Jaya Bachchan praises Jayant Digambar Somalkar's award-winning Marathi film 'Sthal': 'This is true cinema'

Veteran actor Sachin Pilgaonkar has joined Sthal as a presenter, supporting Jayant Digambar Somalkar's award-winning Marathi film. 'Sthal' (A Match) delves into the realities of arranged marriages in rural India, portraying how a girl's marriage often takes precedence over basic life needs. Told from the perspective of a young girl, Savita, the film addresses patriarchy, colorism, and deep-rooted social issues.

Veteran actress Jaya Bachchan, who was invited to the screening, expressed gratitude to Sachin for being invited and praised the film, saying, "Creative work is something that doesn’t need to be spoken about, it must be seen and felt. Films like this are essential for society and, above all, for cinema. This is true cinema. I loved it. God bless all."

The film features first-time actors from director Jayant Digambar Somalkar’s village, with Nandini Chikte playing the lead role of Savita. The cast also includes Taranath Khiratkar, Sangita Sonekar, Suyog Dhawas, Sandip Somalkar, Sandip Parkhi, Swati Ulmale, Gauri Badki, and Mansi Pawar.

'Sthal' (A Match) is produced by Karan Grover, Shefali Bhushan, Jayant Digambar Somalkar, and Riga Malhotra.

Set in a village in the Vidarbha region of India, Sthal (A Match) follows the journey of a determined young girl, Savita, who dreams of education and a brighter future. However, as her farmer parents struggle to find her a suitable match, societal expectations force her to prioritize marriage over her aspirations.

Veteran actor Sachin Pilgaonkar shared the film’s poster on social media, announcing its release on the birth anniversary of Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule, India’s first female teacher, a social reformer, and a poet.

Directed by Jayant Digambar Somalkar in his feature debut, Sthal premiered at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it won the NETPAC Award for Best Asia Pacific Film. Since then, it has been screened at 29 major film festivals and has won over 16 awards, generating significant buzz in the film industry.