Pranav Birje | The News Bulletins
“The Opposite of Normal is not Abnormal, It is Extraordinary”: Anupam Kher
#IFFIWood, 22 November 2025
The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) witnessed an evening of heartfelt cinema and inspiring storytelling as acclaimed filmmaker, actor, and director Anupam Kher presented his latest directorial venture, Tanvi the Great. It’s a story an extraordinary girl on the autism spectrum, follows her dream of joining the army on the footsteps of her father, despite being misunderstood for her autism, proving that true heroism comes from the heart. Accompanied by actress Tanvi, Anupam Kher addressed the media following the film’s festival screening, which received an exceptionally warm and enthusiastic response from audiences and delegates.
During the media interaction, Anupam Kher spoke at length about the personal relevance of the film. He shared that the story is intricately connected to moments from his personal and family life, making the project emotionally significant for him as a filmmaker. Speaking on the topic of autism, Anupam Kher said that we often consider the opposite of “normal” to be “abnormal,” but the opposite of normal can also be seen as “extraordinary.” Kher emphasized that he is increasingly drawn to narratives that highlight human resilience, empathy, and transformation. He expressed his commitment to continuing work on films that “touch the core of human emotions and inspire individuals to bring positive and meaningful changes in their lives.”
One of the highlights of the press conference was the presence of Shubhangi Dutt, the film’s lead actress, who marks her cinematic debut with Tanvi the Great. Speaking about her first experience in front of the camera, Shubhangi shared her admiration for Anupam Kher’s disciplined and insightful approach to direction. She described him as a “strict teacher,” noting that his mentorship not only strengthened her performance but also helped her discover her own artistic potential. Shubhangi expressed interest in exploring a wide range of cinema in the future, hoping to take on roles that challenge her craft and contribute to meaningful storytelling.
Tanvi the Great continues to gather acclaim for its uplifting message, finely crafted characters, and relatable emotional journey. Its reception at IFFI marks another milestone in the film’s growing trajectory, underscoring its appeal to audiences across age groups and cultural backgrounds.