What happens when some of Indian cinema and television’s most accomplished female actors come together for a whodunnit? Margao Files, which premièred on the Waves platform on Friday (June 12), attempts to answer that question with an ensemble cast led by Zeenat Aman, Suchitra Krishnamoorthy, Pallavi Joshi, Kitu Gidwani, Shilpa Shinde, Pervein Dastur, Tannaz Irani, and Mahabanoo Mody Kotwal. 

The film is set against the backdrop of a wealthy but dysfunctional Catholic family in Margao, Goa. Director Kapil Kaustubh Sharma said the concept was driven by his desire to create an Indian mystery led entirely by women.

“There has never been any Indian mystery where all the primary characters are women and with various interesting shades. I knew it had to have only brilliant actresses as only they would be able to carry these unconventional characters,” he said.

Sharma revealed that Kitu Gidwani’s detective, Miss Rose Briganza, was subconsciously inspired by Agatha Christie’s iconic sleuths. Zeenat Aman plays Sylvia White, whom Sharma describes as “a graceful, classy rich Goan lady who has turned into an alcoholic”.

Pallavi Joshi, he added, appears in a role unlike any she has played before, while Shilpa Shinde essays a tough police officer. Tannaz Irani, meanwhile, welcomed the chance to play a constable, saying, “I have never played a constable and I couldn’t pass up such a powerful and exciting role coming my way.”