Odisha’s Cinematic Talent Shines at NFDC’s Film Bazaar

Bhubaneswar: The National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) has recently announced the selection of 20 feature film projects from 11 countries for the 17th edition of the Film Bazaar. Among the notable selections are the films ‘Baghuni (Dance like a Tiger)’, ‘Habaspuri Weaving (The Second and Last Death)’ and ‘Finding Lanka’.

‘Baghuni (Dance like a Tiger)’, directed by the renowned filmmaker, producer, and promoter Jitendra Mishra, is set to be a multinational co-production, featuring a diverse team of professionals from Odisha and various international collaborators. London-based, Odisha-born entrepreneur Partha Sarathi Panda, under his entity Glocal Films UK Limited, is co-producing the film with Jitendra Mishra’s Cinema4good Pvt. Ltd.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Jitendra Mishra shared, “With ‘Baghuni (Dance like a Tiger)’, we aim to not only bring local stories to the global stage but also promote and showcase the rich art, culture, tradition, and heritage values of our incredible state of Odisha.”

The film, set to be shot entirely in various locations across Odisha next year, will involve cast, crew, and technicians from the state, along with several international professionals.

Jitendra, known for his significant contributions to the production, distribution, and promotion of over 50 national and international films across various categories, is enthusiastic about his directorial debut. Mishra expressed, “Directing ‘Baghuni (Dance like a Tiger)’ is a deeply fulfilling journey for me. I am eager to bring forth the rich tapestry of Odisha’s heritage and stories onto the global stage through this film.”

‘Habaspuri Weaving (The Second and Last Death)’, on the other hand, is a project helmed by director Mayur Mahapatra and produced by Biswanath Rath. The feature documentary aims to continue the success of the acclaimed ‘Kotpad Weaving’ handloom documentary, taking the exploration of traditional weaving practices to a larger scale.

‘Finding Lanka’, is a film to be made renowned Odia director Nila Madhab Panda with Vimukthi Jayasundara.