Rishtoon ki Mithas directed by Shaunak Deo

What did Shaunak Deo say about his film?

Rishtoon ki Mithas (The Sweetness of Relationships) is an animated poetry film that pays tribute to the enduring bonds formed around one iconic symbol — Budha Halwai, a beloved sweet shop in old city of Nashik. Told through three emotionally resonant stories representing birth, life, and death, the film captures how sweets are deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Indian families.

The first story centers around, the birth of a baby girl prompts the distribution of Budha Halwai’s Sweet to celebrate his arrival, symbolizing joy and new beginnings for the family and their community. The second tale tells a young woman's choice to accept a neighborhood marriage proposal, which is influenced by her deep connection to Budha Halwai, where fond memories and family traditions intertwine with the prospect of a sweet future.” The final story tells us a woman's poignant tale battling a disease as she seeks the craving for iconic Budha Halwai’s Sweet, fulfilling her final desire in her final days of life.

The project is a heartfelt collaboration. Guided by Priyankar Gupta, with music direction and lyrics by my father Dnyanesh (Sameer) Deo and voice performance by Yash Deshpande, the film weaves poetry and animation into one emotional experience. The sound recording was guided by Swaroop Sardeshmukh, with typography and lettering from Vaibhavi Pai and lighting by Suryadevsinh Parmar.

This project was more than just a film; it was a testament to perseverance and passion. It taught me the value of pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and never settling for mediocrity. As I look back on this journey, I do so with a sense of pride and gratitude, that every lesson learned has shaped me into a better artist and storyteller.