The Netflix film Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man has introduced audiences to the term 'rom baro', which translates to 'king of the Romani' or 'big man'. The phrase is used in some Roma communities in North America and Europe to refer to the tribal leader.
In the film, the spirit medium Kaulo Chiriklo tells Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy) that his son Duke (Barry Keoghan) will become the new rom baro. The role involves dealing with internal community matters such as births, marriages, funerals and work disputes, as well as handling relations with non-Roma authorities.
A rom baro is chosen by the community based on intelligence and fairness, typically being older and well-versed in Roman law and traditions. The position is for life but can be revoked if the leader fails to follow Roma law; it is not hereditary.
Tommy Shelby, grieving and isolated, seeks peace throughout the film. After saving Duke from a Nazi threat, Tommy finds peace when his son kills him in an act of mercy. Duke then assumes Tommy's name and becomes the new rom baro.
Speaking on the official podcast, Cillian Murphy described Tommy as 'a bit lost' and 'in a purgatory', self-medicating and lacking purpose. Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is streaming now on Netflix.
