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Category: Hindi

  • Motion Content Group, Film Critics Guild announce latest edition of Critics’ Choice Awards

    Motion Content Group, Film Critics Guild announce latest edition of Critics’ Choice Awards

    Mumbai: Motion Content Group of GroupM, in collaboration with the Film Critics Guild announced the launch of the fourth edition of Critics’ Choice Awards to honour the talent in short films, web series, and feature films.

    After three successful editions of the Critics’ Choice Awards, Film Critics Guild and Motion Content Group in collaboration with Vistas Media Capital gear up for the fourth edition of the awards. “We are delighted to present the fourth edition of Critics’ Choice Awards which has become a very important calendar event for us and the filmmakers,” stated Vistas Media Capital CEO Abhayanand Singh. “Covid has obviously caused a lot of disruption to the film industry but the quality of content that has come out this year only validates that the spirits are high and good quality content will continue to entertain the audience.”

    This year, Critics’ Choice Awards 2022 has received an overwhelming response from short filmmakers across the country to register a record number of entries of the short films produced in 2021. The Critics’ Choice Awards jury would adjudge and applaud the best in the business and encourage Indian content creators, said the statement.

    The 2020 short film winners were Adil Hussain (Best Actor, short film “Meal”) and Amruta Subhash (Best Actress, short film “The Booth”), Shazia Iqbal (Best Director for “Bebaak”) and best short film was “Bebaak.”

    “Despite its challenges, the last two years have witnessed game-changing developments in the content arena. Especially this year, creators have pushed the envelope and crafted content that is compelling enough to draw them to theatres or make them forget the looming threat of the dreaded virus,” said Film Critics Guild chairperson Anupama Chopra.

    “As the Critics’ Choice Awards enter their fourth year, they have become coveted and celebrated by creators and talent alike as a unique and credible platform. We are proud of our partnership with the Film Critics Guild and Vistas Media Capital and are committed to making this platform bigger and better,” commented GroupM India president of trading and partnerships Ashwin Padmanabhan.

  • What makes Marvel movies so good?

    What makes Marvel movies so good?

    Marvel has proven to be a leading cinematic universe, all because of its superheroes.

     Well, it could be a scientific fact that everyone’s eyes seem to be glued to the Marvel studios. The Marvel junkies can relate to the series emotionally, making them feel engaged with the superheroes.

     Scientific fact?

     Yes, with the use of an emotional recognition software (Affectiva), research has shown that Marvel participants have a high response to the humor and jokes in Marvel movies. Besides, they have a high emotional engagement with the superheroes. For instance, Marvel Avengers had 75% respondents who said they loved it.

    People want something to relate to. When one has an emotional connection, it brings up a tie that is hard to be broken.

     The superb hot streak in the year 2008 with Iron Man brought into existence another 21 films, and more are soon to be released.

     What is this all about Marvel movies’ perception?

      Audiences are not interested in the incredible effects of trailers. What they care about is the emotional engagement or the feel of humanity. And this is what makes Marvel movies popular.

     One way that brings about the difference in Marvel trailers is that unique script writing makes the stories fit into human roles.
     Let’s take a look at Black Panther (2018).

    When we talk of Marvel superheroes, what criteria are we using to gauge that they are the best characters? The answer lies in the measures used to have superhuman abilities and the skills to crime-fight compared to what any human can do, such as in Guardians of the Galaxy. 

    Another movie that hits at the top is Thor: Ragnarok(2017). Thor must evacuate the alien planet on time to ensure Asgard is saved from Hela and the approaching Ragnarok. Perhaps the film is one of the laughter-filled trailers with a competitive edge, Due to Cate Blanchett death goddess who brings around the character of superhuman colonialism.

    One final best in this list is the Marvel Avengers. The movie is all about making someone feel as if they have powers in their hands. Every avenger has a unique kit that symbolizes their battle’s heritage. Their motto is that every superhero yearns for that excellent gear to help take the bad guys to the ground. This is all that the movie is all about.

