Sikkimese filmmaker Tribeny Rai’s debut Nepali-language feature, Shape of Momo, is scheduled for release in India and Nepal on May 29 following a successful run at international film festivals. The 115-minute drama, which chronicles the lives of women across generations within a single family, will open in select cinemas across Nepali-speaking and metropolitan centres in India — including Kolkata, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, North Bengal and Sikkim — and will screen in Nepal from the same date, with plans for a subsequent release in the Middle East.
Shape of Momo has already attracted critical attention: the Sikkim-made film has earned 13 national and international awards and has been selected for prominent festivals such as Busan, San Sebastián, Kolkata and Glasgow. Producers and critics have described it as one of Sikkim’s most notable recent cinematic works for its storytelling and cultural depth.
Speaking at a press conference, Tribeny said the film was shot in a limited set of locations — her native Nandok, Assam Lingzey, Ranipool and scenes at Manipal Hospital — over roughly 40 days, with nearly 90% of filming done at her own home. She detailed the financial strain of the project, saying she used personal savings while her mother and producer Geeta Rai contributed retirement funds. A premiere screening is planned ahead of the public release.
Tribeny credited Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay and the state government for timely support, saying that production, which stalled during post‑production, was completed after receiving assistance from the Chief Minister’s Discretionary Fund. “When I shared this with the Chief Minister, he provided financial assistance… As a result, the entire production work could be completed,” she said.
Referring to the Sikkim Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan scheduled for May 14–15, Tribeny welcomed government initiatives that create platforms for artists. She also praised the recently organised Sikkim International Film Festival for encouraging local filmmakers.
On why the film has won awards even before a commercial release, Tribeny said, “I have portrayed the reality and essence of my region. Audiences can relate to some of the characters in the film.” Explaining the title, she added that momo, a cultural staple, carries layered meanings and helps take the film’s themes to a global level.
Tribeny urged investment to make filmmaking economically viable in the region. Principal cast members include Shyamashree Sherpa, the late Bhanu Maya Rai, Gaumaya Gurung, Pashupati Rai and Rahul Mukhia. The film is backed by Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media, with Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti and Payal Kapadia listed as executive producers. Actress Shyamashree Sherpa said she is confident about the film’s box-office prospects when it opens on May 29.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/tribeny-rais-shape-of-momo-set-for-india-nepal-release-on-may-29
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