During the 48th International Kolkata Book Fair, the much-awaited trailer for the film Chhaad, which was directed by Indrani Chakrabarti and starred famous actor Paoli Dam, was presented with much excitement at the SBI Auditorium. In addition, the official poster for the movie was unveiled at the occasion.

The event was graced by Paoli Dam, Ranajoy Bishnu, director Indrani Chakrabarti, and other eminent guests.

Chhaad, which was produced by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), has already won praise at international film festivals such as Cannes, IFFI, and KIFF. The International Kolkata Book Fair served as a literary and symbolic backdrop for the film, and its themes of empowerment, independence, and individualism struck a profound chord with viewers.

Through her relationship with a terrace—a physical area that transcends into an emotional and spiritual realm—the film follows the path of its protagonist, Mitra, played by the gifted Paoli Dam, as she seeks strength, self-expression, and comfort. The story explores Mitra’s silent defiance of social conventions and her pursuit of freedom from patriarchal restrictions through Chhaad.

Paoli Dam said, “Chhaad is more than just a movie; it’s a representation of feelings that we all feel but seldom express. I had a deep personal connection to Mitra’s journey, and I think her tale will speak to people on a human level. In this film, the terrace serves as a metaphor for the freedom we all aspire to in life, not just a physical location. With a plot that will stay with viewers long after the last credits have rolled, I do not doubt that this moving cinematic experience will be highly anticipated”.

She also added that the film has been receiving accolades at different film festivals. Now that it is finally getting released in Kolkata, the actress hopes that it receives a lot of love and adulation. “When I listened to the name of the story, I agreed to do the film. I had not heard the story even then. Chhaad or roof brings back many memories of my childhood and young days. I used to play on the roof, read books, and do many more things” added the actress.

“Chhaad is a tribute to the unsung moments of liberation that every individual craves. I believe this film encourages viewers to accept their inner voice and pursue their paths to freedom, while the terrace serves as a silent witness to Mitra’s inner struggles and victories” said director Indrani Chakrabarti.

Ranajoy Bishnu said “We live in complexes now and the concept of a roof is non-existent now. To work in a film that deals with such a concept is a great feeling indeed. Roof for me means freedom and a space to spend time with self”.

The excitement for Chhaad‘s voyage to the big screen was further heightened when it was revealed that the film’s premiere date would be March 8, 2025, which coincided with Women’s Day.

Priyanka Dutta