Jamshedpur, Oct. 5: Having directed films in Santhali, Dashrath Hansdah is now working on the revival of the language.

Hansdah feels the revival of Santhali will help one connect better with the natives of the state. And he would work towards his goal through a popular form of art — the jatra.

“I would take a conscious break from making films and would now indulge in acting and directing popular plays,” said Hansdah, who has to his credit the first full length (35mm) feature film made in Santhali.

Son of jatra performers Manmohan and Rupi Hansdah, Dashrath grew up watching his parents perform on invitational events. He has also received a three year-long training under Mumbai-based director Anup Sinha.

“The festive season would bring many invitations for my parents and they would travel to nearby villages to perform,” recalled Hansdah, adding that the art enthusiasts were never paid for their performances. “It was their passion,” he added.

A resident of Sundernagar, Dashrath is excited to perform in the forthcoming festive season. He also plans to conduct workshops for villagers of Roda, near Rajnagar, and Hesal, both in the West Singhbhum district.

“It would be a good exposure for them,” said Dashrath, who is currently awaiting his fourth release — Ynapam Ache Lang Bang — a comedy.

His other films as director are Sagun Ena Sohag Dular and Sita Nala Re Sagun Supari, which were released in the year 2004 and 2006 respectively.

He made his debut with Chandolikhon, which saw a 2000 release. It is credited as t the first movie in the Santhali language.

Besides his tryst behind the camera, he has also has also faced the camera in two ventures, namely Ansh Tanhe Amre and Maya Jhali.

Heading the production house Chunu Films, five out of a total of 10 feature films made in Santhali are credited to him. His company also launched the first traditional song album Tata Morabadi in the city today.

“We must have a film corporation sponsored by the Jharkhand government, only then will it give the much-needed boost to budding film makers,” rued Dashrath.

He has also worked with Doordarshan on short films based on social issues.

“I have worked on Hindi documentaries that focus on adult literacy and similar social subjects,” added the film director.