Rainbow (Dhanak) comes to TIFF Kids Festival

A scene from Nagesh Kukunoor's latest film Rainbow (Dhanak). (TIFF Handout)

A scene from Nagesh Kukunoor’s latest film Rainbow (Dhanak). (TIFF Handout)

The Toronto International Film Festival’s (TIFF) Kids Festival will host a North American premiere of filmmaker Nagesh Kukunoor’s latest film Rainbow (Dhanak). The film is a story features two incredible child actors and is a touching story of perseverance.

The film was recently deemed an instant hit at the recently concluded Berlinale film festival.

A brief synopsis of the film: Orphaned siblings Pari and Chotu live with an aunt and uncle who are not always the best caregivers. Ten-year-old Pari assumes the role of mother, guide and best friend to her eight-year-old brother, who lost his eyesight when he was four. The only things the two disagree on are their favourite film stars: Pari’s hero is Shah Rukh Khan, while Chotu prefers Salman Khan. After spotting a poster of Shah promoting eye donation, Pari believes she has found a way to restore Chotu’s eyesight. When they hear a rumour that the actor is filming in a neighbouring city, the children set out on a journey of hope that will change their lives forever.

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The director, Nagesh Kukunoor transitioned from his career as an environmental consultant in Atlanta to write, produce, act and direct his immensely successful debut film, Hyderabad Blues (98), which went on to become the largest grossing low-budget, English-language Indian film. His many films span from family features to romantic comedies to social-realist dramas, and include Rockford (99), Bollywood Calling (03), Iqbal (05), Bombay to Bangkok (08). Rainbow (15) is his latest feature.