'Tumbbad' director Rahi Anil Barve says his next film 'Mayasabha' blends symbolism with suspense
Mumbai, Jan 6
Director Rahi Anil Barve, who is known for his work on 'Tumbbad' is returning to the big screen with his upcoming film 'Mayasabha'. The director said that the film is set in a space where symbolism meets suspense.
The film stars Jaaved Jaaferi, Mohammad Samad, Veena Jamkar, and Deepak Damle, and offers a gripping and introspective exploration of human relationships and the illusions that shape human lives.
Ahead of its theatrical debut, 'Mayasabha' has built strong momentum on the festival circuit. The film will be specially screened at the 3rd Asian Film Festival with a showcase scheduled for January 11. This will be followed by its official selection under Indian Cinema at the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) 2026, organized by the Government of Maharashtra, where the film will screen on January 17.
Sharing his thoughts, director Rahi Anil Barve said, "With 'Mayasabha', my second film after Tumbbad, I return to the kind of storytelling that has always drawn me toward myth, mystery, and psychological depth. After Tumbbad, there was an expectation to challenge myself and the audience once again and 'Mayasabha' is my answer to that. The film promises a journey into guarded truths and power structures far more dangerous than they appear at first glance".
He further mentioned, "It boldly enters a space where symbolism meets suspense, where silence often speaks louder than dialogue. Visually, I wanted to create a world that is sharper, darker, and deeply immersive one where tension and philosophy coexist, and where every frame carries meaning".
Produced by Zirkon Films, Mayasabha is backed by producers Girish Patel and Ankoor J Singh, with co-producers Shamrao Bhagwan Yadav, Chanda Yadav, Kewal Handa, and Manish Handa. The film is presented and distributed by Pickle Entertainment.
— IANS
Reader Comments
"Symbolism meets suspense" sounds amazing. We need more directors who challenge the audience and don't just make formulaic masala films. Hoping this gets a wide release and not just limited to festivals. The Indian audience is ready for such content. 🤞
Respectfully, I hope the film doesn't get lost in its own symbolism. Sometimes these 'arthouse' films forget to tell a compelling story in the pursuit of being deep. Tumbbad worked because the horror and the message were perfectly balanced. Fingers crossed this one does too.
As someone who loved Tumbbad's visual storytelling, this is exciting news. The mention of PIFF 2026 selection is a good sign of quality. Hope it creates the same buzz internationally. Indian cinema needs more unique voices like Barve.
Great to see a film getting a platform at PIFF, supported by the Govt of Maharashtra. We should celebrate and support our indie filmmakers more. Booking my tickets for the Pune festival screening for sure! 🎬
The title 'Mayasabha' itself is so evocative – the court of illusions. Perfect for exploring human relationships and power structures. Barve sir's vision is always grand. Can't wait to see what world he has created this time.
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