Mumbai, Sep 22 (IANS): Director Swati Bhise has said making the historical film "The Warrior Queen of Jhansi" was a challenging exercise.

"The Warrior Queen of Jhansi" traces the life of Rani Laxmibai, and her journey of becoming an icon for women all across the world. The director's daughter, Devika Bhise, will be seen essaying the role of Rani Laxmibai.

"I am so excited to share the Rani's story with the world and have her as an inspiration to many worldwide. She sparks controversy even today and to have a British/Hollywood film with a first brown female lead action hero and for it to not be a Bollywood film has been a huge challenge," Swati said in a statement.

"It took path-breaking distributors like Roadside Attractions to take up this film and share it in the US and PVR in India," she added.

The film from the makers of "The Man Who Knew Infinity" also stars Rupert Everett, Nathaniel Parker, Ben Lamb, Jodhi May, and Derek Jacobi. It is slated to release in India in November.