Sub Line: The collaboration re-affirms its commitment to creating cinema that resonates across borders
Mumbai: Jio Studios and Manish Malhotra’s Stage5 Production proudly present Bun Tikki,a poignant coming-of-age drama exploring the father-son bond, set to have its World Premiere at the prestigious 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) in California on January 5, 2025. Directed by Faraz Arif Ansari who makes their debut as a feature film maker, starring cinematic legendsShabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman and Abhay Deol along withNushrratt Bharuccha and Rohaan Singh, Bun Tikki is a heart-warming tale of family, love and identity.
Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra, Marijke deSouza and Manish Malhotra, this marks the second global festival outing for the Jio Studios-Stage5 Production partnership, following the premiere of Saali Mohabbat at the ongoing IFFI 2024. With yet another compelling story set to captivate international audiences, the collaboration re-affirms its commitment to creating cinema that resonates across borders.
Bun Tikkifollows the journey of seven–year–old Shanu and his single father, Sidhant. Shanu grapples with self-discovery amid societal challenges, while Sidhant navigates grief and societal pressures as a single parent trying to understand his child. Through heartfelt performances and emotionally driven storytelling, the film explores the theme of parenthood, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Speaking on the film’s premiere at PSIFF, Director Faraz Arif Ansari, said, “It’s an absolute dream to have Bun Tikki make its global debut at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival. This iconic festival has always been a beacon for independent filmmakers and bold storytelling, and I’m beyond excited that our film is part of such a phenomenalline up. Bun Tikki is my love letter to the world — to every child, every parent, and everyone who believes in the transformative power of love, empathy, and kindness. I hope it sparks conversations that break barriers, bridge differences, and remind us of the kinder, happier world we’re all capable of creating. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of Jio Studios and the visionary Manish Malhotra, who believed in me and my story from the start, giving it the sunshine and love. My heartfelt thanks to the entire team at Palm Springs International Film Festival for giving Bun Tikki a platform to reach global audiences. I’m so proud of what we’ve created, and I can’t wait to share it with the world. Here’s to always making cinema that transcends boundaries and inspires us to imagine a brighter, better, more inclusive tomorrow.”
Stage5 Production, the brainchild of celebrated designer and visionary Manish Malhotra, is the production house dedicated to crafting powerful narratives that push boundaries and ignite conversations. Reflecting Manish’s unparalleled eye for detail and storytelling, the company aims to produce films that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. With a focus on bold storytelling and compelling visuals, Stage5 Production seeks to champion fresh voices and visionary talent, creating cinema that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and impactful, spanning genres and themes that challenge the status quo.
Producer Manish Malhotraexpressing his gratitude and excitement for the world premiere of Bun Tikki at PSIFFsaid,“It’s a truly special moment to witnessBun Tikkimake its globalpremiereat the 36thPalm Springs International Film Festival, especially following theapplaudedpremiere ofSaali Mohabbatat IFFI 2024 with Jio Studios. As a producer, it’s an honour to contribute to a project that challenges conventions, tells an authentic story and connects with audiences on a universal scale. I am incredibly proud of Faraz for bringing this vision to life and eagerly look forward to how the world embraces this heartfelt film. My deepest gratitude goes to the festival for supporting this liberated cinema and to theworldwho will soon experience the magic ofBun Tikki.”
Jyoti Deshpande,President, Media and Entertainment, RIL,added, “HavingBun Tikkipremiere at a prestigious platform as the Palm Springs International Film Festival is a proud moment for us at Jio Studios.Webelieve in the power of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding. We are committed to amplifyingdiverse voices and narratives that resonate with authenticity and passion. Supporting Bun Tikki is not just an endorsement of its artistic merit but a celebration of the courage it takes to share stories that challenge and inspire. Manish and Faraz have made this film wholeheartedly and I am sure it will conquer hearts globally.”
Faraz Arif Ansari, an international award-winning filmmaker, is known for their ground-breaking work in inclusive storytelling. Their previous projects include short films Sisak, India’s first silent LGBTQ love story and Sheer Qorma, a tale of love and acceptance.
Jio Studios and Stage5 Production present Bun Tikki, produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra, Marijke deSouza and Manish Malhotra and directed by Faraz Arif Ansari who will be making their feature directorial debut. The film stars Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman and Abhay Deol along with Nushrratt Bharuccha and Rohaan Singh.