MUMBAI: Bollywood actress Rayya Labib may be at the centre of a political drama that has already begun attracting attention because of its intriguing title and alleged connection to one of India’s most prominent political figures.
Tentatively titled “Mein Soniya Bol Rahi Hoon,” the film is reportedly inspired by the early political life of Sonia Gandhi. However, the actress has categorically denied that the project is based on the life of the former Congress party president.
According to unconfirmed sources, the film’s script is believed to draw inspiration from material connected with Sonia Gandhi’s forthcoming memoir, “Belonging: A Journey of Love.” The book, scheduled for publication by Alfred A. Knopf on November 10, 2026, is expected to offer an extensive account of Gandhi’s life, beginning with her upbringing in postwar Italy and her years in Cambridge before moving on to her marriage to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and her subsequent decades in Indian politics.
The reported connection between the upcoming book and the film has consequently fueled speculation about whether “Mein Soniya Bol Rahi Hoon” could be a fictionalized political narrative influenced by events from Sonia Gandhi’s formative years in India.
There is, however, no official confirmation from the film’s producer or its wider cast regarding the story, screenplay or any direct connection with Sonia Gandhi. Rayya Labib, who is reportedly playing the principal female lead, has sought to put the speculation to rest by insisting that the film should not be interpreted as a biographical project.
“This is a political film with the title ‘Mein Soniya Bol Rahi Hoon’. This does not mean it is based on her (Sonia Gandhi’s) life. I am playing the main lead and Soniya is a fictional character who has good political contacts. I can refer to just anyone,” Rayya told this reporter.
Another political source whom we spoke to suggested that the film could be inspired by the work of Smita Thackeray who was a power figure in the previous decade when the united Shiv Sena was in power in Maharashtra. The name ‘Soniya’ could also mean Smita, said one political commentator, who did not want to be identified.
According to Rayya, she was approached by a producer from Chandigarh for the project and decided to come on board after being offered a very good package. She also revealed that the screenplay is still being developed, with only part of the script currently ready.
“I was approached by a producer from Chandigarh for the project and since they are paying me a good amount, I have agreed to do the film. Part of the script is ready. I will get the bound copy after 10 days and the project is expected to go on floor after Ganpati or maybe later,” she said.
The comments indicate that the project is still at a preliminary stage, making it difficult to determine how closely its fictional narrative may resemble real political events or personalities. The title itself is likely to invite comparisons with Sonia Gandhi, but Rayya’s clarification suggests that audiences may ultimately see a fictional political story rather than a conventional biopic.
The timing of the project is also noteworthy. With Sonia Gandhi’s memoir scheduled to arrive later this year, any film appearing to draw inspiration from her personal or political journey is naturally likely to generate curiosity.
For now, “Mein Soniya Bol Rahi Hoon” remains surrounded by questions rather than confirmations. Whether the film eventually emerges as a fictional political drama, a loosely inspired story, or something entirely different will become clearer once the complete script is finalised and the production officially goes on the floor.
What is certain is that Rayya Labib has confirmed her association with the project as its lead actor, while firmly maintaining that the film is not based on Sonia Gandhi’s life. Until the makers make an official announcement, the alleged Sonia Gandhi connection remains a matter of speculation.