Plot

Having a singular and opportune sociopolitical vision, 'Bahadur- The Brave' dwells into an exciting local story about the Nepalese migrant porters with universal scope, centred around an honest and touching friendship. The film is directed by Diwa Shah, the first-ever debut director's Indian film to win the coveted Kutxabank - New Directors Award at the prestigious 71st San Sebastián International Film Festival. Produced by Hardhyaan Films (Visvesh Singh Sehrawat) and Sinai Pictures (Thomas Ajay Abraham).

"Bahadur - The Brave" is a poignant film set against the backdrop of a nationwide lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. The story revolves around the challenges faced by Nepalese migrant laborers, with a focus on the young protagonist, Hansi, portrayed by Rupesh Lama. Hansi and his brother-in-law, Dil Bahadur, played by Rahul Nawach Mukhia, are caught in the turmoil of the lockdown, unable to return to Nepal and struggling to find work.

Desperation leads Hansi to accept an illegal job at a godown, where he and Dil Bahadur discover the owner's involvement in illicit alcohol storage. A seemingly harmless decision to take a small amount of the alcohol sets off a chain of tragic events, eventually leading to Dil Bahadur's forced departure for Nepal, where borders are closed due to the pandemic.

The film delves into the plight of migrant laborers in India, shedding light on the harsh conditions they endure, exploitation, and low wages. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates their struggles, leaving many jobless and separated from their families. Family remains a central theme, highlighting the characters' determination to support their loved ones even in dire circumstances. The power of hope is also prominently portrayed, as the characters maintain their unwavering optimism for a better future despite facing extreme adversity.

The characters are brought to life through compelling performances:

• Hansi (Rupesh Lama) is the film's central figure, a compassionate Nepalese migrant laborer striving to support his family in Nepal. His character is a complex blend of determination, shrewdness and innocence.
• Dil Bahadur (Rahul Nawach Mukhia) is Hansi's brother-in-law, another Nepalese migrant laborer known for his loyalty and protectiveness towards his loved ones.

The director's vision, as articulated by Diwa Shah, focuses on shedding light on the hardships faced by migrant laborers during the pandemic. The film serves as a voice for the voiceless, revealing the human cost of migration. It seeks to strike a balance between realism and hope, capturing the harsh realities of migrant laborers' lives while celebrating their resilience and strength.

In conclusion, "Bahadur - The Brave" is a compelling and emotionally charged film that offers a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by migrant laborers in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. The performances, especially that of Rupesh Lama as Hansi, have received praise. This film is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the human condition and the indomitable spirit of hope in the face of adversity.