Amole Gupte used a revolutionary "non-exploitative" approach. The film was shot in a school workshop format on Saturdays and Sundays over a year and a half to ensure child actors didn't miss school.
Released on , the film is a poignant exploration of childhood innocence, friendship, and the harsh realities of child labour in India.
The narrative centers on Stanley, a bright and popular student at Holy Family High School in Mumbai who never brings his own lunch (dabba).
Amol Gole used only natural light (except for one scene) and handheld cameras to maintain an authentic, documentary-like feel.
