In another achievement for Odia cinema, the feature film *LAHARI* has been officially selected for the 20th edition of the Tasveer Film Festival—the world’s only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival, also known as the Seattle South Asian Film Festival.
Set to screen on October 8th in Seattle, USA, this milestone marks a new chapter for the film, which is already captivating audiences back home in Odisha.
Released across theatres in Odisha on September 12th, *LAHARI* has been met with resounding applause from film enthusiasts, earning rave reviews and continuing its successful run. The film’s journey began with its world premiere at the prestigious Kolkata International Film Festival, followed by screenings at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and the Rhode Island International Film Festival. Adding to its accolades, *LAHARI* is slated for a special showing at the Mumbai International Film Festival on September 25th at the National Film Archive of India.
Filmmaker Amartya Bhattacharyya, the creative force behind the project, expressed his excitement: “My films have been selected at over 200 international festivals worldwide, including some of the world’s best, but this is the first time a film of mine got selected at an Oscar-qualifying festival. I am thrilled, and this festival in Seattle was on my wish list for many years. Finally, with *LAHARI*, we could crack it. The film is still running in theatres, and I urge all film lovers in Odisha to watch this internationally celebrated Odia film. Not every day does one get a chance to watch an internationally acclaimed Odia film in the theatres. When such an opportunity comes, we should grab it with both hands.”
Produced by Odisha’s beloved actress Jhilik Bhattacharjee under her banner Jhilik Motion Pictures, *LAHARI* boasts a stellar cast including Choudhury Jayaprakash Das, Choudhury Bikash Das, Dipanwit Dashmohapatra, Susant Misra, and Swastik Choudhury in lead roles. The film is further elevated by cameo appearances from fan favourites like Babushaan Mohanty, Devasis Patra, Hara Ratha, and Jhilik herself. Complementing the narrative is a soulful soundtrack composed by Kisaloy Roy, with three captivating songs voiced by Gaurav Anand, Navya Jaiti, and Kisaloy.
What sets *LAHARI* apart is its unique theme centred on organic ecotourism and rural entrepreneurship, brought to life by a diverse ensemble cast hailing from 15 countries—an unprecedented feat for an Odia production. This global flair underscores the film’s universal appeal, blending cultural roots with international perspectives.
As *LAHARI* continues to garner international recognition, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of regional Indian cinema.
For those eager to dive in, check out the trailer here:
Don’t miss this wave of cinematic excellence—catch it in theatres while you can!
