Short Films
Byaase Sunucha: The Problem With The Odia Language
Byaase Sunucha attempts to bring to the debate table Fakir Mohan Senapati himself to comment on the current condition of the language.
Languages are man-made. If a certain group of people have an idea about certain sounds and associate it with some meaning, a language is invented. The invention of a language may be due to practical reasons for communication, but once it comes in contact with people and culture, it transcends beyond just communication. As humans, we have a habit of giving meaning to everything around us, and hence language is no different. But what happens when a culture begins to forget the value of its language? That’s exactly what the short film Byaase Sunucha tries to capture.
Byaase Sunucha: A Closer Look
Written and directed by Sidharth Goutam, the setting of the film Byaase Sunucha is pretty simple. In fact, the entire film starts and ends on the pavement next to a painting of the pioneer of Odia literature Byaasakabi Fakir Mohan Senapati. In the film Byaase Sunucha, an anonymous artist played by well-known Odia actor Dipanwit Dashmohapatra creates the picture of Fakir Mohan Senapati on a wall next to the pavement and begins his lament about the loss of identity of Odia language.
Starting off, Byaase Sunucha may seem like a regular film where an artist is lamenting the death of a language and culture. But it’s only when you pay close attention to the words and the argument that you realise that this lament goes beyond an artist’s aspiration to be recognised. It captures the anxiety that any modern Odia person may grapple with over the loss of their language and cultural identity. It’s the anxiety that every Odia faces about their culture, especially when they are exposed to another culture and forced to assimilate into the other culture to blend in. The film delves much deeper than the worries of a hungry artist.
What stands out the most about the film is the way the dialogues are delivered with such emphasis by Dipanwit Dashmohapatra that they are bound to ring in your ears hours after the film has ended. Also, the way the actor makes use of the location and the movements of passersby adds to the gravity of the situation. It highlights the director’s and actor’s brilliance in managing to make an unscripted moment look like a scripted one. The climax of the film is bound to hit home.
Afterword
Dealing with the anxiety over losing their Odia culture and language, Byaase Sunucha brings the pioneer of the Odia language to the debate table to defend his own language. But alas! Having left the language at the hands of his Odia descendants, the pedestal that Fakir Mohan Senapati had once created for his language, Odia is no longer in the same shiny, prestigious condition. The very fact that, as an Odia, I have to write about my beautiful language in English is a testament to the condition of the pedestal today that Fakir Mohan Senapati once created for his language. It’s a must-watch if you wish to learn about the rich history and current condition of the Odia language, which is deeply rooted in the Odia culture.
Short Films
All That You Would Like To Know About The Movie ‘Tower’
Tower film shows how mobile progress silences birds, urging balance with nature before connection costs us everything.
‘Tower’ is a spectacular movie written and directed by Sanket Angane presented by Kutuhala Films, produced by Pravin Gangwani. The title is apt as it shows the Tower is what causes the bitter-sweet change in nature. A mobile phone and a tower in the place show no issue of range or connection but at the cost of innocent bird’s lives. On one hand people want the pleasures of peeping through the internet into the wide world. Yet on the other hand there is that pricking guilt that we are destroying nature- collectively, silently and most certainly.
The story is about a young cattle herder, Phalya, who wanted to make a difference. In the past he enjoyed watching flocks of birds flying overhead and now they are all gone. He was heartbroken by this changed phenomenon. When he came to know the exact reason, he tried to make a change. The mention about birds shows the difference between past and present of how change is inevitable. We must move with the times, if not we could be lagging behind. This film gives a rather powerful message of not relying too much on mobiles and towers. The message is fitting for the young generation to get an education, advance and progress in life but don’t neglect nature. It’s a great loss to humans and the Earth as well.
The Same Tower That Connects Us, Divides Us from Nature
The short film has some captivating themes. The clash between human progress and the silent suffering of the natural world is evident. A young herder’s heartbreak at seeing the disappearance of birds he once cherished. The tower is symbolic as both a beacon of connectivity and a monument to ecological loss. How relationships evolve from mobile phones back to handwritten letters, symbolizing a return to authenticity as love through real communication, emotions and meaning. The film calls for viewers to reflect on their own role in preserving nature. The protagonist’s journey from despair to determination, urges change in his community.