    Marvel movies ultimate conquest is good over evil, and this seems to describe all Marvel movies.

     Why do people prefer Marvel movies?

    Think for a moment. Why is it that almost everyone seems to be thrilled by Marvel movies? Would it be entertainment? 
    Definitely, this sounds like an awful idea.

     Entertainment won’t be there when one steps out of the movie hall, nor does it explain how the superhero gets the attention on the people’s minds.

     The Marvel movies keep their viewers in a gripped attention as they keep on releasing new films as follows. There’s the Spider-man, No Way Home set to be released on Dec 2021, Thor: Love and Thunder set to be released in 2022 around July. There is also the Doctor Strange (Multiverse of Madness) set on May 2022, and many more.

     Marvel movies keep on creating new records; one may wonder what brings about their unique purpose. Their unique purpose is all about superhorse persona.

    While most consider Marvel movies to have a significant impact on the young audience, all can enjoy the trailers.

    Without a doubt, Disney_Hotstar releases have a story to tell. Marvel is and will continue to pave their way unhindered.

    The key to Marvel movies’ popularity is that superheroes have a unique image. The one question would be, why does it seem that some superheroes have more attention than others? and people admire to be like them.

     In the real world, a superhero would be seen to sustain merits between good and evil, and this seems to be some retreat for the people. 

     For instance, Marvel Avengers world continues to expand the new operation or game modes that seem to fill out the fabric of the superhero world. This is why it ranked from least to most powerful.

     Marvel movies are best at action consistency; this avoids confusion to viewers. They are also unique due to their simplicity. Even if there is a crossover, one would still enjoy it due to the comedy and action balance.

    The Marvel Universe and the real world

     Marvel movies may be fantasy. But one core thing is that they help one reflect the trend in the community. They also inspire one to reflect on the problems such as preconception or diversity faced by many. For instance, most of the Spider-man films in Marvel movies are creative. They are also best at shaping the young ones’ mental development. This makes the young one learn of the world around them and assist in developing skills. One can play out a situation and have a glimpse of the outcomes.

     One great example would be Captain America. Here, all rules are followed, doing the right thing, or it could be in Iron Man, one does what they feel is right for them. 

    The Movies take into account different kinds of characters.

    One fact is that it’s not easy to reflect on real-world prejudice. Some are not even aware that such things exist, but the fictional superhero world helps to open such discussions. One best thing is that some superheroes get into fixes that demand sympathy, and seeing this makes one yearn to take action.

    Kids look up to superheroes as their role models, which makes them dare to express what’s in them. We also understand what emotions are, how to label them in us or others, and how to act. Superheroes have faced crisis, they have responded to them, and we can look at the aftermath consequences.

    Indeed, Marvel movies have a significant impact on the development of the viewers. It gives us the answer to the many questions of why Marvel movies are so good.

  • We want to make India a powerhouse of content creation: I&B minister Anurag Thakur

    We want to make India a powerhouse of content creation: I&B minister Anurag Thakur

    Mumbai: Terming India as the world’s largest filmmaker, union minister of information and broadcasting Anurag Thakur said a lot needs to be done to make India a powerhouse of content creation in the world.

    Addressing the closing ceremony of the 52nd edition of the International Film Festival of India on Sunday, the union minister said there was also a need to scale up regional festivals. “We want to make India the post-production hub of the world by leveraging immense tech talent of youth. We want to make India the destination for films and festivals, we want to make India the hub of world cinema, and the most favoured place for storytellers.”

    Thakur said the government is committed to strengthening the National Film Development Council (NFDC). “Through this, you will get the opportunity to make even such films which are doubtful of giving a financial return, we will work together to showcase India’s culture and tradition across the world.”

    The minister also invited the global community to come and shoot films in India. “Please come and shoot films in India. The Film Facilitation Office will facilitate you with all help you need, from one state to another.” Speaking about the upcoming film city in Uttar Pradesh, the minister said that the state is coming up with a 1000-acre film city. “They are just waiting for the right people to come and invest in.”

