Yami Gautam Dhar is switching gears. In Nayyi Navelli, the Amazon MGM Studios and Colour Yellow fantasy family entertainer, she plays Mohini — a part that turns on comedy, mischief, dance and reactions she did not plan in advance. The film opens across India on October 16, just ahead of Dussehra.
A character that let her loosen up
The National Award-winning actor said Mohini allowed her to step away from the control that actors usually hold on set. Speaking to Filmfare, she described the change simply:
“I think audiences will see a side of me that’s lighter, more spontaneous and a lot more playful.”
Yami said the role let her respond to what was happening in the moment rather than overthink every beat. That, for her, was refreshing. She also credits the film’s music and movement for unlocking the performance: G. V. Prakash Kumar’s playful compositions and Vijay Ganguly’s choreography gave her room to dance freely and enjoy herself.
Mohini’s comic instinct
According to Yami, Mohini has an instinctive sense of humour. Some of the character’s funniest moments come when she trusts that instinct, so the comedy is built on surprise as much as lines. It is a different register for an actor known for restrained, intense work, and it is the core of the film’s family-friendly appeal.
The film at a glance
- Release: October 16, across India
- Director: Balaji Mohan
- Writers: Himanshu Sharma and Divy Nidhi Sharma
- Producers: Aanand L. Rai and Himanshu Sharma, for Amazon MGM Studios and Colour Yellow
- Music: G. V. Prakash Kumar
- Choreography: Vijay Ganguly
Why the festive date matters
Opening on October 16 puts the film in the pre-Dussehra corridor, when families are already looking for a big-screen outing. A fantasy comedy with a familiar dramatic lead in a lighter avatar gives the release a clear pitch: festive fun, dance and humour without the heavier notes often attached to holiday programming.
The ensemble adds support around Yami, with Addinath M Kothare, Anurag Thakur, Sunita Rajwar, Mita Vasisth, Aaditya Kulshreshth, Susmita Mukherjee, Prateek Pachori, Akshat Singh, Babita Pandey, Ajay Pal and Neeraj Singh in pivotal roles.
A broader range, not a break
This is less a departure from drama than an expansion of range. By moving into physical comedy and dance-led moments, Yami gets to show audiences a different muscle set while still carrying a film. For fans, that is the draw: a trusted dramatic performer relaxing on screen.
Mark the date
If you have followed Yami’s serious turns, Nayyi Navelli is the chance to see her carefree and uninhibited. For a family film timed to Dussehra, keep October 16 on your list.
Source: Filmibeat