In brief
Biana Watre Momin, a 70-year-old retired teacher from Meghalaya, took on an unexpected journey in Indian cinema with her leading role in 'Eko'. Leaving her tranquil life behind, she traveled over 3,000 kilometers to play an enigmatic elder in a Malayalam-language film, showcasing remarkable bravery and a fresh perspective on age in acting. Despite initial hesitations and language barriers, Momin's performance is garnering critical acclaim, opening doors for her in the film industry and inspiring many.
At 70, Biana Watre Momin took a leap far from home. The retired college teacher left the Garo Hills in north-eastern India's Meghalaya state, where she led a quiet family life — caring for four dogs and doting on her grandchildren — and travelled more than 3,000km (1,864 miles) south to Kerala to act in a film. She was dealing with a language she did not understand, embracing a role whose meaning would only reveal itself once the camera began to roll. The film was 'Eko', a Malayalam-language film that would change the course of her life.For Momin, a member of the Garo tribe - one of the indigenous communities of Meghalaya, acting had never been an ambition, or even a distant curiosity. Growing up, my town did not have a cinema or theatre, she told the BBC. A retired English literature teacher from Tura Government College, Momin had little reason to believe that a camera would one day frame her face. Yet when Eko entered her life, it offered an unexpected adventure.Initially hesitant due to her lack of experience in acting, Momin decided to take the plunge after encouragement from her daughter. 'Have faith in yourself and try something new,' she was told. This leap of faith landed her the role of Mlathi Chettathi, an enigmatic elder living alone in the Western Ghats, a mountain range known for its dense forests.The film, shot on a modest budget in 45 days and now available on Netflix, showcases Momin's quiet power and unique presence. Director Dinjith Ayyathan sought an actor with an authentic look for the character, who escapes from Malaysia during the Japanese invasion in World War II. The search for cast led them to Momin, who had recently appeared in a short film on Garo folklore.The audition showcased her natural talent and spontaneity, drawing applause from the filmmaking team. Her approach to the character highlighted her resilience, with Momin embodying the nuanced portrayal of an independent elder.Accolades have followed, including a nod from national award-winning Tamil actor Dhanush praising her performance. With newfound opportunities on the horizon, Momin remains grounded, returning to her home in Meghalaya while skillfully balancing her acting journey and personal life. Old age should burn and rage at close of day, Momin quotes Dylan Thomas, exuding wisdom reflective of her experiences.
