Cannes Film Festival 2025: Taha Shah Badussha says, “Even if we save one woman, that’s a win” as he speaks at Paro screening 2025 : Bollywood News

At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Taha Shah Badussha marked a key moment in his career with the screening of Paro: The Untold Story of Slavery. The film, directed by two-time National Award winner Gajendra Ahire, tackles the harsh realities of bride trafficking and screened under the Marché du Film segment at Cannes. Taha attended the event in a classic bandhgala and was seen alongside his co-star Trupti Bhoir and director Ahire during the screening.

Cannes Film Festival 2025: Taha Shah Badussha says, “Even if we save one woman, that’s a win” as he speaks at Paro screening

Taking to Instagram to express his gratitude, Taha wrote, "Feeling blessed to see PARO find space on a global stage at the Marché du Film, Festival de Cannes. This one’s for all of us, a story that speaks across borders and sparks quiet reflection. Grateful for the love, support, and belief."

Speaking at the festival, Taha recalled the unexpected way he became a part of the film. “I randomly went to Goa and I met Gajendra sir, and Trupti was hustling away to get this project up and going,” he shared. At the time, he was busy filming Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi, but the subject matter of Paro resonated with him on a personal level. “It wasn’t a difficult choice,” he said. “Because I have a single mom who’s always faced a lot of trouble. I know that women go through so much across the world.” That connection to the theme made the decision to join the film clear for him.

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Taha credited Trupti Bhoir and Gajendra Ahire for driving the project forward. “They had this subject in their hands and it just had to be made,” he said, referring to the film’s focus on raising awareness around the often-overlooked issue of bride trafficking. He added, “If we even save one woman, I guess that’s a win for all of us.”

Paro's presence at Cannes underscores the importance of stories that shine a light on difficult but urgent issues. From an idea sparked in Goa to its recognition at one of the world’s most respected film forums, Paro marks a step forward for independent Indian cinema tackling socially conscious themes.

Also Read: Taha Shah Badussha turns heads in maroon pinstripes as he represents Paro at Cannes Film Festival 2025