Chakda 'Xpress: Anushka Sharma’s Unreleased Biopic on Jhulan Goswami Explained
Introduction: What Is Chakda ’Xpress?
Chakda ’Xpress is a Hindi-language sports biographical drama directed by Prosit Roy, written by Abhishek Banerjee, and produced by Clean Slate Filmz. The film features Anushka Sharma portraying legendary Indian women's cricketer Jhulan Goswami, known for leading India's pace attack and becoming one of the fastest female bowlers in cricket history.
Originally slated for release on Netflix in late 2023, Chakda Xpress generated early buzz with stills, teasers, and Anushka’s announced comeback—making the current silence and delay more puzzling.
Cast & Crew Highlights
Anushka Sharma stars as Jhulan Goswami.
Supporting cast includes Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Renuka Shahane, Anshul Chauhan, Atul Sharma, Koushik Sen, and others.
Produced by Karnesh Sharma, Saurabh Malhotra, and Rajneesh Chopra under Clean Slate Filmz (Anushka’s production house).
The Story Behind the Film
The biopic charts Jhulan’s rise—from a small town in Chakda, West Bengal, to India’s captain of women's cricket. It focuses on her struggles against gender bias, lack of infrastructure, and disparity in women’s sports recognition, with the dramatic high point being the 2017 World Cup final at Lord’s.
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Filming Timeline & Production Status
Shooting began in June 2022, and wrapped up by December 2022. The production completed all principal photography, with Anushka undergoing intensive cricket training supervised by Virat Kohli.
The editing was reportedly finished in early 2023—but Netflix and producers have remained silent since, with no release confirmation.
Why the Delay? Rumors & Checkpoints
Editor Manas Mittal confirmed in May 2025 that no promotions occurred before the rumored October 2023 release window, signaling postponement.
Co-star Dibyendu Bhattacharya praised Anushka’s performance as her “best yet,” but admitted: “I don’t know why it's not releasing.”
Actress Renuka Shahane expressed heartbreak, calling the film impactful with a “big heart,” and lamented the fate of such a powerful women’s story.
Industry speculation points to creative differences, budget constraints, or uncertain OTT platform terms—though no official confirmation exists.
Responses from Key Figures
Jhulan Goswami herself reportedly has no update on release, calling media speculation unhelpful.
Renuka Shahane described her scenes with Anushka as emotionally powerful and said she’d love for the film to see the light of day.
Why Chakda ’Xpress Matters
Anushka Sharma’s long-awaited comeback after a hiatus since 2018 (Zero) promised big emotional and commercial returns.
A biopic on Jhulan Goswami spotlights women’s cricket—often overlooked in mainstream Indian sports films.
The film had the potential to be both culturally inspiring and commercially viable, combining star power and real-life sports heroism.
Comparison with Other Sports Biopics
Feature Chakda 'Xpress Typical Bollywood Sports Biopic
Subject Female cricketer Jhulan Goswami Mostly male athletes
Lead Actor Established star (Anushka Sharma) Newcomer or male actor
Release Platform Netflix (unreleased) Theatrical/OTT
Social Impact Potential High—women’s cricket, equality theme Varies by storyline and reach
What Happens Next? Potential Release Scenarios
The film is shelved: Industry rumblings about financial or creative disagreement could mean indefinite postponement.
Release via Netflix later in 2025 or 2026: With sports biopics still trending, Netflix could plan a timed OTT launch.
Re-shoot or re-edit: If feedback from stakeholders caused delays, a final polish or digital release is possible.
Dibyendu and Renuka’s statements suggest creators still support its eventual release.
Final Take: Expectations & Audience Call
Chakda ’Xpress remains one of the most anticipated unreleased films of 2025. For fans of cricket, female empowerment, and biographical drama, its delay is disappointing—but the continued praise from cast & crew keeps hope alive.