 Bhisham Sahni gave an introduction to the film in addition to being cast in a pivotal role opposite Dina Pathak.Subsequently, Nihalani hand-picked Amrish Puri, A. K. Hangal, Om Puri, Pankaj Kapur stating that almost all of these were young at the time of partition and had known very well about the event.Deepa Sahi, Surekha Sikri and Barry John were signed up for other important roles.