Shape of Momo, the first feature by filmmaker Tribeny Rai, is headed for a theatrical release in India and Nepal on May 29 under Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media. Executive produced by Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti and Payal Kapadia, the Sikkim-set drama portrays women’s lives across generations and their complex ties to home.
Actor Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media has set up Shape of Momo, the debut feature by filmmaker Tribeny Rai, for a theatrical release on May 29 in India and Nepal. The feature is backed by filmmakers Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti and Payal Kapadia, who have come on board as Executive Producers.
Featuring an ensemble cast of late Bhanu Maya Rai, Gaumaya Gurung, Pashupati Rai, Rahul Mukhia and Shyamashree Sherpa, the film is set in a Himalayan village in Sikkim and traces the lives of women across generations within a single family, shaped by emotional inheritances, silences, and everyday negotiations.
"It also reflects the complexity of one’s relationship with home, as both a place of comfort and something that can, at times, hold you back," a note from the makers read.
Speaking about the film and its journey, Rai, who wrote the film with Kislay, shared that the feature is "shaped by the women and experiences" around her. Shape of Momo is backed by Dalley Khorsani Production in co-production with Kathkala Films.
"We make films with the hope of experiencing them on the big screen, but we’re also aware of the challenges independent films like ours face, so to see it come together like this feels surreal but also rewarding. Spirit Media is one of the few Indian studios actively creating space for independent, creator-driven cinema, and we couldn’t have asked for better partners," Rai added.
Calling Shape of Momo a "quietly powerful film," Daggubati said Rai has a "refreshing distinct voice" as a filmmaker.
"At Spirit, we’re drawn to stories that are deeply rooted in their world and told with emotional honesty, and Shape of Momo really reflects that. We’re committed to supporting filmmakers like Tribeny, and we’re excited to bring this film to audiences," he added.
Akhtar shared, "We love watching stories from across India, stories that bring distinct, lived-in perspectives and expand the world of Indian cinema. We are so excited that the audience that may never have visited parts of our diverse and lush country, including places like Sikkim, will now get to experience a beautiful and authentic story from there in the cinema."
Kapadia said Shape of Momo is a "deeply moving" coming-of-age of a young woman conflicted by her yearning for a home. "The film feels refreshingly contemporary and Tribeny's stance is strong and uncompromising yet by the end very touching as well," Kapadia added.
For Kagti, Shape of Momo is a film made with sensitivity, warmth and emotional insight. "The film arrives at a moment when some of the most exciting independent cinema in India is emerging from newer voices and regions, especially from the Northeast. Films like Boong, Raptures and Village Rockstars have opened up exciting new creative possibilities within Indian independent cinema, and it’s wonderful to see Shape of Momo become part of that journey," Kagti added.