Ahmedabad, April 2026 – In a world where a phone call can now become a weapon, Gujarati cinema is gearing up to tell a story that feels as real as it is terrifying. ‘Dharpakad’, India’s first-ever film on the rising and largely unexplored threat of digital arrest, has officially unveiled its poster – and it is already striking a nerve.
From the makers of ‘Dhunki’ and ‘Udan Chhoo’, the film carries forward a legacy of distinctive storytelling while stepping into a bold and contemporary space. Produced by Indira Motion Pictures and November Films, the film is slated for a theatrical release on May 15, 2026, and promises to bring to the big screen a phenomenon that has quietly begun to infiltrate lives across the country.
At the heart of this gripping narrative is the much-anticipated collaboration between Malhar Thakar and Shruhad Goswami, coming together on screen for the first time. Malhar, one of the biggest stars of Gujarati cinema today, is riding high on back-to-back hits like ‘All The Best Pandya’, ‘Vanilla Ice Cream’, and ‘Jai Mataji – Let’s Rock’, and now steps into a darker, more intense avatar with ‘Dharpakad’.
Joining him is Shruhad Goswami, widely loved for his portrayal of Krishna in ‘Laalo’ – a film that crossed the remarkable 100 crore mark and became a cultural phenomenon. With his strong screen presence and emotional depth, Shruhad adds a compelling new layer to this high-stakes narrative. Their coming together not only marks a fresh pairing but also significantly raises the film’s anticipation among audiences.
Directed by Anish Shah, the film also stars Prashant Barot, Pratik Rathod, and Jay Bhatt in key roles, each contributing to a story that thrives on tension, realism, and emotional stakes. The film is produced by Rahul Badal, Jay Shah, and Anish Shah, who aim to deliver a cinematic experience that is not only thrilling but also socially relevant.
“‘Dharpakad’ comes from a very real space. The idea was to turn something as ordinary as a phone call into something deeply unsettling. The idea is to make people aware while keeping them completely hooked,” says Anish Shah, Director and Producer of Dharpakad.
“What drew me to ‘Dharpakad’ was how close it feels to reality. It’s not a distant thriller – it’s something that can happen to anyone. That made the experience both exciting and challenging as an actor,” says Mallhar Thakar, the lead actor of the film.
What sets ‘Dharpakad’ apart is its subject – digital arrest, a disturbing cyber phenomenon where individuals are made to believe they are under official investigation or custody, often through impersonation, threats, and psychological pressure. With no physical contact and no visible perpetrator, victims find themselves trapped in a web of fear, coerced into compliance, and stripped of control – all through a device they use every day.
By bringing this concept to the forefront, ‘Dharpakad’ breaks away from conventional storytelling and ventures into a space that is both contemporary and cautionary. The film not only aims to entertain but also to provoke thought and awareness about the evolving nature of cybercrime in an increasingly digital world.
The buzz surrounding the film has been steadily building ever since its announcement, with cinephiles and industry insiders alike calling it a bold and timely step for Gujarati cinema. With its sharp premise, strong performances, and an atmosphere of constant unease, ‘Dharpakad’ is poised to become one of the most significant releases of the year.
Warning: After watching ‘Dharpakad’, you will think twice before receiving calls from unknown numbers.
