Deepa Mehta Announces New Film Project in Colombo

 

Oscar-Nominated Director to Shoot Fourth Feature in Sri Lanka

A Media Briefing at Cinnamon Life

On Thursday evening, the Cinnamon Life complex in Colombo hosted a media briefing featuring acclaimed filmmaker Deepa Mehta. The event marked the official announcement of her upcoming fourth feature film, which will be shot entirely in Sri Lanka. The gathering included special invitees, members of the press, and both local and international representatives from the film industry.

Deepa Mehta’s Cinematic Legacy

Deepa Mehta, a Canadian filmmaker of Indian origin, is best known for her powerful and thought-provoking "Elements Trilogy"—Fire (1996), Earth (1998), and Water (2005). Her films often address complex social issues, including gender roles, cultural identity, and political conflict.

Water, which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, solidified Mehta’s reputation as a bold storyteller unafraid to challenge tradition. Her new project, while still under wraps, is expected to follow in that tradition, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and human transformation.

New Film to Be Shot in Sri Lanka

Although specific plot details and the film’s title have not been disclosed, Mehta emphasized her reasons for choosing Sri Lanka as a filming location. She highlighted the country’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and emotional depth as key inspirations.

“Sri Lanka offers a visual and emotional landscape that is both beautiful and complex. It’s the perfect setting for the story I want to tell,” Mehta said during the briefing.

Collaboration Between Local and International Talent

Mehta’s new project is set to be a collaborative effort between Sri Lankan and international professionals. Local production teams will be involved, alongside experienced crew from abroad. The filmmaker expressed her commitment to including Sri Lankan talent in various aspects of the production, from casting to technical roles.

Representatives from Sri Lanka’s Film Development Board and tourism sector were also present at the event and expressed strong support for the project. They emphasized the significance of hosting internationally acclaimed filmmakers like Mehta and the long-term benefits for the local industry.

Voices from the Event

Actress Chandani Seneviratne, who attended the event, spoke about the importance of cross-cultural collaboration.

“This is more than just a film shoot. It’s an opportunity for Sri Lanka to share its stories with the world,” she said.

A spokesperson from Cinnamon Life described the event as a turning point in Colombo’s cultural calendar and a reflection of the city’s growing appeal as a creative hub.

Sri Lanka’s Film Industry on the Rise

Deepa Mehta’s choice to film in Sri Lanka aligns with a broader trend of international filmmakers looking to the island as a production destination. The combination of scenic diversity, skilled professionals, and improving infrastructure has helped revive interest in Sri Lanka’s cinematic potential.

This project is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy and offer valuable exposure for Sri Lankan film professionals.

Timeline and Next Steps

Pre-production is already underway, with casting expected to begin in July 2025. Filming will likely commence later in the year, with a planned release in late 2026.

While Mehta remained tight-lipped about the plot and cast, industry insiders anticipate a powerful narrative with international appeal.

Directiors Chair 

Deepa Mehta’s return to the director’s chair with a project rooted in Sri Lanka marks an exciting new chapter for both the filmmaker and the country’s creative industries. With the groundwork now laid, Colombo stands poised to play a starring role in Mehta’s next cinematic journey.