Anuritta K Jha Joins Indian–Norwegian Feature DAYAN In Lead Role

Skagerak Film AS has announced that acclaimed Indian actor Anuritta K Jha has officially joined the upcoming Indian-Norwegian feature film DAYAN in the lead role, marking a key moment in the film's development and its cross-border creative collaboration.

Best known for her breakout performance in Gangs of Wasseypur and her critically acclaimed work in series such as Aashram and Asur, Jha's association brings significant creative strength and international visibility to the project. Her presence at the centre of DAYAN is central to the film's vision, with the role demanding intense emotional range and a deep engagement with themes of memory, trauma, and cultural identity.

As discussions around the project progressed, Jha's creative involvement expanded beyond performance. Recognising the depth of the story and its cultural resonance, she came on board as co-producer through her banner, PARAMART FILMS, which is actively developing short and feature-length films. In this dual capacity, she will play an important role in shaping the film's creative direction, cultural authenticity, and its positioning for Indian and international audiences. According to the producers, her association adds substantial value and star potential, particularly in the Indian market, while strengthening the film's cross-cultural foundation.

DAYAN is an Indian-Norwegian genre feature written by British-born, Norway-based writer Dave King. The film draws from Indian folklore and historical accounts of witch trials in Norway, bringing together two distinct cultural traditions within a single narrative framework. Set across rural India and Norway, the story follows a woman haunted by her mother's death after being accused of witchcraft, with the past and present gradually colliding through psychological and supernatural forces.

With its strong female-led narrative and international scope, DAYAN is being developed as a high-end genre film for theatrical and global streaming audiences. The project is currently being prepared for international co-production partnerships in India and Europe, along with festival positioning and global distribution strategies.

Anuritta K Jha said, "DAYAN is a project I felt deeply connected to from the very beginning. The story carries emotional and cultural weight, and the opportunity to engage with it both as an actor and a creative collaborator felt very organic. I'm excited to be part of a film that brings together Indian and Norwegian storytelling voices in such a meaningful way."

Geir Bergersen, Producer, Skagerak Film AS, said, "Anuritta K. Jha's decision to join DAYAN has been pivotal for the project. Her commitment, creative insight, and eventual step into the role of co-producer have significantly strengthened the film's foundation. We believe her involvement will resonate strongly with audiences in India and internationally."