Will Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal's ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ Shine at the Venice Film Festival?
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Synopsis
Join Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal as they bring their captivating film ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ to the Venice Film Festival, a poignant tale directed by Nidhi Saxena. Set in the 1990s, it explores the intimate journey of a schoolteacher amidst a mythical landscape. Discover the power of women's voices in storytelling.
Key Takeaways
- Unique storytelling that highlights women’s voices.
- Set in the 1990s, offering a nostalgic yet relevant narrative.
- Directed by Nidhi Saxena, marking a significant achievement for Indian women in cinema.
- Strong performances by the lead actors, bringing depth to the characters.
- Premiering at the Venice Film Festival, showcasing global cinematic talent.
Mumbai, July 24 (NationPress) The star couple Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal are making waves with their film ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’, produced under their banner Pushing Buttons Studios, as it is set to premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival.
Directed by Nidhi Saxena, who gained recognition for her debut feature, Sad Letters of an Imaginary Woman, which premiered at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival, this film is notable for being the first project by an Indian woman to receive the Biennale College Fund grant.
In a joint statement, Richa and Ali expressed, "We were instantly captivated by Nidhi's poetic vision. This narrative is deeply rooted in myth yet resonates with contemporary issues. At PBS, we are committed to supporting storytellers who embrace creative challenges, and Nidhi has produced something truly unique, lyrical, and heartfelt."
Set against the backdrop of a secluded Himalayan town in the 1990s, ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ unveils the personal journey of Barkha, portrayed by Trimala Adhikari, a schoolteacher whose husband serves at the border.
In a community where many men are absent, Barkha becomes enchanted by Manik Guho, played by Adil Hussain, a charismatic outsider who upends the delicate equilibrium of waiting, patience, and mythology.
Nidhi Saxena, who also penned the screenplay, expressed her excitement about this new collaboration, stating that the film portrays women willing to risk everything to follow their passions, liberating themselves from societal constraints.
She further noted, "I was in search of like-minded collaborators, and this feels like a convergence of thoughts and emotions. We no longer need to rely on male perspectives to narrate our stories; our voices are potent and distinctly feminine."
Having recently wrapped up principal photography, ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ is currently entering post-production and is scheduled for its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in August 2025.
Point of View
I find Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal's commitment to storytelling through ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ commendable. This film not only highlights the artistic vision of its director, Nidhi Saxena but also elevates women's narratives in Indian cinema. It reflects a broader trend towards inclusive storytelling, which is essential for the evolution of the film industry.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ about?
‘Secrets of a Mountain Serpent’ is a film that tells the personal story of Barkha, a schoolteacher in a remote Himalayan town, exploring themes of love, myth, and resilience.
Who directed the film?
The film is directed by Nidhi Saxena, who is known for her acclaimed debut feature.
When will the film premiere?
The film is set to have its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in August 2025.
What themes does the film explore?
The film explores themes of femininity, desire, and the courage of women to pursue their passions against societal norms.
Who are the main cast members?
The main cast includes Trimala Adhikari as Barkha and Adil Hussain as Manik Guho.
