Cardinal Anthony Poola, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad, has encouraged the faithful to support and promote the Telugu version of the film "The Face of the Faceless," based on the life of Blessed Rani Maria.
In an official letter dated February 17, 2026, Cardinal Poola appealed to priests, religious and lay faithful to screen and promote the film in parishes, institutions and families across the Telugu-speaking states.
“I wish to share with you the Telugu version of The Face of the Faceless, produced by Tri Light Creations and distributed by Divyavani TV. This beautiful and moving film brings to life the inspiring story of Blessed Rani Maria, whose loving service among the poor and marginalised in Madhya Pradesh remains a powerful witness to faith, courage and forgiveness,” the Cardinal wrote.
He recalled that the film was introduced during the Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Council (TCBC) meeting in Hyderabad on September 23, 2025. With the Council’s encouragement, it was released in theatres on November 21, 2025.
According to Cardinal Poola, viewers have appreciated both its artistic quality and spiritual depth. “It reminds us of our Christian calling — to stand with the vulnerable, walk with those who suffer, and respond to hatred with forgiveness,” he noted.
The film has received more than 123 international awards and was shortlisted for Oscar eligibility. However, the producers continue to face financial challenges in promoting value-based cinema.
Fr. Maria Singaryan, a priest of the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, said the film is particularly relevant during Lent. “'The Face of the Faceless' reflects sacrificial love, service to the oppressed and martyrdom, mirroring the spiritual themes of the season,” he said. He added that the biopic highlights Sister Rani Maria’s dedication to empowering marginalized Adivasis and presents a compelling real-life story of faith and sacrifice.
Cardinal Poola urged dioceses, parishes, religious communities and institutions to organize screenings, promote the film locally and offer financial support where possible. He noted that some dioceses have already featured the film in their newsletters.
“A portion of the proceeds will also support the mission of Divyavani in serving the faithful of our Telugu region,” the Archbishop stated.
He expressed hope that the film would help spread the inspiring legacy of Blessed Rani Maria and strengthen evangelisation through media.
Blessed Rani Maria was born on January 29, 1954, in Kerala. She joined the Franciscan Clarist Congregation and served as a missionary in North India, particularly in Madhya Pradesh. She worked among poor farmers, tribal communities and women, forming self-help groups to free them from exploitation by moneylenders. She promoted education, dignity and economic independence, and stood firmly against social injustice.
Her efforts challenged local moneylenders and landlords, as villagers began asserting their rights and refusing exploitative practices.
On February 25, 1995, while travelling by bus near Indore in Madhya Pradesh, she was brutally stabbed to death at the age of 41.
She was declared “Blessed” on November 4, 2017, in Indore, becoming widely regarded as the first woman martyr of the Catholic Church in India.
