Shape of Momo

By Pickle November 22, 2024

India| Nepali

Synopsis

After resigning from her job, Bishnu returns to her ancestral home in a Himalayan village. The family was once powerful, but the untimely demise of all male members has led to a pervasive belief that the family is under a curse. When Bishnu arrives, she’s disheartened to witness her mother’s life being wasted on catering to the whims and fancies of her mother-in-law. Soon after, her elder pregnant sister Junu turns up too, having had a falling out with her husband.Driven by the desire to prevent her family from living a listless life , Bishnu takes it upon herself to encourage them to be more independent. She motivates her grandmother to perform her own tasks, urges Junu to seek employment, and takes charge of male responsibilities like dealing with tenants, ordering helpers and driving Junu to the hospital. In a housefull of women, Bishnu assumes the role of a figurative male. She also begins a relationship with Gyan, a local architect, hoping to construct a homestay together. However, things take a sudden change, when a
backdoor is found open and a glass window is broken. Sawney suspects that Bishnu’s abrupt outbursts have disturbed the delicate equilibrium that she had worked hard to maintain for peaceful coexistence in the village. Complicating matters, Bishnu realises that Gyan is gradually assuming her responsibilities, relegating her to a conventional female role.

The film explores themes of tradition, familial dynamics, and the struggle against societal constraints. Will Bishnu defy these expectations and carve out her path to independence, or will she succumb to the overwhelming pressure to conform?

Tribeny Rai
Director
reachtribeny@gmail.com

Director(s) Statement

Growing up, I witnessed a stark gender divide at home, with women waiting to eat until men had finished, reflecting my grandfather’s belief in the superior value of male children, who carried forward the family legacy. After my father’s passing, I took on heavy physical tasks traditionally done by men to prove that we weren’t weak, not realizing that my actions wouldn’t solve problems deeply ingrained in our society for centuries. This film draws from my personal experiences and observations of identity, freedom, and tradition through a multi-generational female family. It addresses the conflict between women’s personal ambitions and societal expectations. My goal is to present these female characters as complex individuals, not just victims of patriarchy. Additionally, stories from the mountains and villages are often portrayed through stereotypical lenses of exoticism or simplicity. I aim to change this narrative and tell our story with honesty and depth.

Producer(s)
Geeta Rai, Kislay Kislay

Production Company
Dalley Khorsani Productions, Kathakala Films

Contact
Tribeny Rai
Director
reachtribeny@gmail.com