Vinod Kapri, a filmmaker hailing from Secunderabad, has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination in his latest project. His film, ‘Pyre’, draws inspiration from an encounter with an elderly couple during a trek in Munsiyari, Uttarakhand. The narrative revolves around an octogenarian couple who grapple with the concern of who will perform their last rites as their community members migrate to urban areas. This poignant theme reflects the realities faced by many in rural India.

In 2022, Kapri directed the film, which features a unique aspect: he cast two non-actors from the same village where the story is set. This choice adds authenticity to the portrayal of the couple’s life and struggles. The film’s journey continued as it travelled to various international film festivals in 2024-25, showcasing its universal themes and engaging storytelling.

Screening in Remote Locations

‘Pyre’ is set to be released in cinemas on October 30, 2026. Prior to its theatrical debut, Kapri expressed enthusiasm about screening the film in three Uttarakhand towns—Srinagar, Bageshwar, and Berinag—which lack cinema facilities. To facilitate this, he collaborated with PictureTime Mobile Digital Movie Theatre to create inflatable balloon theatres equipped with 5.1 surround sound systems. This initiative took place from October 14 to 17, allowing local audiences to experience the film on the big screen.

The film was shot in Purana Thal village, located in Berinag, and delves into the anxieties faced by ageing parents whose children have migrated and seldom return home. Kapri aims to capture the tenderness and complexities of a marriage in its later years. He remarked on the couple’s desire to continue living fully, despite their loneliness, highlighting their interactions, which include playful arguments as a way to pass the time.

The bond between the characters, portrayed by Padam Singh and Hira Devi, is central to the film’s narrative. Kapri encouraged the actors to embody the dynamics of a real-life partnership, which adds depth to their performances. The film’s setting and themes resonate with many, reflecting the emotional landscape of rural India.

Challenges Faced During Production

While Kapri felt comfortable navigating the challenging terrain, many crew members from Kolkata faced significant obstacles during the shoot. The production involved trekking for two hours to reach various locations, often crossing dense forests where the threat of wildlife, such as leopards, loomed. The crew worked long hours, often enduring 14-hour shifts each day for a month, demonstrating their commitment to the project.

Kapri’s vision for ‘Pyre’ is to portray a community where development is slow to arrive and information travels at a leisurely pace. He emphasises that the film does not feature villains; rather, it aims to present a nuanced view of life in a remote area. The filmmaker believes that one undeniable truth is death, and he hopes to make the final days of life beautiful through his storytelling.

In addition to exploring profound themes, Kapri aspires for ‘Pyre’ to inspire young filmmakers from his region to share their own stories. By highlighting the unique experiences of rural life, he hopes to encourage a new generation of storytellers to engage with their cultural narratives and contribute to the cinematic landscape.

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