ZEE5, India’s largest home-grown video streaming platform, has announced its latest Marathi original series ‘Baai Tujhyapayi’, a moving social drama rooted in the themes of empowerment, equality, and education. The series is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nipun Dharmadhikari and written by Nikhil Khaire and Mukta Bamthe,.

According to a ZEE5 press release, ‘Baai Tujhyapay’ is adapted from the Tamil ZEE5 series ‘Ayali’, originally written by Muthukumar. Set in the early 1990s in the fictional village of Vesaicha Vadgaon, the show follows the journey of Ahilya (portrayed by Sajiri Joshi), a bright and determined young girl who dares to challenge deeply entrenched traditions that deny women the right to dream. Her aspiration to become a doctor drives the story — one that speaks to the struggles and resilience of countless women silenced by superstition and patriarchal customs.

The series boasts an ensemble cast featuring Sajiri Joshi, Kshitee Jog, Siddhesh Dhuri, Shivraj Waichal, Vibhavari Deshpande, Gautami Kachi, Anil Kamble and Anil More, each contributing to the layered storytelling that blends family drama with a social message.

Speaking about the new show, Hema V.R., Business Head, Marathi ZEE5, said, “At ZEE5, our focus is on championing content that sparks conversations and creates impact, and Baai Tujhyapayi reflects this vision. The first ‘why’ is never easy — but it is always the most powerful. This story captures that moment of courage when a young girl chooses to question rather than conform. By collaborating with strong storytellers like Nipun Dharmadhikari and a talented cast, we are proud to present a narrative that entertains while inspiring change.”

Director Nipun Dharmadhikari shared that the series is close to his heart. “‘Baai Tujhyapayi’ speaks of the courage it takes to stand up against centuries of blind faith. Through Ahilya’s story, we want to remind audiences that change often begins with one determined voice. I’m grateful to ZEE5 for backing such a relevant subject and taking it to a wider audience,” he said.

Producer Keyur Godse of Sixteen by Sixty-Four Productions added, “Our goal with ‘Baai Tujhyapayi’ was to tell a story that feels both authentic and universal. Though set in rural Maharashtra of the 90s, its core message of equality, freedom, and education resonates even today. We are proud to partner with ZEE5 in bringing this powerful story to audiences everywhere.”