The trailer launch of Kaali Kheti brought together Jackie Shroff, Sharad Kelkar, Neha Sargam and the film's cast and crew to introduce their upcoming rural horror thriller. At the event, Sharad Kelkar opened up about what convinced him to come on board and shared an interesting story about how he first heard the script. The actor revealed that the narration was so engaging that what he thought would be a quick half-hour session turned into three hours. He also described the film as a genuinely terrifying slow-burn horror experience.
Recalling how the project came his way, Kelkar shared that he was spending time with his family and friends at a farm in Karjat when his friend Lovel approached him to narrate a script. Since he was on vacation, the actor requested his wife to spare him half an hour to listen to the story. However, the narration kept him hooked much longer than expected. “I started listening to the story, and once they left, my wife pointed at the clock—three hours had passed! I had been listening to the story for three whole hours. I told her, ‘Well, it was good, that’s why I kept listening!’” he recalled.
What impressed Kelkar was not just the story but also the way the filmmaker narrated it and brought the characters to life. Praising the storytelling and direction, he said, “The way he narrated the script and described the characters—very few people have that kind of talent. It shows he’s a true artist; it’s not just about the visuals—his narration and direction are brilliant.” For the actor, the strength of the narration was a major reason behind his decision to be part of Kaali Kheti.
Talking about the film's horror element, Kelkar explained that the project takes a different route from conventional horror films. “I think the last time I did a horror project was 14 or 15 years ago. This one is a 'rural horror'—a slow-burn kind of horror. It’s set in the fields; there’s no frantic running around—well, it might look like there is in the film, but it’s a very slow-burn horror that is genuinely terrifying. You all should definitely watch it!” he added. His description points towards an atmospheric thriller that builds tension through its rural setting and gradually unfolding darkness rather than depending only on sudden scares.
Kelkar also shared his admiration for co-star Jackie Shroff, making it clear that working with the veteran actor was a memorable experience. Addressing him affectionately as Jaggu Da and Bhidu, he said, “And what can I even say about 'Jaggu Da' (Jackie Shroff)? It was a real pleasure working with you, 'Bhidu' (a term of endearment/respect). Why stress so much, 'Bhidua'? Just show up, do the shoot, and head home—that’s all there is to it!” His playful comments added a warm and humorous touch to the trailer launch, highlighting the camaraderie shared by the two actors.
Set against a rustic village backdrop, Kaali Kheti explores dark secrets buried beneath agricultural land and the consequences of trying to conceal the past. Jackie Shroff and Sharad Kelkar headline the film in their first on-screen collaboration in this genre, with Neha Sargam, Virendra Saxena, Shaji Choudhary and Spandan Sameer Javalagi in pivotal roles. Written and directed by Haris Imtiyaz Khan, the film is produced by Sana Khan under BlackCanvas Studio in association with Zeroland Production. The technical team includes cinematographer Kiran Deohans and background score composer Alokananda Dasgupta. Originally scheduled for October 23, the film is now set to arrive in cinemas on November 20, 2026.