Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) continued its celebration of cinematic diversity with an engaging media interaction featuring the cast and crew of Amar Aaj Marega (Hindi) and Swargarath (Assamese). Both films, celebrated for their unique narratives and thoughtful treatment of life and death, highlight the festival’s dedication to emerging filmmakers and regional cinema.
First-time director Rajat Laxman Kariya shared the journey of bringing Amar Aaj Marega to the big screen, expressing gratitude to producer Prakash Jha and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) for their support. “IFFI 2024 is an incredible platform for new voices in cinema,” Kariya said, reflecting on the film’s inclusion in the prestigious festival.
Despite its seemingly somber title, Amar Aaj Marega delivers an uplifting message: “Death is a celebration of life.” Kariya explained how the film’s philosophical approach emerged during the editing process, adding, “Death is not a taboo; it’s a fear people have. The film explores how to celebrate life in the face of mortality.”
Drawing inspiration from classics like Priyadarshan’s comedies, Kariya shared his admiration for films like Hera Pheri and Bhagam Bhaag. “These movies were role models for comedy, and their influence on my storytelling is evident. Even after 15 years, their legacy continues through memes and laughter.”
Director Rajesh Bhuyan discussed the challenges of crafting Swargarath, a comedy addressing the sensitive subject of death. “Comedy is the most difficult genre to master,” Bhuyan remarked, lauding the film’s success in striking a balance between humor and profound social commentary.
Set against the backdrop of India’s 2016 demonetization, Swargarath follows the journey of a mortuary van driver and an eclectic group of characters. Writer Santanu Rowmuria highlighted how the film uses black comedy to delve into life, death, and societal values. “Turning a potentially dark subject into something humorous yet meaningful was a challenge, but it paid off,” he said.
Producer Akshata Narain shared the difficulties of producing Swargarath during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The challenges were immense, but our team’s determination ensured the project’s completion,” she said. The film’s success, she added, reflects the strength of content-driven cinema and its ability to connect with audiences despite logistical hurdles.
Producer Sanjiv Narain emphasized the significance of the film’s national recognition. “For those of us from the Northeast, being featured at IFFI is a tremendous honor. Yesterday, I even received an offer to adapt the film into Hindi. This opportunity means the world to us.”
Both films exemplify IFFI’s commitment to showcasing diverse cinematic voices and promoting regional storytelling. As the cast and crew shared their experiences, the audience gained insights into the creative processes and challenges behind these thought-provoking projects.
With stories that blend humor, philosophy, and social relevance, Amar Aaj Marega and Swargarath underscore the power of cinema to address life’s most profound themes while entertaining and engaging viewers. IFFI 2024 continues to be a beacon for fresh talent and innovative storytelling.
