Manish Malhotra Reveals Why He Backed Unconventional Story Like ZEE5’s Saali Mohabbat- EXCLUSIVE

Saali Mohabbat: ZEE5's Saali Mohabbat marks a significant step in Manish Malhotra's evolving journey as a producer - one that places content at the heart of storytelling over familiarity or comfort. Known globally for shaping iconic looks in Indian cinema, Malhotra's foray into production reflects a conscious shift toward narratives that are bold, distinctive, and driven by fresh creative voices.

Photo Credit:

ZEE5 PR Image/Manish Malhotra Instagram

With Saali Mohabbat, produced under his banner and directed by Tisca Chopra in her directorial debut, the focus remains firmly on exploring complex emotions, morally layered characters, and stories that move beyond predictable formulas. Anchored by powerful performances from Radhika Apte and Divyenndu, the film reinforces the idea that strong content can thrive when given space to breathe.

In an exclusive conversation with Filmibeat Chief Copy Editor Abhishek Ranjit, Manish Malhotra opened up about backing unconventional stories like Saali Mohabbat. He got candid about producing a 'hatke' project for ZEE5.

Speaking about his philosophy as a producer and the intent behind choosing projects like Saali Mohabbat, Manish Malhotra shared, "A production company has to be based on its content, and I said you know what, why don't I look out for content that is different and doesn't necessarily have my friends or people who I've worked with for years together. On a new journey, you form new friends and new relationships and that's the interesting part." His words underline a willingness to step away from familiar collaborations in order to build something meaningful with new teams and perspectives.

True to this vision, Saali Mohabbat unfolds as a restrained yet intense thriller, where the emphasis lies on psychological depth rather than spectacle. Its measured storytelling, combined with a strong creative collaboration behind the scenes, reflects Malhotra's belief that meaningful cinema is born when producers trust the script and the storytellers.

Saali Mohabbat streaming now only on ZEE5