Anurag Kashyap Presents 'Songs of Forgotten Trees' at Venice Festival

New Delhi, Jul 23 (PTI) - Acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has announced his involvement as presenter for "Songs of Forgotten Trees," a film set to grace the 82nd Venice International Film Festival. The festival will be held from August 27 to September 6 at Venice Lido, Italy, marking the world premiere of this unique Indian title.

Directed by newcomer Anuparna Roy, "Songs of Forgotten Trees" will feature in the Orizzonti section - an international competition highlighting new trends with a focus on debut works, young talents, and indie features. This section aims to showcase lesser-known cinema. The film, starring Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel, delves into the evolving relationship between two migrant women in Mumbai and is produced by Bibhanshu Rai, Romil Modi, and Ranjan Singh.

Anurag Kashyap expressed his excitement, stating, “I have always believed in backing new talent, especially those keen on challenging established norms with novel ideas. Ranjan and I have supported numerous such films, and witnessing new raw talent is magnificent. Anuparna is definitely a distinctive voice, and we are proud and happy to support her debut feature.”

The official film synopsis reveals the tale of Thooya, a migrant aspiring actress who navigates Mumbai using her beauty and wit, sometimes trading intimacy for opportunity. The plot thickens when she sublets her sugar daddy's upscale apartment to Swetha, another migrant employed in a corporate role. Though the women appear to come from disparate worlds, they soon find themselves sharing more than just a living space. Amid Mumbai's ceaseless buzz, they unearth a silent empathy, but as personal pasts and desires emerge, their fragile bond is put to the test. What ensues is a touching exploration of selfhood, survival, and unexpected kinship.

Roy, who initially self-financed the movie while maneuvering through three corporate jobs, said her storytelling draws inspiration from lives often overlooked by mainstream narratives. “Despite being home to one of the world's largest film industries, stories of the marginalized, excluded by class, caste, and gender, remain untold. My goal is to shine a light on these narratives, offering voice, solace, and inspiration. The film's journey started with a search for my childhood friend, Jhuma Nath, whose child marriage was enforced under societal constraints and ineffective government policies. This movie carries her memories,” Roy shared.

"Songs of Forgotten Trees" is co-produced by Navin Shetty and Anuparna Roy.

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