Reality Check

Documentary Film Screening

An NCPA Presentation in collaboration with Cinema Collective

The Reality Check film series promotes and encourages documentary filmmakers in India, whose work reflects life and culture in the country today in a provocative blend of creativity and integrity.

Ayena – Mirror
Hindi/Urdu Film with English Subtitles (70 mins) 

A momentary act of revenge transformed the lives of two young Indian women forever. After surviving an acid attack and having to carry the scars of human brutality on their faces, both Ritu and Faraha have to navigate a sea of odd currents daily.

Strangely enough, Ritu’s scars brings her fame. She occasionally finds herself talking on television, on the runway at fashion events and even in a Bollywood film. Still, she often feels lonely. She wants to be loved and embraces an ambiguous relationship with a fellow female acid attack survivor. Faraha, on the other hand, has come to terms with her post-attack singlehood and her new lease on life. As she begins to enjoy freedom and independence, a desire to become a mother slowly brews inside her. 

By intertwining the shadows and lights, hope and hopelessness in Ritu’s and Faraha’s lives, Ayena becomes a mirror in which we can also see our own reflections.

Producer & Director: Siddhant Sarin (The Films)
Co-Director: Debankon Solanky
Co-Producers: Arunas Matelis & Algimante (Studio Nominum), Sarah Kang (Seesaw Pictures)
Editor: Nilanjan Bhattacharya
Music Composer: Gintaras Sodeika

The film screening will be followed by a discussion.

Admission on a first-come-first-served basis. NCPA Members will get preferential seating till 6.20 pm.