Ek Nayi Dor’ Redefines Sibling Bonds: Palash Dutta’s Short Film Advocates Transgender Rights and Chosen Family

On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, A Mandala Studios in association with Palash Dutta Classic Productions released Ek Nayi Dor, a short film designed to expand traditional notions of family and sibling relationships. Written by Palash Dutta and directed by Balwani Raajesh, the project stars Jayati Bhatia, Palash Dutta, and Vicky Shinde.

The narrative focuses on the core cultural values of Raksha Bandhan while introducing a contemporary narrative twist. The plot explores the professional relationship between a corporate executive and a transgender employee, showing how workplace connections evolve into chosen sibling bonds (mooh-boli behen/bhai) that exist beyond conventional biological ties.

Filmmaker Palash Dutta highlighted that the short film aims to tackle LGBTQIA+ inclusion, self-expression, and human dignity. By framing chosen family as a fundamental social right for gender-minority communities, the project serves as a public awareness initiative. Dutta plans to organize dedicated screenings with non-governmental organizations and submit the film to international festival circuits.

Produced on a streamlined schedule and modest budget, principal photography for Ek Nayi Dor was completed in two days across real hotel lobby locations and indoor sets. Dutta noted that short-form visual storytelling remains an effective medium for contemporary audiences facing tighter time constraints and evolving media consumption habits.

The release marks a continuation of Dutta’s work in short-format cinema, following award-winning titles like Silent Ties starring Renuka Shahane and Thanks Mom starring Sharad Malhotra and Akanksha Puri. Alongside his production endeavors, Dutta's upcoming acting and hosting assignments include the web series Show Stopper, commercial campaigns featuring Abhay Deol and Wamiqa Gabbi, and feature film projects currently in development.