Tisca Chopra's directorial debut, Saali Mohabbat, now streaming on ZEE5, has been described by the filmmaker as a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey. Chopra, known for her acting roles in films like Taare Zameen Par, co-wrote and directed the Hindi-language mystery thriller, which stars Radhika Apte, Divyendu Sharma, and Anurag Kashyap.

The film, which premiered at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa in November 2024, delves into themes of betrayal, trust, shifting identities, and moral ambiguity within relationships. Saali Mohabbat follows Smita, a small-town housewife whose life takes a dark turn as she becomes entangled in emotional and psychological conflict.

Chopra has spoken about the intense creative process behind the film, revealing that the collaboration with her husband, Sanjay Chopra, who co-wrote the script, was particularly strenuous. She shared that their creative disagreements almost led to a divorce. "We almost got divorced writing it," Chopra said in an interview. She explained that their writing styles differed significantly, with her husband's approach being more robust and hers more subtle. Despite these challenges, Chopra believes that the combination of their contrasting styles ultimately benefited the script.

Saali Mohabbat is inspired by the Geeta Colony double murder case from Delhi. However, Chopra has clarified that the film is not a direct retelling of the incident but rather uses it as a starting point. The film explores the story of Smita, a homemaker in Fursatgarh, whose life is disrupted by her husband's affair with her sister, Shalini, leading to a chain of events involving betrayal, debt, and revenge.

Radhika Apte plays the role of Smita, a woman whose quiet strength and vulnerability are tested as she navigates the complexities of her relationships. Divyendu Sharma plays a local policeman, Ratan Pandit, who becomes involved in the unfolding drama. Anurag Kashyap appears in a crucial role, adding to the film's suspenseful atmosphere.

Chopra's direction focuses on the emotional landscapes of her characters, drawing viewers into their internal struggles. She uses the setting and symbolism, such as Smita's love for gardening, to highlight the themes of the film.

Reviews for Saali Mohabbat have been mixed, with some critics praising Chopra's direction and Apte's performance, while others have found the plot predictable. Sreeparna Sengupta of The Times of India gave the film a positive review, praising its captivating suspense and intricate mystery. Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express was less impressed, noting the film's familiar beats and predictable twist. Despite the mixed reception, Saali Mohabbat marks a significant step in Chopra's career, showcasing her talent as a director and storyteller. Chopra's experience transitioning from acting to directing highlights the challenges and rewards of creative collaboration in filmmaking.