Prateek Kuhad's leap into acting is a natural evolution for an artist who has always pushed creative boundaries, showcasing his versatility beyond music.
Insiders are buzzing about whether the indie star can hold his own opposite seasoned actors, with some wondering if this is just a vanity project from Marginal MediaWorks to cash in on his fame.
On Aug. 5, 2026, Variety exclusively reported that Prateek Kuhad will make his feature film debut in 'Drowning' ('Doobna'), directed by Dar Gai and shot on location in New Delhi. The film marks Marginal MediaWorks' first fiction project.
If Kuhad can channel the raw emotion of his songs into a performance, this could be one of the most talked-about crossovers of 2026. But he's got everything to prove on screen.
Prateek Kuhad is swapping his guitar for the big screen. The Indian singer-songwriter behind beloved tracks like "Cold/Mess" and "Kasoor" will make his feature film acting debut in the upcoming drama "Drowning," as reported exclusively by Variety on Aug. 5, 2026. Directed by Dar Gai, the project — known as "Doobna" in Hindi/Urdu — was shot entirely on location in New Delhi.
This marks Marginal MediaWorks' first foray into fiction filmmaking, signaling a bold new direction for the production company that has been steadily making its mark in independent cinema. Kuhad isn't just any musician stepping out of his lane; he's one of India's most celebrated indie artists, with a sound that blends English and Hindi lyrics to create deeply personal, melancholic ballads. His music has earned him a devoted following across the globe — from sold-out shows in Mumbai to festival stages worldwide — making this acting pivot all the more intriguing for fans who've only seen him command a stage.
Now he's taking on the challenge of acting, a move that requires a different kind of vulnerability than singing his own heartbreak into a microphone. While some musicians struggle to translate their charisma onto screen, others surprise everyone with natural talent. The fact that Dar Gai chose Kuhad suggests she sees something in him beyond his musical fame — perhaps an introspective quality or emotional depth that aligns with the film's title and themes.
Dar Gai herself is no stranger to unconventional storytelling, having built a reputation for intimate, visually striking narratives that often explore identity and displacement. Though details of her previous work aren't widely known outside festival circuits, her selection for this project indicates Marginal MediaWorks is aiming for something artistically ambitious rather than commercial-safe. The decision to shoot on location in New Delhi adds another layer of authenticity, grounding the drama in a city that has inspired countless stories.
At this point, specifics about the plot or Kuhad's role remain a mystery. No release date has been announced either. What we do know: the film is titled "Drowning," it was shot on location in New Delhi, and it's directed by Dar Gai under Marginal MediaWorks' banner — with Kuhad making his feature acting debut.
This could be a career-defining move for Kuhad, proving he's more than just a voice. It also raises questions about how much of his musical identity will bleed into the character he plays. Will audiences hear echoes of "Cold/Mess" in his delivery?
Or will he disappear completely into the role? Only time — and the film itself — will tell if this gamble pays off, but one thing is certain: all eyes are on New Delhi right now.
