Bangladeshi Films Find Kolkata Stage Amidst Political Context & Celebration of Women’s Stories
Bangladeshi cinema took center stage in Kolkata this week with a special screening of Leesa Gazi’s Oscar-submitted film, ‘Barir Naam Shahana’ (‘A House Named Shahana’), alongside other works from the region, highlighting both artistic exchange and the powerful narratives of women in South Asia. The screening, held Sunday at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) in collaboration with Swayam, marked the first time a Bangladeshi feature film has been shown in Kolkata following the recent sentencing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in absentia.
The festival showcased Gazi’s critically acclaimed film, which explores the cultural challenges faced by a Bangladeshi woman navigating an arranged marriage in London and her subsequent decision to seek independence through divorce. “It’s a true honour to have my film screened at SRFTI,” Gazi shared, “When countries share stories, we share pieces of ourselves: our struggles, hopes, and humanity. Such exchanges deepen understanding and harmony in the most meaningful way: through shared human experience.”
The event also featured a Bangladeshi short fiction film, demonstrating a broader commitment to showcasing Bangladeshi filmmaking. This year’s event was particularly notable as no Bangladeshi feature films were presented at the larger Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF).
Beyond ‘Barir Naam Shahana,’ the festival spotlighted Baishaki Somadder’s ‘Laila,’ a film centered on the aspirations of a homemaker within a conservative family structure. Somadder expressed the personal significance of the screening, noting her long-standing connection to SRFTI and Visva-Bharati. “This screening feels special and emotional,” she said. “India has always been a meaningful part of my creative journey. The screening feels like a warm acknowledgement of the story I wanted to share.”
Sukanta Majumdar, professor and dean-in-charge at SRFTI’s department of sound recording and design, served as the sound designer for Gazi’s film. He emphasized the importance of continued cultural exchange, stating, “Cultural exchange should never stop irrespective of whatever is happening at the political frontier.”
SRFTI’s Vice Chancellor, Samiran Datta, echoed this sentiment, noting the alignment between the films and the thematic focus of Swayam’s work. Amrita Dasgupta, director of Swayam, clarified the organization’s mission, stating, “We are not particularly promoting any country but focusing on the cultural similarity of experiences of women from the sub-continent.” Dasgupta further explained that the festival was timed to coincide with South Asia Women’s Day, recognized on November 30th by Kamla Bhashin, and aimed to foster dialogue around gender equality and combatting violence against women.
The festival’s programming reflects a growing movement to amplify the voices and stories of women across South Asia, offering a platform for filmmakers to address complex social issues and promote cross-cultural understanding.
