Monday Night Cinema

Cactus Pears

Sabar Bonda

Following his father’s death, 30-something Anand, a Mumbai call-centre worker, must return to his ancestral village with his mother, to observe the ten-day mourning ritual. While he struggles with his grief and also the extended family’s questions about his unmarried status, Anand reconnects with single farmer Balya, a friend from his childhood. The two men quickly form a deep and tender bond.

Loosely based on his own experiences, this impressive first feature from writer-director Rohan Kanawade provides a fascinating insight into funeral traditions and cultural practices in rural India, alongside a sensitive exploration of loss, class and forbidden love. His assured, yet delicate approach results in a gentle, authentic-feeling story with universal appeal.

Grand Jury Prize, Sundance Film Festival 2025