Bollywood has always been a mirror to society, reflecting stories of courage, transformation, and change. Taali, the powerful biographical drama based on the life of transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant, stands tall as a cinematic milestone. While its message has inspired many, today we take a step back to explore how the film was made — from sets to scripts, and emotion to execution.
Director Ravi Jadhav, known for his work in Marathi cinema, brought a deeply emotional and socially conscious lens to Taali. His aim wasn’t just to document Gauri Sawant’s life, but to humanize her journey in a way that would resonate across age groups, geographies, and gender identities. To do this, the film was approached more like a docu-drama, blending dramatized scenes with realistic storytelling. The production team spent months researching and collaborating with real-life activists and members of the transgender community.
Much of Taali was filmed in Mumbai, capturing both the bustling city life and the quieter corners of the city where Gauri’s story began. Special attention was given to authenticity — from the recreation of modest chawls to the accurate depiction of courtroom environments. The team even used real locations whenever possible, opting for natural lighting and handheld camera work to enhance the raw, intimate feel of the film.