Bhubaneswar: Centered around an extraordinary story within an ordinary family, “AAFAA – Life After Life” hit screens across the state on April 3 and has already set tongues wagging and hearts aching across Odisha.
At its core, the film is a slice-of-life narrative that revolves around a close-knit family of a father, mother, grandfather, and daughter—portrayed in such a relatable way that viewers may feel it mirrors their own lives. It beautifully captures an unexpected twist of fate and the play of time, showing how a single decision can ultimately transform an ending into a new beginning.
Jagdish, a NALCO employee, has a small family comprising his father, wife Chitra and daughter Pari. There is happiness in the family. When everything seems to be smooth sailing, fate plays a cruel joke with them.
Pari, a bright student of Sainik School with dreams of serving the nation, suddenly falls ill and is diagnosed with a brain tumor. From here, the film takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster. Jagdish and Chitra leave no stone unturned to save their daughter, clinging to hope by a thread. Yet, despite their relentless efforts, they are forced to face the harsh reality that some battles just can’t be won.
The film doesn’t just tug at your heartstrings—it pulls them hard. Watching Pari’s suffering and her parents’ helplessness is enough to bring a lump to your throat. And just when you think it couldn’t get more heartbreaking, the narrative finds a silver lining. Pari’s final wish to serve the nation is fulfilled through organ donation, earning her a poignant farewell with national honors. It’s a moment that turns tragedy into quiet triumph.
Debutante Anmol Pati—the daughter of acclaimed director Ashok Pati—delivers a performance that is nothing short of remarkable.
The film’s premiere show was held at Cinepolis, Esplanade, Bhubaneswar. Among others, I was invited to the show. After watching the film, I can say, she carries the film on her young shoulders with ease, leaving an indelible mark. If this is her first outing, she’s certainly to shine in Ollywood-no two ways about it.
The film also features notable performances by Kuna Tripathy, Preetiraj Satpathy, Naina Dash Tiwari, Dharitri Khandual, Hara Rath, Siddharth Tiwari, and child artists Mivaan, Siddharth Tiwari, among others.
Actor and producer Preetiraj Satpathy has donned another cap in this film. With Pari, he has made his debut as a director, with co-direction by Rajesh Kumar Barik and Krishna. While Preetiraj Satpathy and Naina Dash Tiwari have produced the film, Kuna Tripathy has penned the dialogues.
The music, composed by Prem Anand with lyrics by Bapu Goswami and Divya Kumar Sahu, adds emotional depth to the narrative. The songs are voiced by Dipti Rekha Padhi, Ananya Sritam Nanda, and Shashank Shekhar, enhancing the film’s soulful appeal. Promotions for the film are being handled by Pranay Jethi.
To connect with audiences, the team has launched a unique campaign asking: “If you had one last wish to share with your family or loved ones today, what would it be?” Viewers can participate by posting a short video or written response on Instagram, tagging @aafaa_._ with the hashtags #AAFAA and #LifeAfterLife. Selected entries will get a chance to meet the AAFAA team and win two free movie tickets.
With striking cinematography by Biswajit Kuldi, the film promises to keep audiences captivated.
Verdict: A must-watch that will leave you misty-eyed and deep in thought.
