“Golden Days Are Here: Sai Tamhankar on the Changing Landscape of Female Representation in Cinema”

Sai Tamhankar is set to showcase her versatile talent in the upcoming Netflix series Dabba Cartel, where she plays the role of a police officer, a significant and impactful character in the show. During the trailer release, Sai spoke passionately about her role, the challenges she faced, and her journey in the evolving landscape of female roles in the entertainment industry.

 

Sai shared that every scene in Dabba Cartel was a challenge for her, particularly because of the demanding nature of her director. “Every scene was testing because our captain was very hard to please,” she revealed, adding that despite the difficulty, she truly enjoyed the experience. “Maja aaya,” she said with a smile, which translates to “It was fun.” Working alongside such talented and dedicated individuals made the experience all the more rewarding. “It was a pleasure and privilege to be working with such amazing people,” Sai added.

 

Sai has always been a strong advocate for the evolution of female roles in the industry. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized the importance of patience and persistence. “You have to be very patient and keep at it to see the change… without giving up,” she said, acknowledging that her efforts over the years are now paying off. “That’s what I have been doing, and it’s finally paying off,” she added, showing her excitement about the current phase of her career.

 

Sai expressed her admiration for Excel Entertainment, known for its passion for telling unique and engaging stories. “I have always loved Excel and their passion to tell unique stories. Today, I am a part of it. It feels great,” she said. 

 

Reflecting on the broader changes in the film industry, Sai acknowledged that women in cinema are part of a slow but steady shift. “Relentlessness is one more thing that you have to do when you want to see the change,” she remarked, emphasizing the hard work and persistence needed to break through the barriers that have traditionally hindered female roles.

 

“I’m very happy that it is happening,” she said, reflecting on how the shift is not just theoretical but tangible. Sai is confident that the future will bring even more opportunities for women like her. “Women like us will be at it until the change happens, and I’m sure golden days are here,” she added, exuding optimism about the future of female representation in the industry.

 

Dabba Cartel revolves around five women whose dabba (tiffin) business unexpectedly pulls them into the dangerous world of a high-stakes drug cartel. The series features a stellar ensemble cast, including Shabana Azmi, Jyotika, Gajraj Rao, Nimisha Sajayan, Shalini Pandey, Anjali Anand, Sai Tamhankar, Jisshu Sengupta, Lillete Dubey, and Bhupendra Singh Jadawat.

 

Premiering on February 28, 2025 on Netflix , the show is produced by Excel Entertainment and directed by Hitesh Bhatia. Created by Shibani Akhtar, Vishnu Menon, Gaurav Kapur, and Akanksha Seda, Dabba Cartel promises an intriguing blend of crime, suspense, and powerful female characters.