Cahā (2024)

Overview

“Cahā” is an intimate, fly-on-the-wall documentary that captures the first encounter between two immigrants — one Indian, one Bruneian — who find unexpected connection over tea in a London teahouse. What begins as a casual exchange unfolds into a profound conversation, revealing the bittersweet realities of sacrifice, adaptation, and identity. As they sip cahā (tea in Marathi, or “desire” in Hindi), their stories challenge immigrant stereotypes and reveal the lingering impact of the colonial legacy of tea plantation. Through this simple ritual, the film offers a subtle glimpse into the immigrant experience in contemporary Britain, highlighting how tea becomes a bridge for understanding, forging an unspoken bond that transcends borders.