This year, Assam is in the limelight as many of the
curated films, reflecting the richness and diversity of Bharat’s cinematic
landscape, graced the Indian Panorama section of the 54th International Film
Festival of India (IFFI).
If Assam is well-known for its unique culture and
landscapes, it has significantly contributed to the Indian cinema industry.
This year’s selection at IFFI further underlines the
artistic and storytelling prowess of Assam’s filmmakers.
In the feature film category, Assam’s Mridul Gupta’s Mirbin,
a Karbi language masterpiece, stands out among the selected films, making this Northeastern
State proud.
Moreover, in the non-feature film category, Assam
makes a remarkable mark with five out of the six northeastern States
represented.
The Indian Panorama, an integral part of IFFI, has
announced the selection of 25 feature films and 20 non-feature films, all of
which will be celebrated during the festival taking place from November 20 to
28 in picturesque Goa.
Let’s have a look into the rich tapestry of Indian
cinema, with Assam at forefront.
In the feature film category, three impressive films
from the Assamese cinema industry:
1. Baruar Xongxar: Directed by Utpal Borpujari, this
Assamese gem explores the unique cultural tapestry, by uncovering untold
stories and celebrating the State’s cultural heritage.
2. Kathabor: Directed by Keshar Jyoti Das, this movie captures
the essence of Assam through captivating storytelling and showcasing the rich
heritage, traditions, and narratives.
3. Lachit (The Warrior): Directed by Parthasarathi
Mahanta, this film is an Assamese masterpiece that delves into the history and
legends of Assam, particularly the legendary Lachit Borphukan, a heroic figure
from the Ahom kingdom.
Alongside the Assamese films, a selection of 22
feature films representing a variety of languages and themes will grace the
Indian Panorama. Here’s a glimpse of some of the selected films:
1. Aaraariraaro: A Kannada masterpiece by Sandeep
Kumar V, the film promises to take audiences on a journey that transcends
language barriers.
2. Aattam: Directed by Anand Ekarshi in Malayalam,
this film explores the depths of human emotions and relationships.
3. Ardhangini: In Bengali, Kaushik Ganguly’s film
delves into the intricacies of relationships and human dynamics.
4. Deep Fridge: Another Bengali gem, Arjun Dutta’s
film offers a unique perspective on life and its complexities.
5. Dhai Aakhar: A Hindi offering by Praveen Arora, the
film takes viewers on a journey of self-discovery.
6. Iratta: A Malayalam film by Rohit MG Krishnan that
explores the nuances of human behaviour and relationships.
7. Kaadhal Enbathu Pothu Udamai: A Tamil film by
Jayaprakash Radhakrishnan, exploring the complexities of love.
8. Kaathal: Directed by Jeo Baby in Malayalam, this
film promises to engage audiences with its unique narrative.
9. Kantara: Rishab Shetty’s Kannada film brings an
authentic slice of life to the screen.
10. Malikappuram: In Malayalam, Vishnu Sasi Shankar’s
film delves into human emotions and relationships.
In the non-feature film category, spotlight on Assam
continues:
1. Kathabor: Directed by Keshar Jyoti Das, this
Assamese gem takes audiences on a journey through the State’s cultural heritage
and traditions.
2. Lachit (The Warrior): Another Assamese film by
Parthasarathi Mahanta, “Lachit” pays homage to the legendary Lachit Borphukan
and the Ahom kingdom’s history.
3. Last Meet: Waribam Dorendra Singh’s Manipuri film
is an emotional exploration of human relationships and connections.
The Best of Non-Feature Films Across Bharat
Apart from Assam’s commendable presence, a diverse
selection of 17 non-feature films from across Bharat graces the Indian
Panorama. These films showcase a range of topics and storytelling styles. Here
are some of the selected films:
1. 1947: Brexit India: A documentary in English
directed by Sanjivan Lal, offering a unique perspective on Bharat’s journey to
independence.
2. Baasan: In Hindi, Jitank Singh Gurjar’s film
explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions.
3. Back To The Future: MS Bisht’s English documentary
takes viewers on a journey through time, exploring Bharat’s past and future.
4. Behrupiya – The Impersonator: Directed by Bhasker
Vishwanathan in Hindi, this film delves into the lives of impersonators,
offering a unique look into their world.
5. Bhangaar: In Marathi, Sumira Roy’s film highlights
the lives of scrap collectors and their untold stories.
6. Chupi Roh: Disha Bhardwaj’s Dogri documentary
explores the depths of human emotions and relationships.
7. Giddh (The Scavenger): Manish Saini’s Hindi film
delves into the world of scavengers and their challenges.
8. Last Meet: An emotional Manipuri film by Waribam
Dorendra Singh that explores human relationships and connections.
9. Life In Loom: An intriguing documentary in multiple
languages (Hindi, Tamil, Assamese, Bengali, English) directed by Edmond Ranson,
offering a unique perspective on Bharat’s cultural diversity.
10. Mau: The Spirit Dreams Of Cheraw: Shilpika
Bordoloi’s Mizo documentary takes viewers on a journey into the world of
Cheraw, a traditional Mizo bamboo.
NE Watch Desk
