Mysore/Mysuru: ‘Kappuhamsa,’ a short film produced by Studio Swaramadhura in Mysuru, achieved recognition by winning the ‘Best Women Producer’ category award at the Indian Panorama International Film Festival (IPIFF) 2023-2024 held in Mumbai on Jan. 26. The movie has been produced by Ashwini Murali.

The cinematic exploration in ‘Kappuhamsa’ dives deep into the intricate challenges women face, unveiling the harsh realities of gender inequality and discrimination that often coerce them into marriages under familial pressures.

The movie astutely captures the essence of these struggles, portraying the poignant truth that compels a woman to nod in agreement. Hamsa is a highly talented, intelligent and educated woman, excelling as a Company Secretary while nurturing a strong passion for the arts. In this short film, 30-year-old Hamsha navigates the challenge of finding a life partner according to her mother’s preferences.

Beyond the dire consequences of forced marriages lie the tumultuous waters of the initial phase — match-making.  The film sheds light on the prevailing gender disparities in the match-making process, highlighting the privilege enjoyed by men in such situations. It artfully unravels the trauma embedded in this process, skilfully illustrating the clash between a woman’s aspirations and the suffocating embrace of societal expectations.

The portrayal is a visceral exploration, delving into the emotional whirlwind that brings forth frustration, helplessness, and a profound sense of self-disgust, as the woman grapples with the erosion of her identity.

The narrative weaves a tapestry of stress and anxiety, manifested in tears that serve as a silent testament to the internal conflict endured by the protagonist. The mother’s character, embodying a state of helplessness, becomes a poignant representation of societal pressures, while other characters symbolise the weight of societal norms — the tag of being ‘overqualified’ or ‘hebbettu’ (mediocre).

In its concise 25-minute runtime, ‘Kappuhamsa’ fearlessly mirrors the deeply ingrained facets of our social and cultural norms. The narrative dares to tread on challenging terrain, shedding light on the difficulty of challenging these norms amidst societal expectations, entrenched family traditions, and the looming fear of social stigma.

The movie is directed by Rajath Ranganatha. Rakesh Sudhir is the Music Director; K.V. Sathish (Banni Studio) is the Director of Photography while editing and colour are by Joffson Pinto (Blue Jacket Creations); art by Musthafa Khan and voice dubbing for lead (Hamsa) is Ashwini Murali.