Bollywood Continues to Explore the Dark Underbelly of Power and Corruption: Chandrachur Singh Joins Huma Qureshi in ‘Bayaan’
Over the past few years, Bollywood has witnessed a compelling trend: actors bringing to life roles that expose the darker facets of society, particularly focusing on corrupt godmen and spiritual leaders who manipulate faith for personal gain. This trend not only reflects the industry’s willingness to delve into socially relevant themes but also resonates with a global audience increasingly interested in stories that challenge authority and question blind faith.
Bollywood’s Fascination with Portraying Corrupt Godmen
Actors such as Bobby Deol with his acclaimed web series Aashram and Jaideep Ahlawat in Maharaj (2024) have garnered praise for their intense portrayals of complex characters rooted in corruption and moral ambiguity. Bollywood has long been fascinated by the figure of the godman—an influential spiritual leader who often exploits followers’ faith, sometimes culminating in criminal acts. These narratives serve as cautionary tales, reflecting societal concerns about the abuse of power within spiritual communities.
Recently, the trend has gained renewed vigor with a new generation of filmmakers and actors turning their attention to these themes, highlighting the ongoing relevance of accountability, justice, and the abuse of authority. Such stories resonate deeply in a country where religion and spirituality are intertwined with cultural identity, making the exploration of these issues both timely and impactful.
Chandrachur Singh: A Veteran Actor Returns to the Forefront
Adding to this compelling narrative landscape is Chandrachur Singh, a seasoned actor who is making headlines with his upcoming role in the highly anticipated Bollywood film Bayaan. Singh, known for his nuanced performances and charismatic screen presence, is set to play the antagonist—an influential cult leader or ‘Maharaj’—in a story that promises to blend social commentary with gripping drama.
Singh’s involvement signals a significant moment in Bollywood, as it marks his return to the big screen following his recent performances in web series like Aarya, alongside Sushmita Sen, and the OTT film Cuttputlli with Akshay Kumar, released in 2022. His portrayal of complex characters has always been lauded, and fans are eagerly awaiting his villainous turn in Bayaan.
The Making of ‘Bayaan’: A Film with Global Ambitions
Directed by Bikas Ranjan Mishra, Bayaan is a project that combines powerful storytelling with international recognition. The film is produced by Shiladitya Bora’s Platoon One Films, along with Summit Studios and Guidant Films, signaling its strong backing within the industry. Notably, the film was screened at the prestigious 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2025, alongside other acclaimed projects like Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound (2025) and Anurag Kashyap’s Bandar, which also stars Bobby Deol.
This international exposure underscores Bollywood’s growing presence on the global cinematic stage, particularly in films that tackle challenging social issues with nuance and depth. The inclusion of Bayaan in TIFF highlights the industry’s efforts to produce content with universal appeal, blending Indian societal themes with a broader global perspective.
The Intriguing Plot: A Fight for Justice Against Powerful Cults
Huma Qureshi, a talented actress and now an executive producer of Bayaan, plays the role of a rookie police officer stationed in Rajasthan. Her character embarks on a mission to investigate a notorious cult leader—referred to as a ‘Maharaj’—who has allegedly committed heinous crimes, including multiple rapes within his ashram. The story delves into her struggle to gather evidence and testimonies—referred to as a ‘bayaan’—to bring the criminal to justice.
This narrative explores themes of power, influence, and the systemic corruption that often shields such figures from legal repercussions. The film promises to shed light on how these cult leaders manipulate political and police systems, creating a dangerous environment where victims find it difficult to seek justice. It also raises questions about societal complicity and the importance of awakening to the reality of spiritual exploitation.
Supporting Cast and Future Release
Alongside Huma Qureshi and Chandrachur Singh, the film features a talented ensemble cast, including Sachin Khedekar, Vibhore Mayank, Swati Das, and Sampa Mandal. Their performances are expected to add layers of depth to this intense narrative, emphasizing the collective effort to portray a realistic and impactful story.
Scheduled for release in 2026, Bayaan is poised to be a significant addition to Bollywood’s repertoire of socially conscious cinema. It will mark Chandrachur Singh’s immediate next project after his well-received return to acting, further cementing his status as a versatile performer capable of handling complex roles.
Huma Qureshi’s Perspective and the Film’s Significance
In an exclusive interview with Mid-Day in August 2025, Huma Qureshi shared her enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its relevance and innovative approach. She stated, “The script was fantastic. Bikas and Shiladitya were sure of the story they wanted to tell — it was India-specific, but told with a larger global audience in mind. The film is supported by the International Film Festival Rotterdam’s Hubert Bals Fund. During the Film Independent’s LA Residency, the scripting was done under the mentorship of Craig Mazin of Chernobyl fame. It felt like something I wanted to bet on.”
Qureshi also highlighted her passion for indie films, expressing how Bayaan aligns with her desire to be part of meaningful, socially relevant storytelling. Her words reflect a broader trend in Bollywood, where actors increasingly seek projects that challenge the status quo and foster meaningful conversations about societal issues.
The Broader Context: Bollywood’s Role in Social Change
Films like Bayaan exemplify Bollywood’s evolving role as a platform for social change. By portraying controversial and complex topics such as the abuse of spiritual authority, the industry not only entertains but also educates audiences about pressing societal concerns. The inclusion of international collaborations and film festivals further underscores Bollywood’s commitment to creating impactful cinema with global resonance.
As the industry continues to grow, expect more such projects that challenge stereotypes, shed light on uncomfortable truths, and inspire dialogue. The confluence of talented actors like Chandrachur Singh, visionary directors like Bikas Mishra, and passionate storytellers like Huma Qureshi signifies a new era of Bollywood—one that is unafraid to confront the issues that matter most.
Conclusion
Bollywood’s fascination with exploring themes of corruption, power, and justice remains as strong as ever. The upcoming film Bayaan embodies this trend, bringing together a stellar cast, a compelling storyline, and international recognition. With veteran actor Chandrachur Singh returning to the screen, Bollywood fans can look forward to a gripping narrative that not only entertains but also sparks important conversations about societal accountability.
As the film gears up for its 2026 release, it promises to be a milestone in Indian cinema—highlighting the industry’s ongoing commitment to socially conscious storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide. Keep an eye on Bollywood’s evolving landscape, where stories like Bayaan continue to challenge norms and elevate the art of meaningful cinema.
