The renowned 30th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF), which begins on December 4, 2024, will have the world premiere of the Odia feature film LAHARI, which is written and directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya, a National Award winner, and produced by Jhilik Motion Pictures. The sole Odia film competing at this year’s festival, the movie will be shown in the Indian Languages Competition section. Adieu Godard, directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya, has previously taken home the Best Film prize at the 27th Kolkata International Film Festival.

With the tranquil setting of Odisha‘s ecotourism, Lahari is a moving and aesthetically stunning story of friendship, fatherhood, and maturing. The movie celebrates Odisha’s culture, natural beauty, and spirit of entrepreneurship by taking viewers on a rich and engrossing tour through a variety of attractive locales within the state. The narrative tracks the main characters as they deal with the difficulties of relationships, personal development, and living in a world that is changing quickly. The film is not just a gripping story but also a cinematic celebration of the area thanks to Bhattacharyya’s distinctive vision, which highlights the characters’ emotional depth while fusing in Odisha’s cultural diversity.

The cast of the film consists of Choudhury Jayaprakash Das, Choudhury Bikash Das, Dipanwit Dashmohapatra, Smruti Mahala (child artist), Susant Misra, Swastik Choudhury, Zeinab Doer, Jhilik Bhattacharjee, Babusaan, Hara Rath, Debasish Patra, and Prasanjeet Mohapatra, among others. 

The music for Lahari has been composed by talented music director Kisaloy Roy, with playback singing by Gaurav Anand and Navya Jaiti.

The film’s sound design enhances the audience’s emotional experience by properly balancing its emotive storyline.

“I am thrilled and thrilled about the premiere at such a prestigious festival like KIFF. This is my first time working with Jhilik, and I believe that the film industry needs strong female producers who are open to different ideas. Lahari’s production has been an unforgettable experience, and I am grateful to Jhilik and my entire cast and crew for their immense effort and commitment. In Odisha and beyond, I hope Lahari will win people over” said the director.

Three shows of the movie are planned for December 8, 9, and 10 at the upcoming 30^th Kolkata International Film Festival.

Priyanka Dutta