Why did you choose this subject?
I saw economic migration in Bihar after the closure of the sugar industry in 1970s/80s.... I wanted to show human struggle. Bihar has seen three major migrations since the 18th century.
Did you experience migration-related turmoil yourself?
I grew up in an industrial town in Bihar. My friends, whose fathers had to migrate, faced difficulties. The whole town suffered economically.
Which migration issues are you addressing?
Issues raised by single migration, wherein a man leaves his family behind to come to the city. He leads a parallel life and belongs nowhere ultimately after 30 years of struggle.
Is there nothing positive for the family when a person moves to urban areas?
They get money, but it’s a vicious circle. The first generation can’t prevent migration for the next.
Has nothing changed over the years in Bihar?
For most people there are no employment opportunities. There’s a line, ‘road toh nahin khayenge’, which should explain the situation.
But people migrate all over for better work.
Migration among the poor is not the same as those moving for lucrative jobs.
Is the theme of lost identity universal?
Yes, even professionals are cut off if their parents move in with them or torn between their native place and the new work place.
Any cinematic devices you have used to make it more universal?
I’ve used very little speech, a mix of Hindi and Bhojpuri. There's 25 minutes of silence.
Did you have trouble getting finances? Why crowd-funding?
I heard about crowd-funding when Onir used it. It was done through internet and Facebook. Contributions ranged from Rs 500 to Rs 35,000.
How was the journey?
Shooting often stalled due to lack of funds. But the film has received a good response.
