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Time of India
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
As 'Baghuni' shines at Cannes, Partha Panda candidly speaks about Odia cinema making global mark
For film producer Partha Panda, it was a moment of pride as the first look of his Odia feature film 'Baghuni' (Dance Like a Tiger) was officially unveiled at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In a conversation with ANI, he shared his experience of taking his film project to an international audience, his journey in filmmaking and how the Odia film market is making its mark globally. "It was a very great experience. I met and , who revealed our motion poster, so it was a very wonderful and most memorable experience." As part of the Official program of the Bharat Pavilion at Cannes International Film Festival, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, the first-look motion poster of the film was released on May 15 in the presence of the film's director and producer, Jitendra Mishra, and producer Partha Panda. The film is a co-production among National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), Glocal Films UK Limited (founded by Odisha-born, London-based producer Partha Panda, and Jitendra Mishra's Cinema4Good Pvt. Ltd, 'Baghuni' is a co-production--the first of its kind for any film from Odisha, with the National Film Development Corporation(NFDC) returning to the state after a 23-year gap in significant cinematic collaborations. On the inspiration behind the film, he shared, "It's about women's empowerment, and a girl holding a protest in a male-dominated society, and how a lady is stepping out and fighting for her rights, so it is all about this." While talking about the film, he added, "We named it 'Baghuni'(Dance Like a Tiger) means Tigress and we had a dance called 'Bagha Nacha', (the Tiger dance is the traditional art form performed in Binka, Sonepur, and some parts of Ganjam district in Odisha), and the story was written by one of the good directors, his name is Jitendra Mishra, so we had a conversation from last 3-4 years ago about the story, so we developed the story, then we were going step by step, so first time in 2023, this story was selected in the NFDC co-production market, then luckily, out of 11 countries, 20 stories were selected and we were one of them, which was a good thing about that, and particularly for Odia language, this type of thing, like NFDC involvement happened after 23 years. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now " Partha Panda is an entrepreneur whose journey spans over 15 years of higher education and successful enterprise in the UK. He is a Managing Director, Film Producer & Arts Impresario. Despite being in a different profession, he always remained passionate about cinema. Sharing how his journey in filmmaking started, he added, "Every time I watch a movie from childhood, it's always I wanted to involve in film, but for me, when I was doing my graduation, that time I had an interest, either I wanted to become a director or something involved in the movie industry, but my study and everything was different. In my family, my mom is a good dancer, my dad studied in drama school, so we have a little understanding about that, which came a little from the family. So, the first time I tried was in 2008-09, but I could not finish that project for some reason." "Then I tried again in 2011, but again, we could not find the right person who could do the job together, because in this type of thing, finding the right director or person who can guide you is tricky. I found my friend, Jitendra Mishra. So, I thought, this is the guy with whom I can do the job. So, that's where the conversation started, and we were sort of working on this project for the last four years." Panda further discussed Odisha's cinema. According to him, the Odisha film market is still struggling; however, it is getting better, and with achievements like his film reaching Cannes, it gives a boost to the industry overall. "Odisha market, it's not that strong at the moment. But it's getting better. So, there was last... I don't know, maybe 5 to 10 years, there was a gap where people were not supporting that much, however, now things are improving," he said. Written and directed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Jitendra Mishra, 'Baghuni' is the first international co-production from Odisha, featuring celebrated Odia actor Sabyasachi Mishra as the lead actor, and boasts a talented crew that includes multiple National Award-winning industry professionals.
