Know Why ‘Khoya Paya’ Is one of the Most Emotionally Powerful Film of IFFI 2025
Swati Bhat
Photo Courtesy: Pritish Bagdi
‘Khoya Paya’, the searing debut by director Ashutosh Singh, left audiences visibly moved during its special screening at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Rooted in the emotional turbulence of a mother abandoned at the sprawling Kumbh Mela, the film blends raw realism with soul-stirring performances, emerging as one of the festival’s most talked-about titles.
Leading the narrative is National Award–winning actor Ms. Seema Biswas, who plays the deserted mother with an intensity that lingers long after the credits roll. Reflecting on the film’s powerful message about the mistreatment of elderly parents, Biswas said, “Respect for the elderly is non-negotiable. Without respect, familial bonds lose meaning.” She added that the role shook her deeply, and if placed in her character’s situation, she too would have refused to return to a family that abandoned her. When asked not as her character Vidya, but as herself, how she would feel after playing this character, her response was the exact opposite of the character she portrayed: "I would let my people leave me and I would never return to them."
Actor Chandan Roy Sanyal, who plays the guilt-ridden son, mentioned that he tackled the role sincerely, highlighting that even those with flaws think they have justifications for their actions. Actress Anjali Patil, attracted by the script's purity and the opportunity to collaborate with experienced actress Ms. Seema Biswas, commended the film for its emotional authenticity.
Producer Mr. Hemanshu Rai remembered being immediately drawn to the script, which he characterized as a compelling exploration of the mother-son relationship with a hauntingly dark undertone.
But what truly sets "Khoya Paya" apart is its breath-taking visual authenticity. Shot amid crores of pilgrims during the Mahakumbh 2025. The crew blended seamlessly into the crowd by dressing like one of them. Mr. Singh called the experience both chaotic and electrifying, remarking
"The film's colour was found at Mahakumbh. We rapidly recreated our two songs to align with the mood and atmosphere of the Kumbh Mela, making numerous spontaneous decisions to capture the ambiance as a main character of the film."
With its emotional depth and cultural resonance, ‘Khoya Paya’ emerges as one of IFFI 2025’s most compelling cinematic experiences.
