Marathi Queer Drama ‘Sabar Bonda’ Shines at Sundance, Clinching the Grand Jury Prize

Pune, India – The Marathi film “Sabar Bonda” (Cactus Pears), directed by Rohan Parashuram Kanawade, clinched the Grand Jury Prize in the World Cinema: Dramatic category at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. The film stood out as the singular Indian entry competing, highlighting a significant achievement for the nation’s cinematic presence on the global stage.

“Sabar Bonda” delves into the complexities of queer relationships set against the rustic backdrop of a Maharashtrian village. The narrative follows Anand, a man in his thirties, who revisits his ancestral village to fulfill mourning rituals for his deceased father. It is here that Anand rekindles a relationship with a school friend, exploring themes of love and societal expectations.

The central character, portrayed by Bhushaan Manoj, navigates the nuances of rekindling a past love with Suraaj Suman’s character, a local farmer. Their romance unfolds over Anand’s 10-day stay, encapsulating tender moments amid personal and cultural conflicts.

The film has been lauded for its sensitive portrayal of love and loss, capturing quiet moments of intimacy against the struggles of romantic relationships constrained by societal norms. “Sabar Bonda” is an international co-production between India, the United Kingdom, and Canada, illustrating a successful collaborative effort across countries.

This award continues a successful trajectory for Indian films at Sundance. In the previous years, several Indian co-productions have been recognized, such as “Girls Will Be Girls” in 2024, earning the Audience Award, and “Nocturnes” receiving the World Cinema Documentary Special Jury Award for Craft.

The festival’s recognition of “Sabar Bonda” helps fortify India’s position in international cinema, following other acclaimed works such as “Writing with Fire,” “All That Breathes,” and “Against The Tide,” which have all previously received accolades at Sundance.

The win at Sundance promises a positive impact on the visibility of LGBTQ+ narratives in Indian cinema, promoting broader acceptance and understanding. It marks a moment of pride and progress for Indian filmmaking, proving that compelling storytelling transcending cultural boundaries can resonate with a global audience.

As films continue to be a medium for social change, “Sabar Bonda’s” recognition at a prestigious festival like Sundance underscores the importance of diverse narratives in the cinematic world, enabling filmmakers from underrepresented communities to share their stories with an international audience.

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