Will Richa Chadha-Sumeet Vyas’s long-delayed pandemic drama arrive on OTT?

**Will Richa Chadha-Sumeet Vyas’s Long-Delayed Pandemic Drama Arrive on OTT?**
*By Isha Sharma | October 4, 2025, 04:55 PM*

An untitled film starring Richa Chadha and Sumeet Vyas, shot in 2023, remains stuck in limbo. Despite the film being ready for nearly two years, it has yet to find a release window. According to a source close to the production, the film was initially intended for a theatrical release. However, there are now indications it may skip theaters altogether and head straight to OTT platforms.

**Delay Reasons**
The film, directed by Abhishek Acharya and produced by Zee Studios, is a pandemic drama told through the eyes of healthcare workers. It offers an emotional insight into the chaos and strain faced by frontline professionals during the COVID-19 crisis. However, internal discussions suggest its subject matter might be the main reason behind the delay.

**Concerns Over Theatrical Release**
The studio reportedly hesitates to bring the story to cinemas, believing its relevance may have diminished. A source revealed, “With the shoot and post-production done, the film was ready for a theatrical release. But with each passing month, the possibility of it arriving in cinemas is reducing.” The makers feel that “the story can feel dated today,” which is causing further hesitation.

**Shift to Digital Debut**
With theatrical prospects fading, the makers are now reportedly exploring digital platforms for the film’s debut. The same source added, “Now, the makers are looking at pursuing an OTT release and will initiate talks with some streamers.” This change in strategy appears to be a response to concerns that audiences might avoid theaters due to the trauma associated with the pandemic.

**Career Highlights: Richa Chadha and Sumeet Vyas**
Richa Chadha made her acting debut with a cameo in *Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!* (2008). Her breakthrough came with Anurag Kashyap’s *Gangs of Wasseypur* (2012). She later starred in notable films like *Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela* (2013) and *Masaan* (2015).

Sumeet Vyas rose to fame with his role as Mikesh Chaudhary in TVF’s *Permanent Roommates* (2014). He has also appeared in films such as *English Vinglish* (2012), *Parched* (2015), and *Veere Di Wedding* (2018).

As the makers weigh their options, fans await news on whether this poignant pandemic drama will find its audience via a streaming platform soon.
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