    Keeping up with the winds of change, the latest edition of IFFI also saw the historic participation of all major OTT platforms such as Netflix, and Amazon Prime through exclusive Masterclasses, content launches and previews, curated film package screenings, and various other on-ground and virtual events. The participation of OTT platforms is set to become a regular feature in future.

    “More than 50 films were screened simultaneously on OTT platforms. 10 Master classes and In-Conversation sessions were organised in collaboration with OTT platforms,” said Thakur. “IFFI has embraced new technologies, platform choices of audiences and has kept pace with changing times. We have also showcased the best films from BRICS nations and we hope that this partnership blossoms further.”

    The 52nd IFFI presented a diverse catalogue of more than 148 foreign films drawn from 73 countries, and witnessed 12 world premieres, seven international premieres, 24 Asia premiers and 74 India premieres. 75 Indian films were screened, 17 of them specially selected under India @75 Section. As many as 10,000 delegates from across the world, including filmmakers, students and cine enthusiasts participated in a hybrid format. There were 234 screenings in which nearly 450 hours of movies were screened. Total hours watched online comes to a whopping 30,000 plus hours.

    Hungarian filmmaker Istevan Szabo and Hollywood filmmaker Martin Scorsese received the coveted Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award. Noted lyricist Prasoon Joshi and actor Hema Malini were awarded with Indian Film Personality of the Year Award.

    “The next edition of IFFI will be held next year at the same time and place as that of this edition, i.e., during November 20 – 28, 2022 in Goa,” said the union minister.

  • Zee Cinema to air Taapsee Pannu-starrer ‘Rashmi Rocket’ on 27 Nov

    Zee Cinema to air Taapsee Pannu-starrer ‘Rashmi Rocket’ on 27 Nov

    Mumbai: Zee Cinema is set to telecast the world TV premiere of Taapsee Pannu-starrer “Rashmi Rocket” on 27 November at 8 p.m.

    The film tells the inspiring story of Rashmi Vira (Pannu) – a spirited tomboy from Kutch, with a carefree childhood and supportive parents who always encouraged her to push her limits and become a world athletic champion. However, her career comes to a dead end when she becomes a victim of gender bias faced by female athletes. Thereafter, begins her journey to overcome all barriers and fight for justice.

    Directed by Akash Khurana, the film also features Abhishek Banerjee, Supriya Pathak, Supriya Pilgaonkar and Priyanshu Painyuli in pivotal roles.

    “Playing the role of captain Gagan in Rashmi Rocket has been more than special to me. Growing up, I witnessed the journey of my dad who is a retired colonel from Assam regiment. It’s because of him that my fascination and inclination towards the armed forces only grew, while acting is something that is my passion,” said Priyanshu Painyuli on his character in the film. “My love for cinema and the deep respect for the army perfectly coalesced in this role and I am only grateful that it was offered to me. I remember sending pictures to my family in the army uniform and they all told me that I resembled my dad from his early days as a young captain.”

    “Whenever I pick a role, I place the script and the character at the primal importance. When I read about my character in the film, I was immediately intrigued as Eeshit is someone who fights for a cause – an athlete, someone who takes a stand and wants to bring about a change,” said Abhishek Banerjee. “To prepare for the role, I always thought of someone who fights for change and maybe that’s why I connected with the character. I think this came as a great opportunity to understand a human-like that and it inspired me in ways I didn’t imagine.”

  • Cinedigm acquires Indo-American rom-com, ‘7 Days’

    Cinedigm acquires Indo-American rom-com, ‘7 Days’

    Los Angeles: Cinedigm announced that it has acquired all North American rights to the romantic comedy 7 Days starring Karan Soni (Deadpool, Office Christmas Party) and Geraldine Viswanathan (Blockers, Bad Education). The film is Roshan Sethi’s feature directorial debut who, along with Soni, co-wrote it.