Gulf Today
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Cannes: Karan Johar recalls his first film, Shah Rukh and Aishwarya at fest
Bollywood multi-hyphenate Karan Johar is looking back at his association with the Cannes Film Festival. The filmmaker recently attended a special session at the Bharat Pavilion in the Cannes Film Festival where he spoke about his history at the festival. He spoke about visiting the Cannes Film Festival for the first time with his father Yash Johar, and how they made a start at the prestigious film festival with their film 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' which was sold for $5,000 at the Cannes Film Market. Karan, whose production 'Homebound' has been selected in the Un Certain Regard segment at Cannes, said, "I have a lot of emotional memories related to Cannes. I remember the year 2002, when my father and I were here at the Cannes market'. KJo remembered his father striking a deal, which he thought at that time was quite less. "I told him, 'This seems like it's really not of any consequence'. Because I remember he sold the European rights of 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' for $5,000. And at that time, I was like, '$5,000, isn't that very little?' Cast member Janhvi Kapoor poses during a photocall for the film "Homebound" in Cannes. Reuters And he said, 'Look, it's a start, we have to see it'. And unfortunately, he wasn't alive to see the massive impact that our cinema, that began from 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' went on to all of Shah Rukh Khan's movies," he shared. KJo further mentioned that the move created a huge cultural movement for our cinema in Europe. He said, "I remember it began in the year 2002, it was also the year that 'Devdas' had a beautiful screening, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Shah Rukh were on the red carpet. And Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is literally the queen of Cannes. Like, every time she's here, she creates such a huge amount of media energy and excitement. And she's here again. So it's just wonderful that I remember that so clearly." Bharat Pavilion at Cannes Film Festival saw a series of interesting sessions around cinema today. The Bharat Pavilion has been organised by NFDC and FICCI under the aegis of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India. "Then I came back to the capacity of a filmmaker, when we were selected the director's fortnight in 2013, for the anthology, Bombay Talkies, with Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Divakar Banerjee, myself. And it was that particular year that I met Guneet Monga. And, you know, I saw 'The Lunchbox', which was actually doing so phenomenally and getting so much love. And I decided to present the film in Hindi to our audiences in India. And so I have so many beautiful memories," he added. Indo-Asian News Service
Time of India
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Indian filmmakers must focus on globally resonant storytelling: Palash Dutta debuts at Cannes
Palash Dutta, an actor-director and LGBTQ+ activist, fulfilled his dream by attending the Cannes Film Festival 2024. He showcased his upcoming short film and directorial debut, receiving appreciation from prominent figures like Shekhar Kapur. Dutta's self-designed, culturally rich outfits garnered attention. Meeting Sharmila Tagore was a personal highlight. Actor, director and LGBTQ+ activist Palash Dutta reflects on his first-ever trip to the Cannes Film Festival — a journey of style, cinema, and sobering insights. For Palash Dutta, stepping onto the global stage at the Cannes International Film Festival 2024 wasn't just about glamour, it was the manifestation of a long-held dream. 'Being at Cannes for the first time ever was a breezy and surreal dream come true — one I had manifested years ago,' he says. And the dream had substance. He released the trailer of his upcoming short film on Marché du Film website, and showcased the poster of his directorial debut Dance of Joy... Mann Ki Iccha at the Bharat Pavilion. 'To be appreciated by stalwarts like Shekhar Kapur, Boman Irani, Anupam Kher and others — I'm thankful and grateful beyond words,' he says. 'I designed every look myself' Palash made a striking impression with his fashion choices — each ensemble curated, styled, and designed by him. From a tuxedo for the red carpet to a hand-painted Radha-Krishna-themed outfit representing Indian culture, Dutta's looks were conversation starters. 'My outfits created quite a stir. Photographers and festivalgoers stopped me to compliment the thought and effort behind each look — from bohemian vibes to a trench coat printed with Bollywood legends. ' He also wore a traditional Bengali dhoti-kurta to the screening of Satyajit Ray's restored classic Aranyer Din Ratri. But it was meeting Sharmila Tagore that truly left an emotional mark. 'Meeting Sharmila Tagore Ma'am was the highlight of my trip' 'I met my childhood heartthrob Sharmila Tagore ma'am — I can't describe what I felt,' Dutta recalls. 'During the screening, she felt giddy, and I happened to have cookies and dates in my bag. I offered them, and she said she felt better. I spoke to her in Bengali, told her how people said my mother resembled her, and even showed her a photo. That moment will stay with me forever.' 'You need more than a dream to navigate Cannes' The actor-director is candid about the realities of Cannes. 'You must be well-prepared if you're going as an actor, director, or producer — otherwise, you'll get lost. I was lucky to have friends who guided me through.' He noticed a shift in the festival's vibe. 'This year, many were there for red carpet moments rather than cinema. Influencers fly in for just 2–3 days for photo ops, while true festival-goers hustle from morning till night. ' Palash declares he was among the latter. His daily schedule started at 7 a.m. to register for film screenings, followed by masterclasses, networking, and marketplace pitches. 'I attended screenings, including Mission Impossible, and made presentations for my story concepts. I did it all — including attending red carpet events and after-parties.' 'Content is king — but it must resonate globally' Palash reflects that while Indian cinema has made waves — 'Payal Kapadia and Guneet Monga have shown what's possible' — much more needs to be done. 'Indian filmmakers must focus on globally resonant storytelling . Films rooted in the Indian heartland can succeed but only if the themes are universal.' 'Cannes is a tough space — but I'm manifesting my next chapter' For Palash, Cannes was not just a festival, but a learning curve. 'To succeed at Cannes, you need funds, networking, and lobbying. It's a competitive space. But Indian storytelling is being noticed — and I hope to contribute in my small way to the global stage.' In his own words, the trip was 'a rollercoaster and a whirlwind of emotions.' Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
