Hansal Mehta's web series starring Pratik Gandhi and Harry Potter fame Tom Felton set for grand premiere in Toronto
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When the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, history will also be made for Indian storytelling on the global stage. Hansal Mehta 's highly anticipated web series Gandhi, starring Pratik Gandhi in the titular role, will premiere as part of TIFF's prestigious Primetime Programme — marking the first time an Indian series has been showcased in this section.The series, produced by Applause Entertainment and adapted from Ramachandra Guha's acclaimed biographies of Mahatma Gandhi, has music composed by the legendary AR Rahman, who announced the news on X (formerly Twitter). 'Glad to announce the world premiere of Gandhi at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival 2025, the first Indian series to be selected in TIFF's prestigious Primetime slate! This series is Produced by Applause Entertainment and Directed by Hansal Mehta,' Rahman posted, also revealing a striking glimpse of Pratik Gandhi's look.Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India, Hansal Mehta expressed deep gratitude for the selection, recalling his long association with TIFF. 'TIFF has previously been home to some of my most precious pieces of work, and to have perhaps the most ambitious story of my career premiering there is doubly special, particularly in TIFF's 50th year. To share this journey at a festival that has embraced me over the years is both humbling and surreal. I hope it opens the door for more Indian series to find their place on the world stage,' he said.For the premiere, Hansal Mehta will be joined by lead actor Pratik Gandhi, producer Sameer Nair, and a notable lineup of cast and crew including Kabir Bedi, Siddharth Khaitan, and Harry Potter star Tom Felton. Their presence will highlight the scale and ambition of the project, which blends historical depth with cinematic storytelling aimed at a global audience.TIFF's Primetime Programme, which showcases bold, original television storytelling from around the world, has now opened its doors to Indian creators with Gandhi. The milestone reflects the rising appetite for Indian narratives in international festivals.
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