Pahuna

Pahuna: The Little Visitors is an Indian film from 2017 that is directed by Paakhi A Tyrewala and produced by Priyanka Chopra. The film stars Anmoul Limboo, Ishika Gurung, and Manju Chhetri in pivotal roles. It is a bold approach to storytelling that realistically portrays the harrowing experiences of children caught up in political turbulence, yet it captures their enduring spirit and resilience.

This Nepalese language film premiered at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival and then went on to bag the Best Film (Jury Award) at the SCHLINGEL International Children’s Film Festival in Germany. It maintains a delicate balance between harsh realities and the sweet innocence of children, resulting in a captivating narrative that leaves the audience emotionally invested.

The narrative pulsates around three siblings - Pranay (Anmoul Limboo), Amrita (Ishika Gurung), and their younger brother Bishal (Manju Chhetri). The film traces their journey as they inadvertently get separated from their parents amidst socio-political unrest in the Darjeeling area of India and have to fend for themselves. It's an evocative exploration of the concept of survival and the lengths to which children can go to ensure their safety and well-being.

While the main plotline is an intense survival adventure, the subplots expertly tackle superstitions, religious misconceptions, and societal notions that often play a significant role in the lives of people in rural societies. The film forcefully questions many such beliefs as seen from the innocent and questioning eyes of these children, making the narrative highly relatable and robust.

The title, Pahuna, translates to 'Guest' in English, subtly referring to the children who find themselves in other people's homes, and the struggle to carve out a new identity for themselves amidst all the chaos.

The performances are noteworthy. Anmoul Limboo, as the eldest son Pranay, carries the responsibility of his family's survival on his young shoulders and does it with an impressive level of maturity. Ishika Gurung brings grace and charm to Amrita's character as she balances the obligations of being a sister, caregiver, and a child. Manju Chhetri, the youngest brother, accentuates the narrative with his innocence, adding layers to an already powerful story.

The wide shots of the mountains, the vast expanse of green valleys, and the scenic tea estates make Pahuna visually enchanting. The beauty and tranquility of the environment are in stark contrast to the conflict and violence that disrupt the lives of these children, making for a poignant viewing experience.

Director Paakhi A Tyrewala’s execution is impressive. By handling a tumultuous theme with the utmost sensitivity, she extracts fine performances from her lead actors and seamlessly integrates the beautiful landscape of Darjeeling into the narrative. The script-writing is tight, and the director ensures that the flow of the story maintains its pace and suspense without losing clarity.

Pahuna: The Little Visitors isn't just a movie about children; it's about the latent ability in every child to overcome the most daunting challenges life throws at them, about the wonder of childhood and innocence, and about the strength of family bonds – even in the most dire circumstances.

The movie showcases Priyanka Chopra's acumen as a producer, she and her production company, Purple Pebble Pictures, have created a gem that speaks volumes about the company's commitment to showcasing regional cinema on a global platform.

In conclusion, Pahuna is a beautiful, heart-touching, and sometimes heartbreaking story of hope, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of innocence. The film serves as an important reminder of the power of cinema, its ability to reflect on society's truths, and its potential to stir and evoke human emotions. Pahuna works because it bravely dares to ask difficult questions about ourselves and our societies, and attempts to find answers in the most unlikely places – through the determination, strength, and heart of children.