Indian American Documentary To Feature At Sundance

India-West News Desk

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Two Indian filmmakers have made their mark at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, with their distinctive works chosen for the festival’s prestigious lineup. Geeta Gandbhir, an Indian American documentary filmmaker, will showcase her latest film The Perfect Neighbor in the US Documentary Competition, while Rohan Kanawade’s Marathi film Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears) will feature in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition.

The Sundance Film Festival, a major platform for independent and thought-provoking cinema, will take place from January 23 to February 2, 2025, in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah.

Geeta Gandbhir’s ‘The Perfect Neighbor’

The film takes a deep dive into a neighborhood dispute in Florida that tragically escalates into deadly violence. The film examines the societal impact of the state’s contentious “stand your ground” laws. Sundance describes its US Documentary Competition as a showcase for nonfiction films that highlight crucial contemporary issues.

Gandbhir, an Emmy-winning filmmaker, began her career working with prominent figures like Spike Lee and Sam Pollard. After over a decade in scripted films, she transitioned to documentary filmmaking, where she quickly established herself as an influential voice. Her award-winning works include Black and Missing, which earned her the Independent Spirit Award, and The Asian Americans, a Peabody Award-winning PBS series. With The Perfect Neighbor, Gandbhir continues her commitment to socially impactful storytelling.

Rohan Kanawade’s ‘Sabar Bonda’ Explores Rural Queer Identity

It is the only Indian film selected for this year’s Sundance, and it holds the distinction of being the first Marathi film to compete at the festival. The film tells the poignant story of Anand, a city dweller who returns to his rural ancestral village to grieve his father’s death. In the process, he forms a deep, unexpected connection with a local farmer. Sabar Bonda explores queer identity within rural, lower-caste communities, tackling themes of grief, identity, and belonging.

Kanawade’s path to filmmaking is a unique one. A former interior designer, he left his steady job in 2010 to pursue his passion for storytelling without any formal training. His previous works, including the short film U Ushacha (U for Usha), have garnered international recognition, traveling to over 35 film festivals and winning numerous awards.

Also Read: ‘Brown Baby’ Selected For Sundance Screenwriters Lab