An old Hindu custom dictates that when a woman is widowed she can either throw herself onto her husband’s funeral pyre, marry his brother or be hidden away from society basically living in povert in an orphanage of sorts for widows, never again to fall in love or life a “normal” life.

Set nearly 80 years ago Water tells the story of young Chuyia who is widowed at the age of eight, before she has even met him or realised she has been wedded. When placed in a house of other widows her fight and will to live a full life turns the home upside down. She is befriended by the beautiful Kalyani who is somewhat of an outcast in the home for her long flowing her and independence. A chance encounter leads to a romance between Kalyani and a progressive thinking young man who, following the teachings of Ghandi, does not believe in the Hindu custom.

With such a weight social message Water could have been dark and depressing but somehow, despite the inevitable tragic ending I could sense was coming, the movie was surprisingly engaging. I think it was the balance of light-hearted moments and solemnity which gave the movie its charming quality. It also didn’t hurt that it was a genuintely beautifully shot film with wonderous colours.