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70-Year-Old Teacher Stars in Surprise Film Debut
8 Feb
Summary
- Retired teacher Biana Watre Momin acted in a Malayalam film.
- She traveled over 3,000km from Meghalaya to Kerala for the role.
- Her performance in 'Eko' has garnered critical acclaim and attention.
Biana Watre Momin, a 70-year-old retired college teacher from Meghalaya's Garo Hills, has made a remarkable acting debut in the Malayalam film 'Eko.' She traveled more than 3,000km to Kerala, embracing a role despite not understanding the language.
Momin, who previously taught English literature, had no prior acting aspirations. Her daughter encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone and try something new at this stage of her life.
In 'Eko,' Momin portrays Mlathi Chettathi, a mysterious elder living in the Western Ghats. The film, noted for its critical success and shot on a modest budget, has drawn significant attention to Momin's performance.
Director Dinjith Ayyathan sought a fresh face for the role of an elderly Malay woman. Momin's appearance in a short film on Garo folklore led her to the film's scouting team, leading to her audition and selection.
Her portrayal is described as organic, intuitive, and fearless. Momin learned her lines phonetically and adapted to the professional film set, drawing from her life experiences and matrilineal heritage.
Accolades have followed, with actor Dhanush calling her performance 'world-class.' While filmmakers from Bollywood and beyond have approached her, Momin is carefully considering future opportunities after returning to her home life.
