Bayaan had no big backing or safety net, it’s a film that I took a bet on: Huma Qureshi

Huma Qureshi-starrer Bayaan, a taut police procedural-thriller, has been officially selected for the prestigious Discovery section of TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival), where its world premiere will take place this September.

Speaking to us about the film, helmed by writer-director Bikas Ranjan Mishra, Huma says, “Bayaan is a film that I took a bet on; it brings to the forefront a haunting story with a big soul. With no big backing and safety net, this film is purely a fruit of everyone's hard work, and I am elated that this is the only film selected in the Discovery Section at TIFF this year. It is indeed a proud moment for me, and I further strengthen my belief to support such storytelling and films.”




Talking about why she connects so strongly with this film, she says, “Bayaan gave me the opportunity to play the kind of character I’ve long been drawn to—someone within the justice system, yet up against forces much larger than herself. What makes this even more special is that I am part of this project not just as an actor but also as a producer.”

Helmed by writer-director Bikas Ranjan Mishra—best known for his acclaimed feature film 'Chauranga'—'Bayaan' was developed at Film Independent, Los Angeles and is produced by Shiladitya Bora of Platoon One Films, India’s leading independent film studio known for multiple Filmfare award winning Ghaath (Berlinale 2023), National Award winner Picasso (Amazon Prime’s first direct to digital Marathi film).

Filmmaker Bikas Ranjan Mishra described 'Bayaan' as a poignant reflection of contemporary India, where "power and gender intersect in volatile and often invisible ways." The filmmaker added, "It is my attempt to bear witness to a society in transition — and to salute the quiet courage of those who choose to speak.' I'm deeply honoured to present my second feature, Bayaan, at the Toronto International Film Festival in the Discovery section — a platform that has launched the journeys of many filmmakers I admire and cherish."

“As a producer, I’m always looking for that one script that can be a breakout film for everyone involved—and with 'Bayaan', I knew we had something powerful. At Platoon One Films, our ethos is to champion newer voices and newer stories that provoke, connect, and challenge. This film truly embodies that spirit," said Shiladitya Bora.

Besides Huma, the film boasts of a stellar cast that includes Chandrachur Singh, Sachin Khedekar with powerhouse performers Paritosh Sand, Avijit Dutt, Vibhore Mayank, Sampa Mandal, Swati Das, Aditi Kanchan Singh and Perry Chhabra.