Bhubaneswar: As this reviewer was watching Odia movie ‘Lahari’ (Wave), he felt as if ripples of emotions kept splashing on him all throughout the movie.
If the audiences’ reactions are anything to go by, he was not alone in riding this emotional tide.
This reviewer had the opportunity to watch the movie on its glittering premiere hosted at Cinepolis, Esplanade One, in Bhubaneswar on Friday where stalwarts from Odia film Industry turned up in full strength.
After earning accolades and rave reviews at the Kolkata International Film Festival and the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, ‘Lahari’ has finally made its grand debut on the silver screen, simultaneously releasing in 31 theatres across Odisha.
The movie, produced by actress-turned-producer Jhilik Bhattacharjee under the banner of Jhillik Motion Pictures and directed by National Award-winning director Amartya Bhattacharyya, beautifully knits together the themes of cultural heritage, tourism, father-son bonding, and the essence of staying connected with one’s roots.
It’s the kind of storytelling that keeps you glued to your seat without letting you doze off.
The narrative is so vivid that you, while watching the movie, feel transported to a tribal village where characters like Dinu, Naba, Bhuta, Deepak, Golchu Sir etc. come alive right in front of you.
The film’s plot revolves around Bhuta, a fisherman who sets up an eco-resort in his village. By doing so, he not only carves out his livelihood but also creates opportunities for his fellow villagers.
Running parallel is Dinu’s family saga, which adds spice and depth, making the viewing even more gripping.
As to this reviewer, the underlying message the movie carries is if someone harnesses the untapped potential of his village-be it art, craft, folk dance or tourism-he can not only run his family but also create job opportunities for others.
The star-studded premier evening witnessed the presence of the film’s cast, crew, and several eminent personalities from the Odia film fraternity. Veteran politician Prafulla Chandra Ghadei, who graced the occasion as chief guest, cut the ceremonial cake and wished the team all success.
Adding to the excitement, a 50% discount on tickets on Day One was offered by BookMyShow, while the first-day-first-show went houseful, setting the tone for the film’s run.
The ensemble cast includes Choudhury Jayaprakash Das, Choudhury Bikash Das, Smruti Mohla, Dipanwita Das Mahapatra, Sushant Mishra, Hara Rath, Prasenjit, Swastik Chaudhury, and Zeinab Doyyer, with popular star Debashish Patra in a special appearance and superstar Babushan Mohanty in a pivotal role.
While music director Kishalay Roy has struck the right chord with Gaurav Anand and Navya Jaiti lending their voices, the song ‘Jhiara Skru Ta Dhila’ is currently trending.
Adip Singh Manik’s sound design has added further depth, director Amartya Bhattacharyya has also shouldered multiple responsibilities — story, lyrics, cinematography, and editing.
All in all, ‘Lahari’ is being hailed as a wholesome package — artistic yet commercial, thought-provoking yet entertaining.
Kalasanskruti places it in its ‘Best’ category.