Tower: A Film That Rings Alarms Beyond Calls
Though Phalya’s love story gained momentum only as he got a mobile, he chose to revert to writing letters and urged others to do the same only to save the environment. He considers that people lived much more wholesome lives, without the existence of the mobile. Phalya was doing all that he could to make others realize that the towers were really threatening to the lives of beautiful birds. It very rightly brings out the fact that mobiles don’t always serve a purpose as a helpful person would. The use of mobiles has a lot of shortcomings, which cannot be ignored.
The joy he gets from seeing the birds draws his attention to the root cause of why he cannot see the birds fly in the village anymore. He becomes sure that in the village birds don’t fly about anymore. They discuss the boons and banes of mobile phones. In the discussion, he realizes that the towers of the mobile have ill effects on birds. For the generation to enjoy mobiles, bird’s lives are at stake. The epiphany for him to realize that when a phone is switched off, people still have to resolve to earlier methods of communication, that didn’t harm the environment.
A Love Story Written in Letters, Not Signals
His gloomy mood thereafter, puts views into realization. He couldn’t imagine how people could use a mobile when its causing harm to innocent, beautiful birds. He is torn apart between the beautiful birds singing and the sound of the mobiles ringing. His friend comes and confronts him about wanting to tear down the tower. The viewers are also in the thought- provoking journey considering the truth of the matter. Phalya alone cannot make the difference. Through a letter expresses his heart’s desire to stop using the mobiles. The village settings give life to the well – known fact that nature has its deep connections to humans. We are all a part of this whole called nature.
Tower is not just a film—it’s a mirror held up to our times. Sanket Angane’s brilliant vision captures the bittersweet irony of modern life: the joy of instant connection weighed against the silent disappearance of birdsong. Through the eyes of a young herder, the story unfolds as a poignant reminder that progress without balance comes at a heavy cost. This is a film that will make you pause, reflect and perhaps even change the way you look at your own phone. Don’t miss the chance to experience a story that speaks to both the heart and conscience.
Short Films
From Tradition to Transformation: A Reflection on Chakkiwala
A new path where machine meets humanity, flour feeds the heart and change begins within in silent courage and hope today
The movie ‘Chakkiwala- (A Day of a flour mill man)’ is written and directed by Ajay Kakade. It is a well -crafted movie with no voiced dialogues, just expressions oozing in every scene. A silent story that speaks louder than words. This brings out the message of change, acceptance and evolution. There is symbolic use of the mirror – showing the power in reflection. Lighting of the incense sticks indicates enlightenment – sort of epiphany that sparked the change within him. Emotions expressed of inner pain and dejection that the malfunctioning of his grinding machinery means no income.
When the grind stops, the soul awakens
The movie bears some captivating themes of transformation & renewal. We notice it in the Chakkiwala’s journey from tradition to modernity. It symbolizes personal growth and the courage to embrace change. The next is an exploration of the tension between age-old practices and contemporary conveniences. Also, the aspect of resilience in adversity. This is seen in his struggle with the broken grinding machine, which reflects the universal challenge of adapting when life disrupts our routines. Sustainability & simplicity is also noticed in choosing a simpler, more sustainable path. This shows how progress can align with humanity’s deeper values.
The interesting part of curiosity & conviction: his willingness to experiment and adapt highlights the importance of open-mindedness and determination. The contrast of getting the ready – made flour instead of the hassle of getting the grain ground. There are also issues of trust to ancient vs. modern means. At the mention of the machine stopped working, it stings the chakkiwala. He realized he could all the same serve humanity, without the grind. As he continues working, a kind of transformation is happening, an evolution from past to present. He tries out both, the readymade flour as well as the ground flour for himself, just to know the difference.
One man’s switch becomes everyone’s inspiration
With a resolute heart, he turned off the grinding machine, sealing a pact with himself. The Chakkiwala’s journey took a new turn, as he chose a simpler, more sustainable path, for himself as well as the people he served. He decides to make the ‘switch’ turning the switch off to the grinding machine seals the deal he made with himself. He chooses a different path to earn the same goal of serving humanity, in a simpler and more accepted way. Another stark message is sometimes turning off a machine turns on the heart. We grasp that “The flour of life is acceptance, adaptability and heart”. His story is a testament to the power of curiosity and conviction, adaptability and acceptance, adjustment and judgement.
