- 27 September, 2025
Hyderabad, September 27, 2025 – The Telugu dubbed version of the internationally acclaimed film The Face of the Faceless, depicting the life and martyrdom of Blessed Rani Maria, was launched at Divyavani TV studios on 24 September by the Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council (TCBC).
The ceremony was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Dr Poola Anthony, Archbishop of Hyderabad, alongside several bishops and members of the Franciscan Clarist Congregation (FCC).
Cardinal Poola Anthony released the film’s audio, joined by producer Sandra D’Souza Rana, Fr. Dr. I Lourduraj SJ – CEO/Director of Divyavani TV, and Fr. Anakarla Prasanth, Programme Director. “In line with Jesus’ words, ‘Forgive your enemies,’ Rani Maria served the poor and became a voice in their struggles,” Cardinal Anthony remarked.
Bishop M. D. Prakasam of Nellore praised Rani Maria’s bravery: “It takes greater courage to forgive than to punish, and Blessed Rani Maria is a witness to this truth.” Bishop Dr. Chinnabathini Bhagyaiah of Guntur said he was “wonderstruck” by the film and stressed its potential to strengthen the faith of Telugu-speaking Catholics. Bishop Dr Vijay Kumar Rayarala PIME of Srikakulam commended the sacrifices behind the production, adding: “Thank you for the efforts in bringing this film to the people by taking risks, making sacrifices, and spending a lot of money for its production.”
Fr. Raju Alex, Deputy Secretary of the TCBC, underlined the film’s significance for faith formation: “Like Sr. Rani Maria, we too should be strong and stand for Christ. The film enhances the quality of forgiveness and I encourage everyone to watch it.”
Sr. Noble, FCC Vice Provincial Superior, called the film a blessing and expressed hope that it would inspire viewers to work for the poor and marginalised.
Produced by Sandra D’Souza Rana and directed by Dr. Shaison P. Ouseph, the film portrays Rani Maria’s mission among the underprivileged and her martyrdom in 1995. Already recognised globally, The Face of the Faceless has won over 123 international awards and was nominated in categories such as Best Original Score and Best Original Song at the 96th Academy Awards in 2024.
Dr. Ouseph described the film not only as a biography but also as “an invitation to reflect on Christian values of forgiveness, courage, and justice.”
Divyavani TV undertook the dubbing of the film independently, demonstrating its growing technical expertise and commitment to impactful media. The Telugu version is scheduled for release on 7 November across 50 theatres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
The launch marks an important milestone in making Blessed Rani Maria’s witness of courage and forgiveness more accessible, inspiring the faithful to live their faith with renewed conviction.
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By Fr. Dr. I Lourduraj SJ -
CEO/Director,
Divyavani TV
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