society embraces diversity. The message was clear: every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves respect and opportunity.
President Murmu’s reaction to the film was heartfelt and sincere. After the screening, she took the stage to commend the cast and crew for their exceptional work. She spoke about the importance of representation in media and how stories like Tanvi’s can inspire change at both the individual and societal levels. Her words carried special weight, given her own journey as someone who has overcome significant obstacles to reach the highest office in the land. The President’s endorsement was seen as a validation of the film’s core message and a call to action for greater inclusivity.
A Landmark Event at Rashtrapati Bhavan
The screening, organized at the esteemed Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi, brought together the film’s principal cast, debutant Shubhangi (who plays the titular Tanvi), Karan Tacker, Boman Irani, and other creative and technical members. The presence of President Murmu, India’s Commander-in-Chief and a symbol of perseverance and empowerment, elevated the occasion to one of national significance. Anupam Kher, visibly moved, described the event as the “ultimate moment of pride” in his four-decade-long career.
A Story of Inclusion and Aspiration
“Tanvi The Great” tells the inspiring story of Tanvi Raina, a 21-year-old woman on the autism spectrum. Living with her mother Vidya and her grandfather Colonel Pratap Raina, Tanvi is driven by the memory of her late father, Captain Samar Raina, an Indian Army officer whose dream was to salute the national flag at the Siachen Glacier. Determined to honor his legacy, Tanvi sets out to join the army herself, embarking on a journey of self-discovery, courage, and unyielding resolve.
The film’s narrative, rooted in the themes of inclusion and determination, has already resonated with audiences and critics worldwide. It stands as a testament to the idea that being “different” is not a limitation but a unique strength—a message President Murmu herself embodies and championed during her remarks at the screening.
President Murmu’s Heartfelt Endorsement
After watching the film, President Droupadi Murmu praised “Tanvi The Great” for its powerful message of inclusion and the spirit of overcoming adversity. She highlighted how the film’s portrayal of a young autistic woman’s journey to fulfill her dreams serves as an inspiration for millions, especially those who feel marginalized or underestimated. President Murmu’s endorsement was deeply meaningful for the entire team, with Anupam Kher expressing gratitude for her support and calling her “the epitome of different but no less.”
An Internationally Acclaimed Production
Before its special screening at Rashtrapati Bhavan, “Tanvi The Great” had already made waves on the international film festival circuit. The film received standing ovations at Cannes, New York, Houston, and London, and was lauded at special previews for the National Defence Academy and the Southern Command in Pune. Its universal themes of love, loss, and triumph over adversity have struck a chord with diverse audiences, positioning it as a frontrunner for awards and critical acclaim.
A Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team
The film boasts a stellar ensemble, featuring powerhouse performers from both Indian and international cinema. Alongside Anupam Kher, the cast includes Jackie Shroff, Arvind Swami, Boman Irani, Pallavi Joshi, Karan Tacker, Nasser, and British actor Iain Glen. The technical crew is equally illustrious, with two Oscar winners—music director M.M. Keeravani and sound designer Resul Pookutty—bringing their expertise to the project. Japanese cinematographer Keiko Nakahara’s visual storytelling further enriches the film’s emotional depth.
Produced by Anupam Kher Studios in association with NFDC, and distributed globally by Excel Entertainment and AA Films, “Tanvi The Great” is set for a worldwide theatrical release on July 18, 2025.
Emotional Reactions and a Message for India
The special screening was marked by emotional moments, with cast and crew members visibly moved by the President’s presence and her heartfelt response. Anupam Kher, who both directed and acted in the film, called it the “most memorable moment” of his career, emphasizing how the film’s tagline—“Different But No Less”—echoes the journey of President Murmu herself. Social media was abuzz with images and clips from the event, showing the President interacting warmly with the cast and sharing her thoughts on the film’s impact.
A Cultural Milestone and a Call for Inclusion
“Tanvi The Great” arrives at a time when conversations around neurodiversity, inclusion, and women’s empowerment are gaining momentum in India. By centering the story on a young autistic woman’s quest to join the Indian Army, the film challenges stereotypes and encourages viewers to embrace diversity in all its forms. President Murmu’s public endorsement amplifies this message, sending a powerful signal about the importance of representation and opportunity for all.
Looking Ahead: Anticipation Builds for Release
With its official release set for July 18, “Tanvi The Great” is poised to make a significant impact at the box office and in the hearts of viewers. The film’s unique blend of emotional storytelling, social relevance, and cinematic excellence has already generated considerable buzz. As audiences across India and the world prepare to experience Tanvi’s journey, the film stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of cinema.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Indian Storytelling
The special screening of “Tanvi The Great” for President Droupadi Murmu marks a defining moment in Indian cinema—one that bridges the worlds of art, leadership, and social change. Anupam Kher’s heartfelt tribute to resilience and inclusion, endorsed by the highest office in the country, sets a new standard for meaningful storytelling. As “Tanvi The Great” prepares to reach audiences everywhere, its message of courage, empathy, and possibility will continue to inspire generations to come.
The presence of two Oscar-winning technicians—music director M.M. Keeravani and sound designer Resul Pookutty—added to the film’s artistic gravitas. Their contributions elevated the cinematic experience, with Keeravani’s evocative score enhancing the emotional resonance of key scenes and Pookutty’s sound design immersing viewers in Tanvi’s world. The technical excellence of the film was matched by its visual storytelling, thanks to Keiko Nakahara’s cinematography, which captured both the grandeur of the Indian landscape and the intimacy of Tanvi’s personal journey.
Social media platforms lit up with praise for the film and the special screening event. Hashtags related to “Tanvi The Great,” Anupam Kher, and President Murmu trended nationwide, with viewers sharing their own stories of resilience and inclusion. Many parents of differently-abled children expressed gratitude for the film’s honest depiction of their experiences, while advocates for disability rights hailed it as a watershed moment for Indian cinema. The buzz generated by the event is expected to translate into strong box office numbers and sustained public interest.
The impact of “Tanvi The Great” extends beyond the silver screen. Educational institutions, NGOs, and advocacy groups have already begun organizing discussions and workshops inspired by the film’s themes. There is hope that the film will spark a broader conversation about accessibility, inclusive education, and employment opportunities for neurodiverse individuals. The film’s success could pave the way for more stories that challenge stereotypes and celebrate the unique strengths of every individual.
For Anupam Kher, the journey of “Tanvi The Great” has been deeply personal. In interviews following the screening, he reflected on the transformative power of storytelling and the responsibility of artists to use their platforms for social good. Kher’s dedication to the project, from script development to casting and production, has set a new benchmark for socially conscious filmmaking in India. His collaboration with a diverse and talented team underscores the importance of collective effort in bringing meaningful stories to life.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of accomplishment and optimism among all those involved. The special screening of “Tanvi The Great” at Rashtrapati Bhavan was more than just a cinematic event—it was a celebration of empathy, courage, and the enduring human spirit. The film’s message, echoed by President Murmu’s words, will continue to inspire audiences and drive conversations about inclusion and equality long after the credits have rolled.
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