Film delves into the challenges faced by a couple in a Delhi apartment setting.
Sanju Surendran’s film, ‘Khidki Gaav’, is set in a neighborhood of the same name in South Delhi, and it offers viewers a glimpse into the tumultuous relationship of a couple, Sarah and Abhi. This fictional feature is part of the Busan International Film Festival, where it has gained attention for its evocative storytelling and strong performances. The film, primarily in Malayalam, navigates the delicate balance between intimacy and isolation faced by the live-in lovers.
For Sarah, played by Bhanu Priyamvada, and Abhi, portrayed by Roshan Abdul Rahoof, their apartment serves as a sanctuary amidst the harshness of Delhi. Sarah finds herself distanced from her conservative family, while Abhi has the freedom to chase his artistic ambitions. However, their domestic bliss is frequently disrupted. An intrusive landlady adds to their troubles, and friends Simon and Gopika, initially welcome, begin to encroach upon their personal space. As external pressures mount, Sarah’s domestic challenges exacerbate their already strained relationship, leading to a sense of suffocation within their once-comfortable home.
The film’s English title, ‘If On A Winter’s Night’, draws inspiration from Italo Calvino’s novel, with the winter season paralleling the growing chill in Sarah and Abhi’s relationship. Surendran mentioned that the narrative was partially inspired by real-life events and the classic film ‘Musafir’ (1957) by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, which also depicted the lives of tenants in a shared space. The filmmaker expressed that his exploration of domestic dynamics was ignited by a recommendation from a friend to watch ‘Musafir’, leading him to delve into the complexities of relationships within confined settings.
Surendran’s collaboration with writer Rekha Raj resulted in a nuanced script that unfolds episodically, with each incident intensifying the couple’s emotional strain. The cinematography, handled by Manesh Madhavan, captures the claustrophobic atmosphere that develops between Sarah and Abhi, enhancing the film’s emotional depth. ‘Khidki Gaav’ premiered at the Busan International Film Festival, specifically in the Vision – Asia section, where it was well-received.
The aesthetic of Khidki Gaav influenced Surendran’s choice of setting, as he found the neighborhood’s charm appealing. Although he has not lived in the area, he spent time in Gurgaon, Haryana, which is nearby. The locality is known for its affordable housing, attracting artists and students, and its narrow streets and cultural landmarks provided a fitting backdrop for the film.
Creating ‘Khidki Gaav’ presented challenges typical of independent art films, from securing a producer to finalizing locations. Surendran remarked on the difficulty of bringing the project to fruition in Delhi, describing it as a miracle that the film was completed. The editing process was particularly challenging due to the wealth of footage captured, requiring significant cuts to achieve the final rhythm of the film. The casting process also played a crucial role, with Bhanu and Roshan developing their chemistry during filming, even though they met for the first time on set.
Through ‘Khidki Gaav’, Surendran aims to present a realistic portrayal of contemporary relationships in urban spaces, steering clear of idealized depictions. He intends to depict how ordinary people navigate life in Delhi, showcasing the essence of the city without resorting to melodrama, ultimately inviting audiences to reflect on the complexities of love and companionship in a bustling metropolis.
