# Waheeda Rehman Returns to Acting After 5 Years in Sudhir Mishra Mahatma Gandhi Film as Putlibai > Veteran actress Waheeda Rehman is set to end her five-year screen hiatus by playing Mahatma Gandhi's mother Putlibai in Sudhir Mishra's upcoming historical drama starring Manoj Bajpayee. **Type:** article · **Category:** Entertainment · **Published:** 2026-09-19 · **Source:** TrendKia **Canonical:** https://trendkia.com/en/entertainment/sudhir-mishra-ki-mahatma-gandhi-para-bana-rahi-philma-se-waheeda-rehman-ka-abhinaya-men-vapasi-nibhaengi-putlibai-ka-rola-34905 · **Language:** English **Tags:** Waheeda Rehman, Manoj Bajpayee, Sudhir Mishra, Mahatma Gandhi, Anubhav Sinha, Saurabh Shukla, Bollywood News Veteran screen legend Waheeda Rehman is stepping back in front of the camera after a five-year hiatus from the film world. The acclaimed actress has officially joined the cast of director Sudhir Mishra's upcoming feature film centered on the life of Mahatma Gandhi. In this major cinematic project, she takes on the historically significant role of Mahatma Gandhi's mother, Putlibai, marking a prominent return to acting that unites multiple generations of renowned cinematic talent. ## Manoj Bajpayee Leads Cast Portraying 21 Crucial Days Leading the project in the titular role is National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee, who embodies Mahatma Gandhi during a pivotal phase of his historical journey. The narrative is structured around 21 defining days in Gandhi's life, closely exploring the quiet resolve and profound decision-making processes of the national leader. Alongside Bajpayee and Rehman, the production features acclaimed performer Saurabh Shukla, rounding out a powerhouse ensemble dedicated to exploring the nuances of India's freedom struggle. ## Director Reflects on Childhood Influences and Collaboration Reflecting on securing the legendary actress for the ensemble, director Sudhir Mishra conveyed deep personal and artistic appreciation for her participation. Mishra explained that working alongside her feels like a dream and an immense privilege, noting his profound connection to classic landmarks such as Pyaasa, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and Guide. Having grown up watching her iconic performances on the big screen, Mishra emphasized that those masterworks left an enduring impact on his artistic sensibilities. ## Production Team and Historical Focus The cinematic venture is crafted to uncover a deep and reflective chapter from the historical tapestry of India's independence era. While Sudhir Mishra directs the historical piece, filmmakers Anubhav Sinha and Narendra Hirawat serve as producers under the banner of A Benaras Mediaworks. The production is being officially presented by NH Studioz, bringing together seasoned filmmakers to present a fresh, character-driven examination of historical figures who shaped the modern nation. ## What this means for you This production provides audiences with an intimate historical look at one of the most critical phases of India's independence journey. - **For Cinema Enthusiasts:** Watching screen icon Waheeda Rehman perform after a five-year hiatus offers a rare treat for admirers of classic cinema. Her involvement brings immense gravitas and authentic emotional depth to the portrayal of Putlibai. - **For History Followers:** The film's concentrated focus on 21 specific days in Gandhi's journey offers fresh insights into his strategic and moral calculations. Viewers gain a closer look at lesser-explored dimensions of personal and national history. - **For Acting Aficionados:** The dynamic combination of Manoj Bajpayee, Saurabh Shukla, and Waheeda Rehman promises a masterclass in performance. Discerning audiences seeking character-driven historical narratives will have high expectations for this project. - **For the Film Industry:** Casting legendary veteran artists in central, nuanced historical roles sets a strong precedent for Indian filmmakers. It signals sustained market interest in thoughtful, content-oriented historical features. ## Why this happened This film came into development to chronicle a deeply reflective phase of Mahatma Gandhi's personal and political life. - **Historical Focus:** The project was conceptualized to highlight a crucial 21-day timeline where Gandhi navigated high-stakes moral decisions. Filmmakers wanted to document the quiet discipline behind his public persona. - **Significance of Putlibai:** Gandhi's moral compass and nonviolent philosophies were deeply influenced by his mother, Putlibai. Casting Waheeda Rehman ensures this pivotal maternal influence is conveyed with authentic dignity. - **Creative Collaboration:** Director Sudhir Mishra and producer Anubhav Sinha have consistently focused on socially resonant and historically grounded subjects. Their shared vision enabled the assembly of this distinguished creative and acting team. ## Questions & Answers ### 1. How long has Waheeda Rehman been away from acting? Waheeda Rehman is returning to the screen after an absence of five years. ### 2. Which character is Waheeda Rehman portraying in the new film? She is playing the role of Putlibai, the mother of Mahatma Gandhi, in Sudhir Mishra's upcoming project. ### 3. Who is cast as Mahatma Gandhi in the movie? National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee is playing the central role of Mahatma Gandhi. ### 4. What is the core focus of the film's storyline? The film centers on 21 critical days in Mahatma Gandhi's life and the decisions he made during that period. ### 5. Who are the director and producers of this project? The movie is directed by Sudhir Mishra and produced by Anubhav Sinha and Narendra Hirawat under A Benaras Mediaworks, presented by NH Studioz. --- _TrendKia — Har trend, sabse pehle.. Machine-readable view; canonical HTML at the URL above._