Bayaan Director Questions Lack of Support for Female-Led Stories

The Red Lorry Film Festival 2026 witnessed a thought-provoking premiere of 'Bayaan', a powerful film starring Huma Qureshi. The event, however, was marked by the notable absence of the lead actress and executive producer, Huma Qureshi, leaving many attendees curious.

Following the screening, a Q&A session with director Bikas Ranjan Mishra, producers Shiladitya Bora and Madhu Sharma, and actor Sachin Khedekar delved into the film's intriguing themes. 'Bayaan' tackles a sensitive subject, depicting a godman accused of sexual violence and the struggles of a rookie officer to build a solid case against him. The film's narrative seems to draw inspiration from real-life events, prompting an audience member to question the filmmakers' bold choice of subject matter.

Shiladitya Bora, the producer, revealed his adventurous spirit, stating, 'I am kind of crazy. I have built my career on taking risks.' He further explained his enthusiasm for the project, likening it to a leap of faith. Despite the legal precautions taken, Bora acknowledged the challenges, suggesting that excessive caution might hinder such films from being made.

The release strategy for 'Bayaan' is currently in the works. Bora shared that they are in negotiations with a major platform and are considering a direct-to-digital release or a theatrical run. The audience enthusiastically supported the idea of a theatrical release, and Bora hinted at a potential release in the next few months. The film has garnered interest from distributors worldwide, including North America.

The discussion took an intriguing turn when the host humorously pointed out the challenges of marketing a female-led film without songs and minimal action. Director Bikas Ranjan Mishra raised a thought-provoking question: 'In our film industry, females are in powerful positions. Yet, why is there a reluctance to support certain female-led films?' This query sparked a reflection on the role of women in power and their support for such narratives.