Lipika Singh Darai’s Award-Winning Documentary to Debut at IFFR 2025
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Documentary explores trans women’s bond
- World premiere at IFFR 2025
- Part of 'Letters to My Late Grand Aunt' series
- Lipika Singh Darai's accolades
- Focus on themes of love and belonging
Mumbai, Jan 25 (NationPress) National Award-winning filmmaker Lipika Singh Darai's short documentary “B and S,” which delves into the relationship between two trans women, is poised to make its world debut at the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2025.
The film has been chosen for the esteemed ‘Shorts and Mid-Length’ category of the festival, slated to occur from January 30 to February 9, 2025. Taking its name from the initials of its central characters, Biraja and Saesha, the documentary reveals the profound connection shared by these two women in their 20s as they confront feelings of isolation and societal rejection.
Through their companionship, they discover solace and a significant sense of belonging amid life's challenges.
Reflecting on the world premiere of “B and S” at the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2025, Lipika Singh expressed, “This film emerged from a desire to examine the tenderness of love, friendship, and valued connections during periods of loss and sorrow - particularly in an increasingly grim world. I am overjoyed that B and S will debut at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, a festival that celebrates bold filmmaking. It is a privilege to return to this remarkable platform.”
“B and S” is the third part of Lipika Singh Darai's “Letters to My Late Grand Aunt” series, following the short documentaries “Dragonfly” and “Snake” (2014) and “Night and Fear” (2023). This series intertwines personal recollections and creative exploration, inspired by the summers Lipika spent with her grand aunt in her village.
The documentary also signifies Lipika's second selection at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, following the premiere of Night and Fear in the Ammodo Tiger Short Competition at the festival in 2023.
Regarding Lipika Singh, an FTII alumna and recipient of four National Awards, Darai has amassed four National Awards to date, which include the Silver Lotus Award for Best Debut Film of a Director for “A Tree a Man a Sea” (2013) and the Best Director Award for “The Waterfall” (2017). She was also honored as a BAFTA Breakthrough India talent in 2023.