A first-of-its-kind Russian film, shot entirely in India and inspired heavily by Bollywood's signature style, is gearing up for a grand theatrical release on April 1, 2026. Titled Persimmon of My Love, the film is already generating significant buzz online, thanks to its vibrant mix of music, dance, humour, and emotional drama.
It also brings back the strong India-Russia film connection, similar to the Soviet era, when Bollywood movies were hugely popular in Russia. Raj Kapoor's Awara and Shree 420 were massive hits in Russia, making him one of the most loved Indian actors there. Later, films like Disco Dancer continued this trend, strengthening Bollywood's emotional connection with Soviet audiences. Persimmon of My Love carries that legacy forward, giving it a modern twist through a fresh cross-cultural collaboration.
Directed by Marius Weisberg, known for films like Love in the Big City and The Taming of the Shrew, the film combines grand visuals with a mix of cultures. It tells the story of two brothers separated as kids—Ramash, who grows up to be an honest police officer, and Shamar, who becomes a charming criminal. Their paths cross again in a story filled with romance, family drama, action, and emotions, set in a fictional Indian city called Khurmada.
Popular Russian comedians Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan play the two brothers, with Karibidis also writing the script. The film also features Adila Ragimova, Albina Kabalina, Artur Vakha, and Sergey Rost in supporting roles. Bringing a Bollywood feel, Indian choreographer Jay Kumar has created grand dance sequences, while composer Zurab Matua has composed the music, including Hindi songs.
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The film is made on a grand scale, much like classic Bollywood movies. Over 350 crew members worked on it, and some scenes include up to 1,000 people on screen. It was shot in Mumbai's bustling studios and iconic locations in Rajasthan, including the palaces of Udaipur and the forts of Jodhpur, giving the film a rich and colourful look.
Talking about the collaboration, Tina Kandelaki of Gazprom-Media said the film beautifully blends Bollywood's emotion and music with Russian storytelling. Director Marius Weisberg also praised the Indian crew, saying he was impressed by their speed and professionalism, and called Bollywood an industry capable of handling even the biggest production challenges.
Producer Lika Blank called the film a “modern fairy tale” based on love, family, and hope, and said it was important to respect Indian culture while telling an international story.
Backed by the Russian Cinema Fund and Indian partners, Persimmon of My Love arrives at a time when cultural ties between India and Russia continue to strengthen.
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