Chameli(2004)
'Chameli' is a 2004 Indian Hindi-language drama film directed by Sudhir Mishra. It stars Kareena Kapoor as a street prostitute and Rahul Bose as a widowed investment banker. The story unfolds over a single stormy night when the two strangers meet in a Mumbai alley. Through their encounter, the film explores themes of grief, class, and human connection. Kareena Kapoor won the Filmfare Special Performance Award for her role. The film was remade in Telugu as 'Jabilamma' in 2008. 'Chameli' was originally conceived by director Anant Balani, who died during production.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- VI Movies and TV, Sony LIV, Prime Video, ShemarooMe
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 2004
- Director
- Sudhir Mishra
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 1h 48m
- Rating
- 6.0/10
Storyline
A lonely investment banker's car breaks down during a storm. He takes shelter in an alley and meets a street prostitute. Over one night, they confront police, a violent pimp, and their own painful pasts. Their unlikely bond changes both of their lives forever.
“Two strangers. One stormy night.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Chameli
Cast reunions in this film: Yashpal Sharma & Sudhir Mishra (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was shot in just 16 days, mostly at night, to capture the real atmosphere of Mumbai's red-light district.
- Kareena Kapoor's performance as a sex worker was praised for breaking her glamorous 'Poo' image from 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'.
- The movie's title song 'Chameli' was composed by Sandesh Shandilya, who used a simple harmonium tune to match the raw mood.
- It was originally conceived as a short film for an anthology, but later expanded into a full-length feature.
- The film's realistic setting used actual locations in Kamathipura, with minimal sets, to add authenticity.
- Director Sudhir Mishra stated the film explores loneliness and human connection, not just prostitution.
- It won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi in 2004.