Tribeny Rai, a filmmaker from Sikkim and an alumna of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first female filmmaker from the hills of Sikkim and North Bengal to win an international award. Her Nepali-language film, Shape of Momo, has won the prestigious HAF Goes to Cannes award, a recognition given by the Hong Kong International Film Festival and Marché du Film for work-in-progress films.

Shape of Momo to Be Screened at Cannes

The critically acclaimed Shape of Momo will be showcased at the Marché du Film during the Festival de Cannes, scheduled from May 13 to 21. Previously, the film secured the top prize at the NFDC Film Bazaar in Goa in 2023, further cementing Rai’s reputation as a promising filmmaker.

“This international recognition brings credibility to filmmakers from Sikkim, where the industry is still evolving,” said Rai. She emphasized the role SRFTI played in shaping her filmmaking journey, providing her with a creative space and a strong support system.

A Story Rooted in Social Realities

Shot in Nandok, East Sikkim, Shape of Momo tells the story of a woman challenging deep-rooted patriarchal norms to forge her own identity. “The story stems from my personal experiences growing up in a patriarchal society. Even today, I often encounter situations where I am made to feel less valued because I am a woman,” Rai shared.

Coming from a family of educators in a Sikkimese village, Rai witnessed firsthand the gender biases prevalent in society. “My mother always ate after the male members of our family. I questioned such traditions from an early age. Even today, a Sikkimese man marrying a non-Sikkimese woman retains his rights, but a Sikkimese woman marrying a non-Sikkimese man faces discrimination. These realities influenced my storytelling,” she added.

Breaking Gender Barriers in Filmmaking

Rai also highlighted the challenges faced by female filmmakers in the industry. “Women directors constantly have to prove themselves to earn respect. While men are often given credit without question, women must fight harder for recognition. I have seen male filmmakers take credit for the success of female colleagues. I hope we can challenge and change these biases,” she said.

Her groundbreaking achievement paves the way for more women from the region to step into the world of filmmaking, inspiring them to share their untold stories on a global platform.