Is Tillotama Shome’s ‘Baksho Bondi – Shadowbox’ the Opening Film of IFFM 2025?
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Synopsis
Acclaimed actress Tillotama Shome’s Bengali film is set to make waves as it opens the IFFM 2025. This film, a heartfelt tribute to working women, showcases resilience and strength in a beautifully crafted narrative. Discover how this cinematic gem embodies the spirit of empowerment and inclusion in the world of cinema.
Key Takeaways
- Tillotama Shome stars in a powerful narrative about working women.
- The film highlights themes of resilience and empowerment.
- Co-directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi.
- Scheduled to open the IFFM on August 14, 2025.
- Supported by the Victorian Government.
Mumbai, July 18 (NationPress) Renowned actress Tillotama Shome presents her Bengali film “Baksho Bondi – Shadowbox”, which she describes as a “love letter” to working women, poised to be the opening night film for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025.
Co-directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi in their directorial debut, Baksho Bondi made its world premiere at the Berlin Film Festival 2025. The film is co-produced by Tillotama and Jim Sarbh.
The narrative unfolds in a dusty suburb of Kolkata, featuring Tillotama Shome as Maya. The film weaves a poignant story of love, resilience, and the inherent strength of a working woman navigating through her daily life.
Tillotama expressed: “Baksho Bondi is incredibly close to my heart. Portraying Maya taught me the importance of listening to silences, finding strength in small deeds, and recognizing how quiet resilience defines women’s lives in a world that often overlooks them.”
She added that after its debut in Berlin, sharing Maya’s journey in Melbourne feels particularly significant due to the festival's remarkable spirit of inclusion.
She further stated: “This film is a love letter to working women, to the dusty afternoons in Barrackpore, and to the courage that quietly endures even when unnoticed.”
The opening night screening is slated for August 14 in Melbourne.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, remarked: “Tillotama Shome’s portrayal of Maya is remarkable, and the work of Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi has resulted in a heartfelt, sincere, and visually stunning film that embodies resilience and hope.”
“This is precisely the kind of cinema we take pride in showcasing at IFFM, and we eagerly anticipate Australian audiences experiencing this gem on our Opening Night.”
Backed by the Victorian Government, the festival will take place from August 14 to 24, with the IFFM Awards Night scheduled for August 15, celebrating excellence in film and OTT categories.
Point of View
I believe that cinema serves as a powerful medium to reflect societal values. Tillotama Shome's film “Baksho Bondi – Shadowbox” poignantly illustrates the everyday struggles and triumphs of working women, making it a timely addition to the IFFM lineup. It’s essential that we continue to support films that highlight resilience and inclusion in our communities.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Baksho Bondi – Shadowbox' about?
The film is a tribute to working women, focusing on their resilience and strength through the character Maya, set in a Kolkata suburb.
Who are the directors of the film?
The film is co-directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi.
When is the opening night for IFFM 2025?
The opening night screening is set for August 14, 2025, in Melbourne.
What can audiences expect from the film?
Audiences can expect a heartfelt narrative that resonates with themes of empowerment and the quiet strength of women.
Who produced 'Baksho Bondi – Shadowbox'?
The film is jointly produced by Tillotama Shome and Jim Sarbh.
