At 70, Biana Watre Momin left her quiet life in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, where she cared for her grandchildren and dogs, to travel over 3,000 km south to Kerala to act in a film. Speaking no Malayalam and with no prior acting experience, she embraced a role that would only reveal its depth once filming began.
Discovering Eko
The film, Eko, marked a turning point in her life. Momin, a retired English literature teacher from Tura Government College, had never aspired to act. Growing up in a town without cinemas or theaters, her exposure to performing arts was minimal, unless teaching counted, she joked. Yet Eko offered her an unexpected adventure, encouraged by her daughter to try something new.
The Role and the Setting
In Eko, Momin plays Mlathi Chettathi, an enigmatic elder living alone atop the Western Ghats, surrounded by feral dogs and mist-covered hills. The film, shot in 45 days on a modest budget, blends mystery and eco-thriller elements, and her quiet yet commanding presence anchors its narrative.
From Meghalaya to Kerala
The filmmakers had been searching extensively for a face that could convincingly play an elderly Malay woman displaced during World War II. Momin came to their attention after appearing in a short film on Garo folklore involving animals, an uncanny parallel to her Eko role. Her audition, in a rainy meeting with her son, impressed the team with her spontaneity, restraint, and confidence despite her lack of experience.
Learning on the Job
Filming became a learning journey for Momin. She memorised Malayalam lines phonetically, followed complex camera cues, and adapted to the rhythm of a professional set. Daily shoots involved long treks up mountains, unpredictable weather, and coordination with veteran actors and heavy equipment. Although her voice was later dubbed, she delivered her lines on set with precision.
Drawing on Life Experience
Momin credits her upbringing and life experiences for her performance. Coming from a matrilineal tribe and being a lifelong feminist informed her approach to Mlathi Chettathi, a character who quietly outwits those trying to exploit her. Director Bahul Ramesh described her performance as “organic and intuitive,” noting her courage in stepping onto a film set for the first time at 70.
Recognition and the Road Ahead
Her work has earned accolades, including praise from national award-winning actor Dhanush, and opened doors to further film opportunities. For now, she has returned home, engaged with family and her book club, reflecting on the transformative journey from a quiet teacher in Meghalaya to a celebrated presence on screen.
Momin’s story is a reminder that cinema can recognise truth, not just manufacture it. As she quotes Dylan Thomas, “Old age should burn and rage at close of day,” capturing both her journey and her enduring spirit.
