Taha Shah Badussha: Opportunity to showcase 'Paro' on a global stage means the world to me

IANS May 17, 2025 331 views

Young actor Taha Shah Badussha's film 'Paro' has made a significant impact at the Cannes Film Festival's market. The movie tackles the critical issue of Molki brides, highlighting the systemic problem of bride buying and trafficking. Directed by Gajendra Ahire, the film represents a powerful storytelling approach to social injustice. Taha's performance and the film's selection at Cannes mark a notable moment in addressing hidden societal challenges through cinema.

"Grateful and humbled to be part of a story that truly matters" - Taha Shah Badussha
Taha Shah Badussha: Opportunity to showcase 'Paro' on a global stage means the world to me
Mumbai, May 17: Taha Shah Badussha is over-the-moon as his film “Paro” was presented at the Marché du Film at the ongoing Festival de Cannes 2025. The actor said that the opportunity to showcase his work on a global stage means the world to him.

Key Points

1

Film exposes tragic reality of Molki bride trafficking

2

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gajendra Ahire

3

Presented at prestigious Marché du Film

4

Marks significant global recognition for important narrative

Taha said: “Grateful and humbled to be part of a story that truly matters. It’s an honour to present Paro at the Marché du Film, Festival de Cannes a film that sparks an important conversation and reflects a powerful reality.”

“This opportunity to showcase our work on a global stage means the world to me. Truly thankful for the love, support, and belief that brought us here,” he added.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Gajendra Ahire and produced by Trupti Bhoir under the banner of Trupti Bhoir Filmss and Sandesh Sharada International Pvt. Ltd. The film stars Taha in an impactful role.

Trupti said: “Paro is not just India’s story; it’s a global issue. Being recognised at Cannes reaffirmed that Paro is no longer just a film it’s a movement for change, one that crosses borders and brings hidden truths into the light.”

The movie brings to the limelight the plight of Paro brides, also known as Molki brides, who get trapped in the toxic cycle of bride buying and slavery. In the movie, Taha plays the role of Rashid.

Initially a man without any remorse, his character is eventually faced with circumstances that bring about a change in him and move him towards atoning for his ways.

Talking about Taha, he made his debut with Luv Ka The End. He was cast as an antihero, the first of its kind role in the youth genre. He was seen for a second time in the 2013 movie Gippi.

In 2015, he acted in Mahesh Bhatt's Barkhaa opposite Pakistani actress Sara Loren. In 2016, he appeared in Karan Johar's Baar Baar Dekho alongside Sidharth Malhotra and Katrina Kaif, playing the role of Tarun. He was then seen in Ranchi Diaries. Taha made his Hollywood debut with Draupadi Unleashed playing Gautam.

However, it was Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s 2024 series “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar”, which put the spotlight on him

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
So proud to see Indian cinema tackling hard-hitting social issues on global platforms like Cannes! 🇮🇳 Taha Shah is proving that our actors can shine in both commercial and meaningful cinema. After Heeramandi, he's becoming a force to reckon with!
P
Priya M.
The Paro bride issue is something we don't talk about enough in mainstream media. Kudos to the team for bringing this dark reality to light through cinema. Hope this creates real change back home in rural areas where this practice still exists.
A
Arjun S.
While I appreciate the intent, I hope the film doesn't just show the problem but also suggests solutions. Our cinema has the power to influence policy - would love to see a post-credit scroll with helpline numbers or NGO contacts for actual Paro brides.
S
Shweta R.
Taha's journey from Baar Baar Dekho to Heeramandi to now Paro shows his incredible range as an actor! 😍 More power to him for choosing such diverse roles. Cannes recognition is well-deserved - hope this opens doors for more Indian indie films globally.
V
Vikram J.
Interesting that they chose a male protagonist to tell this women-centric story. Hope the film gives proper agency to the Paro brides' voices rather than making it about male redemption. The Cannes platform is perfect to start this important conversation.
N
Neha T.
Gajendra Ahire is such an underrated director! His Marathi films have always been brilliant. Glad he's getting international recognition now. The combination of his direction and Taha's acting promises a powerful film. Can't wait to watch it in theaters! 🤩

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Taha Shah Badussha Paro Film Cannes Film Festival Molki Brides Indian Cinema Social Issue Film