
Film on Mother Teresa goes to Venice international film festival
2
Kolkata: A feature film on Mother Teresa, which follows seven consecutive days at a pivotal moment in her life when she decides to leave the Loreto Convent Entally in Kolkata and launch the Missionaries of Charity, has been selected as the opening film of the Orizzonti programme at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival.
"Mother", directed by Teona Strugar Mitevska and co-produced by a Kolkata-based company helmed by SRFTI's Shaunak Sur and Prateek Bagi, is competing with 18 films in the Orizzonti programme. The unit has thanked the chief minister for providing support for making Kolkata a shooting-friendly destination for international cinema.
The last Kolkata film that went to Venice was "Once Upon A Time in Calcutta" in 2021.
Set in 1948, "Mother" follows a devout Catholic nun driven by her passion to aid the vulnerable. To pursue her calling, she awaits a response from the Vatican, seeking release from her duties as Mother Superior. But tension mounts when she discovers that the successor she chooses harbours a secret.
Like Mother Teresa, the film's director was born in Skopje in North Macedonia. In 2010-2011, she first came to Kolkata after being commissioned a documentary by a European television company.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Undo
The documentary never happened but the director returned last year to shoot a feature film with Swedish actor Noomi Rapace playing the lead. Others in the cast include Sylvia Hoeks, Nikola Ristanovski, Akshay Kapoor and Amrita Chattopadhyay.
You Can Also Check:
Kolkata AQI
|
Weather in Kolkata
|
Bank Holidays in Kolkata
|
Public Holidays in Kolkata
The Kolkata leg of the movie was filmed for 11 days across Howrah Bridge, Bara Bazaar, Kumartuli, Southern Avenue, Kalighat, Ahiritola, and at Loreto Convent and St Mary's School in Entally where Mother Teresa herself once taught.
"I was told that filming in India would be chaotic and that we might get only a fraction of what we need. But that was not the case at all. We actually received more support than expected. Kolkata welcomed us with open arms.
I already have other stories I would love to shoot here. The city surprised me, moved me, and inspired me," the director said.
Bagi recalled how a key scene was shot in Nov 2024 in Mazdoor Pada, a slum in Kolkata.
"Just a month later, the entire area was destroyed in a fire. That moment we captured has now become something more than a scene—it is a memory of a place that no longer exists. The film unintentionally became a witness. It preserves something that would otherwise be lost. That is what gives it lasting meaning," Bagi said.
Sur debunked the myth about shooting in Kolkata being difficult. "Kolkata is friendly for shooting international cinema.
Swarup Biswas of the Federation came down to our sets at Loreto Convent Entally to extend all support. Our Belgian DOP, Virginie Saint Martin, was initially anxious. The working style, the names and roles of crew members, even the gear protocols felt unfamiliar. But after the shoot, she said she'd love to take them back with her for future projects and gifted everyone in her unit a T-shirt that read Merci Beaucoup meaning thanks.
A special mention to assistant cinematographer Kenneth Cyrus who held it all together. The support from the chief minister's office, the cops, and the city itself made it all possible. This moment belongs to Kolkata as much as it does to the film," Sur said.
Kolkata: A feature film on Mother Teresa, which follows seven consecutive days at a pivotal moment in her life when she decides to leave the Loreto Convent Entally in Kolkata and launch the Missionaries of Charity, has been selected as the opening film of the Orizzonti programme at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival.
"Mother", directed by Teona Strugar Mitevska and co-produced by a Kolkata-based company helmed by SRFTI's Shaunak Sur and Prateek Bagi, is competing with 18 films in the Orizzonti programme.
The unit has thanked the chief minister for providing support for making Kolkata a shooting-friendly destination for international cinema.
The last Kolkata film that went to Venice was "Once Upon A Time in Calcutta" in 2021.
Set in 1948, "Mother" follows a devout Catholic nun driven by her passion to aid the vulnerable. To pursue her calling, she awaits a response from the Vatican, seeking release from her duties as Mother Superior. But tension mounts when she discovers that the successor she chooses harbours a secret.
Like Mother Teresa, the film's director was born in Skopje in North Macedonia. In 2010-2011, she first came to Kolkata after being commissioned a documentary by a European television company.
The documentary never happened but the director returned last year to shoot a feature film with Swedish actor Noomi Rapace playing the lead. Others in the cast include Sylvia Hoeks, Nikola Ristanovski, Akshay Kapoor and Amrita Chattopadhyay.