    It also features Gita Reddy (Orange Is The New Black), Zenobia Shroff (The Big Sick), Aparna Nancherla (The Great North), and Mark Duplass (The Morning Show) and is produced by the Duplass Brothers. The movie follows two, young Indian-Americans, Ravi (Soni) and Rita (Viswanathan), who are ideological opposites but are set up by their traditional Indian parents on a pre-arranged date. The story begins to unfold when a shelter-in-place mandate is issued as the COVID outbreak intensifies and Ravi is forced to spend the night at Rita’s.

    Sethi, whose previous projects fell into more of the drama genre, explained that “Karan, who was born and raised in India, introduced me to the comedy world. So many stories about the immigrant experience are dark and tortured but the truth is that they can be very funny. We think 7 Days is a love story you haven’t seen before rooted in the hilarity and warmth of Indian-American culture.”

    “It is a character-driven film where more of the goodness and positive aspects of what you need to face during times of uncertainty is explored. Roshan knows how to craft a good story and that was evident in its execution,” said Cinedigm chief content officer Yolanda Macias. “Karan Soni and Geraldine Viswanathan bring impressive comedic timing and genuine emotion to their roles. We are thrilled to share this festival favorite with audiences everywhere.”

    “Having worked with Karan when he was an actor on ‘Safety Not Guaranteed’ and later during his Directorial Debut in ‘Room 104’, I was thrilled when he and Roshan brought us this project,” said executive producer Duplass. “7 Days represents millions of stories, not only of where you were when this hell of a year happened, but who you were with when everything shifted. I think audiences will see themselves in these characters because they represent a real part of all of us, and hopefully, they are left with a feel-good high from this hilarious, unique, heartfelt story.”

    After the film’s World Premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, 7 Days went on to screen at festivals around the world including the Bentonville Film Festival (Best Narrative Feature), San Diego Asian Film Festival (Best Narrative Feature), Naples International Film Festival (Best First Feature), BFI London and the Nashville Film Festival. Sethi, Soni, and Viswanathan will next be honored in the New American Perspectives program at the Hawaii International Film Festival. This recognition celebrates immigrant contributions in cinema and the three filmmakers will also present a master class on their collaboration and their work in film and television during this time.

    Cinedigm is eyeing an early 2022 US release date for 7 Days in theatres and on streaming. Worldwide distribution rights are still being negotiated.

    Earlier this year, Cinedigm, the leading independent streaming entertainment company serving enthusiast fan bases, announced the formation of Cinedigm India after it finalised the acquisition of India-based, FoundationTV, a comprehensive video streaming platform provider. Cinedigm channels will launch in the region in early 2022 with plans to establish Cinedigm India as a key content distribution and licensing entity in India and all of Southeast Asia. This includes the expansion of Cinedigm’s current streaming channels and services, as well as the development of future, regionally focused services across AVOD/SVOD and free-ad, supported television video streaming platforms.

  • BookMyShow traffic surges to 76% of pre-covid levels with #CinemaIsBack campaign

    BookMyShow traffic surges to 76% of pre-covid levels with #CinemaIsBack campaign

    Mumbai: Entertainment ticket booking portal BookMyShow has witnessed a hockey stick growth in user engagement, traffic and transactions almost nearing pre-covid levels on the platform within just the first ten days of cinemas opening up with a stellar film lineup including Rohit Shetty-helmed “Sooryavanshi,” superstar Rajnikanth’s “Annaatthe,” Marvel’s “Eternals” and Malayali superstar Dulquer Salmaan’s “Kurup.”

    Within the first ten days of films releasing pan-India, daily consumer traffic surged to reach 76 per cent of pre-covid levels on an average while user engagement has been steadily rising the charts already surpassing 66 per cent of pre-covid levels on the ticket booking portal. Consumers from Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Ahmedabad have been quickest to return back to the films contributing 48 per cent of the traffic recovery, said BookMyShow in a statement.

