Actor Taapsee Pannu and filmmaker Anubhav Sinha have reunited for their upcoming film Assi, set to release in theatres on Feb. 20. The duo previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed films Mulk and Thappad, both known for sparking important social conversations.
Taapsee, who has consistently chosen socially relevant scripts, shared a heartfelt note on Instagram ahead of the film’s release. She urged audiences to support what she described as “rooted, real stories” in Hindi cinema.
Without mincing words, the actor said filmmakers cannot continue to be blamed for the lack of meaningful content if audiences do not show up in theatres for such films. She wrote that it is time to stop hiding behind the excuse that Bollywood does not produce serious or authentic cinema.
According to her, films like Assi are mounted with conviction and effort but can survive only if viewers choose to value them. “We deserve good cinema only when we value it,” she wrote, adding that silence from audiences could gradually push strong storytelling out of the mainstream.
To underline their confidence in the project, the makers have planned special screenings in multiple cities a week ahead of the official release. Taapsee described it as a step to ensure there are no regrets later — neither for the filmmakers nor the audience.
The trailer of Assi offers a glimpse of Taapsee as a determined lawyer who refuses to back down in her pursuit of justice. The film appears intense and emotionally charged, raising uncomfortable yet necessary questions about morality and accountability. Kani Kusruti plays a pivotal role alongside Taapsee, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
The cast also features Revathy, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, with special appearances by Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak and Seema Pahwa. Presented by T-Series, Assi is produced by Benaras Mediaworks.
With a track record of delivering conversation-starting cinema, the Taapsee–Sinha collaboration once again promises a film that aims to do more than just entertain.
