Razeen Dada brings heart and heritage to the screen

RAZEEN Dada was determined to star in The Cane Cutter, knowing it wouldn’t just be another acting job, but a turning point in how the Indian community is generally portrayed.

The feature film opened in South Africa yesterday, sans parody or "cheap laughs". Instead, it offers heart, warmth and dignity.

“So usually people mock the accent, they always make Indians look like a joke. This is actually something that inspires, educates and entertains at the same time,” he said.

Speaking to Independent on Saturday, Dada said that apart from a phenomenal script, there were many reasons he was drawn to the role of Dev. He also opened up about the weight of telling this story, the pride he carries with it, and why the film feels like a turning point for representation.

“What was very relatable for me in the film is the pressure many parents, especially Indian parents, place on their children. They expect you to become a lawyer, a doctor, an accountant — that kind of thing,” he said. “Dev drops out of law school to pursue the documentary… It’s such a relevant topic because so many young people want to follow their passions, but often under the constraints of what their parents expect of them,” said Dada.

The Cane Cutter is a romantic story based on Dev who drops out of law school to make a film about his grandfather's life as an indentured labourer. Along the way he falls in love with Amisha, a doctor aiming to build her life after suffering a personal tragedy. Directed by Dr Eubulus Timothy and produced by Shan Moodley, the release of the film coincides with the 165th anniversary of the arrival of indentured labourers from India, giving the story even deeper resonance.

The film also features interviews with several prominent South African Indians, including social and political activist Ela Gandhi, Imtiaz Suliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers, and world-renowned scientist Professor Salim Abdool Kareem. Dada says participating in those interviews was one of the defining moments of the production.

“It was a very cool experience, but it put a lot of weight on Dev’s shoulders,” he said. “It’s a tribute to history and heritage, and hopefully inspires people who need to hear the story.”

Despite its struggles; under apartheid, in representation, or for resources, Dada says the Indian community has built a proud legacy.

When asked about working on set, Dada laughed. “It was actually really enjoyable. Everyone had to put a lot of weight behind it. Like any film, you’re only as strong as your weakest link. I really enjoyed the cast and crew. It didn’t really feel like we were acting, it just felt natural, which is great.”

He also praised his co-star, Dr Kajal Lutchminarian, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. “She brought a lot of authenticity through her hard-working ethic,” he said.

While the film has just premiered locally, and opened in cinemas this week, Dada believes its universal themes and vibrant cast will resonate internationally.

“We have a broadly local and authentic story. There’s also a huge Indian diaspora that can relate to this,” he said. “As much as we love to watch Indians on screen, they also want to see Indians outside of India. South African Indians have a very unique blend; you never say you’re from India, you say you’re from South Africa. That authenticity is what other Indians can relate to and admire.”

So what does Dada want the audience to remember after watching the film? 

“The biggest part is understanding and appreciating our heritage,” he said. “But also understanding that your future is yours to write. Dev’s journey shows the difficulties of doing something you’re passionate about…and how perseverance and support can help you succeed.”

Dada, who is also a model, chartered accountant, property investor and filmmaker, has several productions lined up. His next feature, The Dream Haunter, is a horror film scheduled to begin filming in April, with a release date set for Halloween 2026. Another, Not So Fast, a love-triangle story filmed in Cape Town, has a release date yet to be announced.

Always as busy as a bee, Dada now has four hives and looks forward to harvesting his own honey soon, showing that no matter how hectic life can be there is always time to follow your passions and enjoy a little sweetness.