Fairytales shape how generations imagine courage, identity, and heroism. For decades, these stories—especially in animation—have largely followed Western narratives of princes, castles, and rescues. Humney Choodiyan Pehni Hai, the latest animated short film released by the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF), offers a powerful and refreshing alternative: a homegrown Indian fairytale rooted in culture, mythology, and the strength of women.

Set in Ancient India, this visually engaging animated film places an Indian woman at the heart of its story—not as someone waiting to be saved, but as a protector, a warrior, and a divine force rising to defend her land.

A Fairytale Made in India, for India

Created and written by Himannee Aarya Bhatia under Himanee Aarya Bhatia Productions, Humney Choodiyan Pehni Hai redefines what an Indian fairytale can be. Drawing inspiration from Indian mythology and cultural ethos, the film celebrates the divine feminine—a concept deeply embedded in Indian tradition, where women are revered as Goddesses, leaders, and warriors.

Rather than following conventional fairytale tropes, the film tells a story of inner strength, resilience, and spiritual identity. Its protagonist does not wait for external salvation; she embraces her power and becomes the saviour of her village. This shift in narrative is subtle yet profound, making the film especially meaningful for young audiences.

Animation with Purpose and Cultural Soul

The animation and editing by Pooja Raikwar bring this fairytale to life with warmth, symbolism, and visual clarity. The film’s aesthetic reflects its mythological undertones, creating a world that feels timeless yet accessible to contemporary viewers.

By choosing animation as the medium, Humney Choodiyan Pehni Hai reaches children and families while also engaging adults who appreciate culturally conscious storytelling. It stands as an example of how animation can be both entertaining and deeply purposeful.

Inspiring the Next Generation

At its core, the film is a message-driven narrative aimed at inspiring children—especially young girls—to see strength, courage, and leadership reflected in stories from their own culture. It reinforces the idea that Indian mythology is rich with female icons who embody power and compassion, and that these stories deserve to be retold in modern cinematic forms.

“Through the film, I wanted to create a homegrown fairytale for India—made in India, for India. Our story is not about a prince saving a princess, but about an Indian woman embracing her divine feminine and strength, and saving her village. In Indian culture, women are recognised as Goddesses and warriors, and this fairytale is meant to inspire the next generation.”
— Himannee Aarya Bhatia

DPIFF and the Celebration of Original Indian Animation

DPIFF proudly presents Humney Choodiyan Pehni Hai as part of its ongoing commitment to promoting original, culturally rooted, and meaningful cinema, including independent animation. By supporting films like this, DPIFF continues to encourage storytellers who challenge conventional narratives and contribute to India’s evolving creative landscape.

The film’s release highlights the growing importance of Indian animation as a medium for cultural expression, social values, and imaginative storytelling.

A New Chapter for Indian Fairytales

Humney Choodiyan Pehni Hai is more than an animated short film—it is a statement. A reminder that India’s stories, myths, and heroines deserve their own space in global cinema. As a fairytale rooted in Ancient India and guided by feminine strength, it opens the door for a new generation of Indian stories to be told with pride and purpose.

The film is now streaming on the DPIFF platform and on YouTube. We invite audiences to watch, share, and celebrate a fairytale that belongs to us.