Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) celebrated the diversity of Indian cinema with the screening of three remarkable films in the Indian Panorama-Feature Films category: Kannada film Venkya, Bengali film Bhootpori, and Hindi film Article 370. These films captivated audiences with their profound narratives exploring themes of self-discovery, redemption, patriotism, and the complexities of life, love, and the afterlife.
‘Venkya’: A Journey from Darkness to Light
Director Sagar Puranik shared insights into the making of Venkya during a media interaction organized by the Press Information Bureau. He described the film as a deeply transformative journey for its protagonist, whose character evolves from darkness to light. Puranik highlighted the challenges of shooting in risky locations, often contending with floods, but acknowledged the invaluable support from local authorities. “The quest of Venkya guided the organic selection of diverse locations,” he noted, emphasizing how the film showcases India’s cultural richness and its power to transform even those with a troubled past.
Producer Pavan Wadeyar added that the film was shot across 12 states, reflecting India’s vibrant and colourful cultural heritage. The chosen locations, he explained, resonate with the essence of Venkya, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
‘Bhootpori’: An Authentic Indian Ghost Story
Bhootpori director Soukarya Ghosal redefined the horror genre with his film, which he described as the biography of a ghost deeply affected by human actions. “While many Indian horror films draw inspiration from Hollywood, I wanted to create a distinctly Indian ghost story,” Ghosal remarked.
Costume designer Pooja Chatterjee added that her designs were influenced by descriptions of attire in Bengali literature, lending authenticity and depth to the characters.
‘Article 370’: A Politically Charged Narrative
Aditya Suhas Jambhale, director of Article 370, discussed the film’s intense political thriller narrative, developed after extensive research. He noted that the film aims to engage audiences with India’s political system while inspiring the next generation. “The story doesn’t promote forced nationalism but portrays its characters with realism,” Jambhale explained.
Writer Monal Thakur offered insights into the research process, revealing that investigative journalists were consulted to ensure accuracy. Filming in Kashmir presented its own set of challenges, but the local police’s support helped overcome logistical difficulties. “The experience of shooting in Kashmir was magical,” Thakur said.
Celebrating India’s Cinematic Diversity
The three films reflect the diversity and creative potential of Indian cinema, as they tackle universal themes while rooted in regional authenticity. From the cultural exploration in Venkya to the innovative storytelling in Bhootpori and the thought-provoking narrative of Article 370, these cinematic gems reaffirmed IFFI’s commitment to showcasing compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.
The Indian Panorama category continues to serve as a platform for filmmakers to celebrate India’s rich cultural tapestry and offer stories that inspire, provoke, and entertain.
