Chidiya

In a cinematic world often dominated by spectacle and grandeur, Chidiya emerges like a quiet whisper-soft, soulful, and unforgettable. Directed by debutant Mehran Amrohi, this Hindi-language feature is not just a film, but a heartfelt ode to childhood, dreams, and resilience. After a long journey through international film festivals and years of delay, Chidiya finally makes its theatrical debut.

Set in the heart of Mumbai's chawls, *Chidiya* tells the story of two young brothers, Shanu and Bua, who live with their widowed mother in a cramped one-room home. What begins as a simple tale of everyday survival soon transforms into an uplifting narrative about passion, play, and perseverance. The boys stumble upon a pair of badminton racquets in a junkyard and are instantly drawn to the sport. With no court, no coach, and no means, they create their own little world in a discarded space-transforming a junkyard into their badminton haven.

There's a profound innocence in how the film approaches its themes. The brothers' dreams are modest by society's standards, but immense in their own eyes. They are not aspiring to be champions or stars; they simply want to play, to belong, and to rise above their circumstances for even a fleeting moment. This raw, honest desire forms the emotional core of Chidiya.

What sets the film apart is its deeply observational and poetic storytelling. Mehran Amrohi, who also wrote the film, directs with a gentle hand, allowing scenes to breathe and emotions to simmer slowly. His visual language is subtle but layered with meaning. In one scene, a broken shuttlecock floating through the air becomes a metaphor for freedom and fragility. It's these quiet moments that give Chidiya its wings.

The film is elevated by its stellar cast. Vinay Pathak brings his trademark warmth to the screen, while Amruta Subhash delivers a deeply moving performance as the mother-torn between protecting her children and letting them dream. But it's the child actors, Svar Kamble and Ayush Pathak, who steal the show. Their natural chemistry and unaffected performances lend authenticity and charm to the film's emotional beats. Inaamulhaq and Brijendra Kala, in supporting roles, provide both comic relief and grounded realism.

Music plays a significant role in enhancing the film's mood. The standout track, "Aye Dil Ki Nanhi Chidiya," composed by Shailendra Barve and sung by Divya Kumar, is a lyrical tribute to childhood innocence. The song's lyrics, penned by Amrohi himself, are evocative and steeped in poetic beauty-drawing from the filmmaker's literary background and lineage.

Despite being completed almost a decade ago, Chidiya feels surprisingly fresh. In fact, its delayed release adds a layer of poignancy-serving as a real-life reflection of the very themes the film explores: patience, struggle, and hope. It had already gained acclaim at several international festivals including Zlin IFF in the Czech Republic, Cinekid in the Netherlands, and SAIFF in the United States. These accolades speak to the film's universal appeal and emotional resonance.

Mehran Amrohi's direction has drawn comparisons to the poetic realism of Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi. While such comparisons are flattering, Amrohi's voice remains distinct-rooted in the social textures and emotional rhythms of urban India. He captures both the chaos and charm of Mumbai's chawls without romanticizing poverty or dramatizing hardship. Instead, he lets the small victories of everyday life take center stage.

Chidiya is not a loud film. There are no dramatic twists, no high-octane confrontations. But therein lies its power. It relies on moments of silence, glances, gestures, and the everyday poetry of life. It's a film that nudges the viewer to pause, reflect, and smile.

In an era where cinema often leans on spectacle, *Chidiya* is a reminder of storytelling in its purest form. It speaks of things we often forget: the joy of play, the courage to dream, and the beauty of simplicity. It's a film for children, for parents, and for anyone who once believed in the impossible.

In the end, Chidiya is exactly what its name suggests-a little bird, fragile yet fearless, flying against the wind, soaring not for the world to see, but because it must.

This movie was just phenomenal realye heart touching and the cast has made justice to all the roles. It's all about being thankful to basic thing that we are granted and few are unfortunately struggling for basic things..there were real emotional moments and loved evry bit of it. A perfect watch for the whole family every age can enjoy this together my children and not gona forget this soon nor will I . The movie keeps you connected and the songs too are nice and making the movie apt with required emotions. Can't be more happy to have a great Sunday than this movie time. Only love and success for this movie.

This is such an incredible movie!! It's beautifully made all the actors have performed flawlessly, the story touches your heart, it feels absolutely real nothing made up. Life can be so vulnerable to so many and there is so much to feel grateful for ... this emotion comes through the movie!!

Absolutely loved watching the movie !! There are so many scenes where you get a lump in your throat... my kids also loved watching it.

It's a must watch for everyone, but parents and young kids should absolutely not miss this!! I can watch this movie again and again!! Was happy to watch a great movie in a long longtime.

Chidiya is a beautiful, soul-touching film that captures the innocence and wonder of childhood in the most honest way. The story is simple but powerful, and the performances especially by the kids, feel incredibly real. It made me nostalgic and reminded me of how magical dreams felt when we were young. In a world full of loud, over-the-top movies, Chidiya stands out with its quiet charm. A must-watch if you're looking for something meaningful and pure. Such a heartfelt film. Chidiya beautifully captures the magic of childhood simple, real, and touching. Loved it!

Chidiya really touched my heart. It reminded me of how simple and magical childhood can be.