The India Pavilion at the 78th Cannes Film Festival on May 21, witnessed a stirring cinematic moment with the trailer launch of “The Prayer” a soulful short film directed by debut filmmaker Nivedita Pohankar and produced by celebrated actor-director Makarand Deshpande under his banner MAK WORLD FILMS. The trailer was unveiled by veteran Indian actor Mr. Anupam Kher, drawing emotional responses and critical appreciation.
The event brought together stalwarts of Indian cinema including legendary Actor Mr. Boman Irani, Producer Bobby Bedi, and Casting Director Honey Trehan, alongside Indian and international filmmakers, delegates, and cinephiles from around the world.
About the Film
Set during the COVID19 pandemic, “The Prayer” follows Nisha, a young girl awaiting a ventilator bed for her critically ill brother. With all medical help exhausted, she turns to prayer—experiencing a spiritual epiphany when the ventilator miraculously arrives. Just as hope returns, another desperate prayer echoes in her ears, reminding her of the shared fragility of life.
The film stars Aaditi Pohankar, known for her powerful performance in the hit web series ‘Aashram’.
An Emotional Return to Cannes
For Makarand Deshpande, Cannes 2025 marked a long-awaited homecoming:
“Meeting Christophe Canalis, Director of Directors’ Fortnight, was deeply emotional. Back in 2004, my film Daanav was selected, but I couldn’t attend. He remembered it vividly and said, ‘I’ve waited 21 years to meet you.’ Launching The Prayer here felt like closure and a fresh beginning. Cannes is the ultimate stage for cinema, and I’m truly grateful to Mr. Anupam Kher for being with us.”
Director Nivedita Pohankar reflected on her personal journey:
“I started out as a copywriter, dreaming of winning a Cannes Lion. Life led me to theatre, then writing, and now directing. Launching my first short film’s trailer here, with Mr. Kher unveiling it and artists like Boman Irani and Bobby Bedi attending, was surreal. Sharing this moment with Makarand — 21 years after his Daanav was selected here — felt like life had come full circle for both of us.”
Voices of Support from Cinema Icons
Veteran actor Mr. Anupam Kher, who unveiled the trailer, shared:
“I came to watch the trailer on a stormy morning in Cannes for love and brotherhood—but after watching it, I am taking back impressions of cinema.”
Acclaimed actor Mr. Boman Irani expressed:
“I wish I could think of these images.”
Producer Mr. Bobby Bedi noted:
“I can tell that The Prayer is a deeply personal film—and that is why it is cinema.”
Industry Panels and Presence
Director Nivedita Pohankar moderated a compelling session titled “The Magic of Short Films”, exploring the cultural and emotional power of short format storytelling in a global context.
Producer Makarand Deshpande was a distinguished guest on the Maharashtra State Panel, engaging in discussions on cinematic craftsmanship, state supported storytelling, and the new wave of Indian independent cinema.
A Defining Moment for Indian Independent Film
The Prayer’s trailer launch was not just a screening—it was a celebration of introspective storytelling, creative collaboration, and emotional honesty. The strong reception at Cannes reaffirms the power of Indian independent cinema to resonate across borders.
With its Cannes debut, The Prayer begins its Festival Journey and is extremely hopeful to win accolades globally.
