Altaf Dadasaheb Shaikh
Altaf Dadasaheb Shaikh is an acclaimed Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, and lyricist, recognized for his contributions to Marathi cinema. Born on February 10, 1983, in Nandeshwar, Solapur, Maharashtra, he has carved a niche in the industry through his multifaceted involvement in directing, writing, and composing lyrics. His film Veda B. F. earned the prestigious National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Marathi in 2019. Additionally, his latest film, Karmayogi Abasaheb, has garnered immense recognition, winning the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
Early life
Shaikh was born in the town of Nandeshwar, located in Maharashtra’s Solapur district. He spent his early years in Mumbai and Pune, where his passion for storytelling and cinema took shape.
Career
Altaf made his directorial debut with Veda B. F., a critically acclaimed Marathi film that also featured his work as a writer, dialogue writer, and lyricist. His ability to seamlessly blend artistic and narrative elements earned him widespread praise.
He was worked on Karmayogi Aabasaheb, a biographical film based on the life of Ganpatrao Deshmukh (AbbasSaheb), an 11-time Member of the Legislative Assembly and a freedom fighter from Solapur. The film was released in 2024.
Awards and recognition
Altaf Dadasaheb Shaikh has received several honors and recognitions, including:
- National Film Award – Best Feature Film in Marathi (Veda B. F., 2019)
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award (Karmayogi Abasaheb)
- Zee Gurukul Award
- High Range Book of World Records
- London Book of World Records
- Bravo International Book of World Records
- Thailand Festival Nomination
Filmography
- Veda B. F.
- Come On Vishnu
- Dharavi Katta
- Betuka
- Breakdown
- Karmayogi Aabasaheb released in 2024
A notable highlight in his career is the Marathi qawwali "Hey Maze Durvesh Baba", sung by Altaf Raja for Veda B. F.. The song became a record-setter and earned entries in multiple world record books. The film was a commercial and critical success, grossing over ₹11.5 crore within 21 days of its release. It promoted Hindu-Muslim unity and featured veteran actor Nagesh Bhosle in the lead role.
Legacy and public image
Shaikh's work has garnered both national and international attention. A memorable moment that captured his humility was when he received a world record certificate from a postman and posed with him in gratitude—a gesture widely appreciated for its sincerity.
Upcoming projects
Altaf continues to expand his cinematic journey with projects like Karmayogi Aabasaheb, focusing on the legacy of Abasaheb Deshmukh. With a deep commitment to meaningful storytelling, he aims to inspire through his future works.
Recent Recognition
Altaf’s film Karmayogi Abasaheb has been honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, one of the highest honors in Indian cinema. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Delhi on May 1, 2025, marking another milestone in Shaikh’s illustrious career.
Box-office Success
Director Altaf Dadasaheb Sheikh’s Marathi film Karmayogi Aabasaheb continues its remarkable box-office success, earning ₹25.49 crore within five weeks of release. Based on the life of Shetkari Kamgar Party leader and former MLA Ganpatrao Deshmukh, affectionately known as Aabasaheb, the movie has resonated deeply with audiences across Maharashtra despite competition from blockbusters like Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.
With a compelling script and emotionally gripping storytelling, Sheikh pays tribute to Aabasaheb's legacy, blending powerful dialogues with heartfelt moments. Actor Aniket Vishwasrao delivers a standout portrayal of the late leader, supported by a talented cast of 28 Marathi and Hindi actors. The soulful music, composed by Avadhoot Gupte, further enhances the cinematic experience.
Karmayogi Aabasaheb has gained international acclaim, winning awards at prestigious festivals such as:
- Sweden Film Award 2024
- Tamizgam Film Festival
- Golden Lion International Film Festival 2024
- Navy International Film Festival
The film was also pre-screened at global festivals, including the Amsterdam Lift-Off and Crownwood International Film Festival, garnering widespread praise.
Produced by Mayakka Mauli Film Production and Mumbai Creation Enterprises, with Balasaheb Mahadev Erande and Maruti Tulshiram Bankar at the helm, the film’s worldwide release was managed by Reliance Entertainment.
Karmayogi Aabasaheb has not only celebrated a legendary figure but also influenced contemporary politics, aiding Babasaheb Deshmukh, Ganpatrao Deshmukh’s grandson, in winning the 2024 MLA election.
Sheikh, known for acclaimed works like Veda BF, Break Down, and Dharavi Katta, proves his storytelling prowess once again with Karmayogi Aabasaheb, cementing his reputation as a master filmmaker in Marathi cinema.