Sikkim-based filmmaker Tribeny Rai has earned international recognition with her debut feature film Shape of Momo, which won two major honours at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) — the Taipei Film Commission Award and the Songwon Vision Award. The double win marks a shining moment for independent cinema from Sikkim and a powerful global debut for the young filmmaker.
The film, made in the Nepali language, premiered at BIFF in September and received high praise from critics and audiences alike. On Sunday, the makers of Shape of Momo took to Instagram to share their excitement, writing, “We are over the moon to inform you that our film ‘Shape of Momo’ has won two awards @busanfilmfest. We just want to take this opportunity to thank the entire cast and crew for bringing this story to life. Certainly, awards add credibility, but with or without them, we would still be the same bunch of filmmakers, searching and persevering.”
The story of Shape of Momo revolves around Bishnu, a young woman who returns to her mountain village after quitting her job in the city. What begins as a simple homecoming soon turns into an emotional journey as she confronts family expectations, her pregnant sister’s arrival, and a new romantic relationship — all while wrestling with her sense of freedom and belonging. Through Bishnu’s experiences, the film delicately explores the struggle between tradition and independence, a theme that resonates deeply with audiences from Himalayan communities and beyond. 
Speaking to reporters after the win, Tribeny Rai said she wanted to portray her homeland in a more grounded and realistic light. “People always want to romanticize places like ours, turn them into some beautiful backdrop for someone else’s story. I’ve never liked that,” she said, explaining that her intention was to tell stories rooted in the real emotions and everyday experiences of people from the hills.
