7th July 2023, Mumbai: British actor Rachel Shelley, best known for her role as Elizabeth Russell in the iconic film “Lagaan,” is set to make a comeback on Indian screens in the upcoming Netflix series “Kohrra.” This investigative drama, created by Sudip Sharma, the mastermind behind “Pataal Lok,” features an ensemble cast including Barun Sobti, Suvinder Vicky, Varun Badola, and Harleen Sethi.
In an interview , Sharma revealed that casting Shelley was a deliberate choice driven by practicality and the desire for authenticity. Instead of opting for a “white actor working in Mumbai” for the role, he sought an actor from the UK who could understand and adapt to the unique challenges of shooting in India, particularly amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sharma explained, “Shooting a web series is tough, we don’t have the kind of budgets that are there for films, and a professional white actor, who has done good work over there, would find it very tough to shoot here, the chaos that’s here. So, part of the reason to hire her was because she had done Lagaan, she knew what madness could be like.”
Apart from her experience in “Lagaan,” Shelley’s talent as an actor and her previous work in the West made her a suitable choice for the series. The casting process, led by the phenomenal casting director Nikita Grover, involved searching for the right actors for more than three months in Punjab. Grover, who also played a role in “Pataal Lok,” understood the world the creators aimed to portray in “Kohrra” and extensively explored Punjab’s vibrant theatre scene to find authentic local talent.
“Kohrra,” directed by Randeep Jha and produced by Clean Slate Filmz, unfolds its gripping narrative when the dead body of an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) is discovered just before his wedding. The series promises to be a thrilling exploration of secrets, mysteries, and the search for truth in the midst of a life-changing event in a Punjabi family.
With its mix of established actors, newcomers, and local talent from Punjab, “Kohrra” aims to create a compelling and realistic world that engages viewers. The series is scheduled to release on Netflix on July 15, captivating audiences with its intriguing storyline and stellar performances.
By: Tanya Chantola