The Kolkata leg of the movie was filmed for 11 days across Howrah Bridge, Bara Bazaar, Kumartuli, Southern Avenue, Kalighat, Ahiritola, and at Loreto Convent and St Mary's School in Entally where Mother Teresa herself once taught.
"I was told that filming in India would be chaotic and that we might get only a fraction of what we need. But that was not the case at all. We actually received more support than expected. Kolkata welcomed us with open arms.
I already have other stories I would love to shoot here. The city surprised me, moved me, and inspired me," the director said.
Bagi recalled how a key scene was shot in Nov 2024 in Mazdoor Pada, a slum in Kolkata.
"Just a month later, the entire area was destroyed in a fire. That moment we captured has now become something more than a scene—it is a memory of a place that no longer exists. The film unintentionally became a witness. It preserves something that would otherwise be lost. That is what gives it lasting meaning," Bagi said.
Sur debunked the myth about shooting in Kolkata being difficult. "Kolkata is friendly for shooting international cinema.
Swarup Biswas of the Federation came down to our sets at Loreto Convent Entally to extend all support. Our Belgian DOP, Virginie Saint Martin, was initially anxious. The working style, the names and roles of crew members, even the gear protocols felt unfamiliar. But after the shoot, she said she'd love to take them back with her for future projects and gifted everyone in her unit a T-shirt that read Merci Beaucoup meaning thanks.
A special mention to assistant cinematographer Kenneth Cyrus who held it all together. The support from the chief minister's office, the cops, and the city itself made it all possible. This moment belongs to Kolkata as much as it does to the film," Sur said.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Ganpati mandals rejoice as HC permits idol immersion in sea
Mumbai: Ganpati mandals are relieved at Thursday's Bombay High Court order permitting PoP idols over 6 ft tall to be immersed in the sea. They had been wary of organising full fledged celebrations in the absence of proper permissions. Now that the curbs have been lifted they are going ahead full steam with their usual tall moortis, decoration and fundraising. Ankur Lad, spokesperson for Khetwadi Cha Vighnaharta of Girgaum, said artificial tanks were not suited to tall moortis. "PoP idols of 20-25 ft contain metal and iron rods and frames inside for support. In fact even clay idols of that height, like Girgaon Cha Raja, have wood inside. Such idols won't dissolve at all, because how deep can you make artificial ponds," he reasoned. Even as the tug of war over PoP was under way, some mandals voluntarily switched to eco-friendly raw material. Rajendra Sawant, secretary of the 77-year-old Ambedkar Nagar mandal in Worli, said, "Our 10 ft idol was usually made of PoP. But after the earlier ban and concerns over environment safety we used a clay idol. This year it is carved from tissue paper. The decision had to be made quickly as we were sceptical about waiting for the decision over PoP immersion. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Private Browsers That Keep You Safe vividtrendlab Undo " You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai Abhinay Hate of Kandivali Cha Vighnaharta said their idol is 14 ft tall. "We too were tense about the ban even though we immerse our idol in a pond in any case. But this time there is no confirmation yet for the protocol to be followed at the pond where we usually go. The HC order is a big relief, though." The prominent Chandanwadi Ganeshotsav mandal near Marine Lines hosts a 26 ft tall moorti. Secretary Prathamesh Sakpal said, "Thousands of Ganpati idols are immersed every year amid processions that include lakhs of people. It would be problematic if there was an interruption." In Andheri West, the Saat Bangla Cha Raja stands 22 ft tall. Vice president Amith Kadam said, "Immersion of tall idols beyond 6 ft would have been impossible to execute in artificial tanks. Thanks to the HC order we can now continue our preparations with ease." Santosh Narkar, newly elected chairman of Khetwadi Cha Raja in Girgaum said their idol is 31 ft tall. "Our moortikar Aniket Shevale has carved an outstanding idol this year."


