Bring on Odisha’s charm: Filmmaker Nila Madhab Panda

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 17: Filmmaker Nila Madhab Panda is all set to showcase Odisha in mainstream cinema.

Often blamed for not representing Odisha in his films, the filmmaker, with his upcoming project, plans to get rid of this “albatross around the neck”.

“There are few artistes, who do not like being associated with Odisha. Unlike them, I am a proud Odia, but I could not have straight away represented Odisha in my films. It needs time. As far as showing Odisha is concerned, one can expect a lot of surprises from me in the coming time,” said Panda justifying his stance. Incidentally, more than half of his crew is originally from Odisha in his next release Love is Not Mathematics featuring Odia actress Anu Choudhury. But, his upcoming project titled Uncha Gaon Neecha Gaon is the first time Panda will bring Odisha into his film.

The shooting will start towards September end and it is touted to be of black-humour genre. The film is based on issues of water depletion and sanitation.

The look, feel and even the music and choreography promise to carry heavy folk elements from Odisha — from the folk music, colours, costumes and characters.

Panda has always been known for highlighting social issues. While his debut film I am Kalam that was felicitated at various film festivals across the globe spoke about child labour and illiteracy, his second Jalpari: The Desert Mermaid drew attention towards female feticide and socio-economic disparity.

Revealing the synopsis of his new project, he said: “This is a story of a small, fictitious region in contemporary rural India, but the premise is such that it is global in its reach and context,” he said.

“There are two neighbouring villages, which have been rivals for generations. It will be very satirical in its treatment. This is the first time I am doing such a film, and naturally, it poses some challenge to me. My inspiration of satire is Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro that I grew up watching and I must have seen it over hundred times,” said Panda.

The genre may be new to the director, but the story is familiar. Hailing from a village in Sonepur district, Panda said the plot was very close to his heart and that’s why he had written the script. He has roped in a stellar ensemble cast for the venture. Actor Kunal Kapoor will be paired opposite the talented Radhika Apte with seasoned actors Anupam Kher and Gulshan Grover playing the supporting cast.