Filmmaker Reema Kagti has made a name for herself championing underrepresented voices in Indian cinema. Her latest project, Shape of Momo, is a Nepali-language Sikkimese film that she executive produced. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Kagti discussed the lack of representation of North East India in mainstream cinema and the need for change.
Kagti, who hails from Assam, chose to back Shape of Momo because it tells the story of the North East with a native lens. She argues that Indian filmmakers are making good cinema, but the audiences need to recognize and support it. 'We want your patronage, not support,' she says, emphasizing the difference between appreciating art and simply giving it lip service.
Kagti believes that both filmmakers and the audience need to reflect on how to change things. 'There is some soul-searching needed from both sides,' she says. 'For instance, there is so much outrage over nepotism. But at the same time, you will go and watch two known people's films over two unknown people's films. So you must question yourself, too.'
Shape of Momo, directed by Tribeny Rai and backed by Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Payal Kapadia, is currently running in theatres across India.
