Manish Malhotra Wants To Challenge Convention

PANAJI (ANI) – Ace fashion designer Manish Malhotra recently opened up about his foray into filmmaking and the inspiration behind his production house, Stage5 Productions. Reflecting on his long-standing desire to direct and produce films, Malhotra said, “I’ve always wanted to produce and direct a film. During COVID, I had the time to reflect and realized I was deeply invested in my career in fashion, which I love. However, I wanted to pursue this passion as well. That’s when I launched Stage5 Productions.”

Talking about his debut film, Saali Mohabbat, he shared, “Three and a half years ago, I began looking for unique scripts. When Tisca Chopra and her husband narrated this story to me, I immediately knew I wanted to make it. The film speaks about women, strength, and a deep connection to the earth and plantations—elements that really touched and intrigued me. I didn’t want Stage5 to start with something predictable, like a glamorous, fashion-forward narrative. This film felt like the perfect beginning.”

Titled Saali Mohabbat, the film also marks actress Tisca Chopra’s debut as a director. The suspense drama revolves around a housewife caught in a gripping tale of infidelity, deceit, and murder. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes Radhika Apte, Divyenndu, Anshumaan Pushkar, Sauraseni Maitra, Sharat Saxena, and Anurag Kashyap, the movie promises to deliver an unconventional and powerful story.