NDTV
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
When Aishwarya Rai In A Yellow Saree Took A Chariot To Cannes And Changed Everything
New Delhi: In the grand corridors of global cinema, few debuts have been as defining as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan 's first appearance at the Cannes Film Festival in 2002. It wasn't just a red carpet moment - it was a cultural milestone. Accompanied by her Devdas co-star Shah Rukh Khan and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Aishwarya 's Cannes debut marked the beginning of what would become a two-decade-long relationship with the prestigious festival. That year, Devdas had its grand international premiere at Cannes, introducing global audiences to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's opulent, emotionally charged adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's beloved novel. Aishwarya's entrance was unforgettable. Arriving in a horse-drawn chariot, she set the tone for what would become an iconic moment. Dressed in a sunshine-yellow Neeta Lulla saree, she looked every bit the Indian princess - regal, composed and radiant. Her look was simple yet striking: the saree was paired with minimal makeup, traditional kundan jewellery and her signature poise. For many Indians watching from afar, it was a moment of pride. For the international press, it was a revelation. The Cannes red carpet had rarely seen Indian ethnic wear done with such elegance and impact. More than two decades later, that 2002 moment still echoes in conversations, most recently during filmmaker Karan Johar's session at the Bharat Pavilion at Cannes. Reflecting on his early memories of the festival, KJo recalled being at the Cannes Film Festival with his father, the legendary producer Yash Johar, to promote Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. The film had just been sold at the market for $5,000-"a humble beginning," as Karan described it - but what stayed with him was the excitement around Devdas. "It was also the year that Devdas had a beautiful screening," Karan said. "Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Shah Rukh were on the red carpet. And Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is literally the queen of Cannes. Every time she's here, she creates such a huge amount of media energy and excitement. And she's here again. It's just wonderful that I remember that so clearly," he added. Devdas' Cannes premiere was not just about cinematic prestige. It also kick-started Aishwarya's journey as one of Cannes' most recognisable and celebrated faces. In the years that followed, she would return almost every year, representing both Indian cinema and global beauty brand L'Oreal as their ambassador. From ball gowns to dramatic couture to sleek Indian silhouettes, Aishwarya's Cannes looks have consistently been the talk of the town. Fashion houses from around the world, from Elie Saab to Michael Cinco, have vied to dress her and her red carpet appearances have often dominated headlines globally. Fast-forward to 2025, and Aishwarya once again turned heads at Cannes - this time in a classic Manish Malhotra creation. She sported an embroidered ivory saree with a long 'pallu' and a flowing lace train. The actress completed her look with a layered ruby necklace. ICYDK, Aishwarya attended the premiere of filmmaker Oliver Hermanus' historical drama The History of Sound, starring Paul Mescal and Josh O'Connor.
India Gazette
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Gazette
IMPPA President Mr. Abhay Sinha Elected Vice President of FIAPF -- A Proud Moment for Indian Cinema and IMPPA
SMPL New Delhi [India], May 21: In a moment of immense pride for the Indian film industry, Mr. Abhay Sinha, President of the Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA), has been unanimously elected as the Vice President of FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers Associations) and FIAPF Headquarters ASBL, the global apex body representing film producers from over 30 countries at the FIAPF Annual General Assembly held on 17th May 2025 in Cannes, France. Under Mr. Abhay Sinha's leadership, IMPPA, which has been in existence since 1937, has grown into a dynamic and internationally active organization, supporting Indian producers and filmmakers both at home and abroad. He has worked tirelessly to improve the status and recognition of Indian content creators. One of his key achievements includes leading IMPPA's participation at the Cannes Film Festival for the second year running in 2025. More than 40 Indian films and delegates took part, showcasing India's rich and diverse cinema on a global platform. He also contributed as a speaker on the panel discussion at the Bharat Pavilion, titled 'Changing Paradigm of Film Screening: Theatres to OTT, Digital Platforms and Beyond,' offering valuable insights into the future of film viewing and distribution. Beyond international engagements, Mr. Abhay Sinha has played a vital role in shaping better film policies across India, including improved subsidy systems in Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and other states. He has also worked to make Film Certification easier and pushed for greater industry representation in national film bodies. He has addressed critical industry concerns, including Virtual Print Fees (VPF), exhibition challenges, and taxation reforms to ease financial burdens on Producers and Distributors. In addition, he has also actively raised concerns about the proposed 100% tariff by the United States on foreign entertainment content. Through his public statements and writings, he has highlighted the threat such tariffs pose to cultural exchange and the global reach of Indian cinema, urging for fair trade policies that protect the creative and economic interests of Indian filmmakers. As the founder of Yashi Films, Mr. Abhay Sinha has produced over 150 feature films in various languages and more than 5,000 TV episodes. He is the creator of the International Bhojpuri Film Awards (IBFA), the first and only global award platform for Bhojpuri cinema, which has been hosted in multiple countries and supported by Indian tourism bodies. These events have taken Indian regional cinema to international audiences and given Bhojpuri artists a global stage. Mr. Abhay Sinha's election as FIAPF Vice President is a defining moment for Indian cinema, marking a stronger voice for Indian producers on the global stage and opening new opportunities for collaboration and growth. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by SMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
