Padatik, a film honoring the life and legacy of renowned filmmaker Mrinal Sen, has been formally chosen for the 61st Asia Pacific Film Festival (APFF61). This was announced by Friends Communication. The Federation of Motion Picture Producers in Asia-Pacific (FPA) has been hosting this prestigious international film festival since 1954. It will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 29 to December 1, 2024.

From his early hardships as an idealistic filmmaker during India’s struggle for independence to his important contributions to the Indian New Wave cinema movement in 1950s Calcutta, where he worked with renowned filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Padatik documents Mrinal Sen’s inspirational journey. In addition to honoring Sen’s lasting influence on Indian cinema, this movie emphasizes how storytelling can change cultural narratives.

Produced by renowned filmmakers Firdausul Hasan and Prabal Halder, Padatik is an important turning point for Friends Communication and provides a singular chance to tell this amazing tale to a global audience. Additionally, the movie is nominated for several awards, including prominent ones like Best Picture and Best Director.

The significance of Mrinal Sen’s work and its ongoing impact on filmmakers worldwide are highlighted by this accolade.

Under the direction of seasoned Malaysian film producer Suhan Pansha, the Asia Pacific Film Festival (APFF), which is known for presenting the best of the region’s cinema, is expected to be a lively celebration of a variety of voices and tales.

Priyanka Dutta