- In October 2025, the eagerly awaited Indian drama film Thamma was released. The film examines the delicate relationship between generations inside a changing Indian household and was directed by Rima Das, who is renowned for her humanistic style and rich storytelling. In Bengali, “Thamma” means “grandmother,” and the film masterfully conveys the cultural norms, emotional bonds, and quiet wisdom that accompany aging.
- The protagonist of the tale is Aditi, a young lady who, after years of living outside, returns to her family home in Assam. She returns to take care of Thamma, her elderly grandmother, who is suffering from dementia. The movie reveals layers of memory, love, and grief through their relationships, creating a moving picture of the relationship between identity and family.
- Thamma is notable for its nuanced yet impactful storyline. Instead of using a lot of drama, the film reveals emotional truths through commonplace moments like shared meals, old melodies, and forgotten memories. Anyone who has witnessed the waning memories of an elderly loved one will find the screenplay’s simplicity to be incredibly realistic as it allows the viewer to feel the weight of time and change.
- Ratna Pathak Shah, who plays the title character, gives one of her most moving performances in the movie. Both the elegance and the frailty of aging are captured in her portrait of Thamma. In contrast, Mithila Palkar excels in the role of Aditi, representing the challenges of a contemporary woman divided between her own aspirations and her responsibilities to her family. On TV, their chemistry seems sincere and loving.
- Thamma’s visual essence comes from cinematographer Avinash Arun. Warm, earthy tones permeate every scene, evoking a sense of belonging and nostalgia. With its wooden furnishings, faded photos, and the hum of ceiling fans, the ancient family home becomes a silent figure in and of itself, symbolizing the ties that hold a family together with the passage of time.
- The film’s emotional cadence is complemented by the background score, which was written by Amit Trivedi. The film’s heartland setting and intense emotional undertones are reflected in his use of gentle acoustic instruments and folk-inspired melodies. Instead of overpowering the narrative, the music glides subtly, much like the memories that come to mind for Thamma.
- In addition to its poignant tale, Thamma addresses more general issues of generational divides and cultural identity. It raises concerns about how contemporary India strikes a balance between tradition and progress and how, in a world growing more interconnected by the day, newer generations might rediscover their heritage. The movie invites viewers to consider the value of familial ties and the knowledge that comes from elders.
- To sum up, Thamma is a cinematic poem about memory, love, and heritage rather than merely a family drama. The film strikes a deep chord with viewers because of its universal theme, lyrical direction, and passionate performances. With a greater awareness for the people and events that shape who we are, viewers are left with a warm pain in their hearts as the credits roll.