    The boost to consumer sentiment and its recovery has been driven by BookMyShow’s campaign #CinemaIsBack – a six-month campaign to encourage audiences to relive the magic of the big screen experience all over again, with all safety measures intact. Conceptualised and executed by BookMyShow’s in-house team, the campaign aims to target entertainment-lovers across age groups, geographic restrictions notwithstanding, and social setups through various social media platforms.

    “The quirky and nostalgic campaign is a visual, socially engaging and meme-based series executed on digital and social media and will be amplified across BookMyShow’s loyal customer base and potential new audiences both on the platform’s mobile app and website through mailers, push notifications along with social media platforms as also digital media,” said the statement.

    Additionally, as a part of the larger #CinemaIsBack campaign, BookMyShow will onboard up to 300 brand advocates to highlight the safety measures being undertaken at the cinemas and the experience of going back to theatres.

    “With cinemas opening in India coupled with an exciting line up of big-budget movies that have started to hit the screens from Diwali and for the next six months, we are excited to deliver and communicate an authentic, nostalgic and irreplaceable experience through the #CinemaIsBack campaign,” stated BookMyShow head of marketing Vamsi Murthy. “The success of the campaign within the first 10 days itself has been phenomenal, setting the wheels of the business in motion with a tremendous surge in traffic, user engagement, and ticket sales.”

    “Over the next few months, we look forward to welcoming film enthusiasts and cinephiles #BackToTheatres for a safe entertainment experience through this festive season and beyond. We are confident that the stage has been set, for a long-awaited revival of the cinema business in India with all the standard safety protocols in place,” he further said.

    The surge in traffic has also provided a fillip to the business with transactions for “Sooryavanshi,” “Annaatthe,” “Eternals,” and “Kurup” skyrocketing towards a complete recovery. The much-awaited “Sooryavanshi” has been making all the right moves as it crossed 2.6 million tickets sold within the first week while “Annaatthe” (Tamil) crossed 1.3 million tickets sold on BookMyShow becoming the first film to hit the million mark on the platform after the second unlock in 2021. Dulquer Salmaan’s “Kurup” clocked a stellar 800,000 plus tickets sold within the first weekend itself.

    BookMyShow contributed over 40 per cent of Sooryavanshi’s box office collections in India for the opening weekend with the film hitting a peak of 21 tickets sold per second on 6 November becoming the highest ever peak for a Hindi film on the platform. BookMyShow also clocked a stellar 52 per cent contribution for Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Eternals’ box office collections in India with the film crossing 700,000 tickets sold across languages and versions in 3D, IMAX and 4DX across cities in India on BookMyShow, it said in a statement.

  • BAFTA reveals names of latest industry supporters for BAFTA Breakthrough in India

    BAFTA reveals names of latest industry supporters for BAFTA Breakthrough in India

    Mumbai: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) on Tuesday announced award-winning film producer and BAFTA nominee Guneet Monga, acclaimed CEO and gaming entrepreneur Vishal Gondal and award-winning and celebrated actor Ratna Pathak Shah as industry supporters for the BAFTA Breakthrough programme, supported by Netflix. As credible experts, Monga, Gondal, and Shah will offer their professional expertise to participants on the programme across film, games, and television.

    As industry supporters representing their respective crafts, they will help BAFTA navigate India’s diverse and creative talent pool as well as educate audiences about BAFTA’s charitable remit; increasing global opportunities for people to pursue careers in the arts. BAFTA’s Breakthrough initiative in India is authentically amplified by Monga, Gondal and Shah, inviting more talent to apply.

    BAFTA Breakthrough aims to celebrate Indian talent by offering a bespoke programme of support – helping participants develop knowledge about the industry, develop their craft, address barriers to progression, and network globally with people who can influence their careers.

