Huma Qureshi’s ‘Bayaan’ to Premiere at TIFF 2025 as the Sole Indian Entry in Discovery Section

In a significant milestone for Indian cinema, Huma Qureshi’s much-anticipated film Bayaan is set to have its world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Notably, Bayaan has earned the distinction of being the only Indian film selected for TIFF’s prestigious Discovery Section this year, a segment renowned for spotlighting bold new voices and breakthrough filmmakers on the global stage.

Directed by Bikas Ranjan Mishra, Bayaan is a hard-hitting police procedural thriller that centers around a woman—a justice system insider—caught in the turbulent currents of power, faith, and institutional complicity. The story delves into her struggle to confront and challenge a society determined to silence her, exploring themes that are both vital and universally resonant.

Huma Qureshi, who also serves as executive producer, expressed her deep connection to the role, describing it as “a timely and powerful story” that allowed her to portray a character facing overwhelming odds from within the very system she serves. The film’s selection at TIFF’s Discovery Section places it among acclaimed works that have previously launched the careers of cinematic stalwarts such as Christopher Nolan and Alfonso Cuarón.

Developed under Film Independent’s Global Media Makers program, Bayaan is co-produced by Platoon One Films and Summit Studios, with an ensemble cast featuring Chandrachur Singh and Sachin Khedekar. The spotlight at TIFF 2025 points toward global recognition for both Qureshi and Indian independent filmmaking.