Actor eyes int’l forum for film

Guwahati: Assamese theatre personality and actor Baharul Islam will present his debut directorial venture, ‘Rodor Sithi’, at international film festivals, fearing a lackadaisical response from the Assamese audience back home.
Starring Papon and Zubeen Garg — two of the state’s most popular contemporary singers — the film is all set to release on November 7.
Garg is the music director of the film and Papon has lent his voice to the tracks.A website of the film was launched last week to attract the attention of youngsters.
Loosely based on a true story about an organ donor whose generous act changed the lives of many, Islam’s apprehension stems from uncertainty about how youngsters will react to a story so visceral.
Islam is also planning a roadshow with Garg prior to the release of his directorial venture.
“In the past weeks, many Assamese films have flopped. After observing the current trend, I am a bit apprehensive about the response. We are working on the film’s marketing,” said Islam.
“I am planning to enter my film in 40 international film festivals. Even if it clicks in some festival circuits, the returns for the film will be ensured. I am sending it to the Indian Panorama section as well,” added Islam.
He said, “I have noticed that we are becoming a pawn in a framework of give-and-take. It is only nature which is an exception to the rule. I have simplified the story a bit so that the audience can relate to it,” added Islam.