PANAJI: The 55th International Film Festival of India showcased three exceptional films in the Indian Panorama – Feature Films category: Kannada’s Venkya, Bengali’s Bhootpori, and Hindi’s Article 370. Each film explores profound themes, including self-discovery, redemption, patriotism, sacrifice, and the afterlife.
Venkya, directed by Sagar Puranik, follows a struggling goon’s transformative journey across India in search of his estranged brother. Filmed across 12 states, the movie highlights the country’s vibrant cultural diversity. Puranik explained how the protagonist’s journey from darkness to light shaped the film’s organic location choices, despite challenges such as floods and risky terrains. Producer Pavan Wadeyar emphasized the importance of showcasing India’s heritage in line with the story’s essence.
Bhootpori, directed by Soukarya Ghosal, reimagines the horror genre by narrating the story of a ghost deeply affected by human actions and the mysteries of the afterlife. Ghosal aimed to craft an authentic Indian ghost story, moving away from Hollywood influences. Costume designer Pooja Chatterjee drew inspiration from Bengali literature to bring the characters to life with authenticity and emotional depth.
Article 370, directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, is a political thriller set against the backdrop of Kashmir’s unrest and the abrogation of Article 370. Jambhale explained how the film balances realism with an engaging narrative, avoiding forced nationalism. Writer Monal Thakur detailed the research-intensive process involving investigative journalists and the challenges of filming in Kashmir, noting the invaluable support from local authorities.
