Upcoming epic biographical film Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi about the life of Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi is one of the most awaited projects. Besides starring Kangana Ranaut in the titular role of Rani Laxmibai, the biopic also features well-known television actress Ankita Lokhande , who makes her film debut with the film, as Jhalkaribai.

While most of the casting had been locked long back, makers were looking for an apt actor to play Lokhande's love interest in the movie. Now, the news is coming in that Marathi actor Vaibhav Tatwawaadi , who played Chimaji Appa in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bajirao Mastani (2015), has been finalized for the role of Puran Singh, a soldier who is in love with Jhalkaribai,

Directed by Krish , Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi is being produced by Zee Studios in association with Kamal Jain . Nishant Pitti of EaseMyTrip is involved as the co-producer. K. V. Vijayendra Prasad of Baahubali: The Beginning , Bajarangi Bhaijaan and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion fame has written the script of the film.

Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi went on floors in May 2017 and is slated to release on 27 April 2018.