Brewing Change: ‘A Teacher’s Gift’ Celebrates Diversity and Acceptance
Pour yourself a cuppa and settle in, because there’s a new film on the scene that’s as warming as your favourite oat latte—and just as layered.
“A Teacher’s Gift,” the newest British-South Asian queer film, is scheduled to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival Lisboa. It has also received nominations in three categories, including Best Feature, at this year’s Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Cardiff this month.
Produced by the legendary Eric Ollerenshaw (yes, of Gay Liberation Front fame) and written by British-Indian actor Rajdeep Choudhury, “A Teacher’s Gift” is not just a film—it’s a heartfelt conversation between London’s buzzing streets and the shimmering hues of India. If your bookshelf is stacked with Zadie Smith and your WhatsApp is a flurry of book club reminders, this one’s for you.
The film’s accolades are already impressive: after scooping the coveted Flame Award for ‘Bridging Cultures’ at the UK Asian Film Festival, it’s now nominated for three major categories at this year’s Iris Prize in Cardiff, including Best Feature, Best Performance in a Female Role, and Best Performance in a Non-Binary Role. Oh, and did we mention its European premiere at Tribeca Film Festival Lisboa? Talk about a global debut.
At its heart, “A Teacher’s Gift” follows Rohan, an ambitious Hindi teacher navigating the delicate dance of societal expectations and personal longing. Enter a sophisticated Englishman—cue cricket matches, literature debates, and a journey that challenges every rule in the book. It’s a love letter to self-discovery, acceptance, and bridging the spaces we so often feel trapped within.
The cast is as rich as the storyline, with Rajdeep Choudhury not only writing but starring alongside Antony Calf, Jacinta Mulcahy, and Anjali Patil. The film’s UK crew, based around Wolverhampton, reflects Britain’s vibrant second-generation immigrant communities—proof that creativity thrives on diversity.
The film is not afraid to tackle real issues: think ‘in the closet’ experiences and a woman’s right to choose, all wrapped in a narrative that feels both tender and urgent. The film is a genuine celebration of multicultural Britain—perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered where they fit in. It’s made by and for people who believe stories can change hearts, challenge taboos, and spark much-needed conversations.
Ready to Sip, Savour, and Share? Follow the cast and crew on social media for behind-the-scenes gems and updates on the film’s journey. “A Teacher’s Gift” is a timely reminder that the best stories don’t just entertain—they bring us closer, one cup (and conversation) at a time.