Director Karan Tejpal Embarks on a Chilling Journey with "Ummeed"
In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema, a new and compelling narrative is set to emerge with the psychological horror film "Ummeed" (Hope), directed by the promising filmmaker Karan Tejpal. Following the critical success of his debut feature "Stolen," which premiered at the prestigious Venice Film Festival’s Horizons strand and later screened at the BFI London Film Festival, Zurich Film Festival, and SXSW Sydney, Tejpal is now ready to delve into a darker, more intimate story. "Ummeed" has already garnered attention as a selected project for the Berlin European Film Market’s Fiction Toolbox Program at Berlinale 2025, with production slated to begin in November. This film promises to weave a haunting tale of love, societal pressures, and the desperate pursuit of parenthood, set against the backdrop of small-town India.
A Haunting Tale of Love and Desperation
At the heart of "Ummeed" is the story of a same-sex couple, Tithi and Rahi, living in a conservative small town in India. Their journey begins with a shared dream of starting a family, but when Tithi struggles to conceive, Rahi decides to carry the child through an illegal sperm donation. What initially seems like a solution soon spirals into a descent into paranoia and horror. The couple’sAlready fragile existence is further complicated by societal harassment and the unsettling secrets surrounding the pregnancy itself. As the story unfolds, the viewer is drawn into a world where the boundaries between reality and nightmare are constantly blurred, and the hope of building a family becomes a desperate fight for survival.
For Karan Tejpal, "Ummeed" is more than just a psychological horror film; it is a deeply human story about resilience, redemption, and hope. “Though it’s wrapped in thick atmospheric dread, ‘Ummeed’ deeply moved me with the emotional complexity of the characters and their resilience against societal prejudice,” Tejpal shares. His vision for the film is clear: to balance the chilling elements of horror with a profound exploration of the human spirit. By focusing on the emotional depth of Tithi and Rahi’s relationship, Tejpal aims to create a narrative that resonates long after the credits roll, leaving audiences not just frightened, but also moved.
A Story Born from Darkness and Redemption
The screenplay for "Ummeed" is penned by Abhishek Banerjee, a talented writer known for his work in the horror genre. Banerjee’s credits include the critically acclaimed horror film "Pari" (2018) and the highly successful Prime Video series "Paatal Lok" Season 2. His ability to craft stories that are both unsettling and thought-provoking makes him an ideal fit for this project. Banerjee describes "Ummeed" as “the story of how a same-sex couple’s dream of having a child turns into a nightmare as the society around them starts pushing them towards a dark alley.” His words encapsulate the film’s central theme: the relentless struggle of marginalized individuals to find hope in a society that often seems determined to extinguish it.
A Visionary Producer with a Passion for Storytelling
Behind the lens of "Ummeed" is producer Dimpy Agrawal, whose production company, Gubbara Entertainment, is quickly making a name for itself in the Indian film industry. Founded in 2023, Gubbara has already shown a commitment to bold and innovative storytelling. Agrawal brings a wealth of experience to the project, having worked on high-profile Netflix India productions such as "Khufiya" and "The Archies." For her, "Ummeed" is more than just a film; it is a deeply personal journey. “It’s a deeply personal story for me, as it encapsulates the courage it takes to navigate systems that are inherently unwelcoming—both as a woman and as a filmmaker,” Agrawal shares. Her passion for the project is evident in her dedication to bringing this important and challenging story to life.
Gubbara Entertainment: Pushing Boundaries in Storytelling
In addition to "Ummeed," Gubbara Entertainment has been busy with other exciting projects. The company recently completed principal photography on a short film titled "Ma," directed by Riddhi Talreja. "Ma" features a stellar cast, including Anusuya Sengupta, who made history as the first Indian actor to win the Best Performance award at Cannes’ Un Certain Regard for her role in "The Shameless." Joining her are seasoned actors Akash Khurana and Upen Chauhan. Currently in post-production, "Ma" is part of Gubbara’s ambitious slate, which was unveiled at the Goa Film Bazaar in 2024. This short film, like "Ummeed," showcases the company’s commitment to telling stories that are both impactful and unforgettable.
The Promise of "Ummeed": A Film for the Times
As "Ummeed" approaches its production start date, there is a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding the film. With its chilling premise, emotional depth, and timely themes, "Ummeed" has the potential to leave a lasting impact on audiences. By blending psychological horror with a powerful human story, Karan Tejpal, Abhishek Banerjee, and Dimpy Agrawal are poised to create a film that not only scares but also challenges viewers to reflect on the realities faced by marginalized communities in India. As the film takes shape, one thing is clear: "Ummeed" is not just a story of hope; it is a beacon of hope for storytellers who dare to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.
