Shefali Shah and Fardeen Khan to share screen space for the first time in Ektaa Kapoor’s period drama 'Koke'

After earning widespread acclaim for her performance in the Emmy-winning series 'Delhi Crime', Shefali Shah is set to headline another major streaming project. The actor has reportedly been cast as the lead in Netflix's upcoming period drama 'Koke', backed by Ektaa Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms. Joining her in the ambitious series is Fardeen Khan, making this the first on-screen collaboration between the two actors.

According to Variety India, 'Koke' brings together Shefali Shah and Fardeen Khan in what is being described as a large-scale period drama. While details surrounding the storyline and their characters have been kept under wraps, industry sources suggest the series will feature an expansive ensemble cast that includes several familiar faces from the television industry.



The project marks Fardeen Khan’s return to Netflix following his appearance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s acclaimed web series 'Heeramandi'. Production on the series is already underway, with the makers eyeing an early 2027 release on the streaming platform.

Nupur Asthana takes charge

The series is being helmed by filmmaker Nupur Asthana, known for directing the popular comedy-drama show 'Four More Shots Please!'. Interestingly, reports suggest Asthana stepped away from the second season of 'The Royals', headlined by Ishaan Khatter, in order to focus on 'Koke'. Her appointment signals a significant creative shift as she moves from contemporary relationship dramas to a period-based narrative.

Ektaa Kapoor expands her Netflix slate

'Koke' is among the key projects being developed by Ektaa Kapoor for Netflix India. The producer has been actively strengthening her presence in the streaming space with multiple original series. Apart from 'Koke', Kapoor is also producing another Netflix show directed by Sahir Raza. The filmmaker is known for projects such as 'The Married Woman', 'Bade Acche Lagte Hain 2', 'Illegal - Justice, Out of Order', and 'Doctors'. With both series in development, Kapoor appears to be expanding her long-standing storytelling legacy into the digital arena.

Shefali Shah’s busy line-up

Shefali Shah continues to be one of the most sought-after performers across films and streaming platforms. She was most recently seen in the third season of 'Delhi Crime', which further strengthened her reputation for delivering powerful performances. The actor also has several notable projects in the pipeline. She will next be seen in the heist thriller 'Hisaab', directed by her husband Vipul Amrutlal Shah and co-starring Jaideep Ahlawat and Abhishek Banerjee.

In addition, Shefali has been roped in for Rishab Shetty’s historical epic 'The Pride of Bharat - Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj', which is expected to begin production later this year.

Anticipation builds around 'Koke'

With a talented cast, an experienced director, and the backing of Ektaa Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms, 'Koke' is already generating curiosity among viewers. The combination of Shefali Shah’s acting prowess and Fardeen Khan’s growing presence in the streaming space has added to the excitement surrounding the upcoming Netflix period drama, which is shaping up to be one of the platform’s notable releases for 2027.