Anuparna Roy’s Songs of Forgotten Trees to Premiere at Venice Film Festival

Acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap has come on board as the presenter for Anuparna Roy’s debut film, Songs of Forgotten Trees. The film is India’s only official selection at the festival this year in the Orizzonti section, known for highlighting fresh, innovative voices in cinema.

The human drama stars Naaz Shaikh and Sumi Baghel, and tells the story of two migrant women in Mumbai whose lives become unexpectedly intertwined. Produced by Bibhanshu Rai, Romil Modi, and Ranjan Singh, the film explores how a fragile connection between strangers can grow into something deep and tender.

The film follows Thooya, an aspiring actress who navigates Mumbai’s harsh reality using her charm and resourcefulness. She survives by accepting transactional relationships, including one with her wealthy benefactor. When she sublets his apartment to Swetha, a corporate worker also new to the city, the two form a quiet bond. As their lives unfold in parallel, the city’s chaos becomes the backdrop for a story about survival, identity, and unlikely friendship.

Kashyap, known for championing new talent, expressed his admiration for Roy’s bold storytelling. “I have always believed in backing voices that challenge the norm,” he said. He praised the creative partnership he shares with producer Ranjan Singh, and said they were proud to support Roy’s first feature.

Director Anuparna Roy, who once juggled three corporate jobs to fund her film, revealed the personal inspiration behind it. She was moved by the story of her childhood friend Jhuma Nath, who was married off young. Roy wants to bring attention to people often ignored in mainstream cinema, those marginalized by class, caste, and gender. “These are stories I have seen, lived, and want to share with the world,” she said.

Producer Ranjan Singh, of Flip Films, added that he was struck by Roy’s earlier work and her ability to tell powerful stories in a few words. “Anuparna is a unique voice,” he said. Co-produced by Navin Shetty and Roy herself, Songs of Forgotten Trees marks the arrival of a bold new filmmaker and a moment of pride for Indian cinema.