India, May 29 -- To call Shape of Momo one of the most important Indian films this year would not be an exaggeration. The Nepali-language film, set in Sikkim, is one of the rare feature films from the region and in that tongue. Helming it is first-time filmmaker Tribeny Rai, whose efforts have found backers in Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Payal Kapadia. After winning acclaim at film festivals worldwide, Shape of Momo had its grand homecoming this week, with a theatrical release across India. Ahead of the release, Tribeny spoke to Hindustan Times about the joy of bringing the film to its home audience, the scope of independent cinema, and how her lived-in experience shaped the film.

"I am really excited to release the film all over India...