Filmmaker Hansal Mehta is making a strong mark on Indian cinema with his production banner True Story Films, anchored by the upcoming post-apocalyptic thriller “Pralay” starring Ranveer Singh. Described as a zombie survival story, the film is directed by Jai Mehta and co-produced in collaboration with Singh’s banner, Maa Kasam Films. Mehta has called the project “a film unlike anything India has attempted before,” highlighting its ambition and scale.
Launched in January 2025 with producer Sahil Saigal, True Story Films is rapidly growing its portfolio across Hindi films, regional cinema, and unscripted content. “Pralay” sits at the centre of this expanding lineup, signalling Mehta’s focus on bold, genre-driven storytelling for Indian audiences.
Alongside the high-octane thriller, Mehta is also directing “Porbandar”, an action drama set in Mahatma Gandhi’s birthplace. The film explores a violent and gritty narrative, providing a stark contrast to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy.
Currently in production is “Dilkashi”, a romantic musical marking the Hindi debut of acclaimed filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery. Produced with Amazon MGM Studios, the film features music by Oscar-winning composer A. R. Rahman. Mehta describes it as “a love story told in Pellissery’s distinctive cinematic style,” promising a unique blend of romance and artistry.
True Story Films’ growing slate also includes “Kehar Singh”, directed by Ajitpal Singh, and the cannibalistic horror film “Mehfooz”, which has completed development.
In regional cinema, the banner is backing the Gujarati historical film “Sardar Asardar”, based on Indian statesman Vallabhbhai Patel, and the Punjabi indie “Hanere de Panchi”, directed by Shashank Walia.
The company is also branching into unscripted and hybrid content, co-producing “Family Business” with Abundantia Entertainment, supporting Shonali Bose’s “Tongues of the Tree” starring Pratik Gandhi, and developing “Rasooi”, an AI-powered food series.
Saigal emphasises that True Story Films functions as a boutique studio focused on projects that inspire its creators. Mehta adds that in today’s competitive environment, bold storytelling is key, stating simply, “audacity wins.”
With Pralay leading the charge, True Story Films is positioning itself as a studio unafraid to explore new genres, regional stories, and innovative formats, signalling an exciting era for Indian cinema.
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