A plea for women to stand up and be heard

While the Hindi feature film 'Evening Shadows, which is wowing audiences across the world is a film about a gay son coming out to his mother in a small town in South India, the film has received a lot of appreciation for the portrayal of the mother as a woman who stand up against her patriarchal family.

"Many viewers across the world has termed it as a fiercely feminist film", said Sridhar Rangayan, director of the film, "I feel it is a film that is about equality and dignity – be it for gay men or for women within conservative societies. All of us have to find the strength within ourselves to stand up and be heard."

Mona Ambegoankar, one among the cast shares, "On the occasion of Women's Day, I dedicate my character, Vasudha, in the film to all women labouring under the patriarchal system, which is widely prevalent in India. I want to see them rise up and fight it with grace and vigour, like Vasudha. I hope they will take along all those marginalized by society, for any reason whatsoever, and emerge triumphant".

Yamini Singh who plays the role of the aunt Sarita has been greatly appreciated because she hides her wounded past and tries to create a life full of happiness and joy. She said, "In a society where thoughts, beliefs and laws are conservative, Sarita wants to live on her own terms but fears she may have to succumb to norms of the society. This is a film where each of the characters has the courage to take a stand. For their choice. For their life".

Veenah Naair who plays Lata, a woman married to a closeted gay man said, "I am so proud to be part of such a breathtaking venture. Beautiful writing by Saagar Gupta and wonderful direction by Sridhar underlines the struggle of many women caught in the patriarchal web".

Saagar Gupta who has written the dialogues and lyrics said, "The lyrics of the song "Behti Hai, Sehti Hai. Beech Do Kinaaron Ke Ek Nadi Sadiyon Se Roti Hai" offers an analogy of mother and river because like mothers, a river too is a life giver and never complains. Like a river, mothers usually quietly bear everything for the wellbeing of their children".

The song is composed and sung by eminent musician Shubha Mudgal with arrangement by Shantanu Herlekar. The song is streaming on Saavn and other audio platforms.Evening Shadows, starring Mona Ambegaonkar, Ananth Mahadevan, Devansh Doshi and Arpit Chaudhary in lead roles was released in select theaters in India on January 11th and is now streaming on Netflix.The film has received a UA certificate from the censor board and has won 16 international awards at its 55 film festival screenings.