Bhubaneswar: Odia short film 'Kali Ra Asha' has brought national recognition to Odisha's independent cinema. The film was selected among the top three films at the first-ever Kisan Film Festival last month. Chosen from over 600 films submitted from across India, the 12-minute film showed agrarian realities and challenges faced by farmers. The story also depicted how hope and resilience can help overcome the issues caused by industrialisation and climate change.
Centred on the poignant relationship between a grandfather and grandson, showing the change in approach among different generations towards problems and how young people are open to adopting technology. Without melodrama, the film beautifully captured the silent struggles of rural families.
Filmmaker Atish Kumar Rout, expressing gratitude for the recognition, said the film was conceived as a tribute to India's farmers. "Kali Ra Asha is about not giving up. It reflects the spirit of countless farming families who, despite adversity, continue to believe that tomorrow will be better. Being recognised among the top three films at a national festival dedicated to farmers is extremely meaningful for us," Rout said.