The documentary is clinical, incisive and sharp in its approach as it reveals to the viewer the life of the inhabitants in a small piece of land in Karnataka. Ambedkar Nagar, which started with four huts, now has close to five hundred people dwelling within its narrow by-lanes. From the idealistic and zealous voice of a young man who wants to bring education to his community, to that of a retired worker who values intelligence over everything and is apprehensive of modern education - the documentary reveals different voices. Without falling in the trap of voyeurism, romanticising or any other problematic forms of portrayal of poverty, the film manages to successfully engage with issues of class, casteism and everyday survival.

Open Doors | Pick of the Festival Circuit

The love towards a city or a place is often for the people and memories associated with it. Same is the case for two elderly woman, who were inseparable in their school days, but eventually lost touch with the passage of time. The film follows their story as they try to rekindle their friendship after thirty long years. 
The story is told through Nivedita's point of view as she tidies her house and prepares elaborate dishes for the visit of her old friend, Aruna, in their hometown of Kolkata. She finds herself smiling at random things, recollecting stories to share with her friend and dreaming about the time when they'll finally sit and share old anecdotes. 
There is comfort in the thought of letting out inner fears to a known and loved person. Finally, after umpteen preparations, the day of Aruna's arrival is here, but with a twist which leaves both, the viewers and the characters, heartbroken.

That Long Silence | Short Film Nominee

The lockdown forced several of us into the kitchen, even those marked by their complete absence of culinary skills. Consequently, when we found ourselves up against the wall, it was time to give it all that we had, even if only for the sake of hungry family members. The music video, cheery and sweet in its tone, is one such portrayal, taking us into the life and experiences of a father-daughter duo. A product of limited resources, and shot perhaps within the confines of a single residential space, it is an honest effort to share its energy, colours and intentions with the world. Though a little more smoothness and synchronisation in its sound department would have elevated it further, the video remains a lighthearted expression of a daughter's love for her father, and the massive role food has to play in it.

Papa Ki Mathematics | 2020 Film Challenge

When you find yourself drowning in the bleakness of the current situation of a global health crisis, perhaps the forced confinement with your family and loved ones could prove to be the life jacket you need? As structures of responsibilities and their demands collapse, maybe it's time to pay attention to hobbies, inclinations and things you had left unexplored earlier, suggests the film, attempting to invoke hope in trying times like these.

Priyanka Jasani

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