Co-Production of "Kurinji" Highlights Women's Stories in Migration

The Kerala-set drama "Kurinji" has secured a co-production partnership involving France’s Blue Monday Prods., U.S.-based FilmKaravan, and India’s Eastern Eagle Production. This collaboration was announced at the Berlin European Film Market, marking a significant step in the film's development. Directed by Payal Sethi, "Kurinji" was previously recognized at the Berlinale Talents Script Station and received the Kompagnon Fellowship from Perspektive Deutsches Kino and Berlinale Talents in 2022. The film also won top honors at the 2024 NFDC Film Bazaar co-production market in Goa.

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"Kurinji" tells the story of Laly, a wife and mother whose husband has been working abroad in the Gulf for 12 years. When he suddenly ceases communication and financial support, Laly turns to a local television program dedicated to tracing missing migrant workers. Her search reveals her husband's hidden life overseas, prompting her to confront an uncertain future and consider a new path for herself. The film's title references the kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years, symbolizing themes of waiting, endurance, and transformation.

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Payal Sethi, the film's director, emphasizes the importance of portraying women's experiences in the context of migration. She noted, “I was aware of stories of men who migrate, but I noticed almost nothing was said about the women left behind.” This perspective is central to "Kurinji," as it explores the emotional toll of migration on families. FilmKaravan producer Sonali Bawa highlighted the thematic continuity with their previous work, particularly the International Emmy-winning series "Delhi Crime," which also addresses women's realities in India.

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FilmKaravan, known for its impactful storytelling, aims to amplify narratives that resonate across borders. Eastern Eagle Production, established in 2023, focuses on elevating regional voices and connecting local talent with global audiences. Blue Monday Prods., founded in 2007, specializes in arthouse cinema and has received multiple accolades, including the Caméra d’Or at Cannes in 2017. The company has a history of showcasing films at major international festivals.

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Sonali Bawa remarked on the film's relevance, stating, “Though rooted in Kerala, the film speaks across borders through its authentic and moving portrayal of families shaped by migration as an emotional experience.” This sentiment underscores the film's aim to resonate with diverse audiences while addressing universal themes of loss and resilience.

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• “‘Kurinji’ grew from a desire to tell this story from the woman’s perspective.” — Payal Sethi, Director

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• “Supporting Payal and her story felt like a natural move, allowing us to champion her strong artistic voice and bring meaningful narratives to the screen since we produced her short films ‘Grant St.” — Sonali Bawa, Producer at FilmKaravan

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"Kurinji" represents a collaborative effort to highlight the often-overlooked narratives of women affected by migration. With its strong thematic connections to previous works and a commitment to authentic storytelling, the film is poised to make a significant impact on audiences both in India and internationally.

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