"Manto’s world still feels frighteningly relevant today.”
Rahhat Shah Kazmi’s latest feature film, Bombay Stories, was unveiled to an acclaimed reception at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival.
The film, inspired by the literary works of renowned Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto, received its world premiere to a packed theatre.
International audiences and critics reportedly responded positively to the screening.
Bombay Stories follows the lives of sex workers in the 1930s.
The film explores human emotions, social realities, and the complexities of life in Mumbai through narratives influenced by Manto’s writing.
The film stars Mouni Roy, Anupriya Goenka, Rahat Shah Kazmi, Shoib Nikash Shah and others.
Kazmi is also familiar to UK South Asian cinema audiences.
He previously attended DESIblitz’s Film Fusion Festival, further strengthening his links with independent and internationally focused cinema.
Speaking about the Cannes premiere, producer Tariq Khan said:
“Manto’s stories are timeless because they speak the truth of human existence without filters.
“Bombay Stories is our humble attempt to carry forward that legacy and present it to the world through the language of cinema.”
Speaking about the film, Mouni Roy said:
“What attracted me to Bombay Stories was its emotional honesty. These characters are vulnerable, broken, yet deeply human.
“Manto’s world still feels frighteningly relevant today.”
Anupriya Goenka added: “This film is not just an adaptation; it is an experience.
“The writing is fearless, and every character carries emotional scars that stay with you long after the story ends.”
Tariq Khan has built a reputation for bringing regional Indian stories to global audiences. His work often focuses on identity, culture, social issues and resilience.
His previous projects include Identity Card, Lihaaf – The Quilt and Side A Side B. The films received international recognition and screened at several film festivals worldwide.
Through his production company, Tariq Khan Productions, the filmmaker continues to focus on artistically driven cinema rooted in cultural authenticity and emotional storytelling.
Originally from Jammu and Kashmir, Khan has consistently highlighted stories connected to Indian culture and regional experiences.
The Cannes premiere of Bombay Stories marks another international milestone for the filmmaker.
The production team expects the screening to support wider theatrical opportunities and global distribution for the film.
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