Dear Latika (Kanchan Pant) India. Official Section |

Dear Latika
Kanchan Pant
India. 2023. 105 min

The narrative revolves around Latika, a simple, optimistic young woman. She represents one of the countless girls whose societal norms forbid them from experiencing love, intimacy, or friendship with a man prior to marriage. Strangely, these same girls are expected to effortlessly transform into sensual goddesses overnight upon entering matrimony.

Mayank resides as a tenant in Latika’s house, where their paths fortuitously cross. Latika discerns Mayank’s bitterness stemming from his alcoholic father and his own insecurities. Initially taken aback by his reserved demeanour, Latika extends her hand in friendship. Through their burgeoning companionship, Mayank finds solace and validation, ultimately falling in love with her.

Nonetheless, Latika’s mother, burdened by her own grievances and the weight of numerous responsibilities, arranges her daughter’s marriage to a wealthy suitor. Initially, Latika appears to thrive in her newfound affluence, but the facade shatters when Mayank uncovers the truth about her happiness.

KANCHAN PANT

A journalist, a writer, an entrepreneur, and a dreamer- Kanchan embarked on her professional journey as a journalist with NDTV in the year 2006. Transitioning into the realm of writing in early 2012. With one feature film, one short film, over 300 stories, 2 published books, and a documentary series on her name, Kanchan has carved her own niche. She has been the creative head of India’s most popular storytelling show ‘Yaadon ka Idiot Box’ (Big FM), Kahani Express (Saavn) and Quisson ka Kona (Red FM).
Through her dedicated work on audio-based content, she has created numerous award-winning shows and campaigns. In her capacity as a mentor, Kanchan has nurtured the talents of over a hundred writers, both collectively for projects like ‘Yaadon ka Idiot Box,’ Spotify, and Big FM, as well as on an individual basis.

In a pivotal shift in 2021, Kanchan’s trajectory took a leap as she ventured into film writing and directing, with a film she had penned. Titled ‘Dear Latika,’ this cinematic endeavour had its world premiere at prestigious MAMI mumbai film festval 2023. ‘Dear Latika’ was also selected as ‘NFDC Recommends’ at the NFDC Film Bazaar in 2022. In addition to ‘Dear Latika,’ Kanchan has also written a short film titled ‘Shikayat,’ available for viewing on Disney Hotstar.