Private Project

Mehram

Under the Saudi Arabian laws, women without a ‘Mehram’ (a male blood relative) are forbidden to perform the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. This film is the extraordinary story of Aamna (played by Farida Jalal) who decides to struggle against the patriarchal system to claim her right to perform the Hajj. Will she be able to succeed in her struggle? Packed with powerful performances by veteran actors like Rajit Kapoor and Sushma Seth, the film is a portrayal of Aamna’s journey.

  • Zain Anwar
    Director
  • Zain Anwar
    Writer
  • SG Dream Media Ventures
    Producer
  • Farida Jalal
    Key Cast
  • Rajit Kapur
    Key Cast
  • Sushma Seth
    Key Cast
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    Mehram
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    32 minutes 4 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    July 10, 2017
  • Country of Origin:
    India
  • Country of Filming:
    India
  • Language:
    Hindi, Urdu
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital (4K)
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Zain Anwar

An alumnus of AJK MCRC, Zain extensively worked in various capabilities with organizations like NDTV, The Hindu, Dainik Bhaskar, Times Internet and RED FM before starting his own independent venture. His experience as a theater artist is more than 8 years and he has done various shows all over India, including the prestigious Kala Ghoda International Festival. Zain has also worked with street artists in close association with organizations like Navjyoti Foundation, Save The Children and Hope Worldwide Foundation. Deeply inspired by the works of Allama Iqbal, Rabindranath Tagore, Amir Khusrow, Bertolt Brecht and Vishal Bhardwaj, he wants to tell stories deeply woven in the socio-political milieu of changing India through a cinematic appeal that resonates across all sections of the society.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

'Mehram' is an extremely honest effort by a bunch of enthusiastic and dedicated battery of professionals who came together in an attempt to create magic. Our intentions are now sealed in color graded 4K footage for everyone to comment, criticize or appreciate. The film takes traditional aesthetics and merges it with extra-ordinary performances and specially thought out music.