Balasore, Oct.10: A short film, by a 31-year-old filmmaker from Mayurbhanj district, will be screened at an international film competition to be held in New Delhi next month.

The film, EK idiot, by Rudra Rajan Sejapada, a resident of Andhari village under Saraskona block of Mayurbhanj, has been short-listed for screening on November 12 at the event. EduDoc and Centre for Civil Society, the organisers of the competition, told Sejapada on Monday that his film figured among the top five entries to be screened at the event. The best three films would be awarded.

The film revolves around a child who is bullied by his teachers for doing silly things during studies. 'The teacher rebukes the Class V student, Bablu, about his handwriting. Disgusted with the attitude of the teacher, he expresses his feeling on the road by scribbling with a piece of chalk that 'I am a donkey'. The teacher comes across Bablu's handwriting and realises it was good and starts feeling guilty,' Sejapada said.

'At times, teachers and guides discourage students without understanding their psychology and hidden talents. The discouragement makes them obstinate and later they lose interest in learning. The documentary carries this message,' said the filmmaker.

Sejapada edited, wrote dialogues and was the man behind the camera in the movie. The film was produced at a cost of Rs 2,000 and was made in 2012. Sejapada earlier made a short-film titled Santhal's One Day Dealing on the culture and tradition of tribal people. Sejapada, a journalist by profession, has received appreciations for his creative writing as well.