Who Is Zanai? Asha Bhosle Announces Granddaughter's Acting Debut

Asha Bhosle's granddaughter, Zanai Bhosle, is poised to step into the spotlight with her acting debut. Filmmaker Sandeep Singh, known for his recent announcement of the theatrical directorial venture The Pride of Bharat—Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has chosen Zanai for a significant role. In the forthcoming film, she will portray the character of Rani Sai Bhonsale, the wife of Shivaji Maharaj.

Asha Bhosle also expressed her heartfelt joy at witnessing her beloved granddaughter, Zanai Bhosle, embarking on her journey into the cinematic realm.

I am truly overjoyed to see my lovely granddaughter @ZanaiBhosle joining the cinema world in the upcoming grand epic #ThePrideofBharat Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. I sincerely hope that she claims her destined position in cinematic history and wish her and @thisissandeeps all the… pic.twitter.com/UtFxTSQZA9

— ashabhosle (@ashabhosle) March 11, 2024

Expressing her excitement, actor Shraddha Kapoor took to her Instagram stories to extend a warm welcome to her cousin in the film industry. Sharing a snapshot with Zanai, Shraddha conveyed her best wishes, stating, "My sister is all set to entertain us on the silver screen. Wishing her all the success."

It's noteworthy that Shraddha Kapoor shares a familial connection with Zanai through her maternal grandfather, Pandit Pandharinath Kolhapure, who was a first cousin to legendary singers Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.

Sandeep Singh, the filmmaker, expressed his delight in having Zanai on board, "l feel so honoured and absolutely privileged to be launching Zanai Bhosale who is a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s family lineage and also shares her lineage with extremely brilliant and accomplished family, with the late Lata Mangeshkarji being her aunt and being Asha Bhosaleji’s granddaughter."

Singh affirmed his confidence in Zanai's ability to do justice to the role of Rani Sai Bai, attributing her portrayal to the pivotal contributions made by Shivaji Maharaj's wife in his personal and kingly endeavours.

More About Rani Sai Bhonsale

Saibai Bhosale (born Saibai Nimbalkar) (around 1633–September 5, 1659) served as the primary consort and first wife of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the illustrious founder of the Maratha Empire. She also held the esteemed role of being the mother to Chhatrapati Sambhaji, who succeeded his father as ruler.

In The Pride of Bharat—Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the spotlight shines on Zanai Bhosle as she steps into the shoes of Rani Sai Bhonsale, bringing to life the pivotal role of a queen who played an instrumental part in shaping the legacy of one of India's greatest rulers.

The film is set to be an ambitious cinematic endeavour, slated for release on February 19, 2026, coinciding with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. This project marks Sandeep Singh's directorial debut for the big screen and is presented by Immerso Studio and Legend Studios.