    “India has been one of the world’s fascinating centres of storytelling, and the heritage of Indian cinema is unparalleled. As the rising talent and fresh voices long to tell their untold stories, the BAFTA Breakthrough programme aims to offer tremendous support and a global stage to this raw talent,” stated film producer and Sikhya Entertainment founder and CEO Guneet Monga. “It is an honour to be working with this ground-breaking initiative, and I look forward to worthwhile talent from the Indian film community receiving the right honing from an academy of this stature.”  

    “BAFTA Breakthrough is one of the unique worldwide art initiatives to work across films, television and games. It is truly exciting to be associated with a programme that seeks to bring together and support the raw Indian talent working in the games industry,” said GOQii founder and CEO Vishal Gondal. “The programme offers a prolific experience to the ‘breakthroughs’ that can enhance their career trajectory through a network and development approach. By introducing them to industry experts and offering them the opportunity to upskill themselves, the initiative gives them recognition in their respective industries, worldwide.”

    “BAFTA Breakthrough India is a unique, ‘breakthrough’ opportunity for practitioners of the screen arts to be supported by the world-renowned organisation,” said acclaimed actor Ratna Pathak Shah. “I am elated to be working with a programme that will help amplify our country’s brilliant new voices and emerging talent across genres in television, and offer them learning, networking and growth opportunities on a global level.”

  • Yash Raj Films to enter streaming biz with YRF Entertainment: Reports

    Yash Raj Films to enter streaming biz with YRF Entertainment: Reports

    Mumbai: Film studio Yash Raj Films (YRF) is planning to enter the OTT space with the launch of its own streaming platform called YRF Entertainment, according to a report by PTI. The service will be helmed by YRF chairman and managing director Aditya Chopra and the firm has earmarked Rs 500 crore as an investment for the business venture.

    The OTT service will host a library of more than 78 films produced by YRF including hits like “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,” “Ek Tha Tiger,” “Chak De India,” “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi,” “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehena,” “Fanaa,” and many more. Chopra has also been developing original content for the platform over the last two years.

    In October, it was revealed that the studio had signed a deal with Amazon Prime Video for the digital release of four titles including “Bunty Aur Babli 2,” “Prithviraj,” “Shamshera,” and “Jayeshbhai Jordaar.” Reports indicate that the plans to launch its own streaming service will not affect licensing deals with other OTT players.

    YRF Entertainment will compete with existing OTT players including Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Zee5, SonyLIV, and Voot. According to Ormax Media, an estimated 110 million are accessing paid content online. YRF Entertainment will join the burgeoning Indian OTT ecosystem which already has 40+ players.

  • UFO Moviez posts Rs 265 mn consolidated revenue for Q2FY22

    UFO Moviez posts Rs 265 mn consolidated revenue for Q2FY22

    Mumbai: In-cinema advertising platform UFO Moviez on Thursday announced its financial results for the quarter and half year ended on 30 September.

    Consolidated revenue stood for at Rs 265 million (Q2FY21 – Rs 128 million), and EBITDA at minus (-) Rs 152 million (Q2FY21 – minus (-) Rs 218 million).

    Consolidated revenue for H1FY22 was Rs 546 million (H1FY21 – Rs 306 million) and EBITDA stood at minus (-) Rs 332 million (H1FY21 – minus (-) Rs 450 million).

    In the quarter under review, theatres reopened from July in a staggered manner, except for Maharashtra, which resulted in Hindi films delaying their release dates. However, in the South and other regional markets, films were released despite restrictions on seating capacity. This led to a gradual revival in the company’s revenue and a reduction in cash losses.

    Maharashtra and Kerala allowed the reopening of theatres beginning on  22 October and 25 October, respectively. Karnataka, Telangana, Rajasthan, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh are operating at 100 per cent occupancy, while most other states are permitted to operate at 50-60 per cent.

    “During the quarter, there were no Hindi movie releases as theatres in major markets like Maharashtra were not permitted to reopen. However, regional movies performed well at the box office,” said UFO Moviez joint managing director Kapil Agarwal. 

