Young Filmmaker Explores Alzheimer’s in Debut Film at Cannes

Karen Kshiti Suvarna, a 22-year-old filmmaker, delves into the complexities of Alzheimer’s in her debut film, September 21, which has been selected for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Unlike typical narratives that focus on patients, her film offers a fresh perspective by highlighting the experiences of caregivers. Drawing from real-life events, Kshiti aims to create a human drama that resonates with audiences globally. With its theatrical release set for May 22, this film promises to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of the Alzheimer’s journey. Discover how Kshiti's unique vision brings this important topic to the forefront of cinema.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 12:41 IST

A Unique Perspective on Alzheimer’s

“Filmmaking is an art of silence,” reflects 22-year-old director Karen Kshiti Suvarna, who tackles the profound subject of Alzheimer’s in her debut film, September 21. Selected for the Marche du Film at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, she reveals her personal connection to this serious issue, which, despite primarily affecting the elderly, resonates deeply with her youthful perspective.

Alzheimer’s is not an unfamiliar theme in Hindi cinema. Last year’s hit, Saiyaara, also explored this topic. Kshiti completed her film before Mohit Suri’s emotional narrative was released, and while Saiyaara focused on a young female patient, September 21 shifts the focus to elderly individuals, the demographic most impacted by the disease.

Unlike many films that center on the patients themselves, September 21 highlights the experiences of caregivers. With writer Raj Shekhar being a caregiver himself, Kshiti gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by those responsible for the well-being of Alzheimer’s patients. She emphasizes, “Typically, patients receive more empathy, while the struggles of caregivers often go unnoticed.”

Drawing inspiration from real-life events, Kshiti describes her film as a human drama rather than a mere sob story, where silence plays a crucial role in communication. She aims to reach a global audience at film festivals, acknowledging that while it’s challenging to tailor a film specifically for prestigious events like Cannes, the meaningful nature of her subject makes it a fitting platform for showcasing her work.

Securing a spot in the festival's market section is a significant achievement for her, one that she is still processing. With the film set to hit theaters on May 22, Kshiti is not only prepared for Cannes but also excited for its wider release.