Sikkimese filmmaker Tribeny Rai has earned a place on the global stage with her debut feature film, Shape of Momo (Nepali title: Chhora Jastai), being selected for the 72nd San Sebastián International Film Festival in Spain. The film will compete in the prestigious ‘New Directors’ category, a segment renowned for spotlighting the most promising emerging voices in world cinema.This selection marks a historic moment—not just for Rai as a first-time feature director, but also for Sikkim and the broader Indian Nepali-speaking community, whose stories are seldom represented at such prominent international film events. Set in Rai’s home villages of Nandok and Assam Lingzey in East Sikkim, Shape of Momo follows the journey of Bishnu, a young woman navigating traditional expectations within a matriarchal household. The lead role is portrayed by Gaumaya Gurung, who brings depth and authenticity to the character’s emotional conflict. With its narrative grounded in local customs, familial obligations, and quiet resilience, the film offers a poignant view of Himalayan life seldom seen in mainstream cinema.
Tribeny Rai, who graduated from the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, has previously gained recognition for her award-winning short films. Speaking after receiving the official selection notice, Rai expressed both joy and humility.“Shape of Momo was born out of my desire to tell the stories of the women around me, especially those who raised me,” she said. “To see a story rooted in Sikkimese soil reach an international platform is both humbling and empowering.”The San Sebastián Festival, held from September 20 to 28, is one of Europe’s oldest and most respected film gatherings. Films featured in its ‘New Directors’ competition often go on to receive international acclaim, and Rai’s entry is now among 14 debut or sophomore films chosen from 11 countries for this year’s lineup.
Produced as an Indo-Korean co-production, Shape of Momo is backed by Dalley Khorsani Production, Kathkala Films, and Aizoa Pictures. The film also boasts international muscle with Mike Goodridge—a veteran producer known for the Oscar-nominated Triangle of Sadness—joining the project as Executive Producer. This collaboration reflects a growing global interest in regional Indian cinema.The film had already begun generating international buzz after being presented at the Cannes Film Market and the Hong Kong International Film & TV Market earlier this year. Industry observers praised the film’s blend of lyrical storytelling, intimate performances, and a distinctly Himalayan visual style.