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
NFL coach Sean McVay spotted enjoying secret yacht trip with wife Veronika Khomyn in France
NFL coach Sean McVay spotted enjoying secret yacht trip with wife Veronika Khomyn in France (Image via Getty) Sean McVay drew attention this week when fans spotted him with his wife on a sunny boat trip overseas. The Los Angeles Rams head coach took time off after a long season. He chose to rest and recharge before ramping up work for his team. News of this getaway spread online. Word traveled fast online. Followers shared photos and comments about this low-key break. Rumors say he is having fun in style. The coach looked happy and calm during daylight with his spouse. More on where, when and how below. Sean McVay and Veronika Khomyn aboard yacht in Saint-Tropez On June 27, 2025, fans saw Sean McVay and his wife, Veronika Khomyn, on a private yacht in Saint-Tropez, France. They floated near the bright blue sea under a clear sky. The boat had white sails and looked very modern. McVay wore simple shorts and dark sunglasses. Veronika Khomyn wore a pink swimsuit and smiled as she looked out over the water. They stood at the front of the yacht and waved at fans who took photos. McVay laughed when Khomyn pointed to a group of boats nearby. The couple stayed on deck all afternoon and then had dinner at a small port town on the French Riviera. Sean McVay enjoys offseason rest before 2025 training camp Sean McVay will return to work on July 24, 2025, as Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles starts the Rams' 2025 training camp. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Sukamaju: Unsold Sofas May Be at Bargain Prices (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo He decided to unwind with Veronika Khomyn, his wife, before that day. Being on the water clears his mind and sparks new ideas, according to the 39-year-old trainer in a previous interview. Also Read: Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Baby Name Reveal In Missouri Sparks A Viral Fan Frenzy Fans wish this rest will revitalize him. The team will go through drills, study plays, and develop as a unit during camp. McVay is aiming for more success this year after leading the Rams to a Super Bowl triumph in 2021. Veronika Khomyn went with him on this trip and publicly showed her support by uploading a few photos. This calm with family helps McVay gather strength and serenity before a hectic on and off the field season. FAQs 1. Where was Sean McVay spotted on vacation with his wife Veronika Khomyn? Sean McVay and his wife were seen relaxing on a yacht in Saint-Tropez, France. 2. When did Sean McVay go on his Saint-Tropez vacation? Sean McVay was spotted vacationing in Saint-Tropez on July 27, 2025. 3. Is Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay back before training camp? Yes, Sean McVay is expected to return before the Rams' training camp starts on July 24, 2025. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Suniel Shetty reveals why filming Border's 'suhaagraat' song was unforgettable: 'Athiya had a fever...'
Suniel Shetty shared a memorable experience shooting 'To Chalun' from Border, revealing initial nervousness about the song's sensitive nature. A passing MIG jet inspired a key scene, symbolizing duty above all. Adding to the emotional intensity, Shetty was deeply concerned about his young daughter Athiya's high fever, ensuring her safe return to Mumbai amidst a storm while filming the song. Suniel Shetty recently opened up about one of the most memorable moments of his film career—shooting the romantic track To Chalun from Border (1997). While the film is known for its patriotic intensity, Shetty revealed that the emotional depth of this particular song, coupled with a personal crisis involving his young daughter Athiya, has etched it in his memory forever. Nervous About Shooting a 'Suhaagraat' Song While speaking on a podcast with Pinkvilla, Suniel shared that he was initially nervous about filming the 'suhaagraat' song To Chalun in Border (1997). However, once director JP Dutta narrated the track to him, Shetty knew only Dutta could handle it with such sensitivity. He called it the most memorable shoot of his career, praising the way it was beautifully filmed. Shetty also recalled a key moment during the shoot of To Chalun when the team was unsure how to portray the soldier's emotional farewell to his wife. As they discussed the scene, a MIG fighter jet flew overhead. That powerful visual gave director JP Dutta the clarity he needed, and he immediately knew how to frame the shot, Shetty revealed. Patriotism at the Core of the Scene Explaining how the scene unfolded, Suniel said that as his character looks up at the sky, the sound of the MIG symbolizes the ever-present call of duty. The soldier, reminded of his responsibilities, marches forward without looking back—reinforcing Border's central message that the nation comes above everything else. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Elegant New Scooters For Seniors In 2024: The Prices May Surprise You Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Learn More Undo A Father's Worry Behind the Scenes He also recalled a personal moment that made the shoot even more unforgettable. His daughter Athiya, who was just three years old at the time, had a high fever the same night the song was being filmed. Concerned for her wellbeing, Suniel said he had to send her back to Mumbai from Delhi due to an incoming storm. Throughout the shoot, he kept calling to check if she had reached safely and was receiving proper care. He admitted he'll never forget that stressful night until he got confirmation from his wife Mana that Athiya was fine and under a doctor's care.