After creating buzz at several international film festivals, ‘Saali Mohabbat’ the much-awaited ZEE5 Original film marking Tisca Chopra’s directorial debut is all set to premiere exclusively on ZEE5 later this year.

Starring Radhika Apte, Divyenndu Sharma, Anurag Kashyap, Anshumaan Pushkar, Sauraseni Maitra, and Sharat Saxena, the film promises to be an intense exploration of love, betrayal, and the complex emotions that drive human choices.

Produced by Jio Studios and Manish Malhotra’s Stage5 Production, the thriller-drama marks a new chapter for the celebrated designer as he steps into the world of digital production. ‘Saali Mohabbat’ is also ZEE5’s third collaboration with Jio Studios, following the success of ‘Hisaab Barabar’ and ‘Mrs.’ starring R. Madhavan and Sanya Malhotra, and the recent Bhagwat featuring Arshad Warsi and Jitendra Kumar. Radhika Apte, who last impressed audiences with her performance in Mrs. Undercover, makes her return to the platform in what promises to be another powerful role.

‘Saali Mohabbat’ has already made its mark at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and the Chicago South Asian Film Festival. The story follows Smita (Radhika Apte), a small-town housewife whose seemingly simple life takes a dark turn into a web of deceit, infidelity, and moral conflict. What begins as a domestic drama gradually unfolds into a gripping psychological thriller where love blurs into obsession and truth collides with illusion.

Kaveri Das, Business Head, Hindi ZEE5, said, “At ZEE5, our constant endeavour is to bring stories that challenge conventions and connect with audiences on a deeper level. With Saali Mohabbat, we’re thrilled to present a thriller that’s not just about suspense, but about the intricate emotions that drive human choices. Collaborating once again with Jio Studios and working with creative powerhouses like Manish Malhotra and Tisca Chopra has been incredibly rewarding.”

Jyoti Deshpande, President – Jio Studios (Media & Content Business, RIL), added, “At Jio Studios, our constant pursuit is to back bold voices and powerful stories that transcend genres. Saali Mohabbat is a shining example of that vision — an ingeniously crafted thriller that marks our proud collaboration with producer Manish Malhotra, who seamlessly extends his creative brilliance from fashion to film. We are delighted that Saali Mohabbat has found a home on ZEE5, where our stories continue to reach wide, appreciative audiences.”

Producer Manish Malhotra shared, “Stage5 Production was founded with a clear intention — to back stories that are original in thought and strong in craft. I’m pleased to announce Saali Mohabbat — a layered, character-driven drama that examines power, silence, and the invisible cost of human choices. Every creative and strategic decision has been shaped with purpose and responsibility. We’ve had the privilege of working with an ensemble of talented actors who bring rhythm and truth to their characters.”

Talking about her directorial debut, Tisca Chopra said, “With Saali Mohabbat, I wanted to tell a story that feels both intimate and unsettling — one that captures a woman’s gaze in a world full of hidden fractures and polite façades. The film explores fragile boundaries of trust, betrayal, and identity through a deeply female perspective. Directing this film has been both terrifying and liberating, and I’m thankful to Jio Studios, ZEE5, and Manish Malhotra for believing in this story.”

‘Saali Mohabbat’ is expected to be one of the most awaited titles on ZEE5 this year — a film that blends cinematic artistry, emotional intensity, and strong female storytelling, backed by some of the most respected creative names in the industry.