Anushka Sharma returns to the big screen after a three-year hiatus (due to the pandemic and her maternity leave) to star in a film based on the lives and times of Jhulan Goswami, women’s cricket’s all-time greatest fast bowler. The extremely popular Netflix video Chakda Xpress follows Jhulan, one of the fastest female pacers in world cricket history, as she rises through the ranks overcoming numerous obstacles to realise her one and only dream: to play cricket.
Anushka has begun filming Chakda Xpress, a film produced by Clean Slate Filmz that will be shot in India and the United Kingdom. “It seems like my first film again,” she says, “and I’m incredibly happy to begin this adventure with Chakda Xpress, a picture in which I sincerely believe.” Despite my desire to return to the movies as soon as possible, the pandemic prevented me from doing so. I wish I could have entertained and engaged with fans and audiences much earlier.”
The actor would fly to the United Kingdom to shoot a 30-day schedule for the cricket film, indicating Chakda Xpress’s big budget. Anushka has spent months preparing to take on the role of the renowned Indian fast bowler.
“A film of this scale required considerable preparation in all aspects,” she explains, “and we are happy that Chakda Xpress has started off on the right foot.” I’m pleased to artistically cooperate with my producer brother, Karnesh Sharma, and my director, Prosit Roy, on Chakda Xpress, a beautiful script that seeks to make powerful points, and I’m proud to convey a great underdog story of a woman.”
Jhulan achieved her aim and went on to captain the Indian women’s national cricket team, serving as a role model for the country’s budding players. An Indian postage stamp was issued in her honour in 2018. Jhulan holds the world record for the most wickets taken by a female cricketer in a single international career.
“It is a fact that women must go the additional mile to earn their place in this patriarchal culture,” Anushka says. Jhulan Goswami’s life exemplifies how she forged her own path and struggled for every inch of attention and recognition.”
“I hope I can do justice to this great script inspired by Jhulan’s life and times,” she says. I’m looking forward to challenging myself and pushing myself every day on set with Chakda Xpress, and I hope to give this film my all.”