Pune witnessed an emotionally rich cinematic showcase at the 24th Pune International Film Festival (PIFF), where Indian and international films explored themes of memory, identity, love, and human resilience. Among the most anticipated screenings was Mayasabha, the upcoming feature by Tumbbad director Rahi Anil Barve, which drew strong attention from film enthusiasts and critics alike.
Speaking at the festival, Barve described the setting of his film as an essential character in itself. “My film has five main characters. Four are human, and the fifth is the single-screen theatre where the story unfolds,” he said. Mayasabha, featured in the Indian Cinema category, stars Javed Jaffrey as Parameshwar Khanna, a once-powerful film producer now mentally shattered and living inside a decaying cinema hall in Mumbai. The psychological thriller examines themes of greed, love, and trust while departing from conventional storytelling structures. Barve emphasised that the film should not be compared to Tumbbad, calling it an entirely different cinematic experience. Mayasabha is scheduled for a nationwide release on 30 January 2026.
International cinema also made a strong impression at PIFF. Vimukthi Jayasundara’s Spying Stars, selected in the World Competition category, received appreciation for its poetic storytelling and philosophical depth. The film, a co-production between France, India, and Sri Lanka, follows scientist Anandi as she navigates isolation, pandemic fears, and surreal encounters on a remote island. Actress Indira Tiwari described the project as emotionally transformative, noting that the role demanded restraint, silence, and deep introspection rather than conventional performance.
Another standout was Blue Heron, directed by Sophy Romvari, which offered a subtle yet powerful portrayal of family memory and forgiveness. Set in late-1990s Vancouver Island, the film unfolds through the eyes of a young sibling observing emotional tensions within the household. Actor Iringo Réti, who played the mother, shared how the role required emotional control. She expressed gratitude for the audience’s warm response at PIFF, calling the experience deeply rewarding.
Adding to the festival’s socially conscious lineup was Unni KR’s A Pregnant Widow, which sheds light on caste-based discrimination and institutional apathy. The filmmaker stated that his work aims to present lived realities rather than ideological arguments, allowing audiences to confront uncomfortable truths through storytelling.
Together, these films reinforced PIFF’s reputation as a platform for meaningful cinema that goes beyond entertainment and reflects the complexity of human experience.
Subscribe Deshwale on YouTube
