Filmmaker opens window to unseen side of Assamese society

There are many stories about the Assamese society that need to be reach out to a wider audience, and filmmaker Jahnu Barua, through his latest venture 'Bhoga Khiriki', has made an attempt to open a window to this "inconspicuous side" of his homeland.

'Bhoga Khiriki' or 'Broken window', which had its world premiere at the inaugural session of the second Guwahati International Film Festival (GIFF), tells the tale of an educated young woman, whose "placid life turns difficult" after her childhood sweetheart turns a militant.

"The name 'Bhoga Khiriki' is a metaphor symbolising the Assamese society. It is through this window that I wish to paint a picture of the world around us," Barua told PTI.

The film, produced by Priyanka Chopra's Purple Pebbles Picture, in association with two other production houses, is set in rural Assam.

There are stories lurking in different corners of Assam, the world needs to hear and learn about them, he said.

"Films reflect the ethos and traditions of a society and we should never be ashamed of it. I have always wanted to tell the story of my land. I roam the world carrying the smell and sound of my land and I feel proud to represent it through my films," the Padma Bhushan awardee said.

Barua has also weaved instances he had faced and experience gathered during his lifetime in the film.

"The protagonist Togor faces many upheavals in her life after she marries childhood friend Koncheng. The film highlights her strained relationship with her father, counterbalanced by the unconditional love and support of her mother," he explained.

Many scenes reflect the traditions and practices, not commonly seen these days, such as Togor's grandfather forcing her father to take an oath that he would never beat his child, the filmmaker said.

"I have incorporated these scenes to remind the society of our strong traditions, which globalisation may have forced us to forget. As a filmmaker, it is important to respond to social changes and situations, besides reflecting on the past," the director added.

'Bhoga Khiriki', starring Assamese actor Zerifa Wahid, actor-musician Joy Kashyap and national-award winning actor Seema Biswas in lead roles, is yet to be released in theatres.