The descendents

Like most of Patil’s films,which revolve around social issues,Vanshvel tackles the subjects of female foeticide,gender equality and women empowerment. The film,which is a family drama about a well-to-do family,takes a look at the fragile relationships in the family. In fact,Patil had also shot for a promotional song featuring 18 Marathi actresses. The song is dedicated to Goddess Amba and speaks about respecting women. The song was shot overnight in September. Apart from the lead actresses of the film Manisha Kelkar,Gaikwad,Vidya Karanjikar and child artist Janhavi Mankar,actors such as Smita Tambe,Amruta Khanvilkar,Kranti Redkar,Siyaa Patil,Smita Shewale,Pooja Sawant and Megha Ghadge,among others,are also a part of the song.

Sunil Mankar,the producer of the film,still finds it hard to believe that Patil has passed away. “He was much more than a director for us. He took a keen interest in all the aspects of the film. He even advised me on the film’s distribution and release,since this is my first film,” he says.

Vanshvel has been written by Datta Patil,directed by Rajiv Patil and stars fresh faces — such as Manisha Kelkar,Gaikwad,Shantanu Gangane,along with well-known names like Ankush Chaudhary,Sushant Shelar and Kishore Kadam,among others.

Jogwa,a film directed by Patil,had won the National Award in 2009. His other films include Pangira,Savarkhed Ek Gaon and Sanai-Chaughade,among others. Patil’s last released film was 72 Miles: Ek Pravas,which hit the theatres last month. The film,based on a real-life story,had created a buzz as it was co-produced by Akshay Kumar. Patil’s funeral was held last Tuesday,at Amardham in Nashik.