Genre: Drama/Adventure
Release Date: 2016
Language: Hindi
Chidiya is a 2016 Hindi-language drama film written and directed by Mehran Amrohi, produced by Faqhrul Husaini under the banner of Smiley Films in collaboration with Key Media Works. The film features Vinay Pathak, Amruta Subhash, Svar Kamble, Ayush Pathak, Inaamulhaq, Brijendra Kala, and Muzaffar Khan in pivotal roles.
Overview
Set in a humble Mumbai chawl, Chidiya tells a heartfelt story of two brothers who dream of playing badminton despite the odds stacked against them. The film beautifully captures the essence of childhood dreams, family bonds, and community togetherness, offering a tender portrayal of hope and resilience in the face of hardship.
Plot
Shanu and Bua, two spirited young brothers living with their mother in a cramped chawl, stumble upon an old badminton racket while doing odd jobs at a film studio. What begins as a playful discovery soon turns into a passionate dream. With encouragement from their mother and the support of their eccentric yet loving neighbors, the boys transform a junkyard into a small badminton court of their own. Their journey—filled with imagination, struggles, and small victories—reflects the triumph of determination and the magic of believing in simple dreams.
Cast
- Vinay Pathak as Bali
- Amruta Subhash as Vaishnavi
- Inaamulhaq as Taj (Cameo)
- Brijendra Kala as Suraj
- Svar Kamble as Shanu
- Ayush Pathak as Bua
- Hetal Gada as Ishani
- Sandeep Pathak as Tapan
Production
Filming for Chidiya took place in 2015. The chawl scenes were shot in Pune, while additional sequences were filmed at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). Outdoor scenes were captured in Mumbai, including portions at Kamal Amrohi Studio. Director Mehran Amrohi employed a style of poetic realism, using natural light and real locations to lend authenticity to the story’s setting and mood.
Release and Distribution
Although completed in 2015, Chidiya faced significant distribution setbacks amid the changing landscape of independent cinema. However, its universal message and emotional depth kept it relevant. After nearly a decade-long wait, the film is finally scheduled for a theatrical release across India on 30 May 2025, following a short postponement from its earlier date of 23 May 2025. The official trailer will premiere on 19 May 2025.
Music
The film’s music has been composed by Shailendra Barve and released under the Zee Music Company label. The soundtrack features songs that complement the film’s tender and uplifting tone.
