In a remarkable milestone for Indian cinema, Sabar Bonda has become the first-ever Marathi film to be showcased at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Rohan Parashuram Kanawade, this tender story delves into the complexities of queer love in rural Maharashtra. It’s not just a film about love but a poignant exploration of identity, tradition, and the struggles of living in a conservative society.
A Quiet Beginning
The story begins with Anand (played by Bhushaan Manoj), a man in his 30s, returning to his ancestral village after his father’s death. He carries the weight of grief and the unspoken expectations of his family and society. The rituals following his father’s passing become a stark reminder of the traditions he’s bound by. Among these is the constant questioning of why he’s still unmarried, a nagging question from extended family members that Anand silently endures.
Anand’s mother is his only source of quiet support. She doesn’t press him about marriage, which offers him a small comfort amid the overwhelming pressures of rural life.
A Chance Reunion
In the village, Anand reconnects with his childhood friend Balya, played by Suraaj Suman. Balya, a farmer, spends his days grazing goats in the nearby hills. Beneath his simple life lies a world of secrets. In a discreet encounter with a distant relative, it becomes clear that Balya, like Anand, is a closeted gay man.
The two men, tied together by years of friendship, begin to navigate the unspoken feelings between them. Their connection unfolds in subtle ways—through shared memories, quiet gestures, and meaningful silences.
Love in the Shadows
One of the film’s standout moments comes when Balya gently touches Anand for the first time. The scene, captured amidst the stillness of the trees, is a breathtaking depiction of vulnerability and longing. It’s a simple touch, but it speaks volumes, beautifully shot by cinematographer Vikas Urs.
Their love grows in secrecy, hidden from the prying eyes of the village. The film doesn’t rush their relationship. Instead, it takes its time, allowing the audience to feel the weight of their emotions and the quiet courage it takes to love in a world that doesn’t accept them.
A Film That Stays With You
Rohan Kanawade’s direction is sensitive and deeply empathetic. He doesn’t rely on grand declarations or melodrama. Instead, he paints a tender portrait of two men navigating their identities in a society that leaves no room for people like them. The performances by Bhushaan Manoj and Suraaj Suman are heartfelt, their chemistry palpable.
Kanawade has spoken about the lack of representation of queer stories from rural India in mainstream cinema, and with Sabar Bonda, he’s started a conversation that’s long overdue.
Why It Matters
Sabar Bonda isn’t just a film; it’s a reflection of the realities faced by many queer individuals in India’s villages. It’s about the courage it takes to be yourself in a world that demands conformity.
This historic moment at Sundance is a win not just for Marathi cinema but for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to bring about change. As the audience at Sundance gave it a standing ovation, one thing was clear—Sabar Bonda is more than a movie. It’s a quiet revolution.