    “With the opening of Cinemas in Maharashtra and Kerala, Hindi and Non-Hindi markets are now fully operational. Recently, Sooryavanshi was released on more than 1600 UFO screens and the much-awaited Rajnikanth movie, Annaatthe, distributed by UFO in the Hindi circuit, was released in more than 700 UFO screens in all languages. Despite the occupancy restrictions, both the movies had a blockbuster opening weekend, collecting 100 plus crores each worldwide. This reaffirms the importance of cinemas. Also, the movie pipeline for the next six to eight months is extremely strong. We expect the film exhibition industry to recover at a rapid pace and are confident that UFO’s business and financial performance will be restored very soon,” he added.

    Further, the board of directors, in its meeting held on 3 November, approved the preferential allotment of 93,99,933 equity shares aggregating to Rs 96.82 crore to Nepean Focused Investment Fund, a scheme of investment of Nepean Investment Trust II, a category II alternative investment fund registered with Securities and Exchange Board of India at a price of Rs 103.01 per equity share, as per applicable rules and regulations. This preferential issue is subject to necessary approvals.

  • Warner Music Group scores with ‘Avijatrik – The Wanderlust Of Apu’

    Warner Music Group scores with ‘Avijatrik – The Wanderlust Of Apu’

    Mumbai: Warner Music Group India has made its first Bengali acquisition by acquiring worldwide sales and distribution rights of the much-awaited film, “Avijatrik – The Wanderlust Of Apu.” The film is produced by Gaurang Films & Bhandarkar Entertainment and co-presented by NCKS Explorations.

    “Avijatrik” is a unique film with a rich legacy & soulful music, with the enduring and endearing character of ‘Apu’ is all set to return after 60 years to the big screens on 3 December. It is a sequel to the classic “Apu Trilogy,” directed by Satyajit Ray & BG score by Pt Ravi Shankar.

    The plot takes off from where “The Apu Trilogy” had ended in 1959 with “Apur Sansar.” The story revolves around a sublime bond between a father (Apu) and his six-year-old son (Kajol). The film has explored a beautiful tapestry of pure interpersonal relationships to recreate the magic of Apu– sharing adventures with his beloved son, Kajol and is directed by Subhrajit Mitra. “Avijatrik” has been shot in B&W with an ensemble of experienced cast and crew at 68 locations to retain the rich aesthetic flavour that compliments its backdrop of 1940’s India. It stars Arjun Chakrabarty (as Apu), Ditipriya Roy, Arpita Chatterjee, and Sabyasachi Chakrabarty in key roles.

    The music of this film is by the internationally acclaimed exponent of the Indian classical genre Pt Bickram Ghosh and the title track is a variation by Anoushka Shankar, of her father Pt Ravi Shankar’s iconic “Pather Panchali” theme. “I am happy to be a part of Avijatrik as a small tribute to my father,” commented Anoushka.

    The film has traveled to 32 film festivals worldwide, garnering multiple accolades. Pt Bickram Ghosh has already received two awards for Best Music for his beautiful compositions & BG score at the Montreal Independent Film Festival, Canada, and Caleidoscope Indian Film Festival of Boston USA. “The music of Avijatrik is very special for me, as is the validation of it by Chinamma (Smt Sukaya Shankar Ji). The plan was to bring back traditional instruments, the soundscape of the ’40s, the best of the raga culture, and folk music. I am honoured that I got this project and feel grateful for the awards,” said Pt Bickram Ghosh.

    The trailer of Avijatrik is also creating waves and has already had nearly 800,000 views so far.

    Speaking about this alliance with WMI, producer Gaurang Jalan stated, “Team Avijatrik is delighted with this association and hopes that music of this film will travel far and wide with their global experience& leadership.”

    Co-presenter Madhur Bhandarkar added, “We are delighted with the association with WMI &there would be no better reward than the music of this film reigniting the love for Indian classical music, globally!”