What is the SamaBhav film festival about?

SamaBhav is an international film festival that uses cinema to explore and question ideas around gender, masculinity, and sexuality, focusing on gender diversity and social justice.

Where and when is SamaBhav festival held?

The festival is being held on February 7 and 8 at Sant Namdev Sabhagruha, Lalit Kala Kendra, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU).

What kind of films and discussions will be featured at SamaBhav?

The festival features 18 national and international films addressing issues like violence against women and toxic masculinity, followed by discussions with activists, filmmakers, and academics.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Gender Stories Sparking Uncomfortable Conversations

Gender Stories Sparking Uncomfortable Conversations

7 Feb

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Summary

Film festival uses cinema to challenge gender norms.
Features 18 national and international films on gender.
Post-screening talks with activists and filmmakers included.

Gender Stories Sparking Uncomfortable Conversations

This weekend, Pune will host SamaBhav, an international film festival dedicated to exploring gender, masculinity, and sexuality through cinema. The event, scheduled for February 7 and 8 at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), promises to spark necessary conversations on social justice and gender diversity.

Organized by Mumbai-based Men Against Violence and Abuse (MAVA) in partnership with SPPU's media and communication studies and women and gender studies departments, the festival is supported by UNESCO. It features 18 national and international films, including documentaries and features, addressing critical issues like violence against women, transphobia, and toxic masculinity.

Notable screenings include 'Call Me Dancer' and 'Bas Ab Bahut Ho Gaya', alongside special selections from Spain and Jordan. A highlight will be the screening of 'All We Imagine as Light', a Grand Prix winner at the Cannes Film Festival. The festival emphasizes open dialogue, with post-screening sessions featuring activists, filmmakers, and academics.