Nandita Das Initiatives

In Bombay's seedy-shiny film world, Manto and his stories are widely read and accepted. But as sectarian violence engulfs the nation, Manto makes the difficult choice of leaving his beloved Bombay. In Lahore, he finds himself bereft of friends and unable to find takers for his writings.

Manas, an ex-factory floor manager loses his job during the pandemic. He is then forced to work as a food delivery rider, grappling with the app and the world of ratings and incentives. Life is relentless for him, but not without shared moments of joy with his wife, Pratima. The film captures the life of invisible 'ordinary' people, hidden in plain sight.

The film is a spontaneous response to the irony of “STAY HOME, STAY SAFE” for millions of women in India and around the world. The film is adding its voice to a conversation that is much needed in the public space. It reminds us that speaking up is only possible when women know that there is someone listening. This pandemic has taught us that our lives are deeply intertwined, and so we must respond to the realities beyond ours.