Shape of Momo, the directorial debut of filmmaker Tribeny Rai, is set for theatrical release on May 29 across India and Nepal. Actor Rana Daggubati, supporting the film through his production banner Spirit Media, describes it as "a quietly powerful film that gently unfolds and stays with you."

What the film explores

Set in a Himalayan village in Sikkim, Shape of Momo traces the lives of women across three generations within a single family, shaped by emotional inheritances, silences, and everyday negotiations. The narrative examines the complexity of one's relationship with home—both as a place of comfort and as something that can hold you back. The film explores womanhood, identity, and intergenerational bonds with what executive producers describe as "rare emotional truth."

Rana Daggubati's backing and vision

Rana Daggubati stated: "Shape of Momo is a quietly powerful film that gently unfolds and stays with you. Tribeny brings a very personal lens to the film. She has a refreshing distinct voice as a filmmaker in the way she observes her characters and their world." He added that Spirit Media is drawn to "stories that are deeply rooted in their world and told with emotional honesty," and committed to supporting independent filmmakers like Rai.

A collective of celebrated filmmakers

The film is backed by executive producers Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Payal Kapadia—three of Indian cinema's most acclaimed voices. Zoya Akhtar praised Rai's "confident and clear" directorial voice, noting the film offers "a deeply personal peek into the lives of three generations of Sikkimese women." Reema Kagti highlighted the film's "sensitivity, warmth and emotional insight," placing it within a broader wave of exciting independent cinema emerging from India's Northeast—citing films like Boong, Raptures, and Village Rockstars. Payal Kapadia described it as "a deeply moving coming-of-age of a young woman conflicted by her yearning for a home," praising its "refreshingly contemporary" stance.

Cast and crew

The film stars Bhanu Maya Rai, Gaumaya Gurung, Pashupati Rai, Rahul Mukhia, and Shyamashree Sherpa. Produced by Dalley Khorsani Production in co-production with Kathkala Films, the crew is led largely by women.

Tribeny Rai's journey and vision

Filmmaker Tribeny Rai said the film emerges from a deeply personal lens, shaped by the women and experiences around her. "As someone who observes closely, I always felt my first film had to come from that space," she explained. She expressed gratitude for Spirit Media's support, describing it as "one of the few Indian studios actively creating space for independent, creator-driven cinema." Rai also credited Payal Kapadia for championing the film and opening avenues for women filmmakers. She concluded: "Shape of Momo is a film for everyone. Its emotional core is universal. It looks at relationships and identity in ways that go beyond geography, and I hope audiences will find something of themselves within it."

Festival recognition and theatrical arrival

The film has completed a commendable festival circuit internationally before its theatrical release. Kapadia expressed hope that the wider Indian audience will embrace the film, saying: "I really hope more people come and see this wonderful movie."