Watch as he navigates this new chapter, inspiring us all to rethink our ways and find innovative solutions. His tale is one of heart, humanity and a dash of courage. Step into the world of ‘The Chakkiwala’, a silent yet soul-stirring film that speaks volumes through pure expression. Watch as a humble flour mill man confronts the collapse of his old ways, only to discover a new path filled with meaning, purpose, courage and hope. With powerful symbolism and heartfelt storytelling, this cinematic gem invites us to reflect on our own lives—challenging us to embrace change, honour tradition and find strength in simplicity. From tradition to transformation, watch the Chakkiwala’s journey unfold.
Short Films
All That You Would Like To Know About the Movie ‘Entanglement’
Truth fractures a couple’s relationship as perception blurs reality in a movie that questions love, memory, and trust.
The movie ‘Entanglement’ written and directed by Yashaswini Nath is about a couple, Chitra and Amir. The movie is described as a science-fiction, psychological drama. The storyline follows the couple as they navigate a ‘strange event’ that turned their relationship upside-down. The trailer itself evokes intrigue and mystery, indicating deeper forces at play in this so called “event”. The true source of the mystery is undisclosed or perhaps even unknown by the characters themselves. Irrespective of what caused this strange occurrence, the rift between the couple seems to be deeply damaging and potentially irreparable.
The Power of Perception
The true and more alarming enigma is that the couple recalls this situation in two entirely different ways. It’s almost as if the two had different “breaking points” in their relationship. The couple decides to take a trip to fix their relationship but this only further escalates their problems. They are faced with the question on whether their recollection of the incident is the truth or simply a misunderstanding. Their realities clash with their perception and tension builds. They find themselves caught between their perceptions and the truth of the situation.
There is a popular quote that says “There are three sides to a story: His, hers and the cold dark truth”. In this film, the cold dark truth is left a mystery amidst the individual perceptions of the couple. Both sides are left confused about the actual happenings and the cause for it. This is where the movie’s title ‘Entanglement’ comes into play. They get caught up in their own confusions and version of the truth. It’s not exactly “twisted” but they are trapped by their own perceptions in a unique way. The movie is full of suspense as the viewers are taken on a roller coaster of emotions.
Emotional Crossroads
The couple seems to care deeply about each other but are trapped in misunderstandings. The movie shows how perception shapes your reality. They mould their reality to fit their imagination. Their narratives are twisted – entangled. What begins as frivolous, each reach a point where they wonder how to behave with each other. Their reactions become unpredictable and their behaviour snowballs into unnecessary tension. The movie highlights the importance of mature conversation and avoiding assumptions but the audience are left to decipher which of the two is telling the truth.
The movie has been highlighted as “Short Film of the Year, India 2025”, praised for its blend of science-fiction and emotional storytelling. Audiences would greatly appreciate its depiction of subjectivity and perception as well as the psychological elements of human connection.
Short Films
Not Friends, Not Strangers: The Quiet Power of Kindness
Between strangers and friends, kindness inspires us to help each other and quietly make the world feel more human today!
The short movie ‘Not Friends Not Strangers’ is directed by Momita. The movie touches emotions on a deep level. It focuses on recovering from hard situations, discouraging over thinking. The film depicts coping with loss as well as dealing with new situations. There are hints of gratitude and a touch of loneliness. The film is well structured connecting emotions that resonate with each one of us.
We all go through worry, stress or skepticism in various ways. While watching the film we go through the emotions of anxiety, doubt or suspense with the characters. We can easily connect to the feeling of being let-down by someone whom we depended on, how it feels to bear a burden alone. We know how good it feels when we get help from one another, especially when we are in a low place ourselves, with no option. Helping others gives us a newfound hope though it is advisable to be cautious and careful. We realize solutions to our problems are easy, when there is someone to guide or advise us.
Circles of Connection
A circle doesn’t have an end or a beginning but it can always become bigger. What goes around, comes around. We all are in need of good advice at certain times in our life. We all need that one support system that elevates us and helps us progress in life. Be it advice or finance or a job, whatever temporary need we may have we tend to get it somehow. There is a powerful message to give strangers a chance to prove themselves. We could get used to being with new people and make new friends.
In emergencies the people who we least expect come forward to help us in the greatest ways. This is a powerful reminder of one good turn deserves another. The good deeds that we do to others, comes back to us. The title is apt, as there are some relationships that are neither strangers nor friends but something even more than that. Kindness bridges the gap between strangers; it puts forward a reminder of our differences in fragile humanity. This makes the world a better place. The film has the themes of Kindness as a ripple effect – small acts multiply into larger transformations.
