Screenwriter Nikhil Mehrotra, credited for acclaimed hits like Dangal (2016)and Chhichhore (2019), is set to turn director with a short, tentatively titled Cheater. Mehrotra, along with his team, will depict the story of a 27-year-old bride-to-be, whose issues of bed-wedding are triggered two days before her wedding.

Shweta Tripathi, who will headline the film, tells mid-day, "When Nikhil came to me with the idea, I was instantly drawn to it. The subject is simple, and I love playing characters that are far removed from the person that I am. Also, it is exciting to work with directors who are making their first feature [film]. They come with an unmistakable energy because firsts are always special." Tripathi's character will be seen as one who wishes to reveal the truth to her in-laws, but is told to keep mum by her family. The short also hopes to expose the unusual standards set by society for newly-wed brides. "We create a flawless imagery of women; we need to start depicting more authentic portrayals. I enjoyed delving into this character's psyche. It helped me understand the fears and insecurities that are perpetuated in girls' minds," says the actor.