Mother's 32-Year Exile: A Nation's Painful Past

A new film, "Casparina," directed by Reza Rahadian, chronicles the emotional journey of Francisca Casparina Fanggidaej, whose Indonesian citizenship was revoked in 1965. Driven into exile for opposing the government, she spent 32 years separated from her six children. The story begins when Rina, after decades abroad, learns the old regime has fallen and she can return.

Returning home, Rina faces her grown children, Andi and Lila, who have lived their lives without her presence. The film sensitively portrays their struggle with years of hurt and resentment. As they navigate these complex emotions, mother and children slowly begin to heal and reconnect.

"Casparina" is set against the backdrop of Indonesia's political upheaval in 1965, a period that fractured families and forced many, like Casparina, into exile. She was in Beijing representing Indonesia when her citizenship was revoked. Her story highlights the profound impact of political decisions on personal lives.

Rahadian aims to explore the profound themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and the heavy price of political choices. He wants audiences to understand the immense challenge of being an absent mother for 32 years and the risks her children faced by acknowledging her publicly, which could have endangered them.

The film is currently in the early stages of scriptwriting and was presented at the Asian Project Market in Busan. Producers hope to secure partners and collaborators to bring this significant story about Indonesian history and identity to the screen.