David Farnor | On 22, Aug 2020

Netflix has acquired the global rights to Desert Dolphin, a coming-of-age story about a teen girl in rural India.

Prerna comes of age when she’s introduced to the sport of skateboarding. As a result, she has to fight the odds to follow her dreams and compete in the national championship.

Desert Dolphin Skatepark, located in a remote cluster of rural villages in Khempur-Mavli district near Udaipur (the city of lakes and palaces), was constructed for the film with the support of Indian and International skate volunteers. The skatepark remains free for public use with the aim of continuing the social impact such parks have on rural communities. It’s one of India’s largest and Rajasthan’s first skatepark that is becoming a training ground for skaters from all over the country.

Manjari Makijany will make her feature directorial debut on the film, from a script co-written by Vinati Makijany. Producers include Emmanuel Pappas, Vinati Makijany and Manjari Makijany, with Michael Pellico on board as executive producer.

Rachel Saanchita Gupta and Shafin Patel make their acting debut alongside Amrit Maghera (Hollyoaks) and legendary Indian actor Waheeda Rehman (Guide).

Netflix will release the film in 2021.

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