Snow Flower Shines at IFFI 2024: A Tale Bridging Konkan and Siberia

Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) celebrated the Gala Premiere of Snow Flower, a poignant Marathi-language film directed by the acclaimed Gajendra Vitthal Ahire. At a press conference held in Goa, the cast and crew, including Chhaya Kadam, Vaibhav Mangle, and Sarfaraz Alam Safu, shared their experiences of crafting this cross-cultural masterpiece.

Set against the strikingly different backdrops of snowy Siberia and the lush greenery of Konkan, Snow Flower explores the emotional and geographical divide between a grandmother in India and her granddaughter in Russia. This unique cultural tapestry captivated audiences, drawing parallels between two contrasting worlds.

Director Gajendra Vitthal Ahire delved into the challenges of filming in extreme conditions, especially in Siberia’s Khanty-Mansiysk, where temperatures plummeted to -14°C. “When we reached Russia, it was minus 14 degrees,” Ahire recalled. “The local crew took excellent care of us, providing essential clothing and supplies. Despite the language barrier, their support and the universal language of filmmaking helped us create a story that resonates deeply.”

Ahire also shared a heartwarming anecdote about the cultural exchange on set. “As per our tradition, we performed Ganpati Arti every morning. Initially, the Russian crew observed from a distance, but by the third day, they joined us, saying, ‘We don’t understand it, but it feels good to do.’”

Actor Vaibhav Mangle highlighted the deliberate choice of Russia as a filming location, emphasizing its visual and cultural contrast with Konkan. “The snow-covered Siberian landscapes served as the perfect metaphor for the emotional and physical distance between the characters,” he said.

Chhaya Kadam, who portrays a central role, expressed her admiration for Ahire’s direction. “Working with Gajendra allowed me to explore the stark contrasts between Russian and Indian cultures. It was an enriching experience that added depth to my performance,” she shared.

Sarfaraz Alam Safu, a Moscow-based actor, praised the teamwork and resourcefulness of the crew. “We worked with minimal equipment and infrastructure, yet managed to create something remarkable. Many Russian viewers were moved to tears during the screenings, underscoring the universal appeal of the story,” Safu remarked.

Safu also expressed hope for future collaborations between Russian and Indian filmmakers. “This film has built a bridge between two cultures. I believe it will inspire more projects that celebrate shared human experiences.”

The filmmakers urged audiences to embrace regional cinema, which often carries universal themes. “Snow Flower is a regional film that deserves to be seen by every Indian,” said Ahire. “It’s not just about a girl navigating two cultures; it’s about family, love, and belonging.”

From Konkan’s serene beaches to Siberia’s snowy expanses, Snow Flower offers a visual and emotional journey that underscores the beauty of diversity and the power of connection. Its premiere at IFFI 2024 marks a significant milestone for Marathi cinema, opening doors for global collaboration and recognition.