This historical romance follows Dev (Razeen Dada), a young law student who abandons his studies to make a documentary about his grandfather’s life as an indentured labourer. In his journey, he meets Amisha (Dr Kajal Lutchminarain), a doctor rebuilding her life after personal trauma. Together, they uncover a hidden ancestral connection: their great-grandparents, a Telugu boy and a Gujarati girl, met aboard the last indenture ship to Natal, but their love was tragically cut short. A century later, Dev and Amisha are connected by the story their ancestors began.
“Working with Dr. Kajal Lutchminarain was a genuine pleasure. She is not only incredibly talented but also brings a palpable grace and strength to the role of Amisha. Our on-screen chemistry, as the star-crossed great-grandchildren, is one of the central emotional anchors of the film as well as Dev’s determination to tell the story of our history and contribution to modern day society. It’s a chemistry that I hope will make the audience’s heart smile and cry.”
Much of the filming took place in Durban, with a short scene in New York’s Central Park. The production also features interviews with prominent South African figures, including Ela Gandhi, Professor Salim Abdool Karim, and Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, grounding the narrative in historical reality.
Dada explains, “This film honours our ancestors and celebrates the resilience of the Indian community in South Africa. It’s a story of love, identity, and legacy across generations. The movie is a poignant drama that spotlights the resilience and rise of a nation’s evolving identity. I hope it inspires all people to appreciate their heritage and the remarkable contributions of our ancestors. On a personal level, I hope it also sends a strong message of inspiration to those who need it most.”
Director Dr Eubulus Timothy adds, “We wanted to tell a story that connects the past and present. It’s both personal and universal, reflecting the courage it takes to reclaim your roots.”
Producer Shan Moodley highlights the cultural significance: “Our goal was to create a film that future generations can look back on and recognise as their story. It’s a celebration of culture, history, and resilience.”
Behind the scenes, Zahra Dada, Razeen’s sister, An Actress, skilled marketer and content creator, helped him prepare for his role and ensured that the film’s message reached audiences effectively. “Zahra’s insight and creativity were invaluable.”
The Cane Cutter is more than a love story; it is a cinematic tribute to the sacrifices, resilience, and triumphs of Indian indentured labourers, Indian Immigrants and their descendants. It blends historical reality with modern romance, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the enduring power of love.
The highly-anticipated film is set to showcase across various Nu Metro cinemas from the 21st November.
View the film trailer here: https://youtu.be/PH8-ghe5GVw?si=8WGLGQ5wxFrLoI5I
Creative Team & Key Contributors
Dr. Eubulus Timothy – Director & Writer
Dr. Timothy has cultivated a prolific career as a writer, director, and producer of film and television. He studied narrative film and obtained diplomas in Directing and Cinematography from Los Angeles City College. In Hollywood, he won the Harley-Merrill Screenwriting Award.
His directorial credits include Deep End, El Gotico (a Spanish short), and Bridging the Gap (the first live broadcast from Robben Island for ETV). He currently serves as Chairperson of the Durban Filmmakers Guild and Vice Chairperson of the Writers’ Guild of South Africa.
Key Projects & Themes
The Cane Cutter (feature film, released November 21, 2025) explores identity, heritage, struggle, and resilience through the story of a law student uncovering his grandfather’s journey as an indentured labourer. The story draws on Dr. Timothy’s personal experiences, community history, and family narratives. The production reflects his dedication to telling untold stories and elevating local voices. Dr Timothy is also known for the feature film, Deep End which released in cinemas and on Amazon Prime in 2018.
Vision & Impact
Dr. Timothy’s work intersects artistry with authenticity. He believes stories rooted in truth—particularly those that explore cultural and generational legacies—can shift perspectives and heal communal memory. His dual roles as clinician and creative allow him to nurture both the physical confidence of his clients and the emotional resonance of audiences, bridging disciplines and creating lasting impact in South Africa and beyond.
Shan Moodley – Producer
Shan Moodley is a seasoned media professional, film producer, and cultural entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in broadcasting, content creation, and heritage storytelling.
His career includes serving as station manager and presenter at Megazone Bollywood, KwaZulu-Natal’s leading Indian music and culture station, and founding Megazone Media, a multimedia platform encompassing radio, digital, and event production. Shan has also curated cultural events and heritage festivals, amplifying South African Indian voices and stories.
As producer of The Cane Cutter, Shan coordinated production across Durban’s major locations, aligned the release with the 165th anniversary of Indian indentured labourers’ arrival in South Africa, and engaged community stakeholders to ensure authenticity. His work merges business acumen with cultural sensitivity, preserving heritage while creating platforms for underrepresented narratives.
Razeen Dada – Lead Actor (Dev) & Filmmaker
Razeen Dada is a Durban-based actor, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. A chartered accountant and impact property investor, he has trained in acting in the major film hubs of Hollywood and Bollywood. He is also the former Mr India (South Africa). Razeen and Nazruddin Adrus are the co-founders of Dragon Productions, producing content for dynamic films and TV-series for global audiences.
The Cane Cutter (first feature film as lead male actor) sees him play Dev, a law student documenting his grandfather’s journey as an indentured labourer. Other credits include Netflix Happiness Ever After, Zindagi (Life) as we know it, Binnelanders, and Identity (2022). Razeen has had notable appearances in Netflix’s Blood Legacy (2024) and Showmax’s Catch Me a Killer (2024).
Razeen combines analytical precision with creative depth, bringing authenticity and emotional intelligence to every role. His involvement in The Cane Cutter extended to cultural research, outreach, and promotion, highlighting his commitment to telling untold South African stories.
Dr Kajal Lutchminarain – Lead Actress (Amisha)
Dr Lutchminarain is a Durban-based plastic and reconstructive surgeon who stars as Amisha Bhagwan, a doctor and single mother reclaiming her independence. A former Miss India South Africa (2009) and Miss India Worldwide (2010), this role marks a significant expansion of her career into acting.
Teerajeh Timothy – Creative Professional & Emerging Filmmaker
Teerajeh Timothy’s multidisciplinary career spans film production, writing, broadcasting, and education. She has worked as a scriptwriter, line producer, radio DJ, and TEFL-certified educator. Her contributions to The Cane Cutter included creative coordination and post-production support, ensuring the narrative’s authenticity and cultural depth.
Supporting & Featured Cast
Shika Maharaj – Performer and community advocate, committed to projects that uplift and educate.
Vanessa Marawa – Model, television host, and radio personality; winner of Survivor South Africa: Panama; adds cross-platform appeal to the film.
Adam Dore – Actor and storyteller with experience in film, theatre, and writing; known for The Last Victims and London Recruits.
Enver Mall – Creator and strategist, contributing creative insight and brand development to the project.
Feroza – Artist, thinker, and advocate; focuses on performance, writing, and social consciousness, elevating marginalised voices.