New Delhi: India’s leading filmmakers—Anurag Kashyap, Vetrimaaran, Lijo Jose Pellissery, Nag Ashwin, and Raj B Shetty—came together on Saturday to unveil the trailer of Manoj Bajpayee’s upcoming film Jugnuma.

Directed by Raam Reddy, best known for his acclaimed debut Thithi, the film is described as a cinematic spectacle rooted in magical realism. It is presented by Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga, alongside Kashyap.

“Jugnuma is @raamreddy.creates’s labour of love—a film that has profoundly moved me both as a filmmaker and as a viewer. That’s why we’re all supporting it,” Kashyap wrote on Instagram, sharing the trailer. “I’m thrilled that Vetri, Lijo, Raj, and Nag have joined in to support the film. Here’s the trailer.”

Set in the late 1980s, the story follows Dev (played by Bajpayee), who begins to uncover a strange phenomenon of burnt trees across his vast fruit orchard estate in the Himalayas. Despite his best efforts, the fires continue, ultimately forcing him to confront the deeper truths about himself and his family.

Titled The Fable in English, the film features dialogue by celebrated writer Varun Grover and an ensemble cast including Deepak Dobriyal, Priyanka Bose, and Tillotama Shome.

For director Raam Reddy, having such esteemed filmmakers unveil his trailer was a “surreal” experience.

“To have some of the most visionary storytellers of our generation come together in support of Jugnuma is both humbling and deeply affirming,” Reddy said. “This film emerged from a deeply personal journey into magical realism... to see it embraced by these giants of Indian cinema makes me believe that cinema truly is a dream worth pursuing.”

Jugnuma has already made its mark on the international festival circuit, premiering at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2024, winning Best Film at the Leeds International Film Festival, and earning the Special Jury Prize at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival.

Backed by Flip Films, Jugnuma is scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on September 12.

PTI