Zeenat Aman, Shabana Azmi, Abhay Deol Star in ‘Bun Tikki,’ Set for Palm Springs Bow

Billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Jio Studios and Stage5 Production’s “Bun Tikki,” starring veteran Indian actors Shabana Azmi and Zeenat Aman alongside Abhay Deol, has been selected for a world premiere at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival in 2025.

The coming-of-age drama, helmed by first-time feature director Faraz Arif Ansari, follows a seven-year-old named Shanu and his single father Sidhant as they navigate family dynamics and identity. The pic marks the second festival outing for the Jio Studios-Stage5 Production partnership, following “Saali Mohabbat” at the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI).

Stage5 Production, founded by fashion designer Manish Malhotra, produced the film alongside Jio Studios. Malhotra serves as producer with Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra and Marijke deSouza.

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The cast is rounded out by Nushrratt Bharuccha and Rohaan Singh. The film centers on themes of parenthood and resilience, with Shanu grappling with self-discovery while his father deals with grief and societal pressures.

“‘Bun Tikki’ is my love letter to the world – to every child, every parent, and everyone who believes in the transformative power of love, empathy, and kindness. I hope it sparks conversations that break barriers, bridge differences, and remind us of the kinder, happier world we’re all capable of creating,” said Ansari, whose previous credits include the short films “Sisak” and “Sheer Qorma.”

Malhotra added: “As a producer, it’s an honor to contribute to a project that challenges conventions, tells an authentic story and connects with audiences on a universal scale. I am incredibly proud of Faraz for bringing this vision to life and eagerly look forward to how the world embraces this heartfelt film.”

Deshpande, president of media and content business at Ambani’s Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), which operates Jio Studios, said: “Supporting ‘Bun Tikki’ is not just an endorsement of its artistic merit but a celebration of the courage it takes to share stories that challenge and inspire.”

“Bun Tikki” is set to premiere Jan. 5, 2025.