Cinema and Identity: Odisha Manaska Explores Odia Representation on Screen in 10th Edition

Bhubaneswar: The 10th edition of Odisha Manaska, a monthly dialogue circle curated by All Things Odisha, unfolded on Sunday at the ExtraOdinari space in Saheed Nagar, Bhubaneswar. This month’s theme, “Who Are We on Screen? Shaping and Reflecting the Evolving Odia Identity Through Film,” struck a chord with cinephiles and cultural enthusiasts alike.

The session brought together veteran Odia film journalist, historian, and National Award-winning writer Surya Deo, and actor-producer and indie filmmaker Swastik Choudhury, known for his internationally acclaimed films. Both speakers engaged in an insightful conversation with a diverse group of around 20 participants passionate about cinema and its deeper cultural connotations.

The discussion revolved around how Odia cinema has portrayed, and often failed to portray, the evolving cultural identity of Odisha. Participants examined whether the industry has adequately reflected the state’s socio-cultural shifts, vast diversity, and nuanced traditions over the decades.

Surya Deo emphasized the need for Odia cinema to remain rooted in its culture, even as identity evolves. “The rise of remake culture in the Odia film industry has diluted authentic storytelling,” he noted, adding that a reluctance to experiment has prevented Odia cinema from capturing the changing societal landscape.

Echoing a forward-looking vision, Swastik Choudhury said, “Cinema is a layered art form, and understanding its context is vital. We must craft Odia stories with a global outlook while staying grounded in our culture. Resources are not our main constraint — mindset and vision are.”

The conversation also addressed structural challenges — from the lack of accessibility for film lovers to the absence of a robust ecosystem for both filmmaking and film appreciation in the state. Many participants stressed the need for more such forums to spark public awareness and intellectual engagement with cinema.

Odisha Manaska (translated as “Odisha on My Mind”) is a community-led initiative by All Things Odisha. It hosts monthly physical gatherings designed to cultivate collective wisdom from individuals across socio-economic, ideological, and cultural spectrums. The circle encourages open dialogue in a democratic space where all voices are heard and respected.

Since its inception, Odisha Manaska has delved into a range of thought-provoking themes — from Odia identity, food, and festivals, to migration, maritime history, rivers, dying traditions, and regional disparities — aiming to deepen public consciousness and foster a better Odisha.