Surrogacy Drama Dukaan Stuns Japan with Ovation

The emotional saga of surrogacy in ‘Dukaan’ has transcended borders, melting hearts at Japan’s 4th Yokohama International Film Festival. The Hindi comedy-drama’s premiere culminated in a standing ovation, a testament to its gripping storytelling and universal themes.

From the May 2 red carpet glamour to the official May 4 showcase at Betty and Deck Theater, the film held audiences spellbound. Their standing tribute post-screening highlighted how the movie resonates across cultures.

Monica Panwar shines as Jasmine, establishing a surrogacy service as a ‘hope shop’ amid Gujarat’s colorful locales, before emotional waves crash upon her. Co-directors Siddharth Singh and Garima Wahal reveal the film’s inception from their own creative ‘parenting’ struggles.

Supporting roles by Sikandar Kher, Soham Majumdar, and Monali Thakur, plus Vrajesh Hirji’s cameo, enrich the tapestry. Waveband and Kalamkaar productions, with Anirban Chatterjee’s cinematography and Shreyas Puranik’s soundtrack, craft a visually and aurally immersive experience.

Team members described the Japanese warmth as a career highlight in this elite festival. ‘Dukaan’ masterfully blends humor, heartache, and insight, exposing surrogacy’s underbelly and urging viewers to reflect on humanity’s deepest bonds.