Sikkim CM Congratulates Filmmaker Tribeny Rai as ‘Shape of Momo’ Wins Prestigious HAF Goes to Cannes Award

KalimNews with inputs from IPR Gangtok, March 19, 2025 : Sikkim Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang extended his heartfelt congratulations to filmmaker Tribeny Rai, whose under-production debut full-length Nepali film Shape of Momo has secured a coveted spot at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2025. It has won the prestigious HAF Goes to Cannes award at the Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF). This follows the film’s victory at the Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF), where it won the ‘HAF Goes to Cannes’ award at the HKIFF Industry Project Market, held from March 17 to 19, 2025.

In his congratulatory message, Chief Minister Tamang highlighted the significance of this achievement, noting that it not only underscores the immense talent and dedication of Sikkimese filmmakers but also brings immense pride to the state. He remarked that the success of Shape of Momo is a testament to the growing potential of regional cinema and its ability to gain recognition on the global stage.

“This achievement not only showcases the creative brilliance of our filmmakers but also puts Sikkim on the global cinema map. I extend my best wishes to the entire team for their journey ahead at Cannes and beyond,” the Chief Minister stated.

Recognized as one of Asia’s premier film markets, HAF offers a crucial platform for emerging filmmakers. This award marks a significant milestone for Rai and her team. The Goes to Cannes programme, presented by HKIFF Industry and Marché du Film, Festival de Cannes, offers selected projects market screening opportunities at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. This initiative will help filmmakers connect with global sales agents, distributors, and international film festivals, further expanding their reach on the world stage.

Shape of Momo was presented at the HKIFF Industry Project Market by Tribeny Rai and co-producer Kislay, alongside 14 other selected projects from across Asia. The film was chosen from a competitive pool of both established and emerging filmmakers, making this recognition even more significant. Winning the 'HAF Goes to Cannes' award guarantees the film market screening opportunities at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, providing the team with invaluable exposure to global sales agents, distributors, and other international film festivals.

Tribeny Rai expressed her gratitude for the honor. “The film Shape of Momo was part of the work-in-progress lab at HKIFF, which is Asia's leading film market. Winning the HAF Goes to Cannes award is an incredible honor and an opportunity to showcase Sikkimese talent on a global stage,” she said.

Shape of Momo follows the journey of a woman navigating societal pressures and patriarchal norms, with themes of resilience and empowerment. The film, shot extensively in and around Rai’s hometown of Nandok near Ranipool in East Sikkim, has already begun to generate significant buzz, having previously won the top prize at the NFDC Filmbazaar in Goa last November. Currently in post-production in Mumbai, Shape of Momo marks Tribeny Rai’s debut as a full-length feature filmmaker.

Produced by Kathkala Films LLP and Dalley Khorsani Productions, Shape of Momo is set to bring regional cinema into the global spotlight. The recognition at the HKIFF and the upcoming showcase at Cannes highlight Tribeny Rai’s rising prominence as a filmmaker, putting Sikkimese cinema on the global map and opening doors for the growing film industry in the region.

The HAF Goes to Cannes programme, presented by HKIFF Industry and Marché du Film, Festival de Cannes, offers selected projects market screening opportunities at the Cannes Film Festival, allowing filmmakers to connect with global sales agents, distributors, and international film festivals, further expanding their reach on the world stage.