It’s been over two years since Chakda Xpress was announced with high expectations, marking Anushka Sharma’s much-anticipated return to acting. The biopic, based on the inspiring journey of Indian cricketer Jhulan Goswami, generated considerable buzz when unveiled in 2022. However, since then, the project has been shrouded in silence, leaving both fans and those involved with the film increasingly restless.
In a recent conversation with News18 Showsha, actor Dibyendu Bhattacharya, who plays a key role in the film, echoed the widespread confusion over the delay. “You have no idea how eagerly I’m waiting for the release. It’s a beautiful film. I saw it at (director) Prosit Roy’s house, and even though it wasn’t fully completed, it blew me away,” Dibyendu said.
He didn’t hold back in his admiration for Anushka Sharma, calling her performance in Chakda Xpress her “best performance to date.” When asked about the film’s status, Dibyendu candidly admitted, “I don’t know. I would’ve told you if I had any updates. But Clean Slate is on one side, and Netflix is on the other. What’s going on between them, I have no clue.”
What’s the Hold-Up?
Chakda Xpress was produced by Clean Slate Filmz, Anushka’s home banner helmed by her brother Karnesh Ssharma. Initially slated for release on Netflix, the film became part of a broader multi-title deal between the streamer and Clean Slate. However, that partnership reportedly dissolved in 2024, affecting several in-development and completed projects—including Chakda Xpress.
Rumors suggest Clean Slate Filmz is attempting to repurchase the rights to the film from Netflix in order to release it via a different platform—either theatrically or through another streaming partner. As of now, neither Clean Slate nor Netflix has issued any official update.
A Promising Film Stuck in Limbo
Directed by Prosit Roy (Pari), Chakda Xpress chronicles the challenges and triumphs of Jhulan Goswami, one of the greatest fast bowlers in women’s cricket. It was seen as a landmark project for Indian sports biopics, and for Anushka, it marked a bold step into a performance-heavy role after a nearly five-year break from acting since Zero (2018).
With insiders like Dibyendu Bhattacharya expressing hope and bewilderment in equal measure, fans remain in limbo. Whether the film finally sees the light of day—or falls victim to behind-the-scenes business roadblocks—remains to be seen. But if Dibyendu’s praise is anything to go by, Chakda Xpress could be a triumph worth waiting for.
