The way to someone's heart is through their stomach - this saying is echoed beautifully in this short film by Shan foods - Khaana With Parosi. It shares the story of a Chinese housewife in Pakistan, who befriends the locals in a unique way.

#KhaanaWithParosi | Short Film of the Day

Locating itself in a corner of Punjab, the film presents a sharp comment on the position of women in a patriarchal world. Without making itself overbearing, it presents a story where their oppression is an inherent condition of society. It is also further marked by a dismissal of their pain, victim-blaming and sometimes even trivializing the many obstacles women tackle on a day-to-day basis. Though policing exists in this world, it is always tipped in favor of men more than their female counterparts. 

There is further a comment to be made about corrupt custodians of power and how they continue to serve as judge, jury and executioner. However, what happens when a woman chooses to pass her own judgment? The question thus becomes intrinsic to the title of the film, 'Munsif' or judge, as it introduces us to a protagonist, a woman who works at a local kiln. While there might be a limitation or two in terms of storytelling, the authenticity and performances that are brought to life overcome them to share the ensuing narrative with you.

Munsif | Short Film Nominee

The short film opens with a sentiment that gives no suggestion or hint of the direction it is headed in. From a note of lightheartedness and humour, it soon transforms to one of grief and agony, and that perhaps is the point it aims to put across. The innocence of two children headed to the local village fare is juxtaposed against the image of forced maturity in childhood. The film further draws attention to the plight of farmers in India and the repercussions their families have to battle with in the face of all the financial difficulty. It further talks about the importance of women and young girls in keeping their families afloat amidst it all. The film endeavours a wholesome approach to the topic and manages to convey its message notably.

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