MUMBAI, June 27 -- 'Maharashtra Epstein Files', a Marathi film loosely based on the rise and fall of self-styled godman and astrologer Ashok Kharat, currently in the midst of a criminal investigation over allegations of sexual exploitation, extortion and financial fraud, is slated for release on October 2. The case, which came to light after the first FIR was filed in a Nashik police station following a woman's allegations of serial rape by Kharat, is yet to be adjudicated. While the name of the actor playing the title role, broadly based on the Nashik-based godman, is being kept under wraps, Marathi actress Deepali Bhosale Sayed is playing the character based on a political leader who was compelled to step down from office, after facing political and public ire over her links with Kharat. The role of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, who ordered an SIT probe after multiple cases of rape, sexual exploitation and financial misdeeds surfaced, is being played by Subodh Bhave, said people aware of the matter. Kharat's arrest in March 2026 triggered a massive political controversy, given his proximity with several top leaders in the state. Videos of him exploiting women in his office did the rounds, further fuelling public anger. Sayed posted the film's poster as a teaser on her social media page on Thursday. "I accepted the role considering it a challenge to play a real-life political leader. Everyone is curious to know if I have managed to get the right look and mannerism. My name in the film is Chaitrali," said Sayed. She added, considering the "sensitive nature of the subject", adequate security has been deployed at the locations in Pune and Nashik, where the film is being shot. Director of the film, Swaroop Sawant, said the film's objective is to "create awareness about self-styled godmen who are known to exploit people financially and women sexually". "The film's story is written by my friend Sagarkumar Jain. As it is roughly based on the Kharat case, which was called Epstein Files of Maharashtra by opposition leaders, we stuck to the name," said Sawant....