‘Songs of Forgotten Trees’ director Anuparna Roy defends her Palestine remarks, recalls “Anurag Kashyap was against it”
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Anuparna Roy’s Historic Win at Venice Film Festival Sparks Controversy Over Palestine Remarks
Mumbai-based debutant filmmaker Anuparna Roy has made waves at the 82nd Venice Film Festival. She clinched the prestigious Orizzonti Award for Best Director for her film Songs of Forgotten Trees. This marks a big moment for Indian cinema, as her movie was the only Indian entry in the festival’s Orizzonti section.
On stage, a teary-eyed Anuparna shared a touching speech, dedicating her win to women worldwide. But things took a turn when she spoke out against injustice, specifically mentioning Palestine. Her comments quickly ignited a firestorm of reactions across India, with some calling her out for mixing politics with her achievement.
Talking to , Anuparna stood firm on her words. "I meant every bit of what I said at the festival. It was all about highlighting injustice everywhere," she explained. "Supporting Palestine or standing against wrongdoings doesn’t make me any less Indian. People think this is new for me, but I’ve spoken about it before—like when I won an award in Russia. And it’s not just Palestine; I won’t stay silent on genocides or violence in places like Nepal."
She urged fans to focus on the positives. "Please celebrate this achievement instead of turning it political. I don’t represent any agenda," Anuparna added.
The filmmaker also opened up about advice she ignored from mentor Anurag Kashyap and her producers. "Everyone, including Anurag Kashyap, told me to skip talking about Palestine. But I went ahead anyway. Now I see why they warned me—things have blown up, and some are even labeling me a traitor. Still, I’m not upset. I’ve made one film, and I’ll make more."
Anuparna remains committed to her voice. "I’ll keep speaking up against injustice, whether it’s in Kashmir, Murshidabad, or Gujarat. These issues need to be discussed," she said.
For those curious about her film, Songs of Forgotten Trees tells the story of two migrant women in Mumbai. It dives into their struggles with loneliness, survival, and rare sparks of human connection— a poignant look at life in the city.
This Venice Film Festival win puts Anuparna Roy and Indian independent cinema in the spotlight, even as her bold stance on global issues keeps the conversation alive.
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