At the remarkable age of 70, Biana Watre Momin has transformed her life from a quiet existence in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills to becoming a celebrated figure in Indian cinema. With her debut performance in the Malayalam film *Eko*, Momin has not only embraced a challenging new role but also shattered stereotypes about age and creativity in the film industry.
A Leap into the Unknown
Biana Momin’s foray into acting was far from a lifelong dream. A retired English literature teacher, she had spent her days nurturing her family and caring for her pets, all while living in a region where cinema was virtually nonexistent. “Growing up, my town did not have a cinema or theatre,” she shared. The idea of acting seemed distant, yet when the opportunity arose, her daughter encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone. “Have faith in yourself and try something new,” she advised.
This encouragement led Momin to Kerala, over 3,000 kilometres away, where she auditioned for the role of Mlathi Chettathi in *Eko*, a film that explores the life of an elderly woman navigating loneliness and mystery against the backdrop of the Western Ghats. Despite her initial reservations about travel and inexperience, Momin’s audition marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
The Heart of *Eko*
In *Eko*, directed by Dinjith Ayyathan, Momin plays an elderly woman who escapes from Malaysia during the Japanese invasion in World War II. The film intricately weaves themes of solitude and resilience, with Momin’s character living in a dilapidated house, surrounded by feral dogs while contending with men seeking to uncover her past. The film has received critical acclaim, largely due to Momin’s powerful and nuanced performance.
The casting process for *Eko* was extensive, with the team searching for an actor whose features would align with the narrative’s requirements. Momin’s name came up after she participated in a short film that examined Garo folklore, which fortuitously involved animal themes similar to those in *Eko*. Her audition revealed her ability to embody complex emotions, impressing the director and cinematographer alike.
A Newfound Education
Momin’s transition from educator to actress was no small feat. She approached her role with the humility of a student, learning her Malayalam lines phonetically with the help of a language coach. Each day on set presented new challenges, from navigating the unpredictable weather to adapting to the rigorous demands of filming. “I didn’t fall sick despite the weather, and I was adventurous enough to try the cuisine in Kerala,” she recalled, highlighting her adventurous spirit.
Her performance in *Eko* has been described as “organic and intuitive,” a testament to her fearless embrace of a new identity at a stage in life when many consider retirement. Momin’s life experiences, particularly her upbringing in a matrilineal tribe, informed her portrayal of a strong, self-reliant woman who deftly navigates the complexities of her existence.
Accolades and Future Prospects
Following the film’s release on Netflix, Momin has garnered significant attention, with notable figures in the industry, including national award-winning actor Dhanush, praising her performance as “world-class.” The success of *Eko* has opened doors, with filmmakers from Bollywood and beyond expressing interest in Momin for future projects. “Talks are on,” she mentioned, remaining cautious yet optimistic about her newfound career.
Despite her rising fame, Momin has returned to her life in Meghalaya, where she remains engaged with her family and community, even participating in her book club discussions. “We’ll be discussing Arundhati Roy’s *Mother Mary Comes to Me* this week,” she said, showcasing her enduring passion for literature.
Why it Matters
Biana Watre Momin’s journey from educator to actress serves as a powerful reminder that creativity knows no age limits. Her story challenges conventional notions of when one can pursue new passions and highlights the importance of representation in the arts. In a world where ageism often prevails, Momin’s success in *Eko* not only inspires others to embrace their dreams at any stage of life but also underscores the need for diverse voices in storytelling. Her narrative is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of exploration, proving that it is never too late to embark on a new adventure.