Small Acts That Transform Lives
Small acts of kindness can transform the world. We rarely notice how small acts of generosity have the power to transform lives and thereby create a better world. It’s a common sight to see where competition, chaos, negativity and self – interest dominates the narrative. Kindness does not need banners, speeches or labels. It’s a point to ponder that some of the most meaningful relationships in our lives are born out of necessity and not out of choice.
The helping hands in struggle, a warm meal or the words of encouragement are often from strangers. Strangers bring us out of defeat and encourage us to carry on. It’s fascinating that people who we least expect are the ones who come forward in our greatest time of need. Thoughtful gestures surprise us from neighbors who step in while family cannot. It is a reminder that comes across stark and clear. There is beauty in just being human. We learn that compassion is not transactional. A momentary help can be all that someone needs. It can brighten up their day and give them inspiration to carry on.
Let’s make a conscious effort to be kind let’s make an endeavor to listen, to help or uplift one another. We can never imagine what a small act of kindness could do for us and each other. “There is a quiet power in kindness the world heals when we help each other”. Between strangers and friends’ lies kindness, the quiet bond that heals hearts.
Short Films
Raat Din Din Raat: A Story of Caregiving, Conflict and Compassion
Raat Din, Priya’s shift to Indore reveals how perspective reshapes love, pain and fragile hope into strength.
‘Raat Din Din Raat’ a movie directed by Adeeb Rais, opens with a man seeking help to speak his heart. He feels suffocated by stress and unexpressed frustration. His mind feels heavy and anger colours his smallest reactions. He snaps at little things and cannot enjoy daily life. His inability to cope with constant pressure shows in every gesture. He believes life has treated him with deep unfairness. He lives in confusion, unable to understand his suffering.
The title ‘Raat Din Din Raat’ reflects this endless torment. The phrase suggests repetition, a loop of constant pain. His struggle feels like a vicious cycle without escape. His partner, Priya, lies very ill in a hospital bed. He has accepted full responsibility for her fragile condition. Bills keep piling up and overwhelm his limited income. Daily work feels like a burden he can barely shoulder. He cannot balance medical expenses and focused work.
The Fractures of Care
The caregiver informs him that Priya’s mother will arrive. She plans to complete formalities for shifting Priya to Indore. He hears this news and instantly reacts with frustration. Priya’s mother firmly announces shifting Priya to Indore. She states clearly that this decision is not negotiable. He refuses to accept Priya’s removal from their city. Shifting Priya to Indore would separate the devoted couple. Priya would gain family and friends but lose her partner. For the mother, nineteen months of hospitalization seem endless. She sees that stretch as proof that hope has faded. For the partner, those months still hold fragile hope. He recalls how Priya suffered when her family rejected her. They cut ties because they disapproved of their relationship. Only Priya’s accident softened her family’s rigid stance. His frustration grows as he faces this painful hypocrisy. He reaches a breaking point and then discovers a truth.
The Power of Perspective
The film then highlights how perspectives can diverge sharply. He begins to understand the importance of another’s viewpoint. He sees that perspective can transform hurt into empathy and accepts that everyone carries problems hidden from others. People often assume their sufferings outweigh everyone else’s. He learns that each person fights private battles in silence. This insight gradually changes his entire outlook on life. From that moment, he adopts a different mindset.
His attitude softens and he observes people with compassion. He notices how everyone bears some heavy, invisible burden. This recognition gives him a new ray of hope. The plot turns as he embraces this altered perspective. He finally agrees to shift Priya to Indore. He reassures himself and others that things will be fine. His inner transformation triggers a shift in the mother. She senses his sincerity and revises her own stance. She agrees to let him visit Priya in Indore and only asks that he come when the father is absent.
The film explores emotional resilience under relentless life pressure. It portrays caregiving as both an act of love and exhaustion. The story examines conflict between romantic love and family authority. It highlights class and financial strain during long-term illness. The narrative emphasises perspective-taking as a path to healing. It shows how empathy can emerge from deep personal suffering. The film also explores hope versus practicality in medical crises. It questions who truly gets to define “home” and “family.” Viewers will experience a raw, honest portrait of caregiver burnout. The film offers nuanced characters rather than clear heroes or villains. It invites audiences to reconsider quick judgments about others’ choices.
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