Sikkim filmmaker Tribeny Rai awaits home audience response ahead of new film’s release

Sikkim filmmaker Tribeny Rai is preparing for what she describes as the most emotional phase of her filmmaking journey as her latest film gears up for theatrical release on May 29 in India and Nepal.

After travelling to film festivals across India and abroad and receiving appreciation and awards during its successful festival run, Rai said presenting the film before audiences at home feels far more personal and nerve-wracking.

“We have showcased the film in India and abroad and we have had a very successful run. But of course, when it comes to home ground, one gets nervous because the story is about our people and our place,” she said.

The filmmaker expressed both excitement and anxiety as the movie prepares to reach theatres for the general public. She thanked supporters and viewers who have encouraged the project throughout its journey and urged audiences in Sikkim and the Himalayan region to support the film.

“Our film is releasing on May 29 in India and Nepal. Please show some love because we have worked really hard to put it out there,” Rai said, adding that the project is now being backed by major media collaborators from Mumbai.

“I hope our people back us too,” she added emotionally.

Talking about the film’s storyline, Rai described it as a deeply personal narrative rooted in family, society and village life. The story follows a woman who returns to her village after spending many years in the city and explores themes of relationships, belonging and social realities through warmth, humour and emotion.

“At the heart of it, it is about a woman like me who comes back to her village after living in the city for a long time,” she said.

She added that the film highlights family bonds, sibling relationships and memorable characters, including a humorous grandmother figure, making it a film suitable for audiences of all ages.

“I think it’s a great family film. You should go and watch it with the whole family,” Rai said.

Speaking about the impact she hopes the movie will create, Rai said she wants audiences to leave theatres reflecting on the story and emotions portrayed in the film.

“Whenever I watch good films, they make me reflect. I hope after the audience watches the film, they will have something to reflect upon and that it stays with them for a few more days,” she said.