Special screening of inamulhaq "The Shoes I Wore" at 5th CMFF 2025
Special Screening of Inamulhaq’s The Shoes I Wore Leaves a Lasting Impact at 5th CMFF 2025
The 5th Chandigarh Music & Film Festival (CMFF) 2025 delivered many memorable cinematic moments, but none as emotionally powerful as the special screening of The Shoes I Wore, starring acclaimed actor Inamulhaq. Known for his outstanding performances in films like Filmistan, Airlift, and Nakkash, Inamulhaq once again showcased his deep connection to socially relevant storytelling in this moving drama.
The film, presented to a packed auditorium on the second day of the festival, explores themes of memory, displacement, and identity through the lens of a character shaped by trauma and resilience. The Shoes I Wore tells the story of a man whose tattered pair of childhood shoes holds memories too powerful to let go. With delicate storytelling and restrained brilliance, the film touches the audience without relying on melodrama or spectacle.
Inamulhaq’s portrayal is heartfelt and profound. His performance is filled with subtle expressions, emotional silence, and depth that draws the audience into the character’s inner world. “This film was a personal journey,” he said during the post-screening interaction. “It reminded me that sometimes the smallest objects can carry the heaviest emotions.”
The screening was followed by an insightful panel discussion featuring Inamulhaq, the film’s director Neeraj Bhatia, and film critics. They discussed the film’s inspiration, which stemmed from real-life stories of conflict survivors and displaced individuals. The panel opened up a broader conversation about how cinema can be a medium of healing and awareness, especially for stories that often go unheard.
One of the most powerful moments came from an audience member who shared that the film reflected her own family’s journey through migration and loss. This honest exchange between the filmmakers and viewers underlined the impact The Shoes I Wore had not just as a film, but as an experience.
From a technical standpoint, the film stands out for its minimalist approach. The cinematography, using natural light and close-up shots, creates an intimate and immersive atmosphere. The background score, subtle and evocative, complements the tone without overpowering the narrative. Every frame feels intentional, every silence speaks volumes.
Festival Director Rajiv Khosla called it “a cinematic gem that aligns perfectly with CMFF’s mission to amplify stories that matter.” He praised the team behind the film for their courage and creativity in telling a story that is as emotional as it is socially relevant.
Inamulhaq’s performance in The Shoes I Wore reaffirmed his place among the most impactful actors in Indian cinema today. The film’s screening at CMFF 2025 will be remembered as one of the festival’s most powerful moments — a testament to the enduring power of storytelling that speaks from the heart and reaches beyond borders.
Conclusion : As the lights dimmed and the credits rolled, The Shoes I Wore left behind more than just applause—it sparked reflection, conversation, and a shared sense of humanity. In a world often overwhelmed by noise, this film offered a quiet yet profound reminder of the stories that live in silence. With its heartfelt narrative and unforgettable performance by Inamulhaq, the screening became more than just a cinematic event—it became a moment of collective introspection. At the 5th CMFF, it was clear: some stories don’t just entertain, they endure.
