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Time of India
4 days ago
- 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.
Business Standard
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
First Look of Odia Film 'Baghuni' Unveiled at Cannes: A Dream Nurtured from Odisha to Global Stage
VMPL Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], May 21: In the cool spring breeze of the French Riviera, on the cobbled streets of Cannes, as the spotlight lit up the Bharat Pavilion at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, a quiet, proud moment unfolded for every Odia around the world. The first look of Baghuni (Dance Like a Tiger) -- a pathbreaking Odia film -- was unveiled, etching a historic moment for the language and culture that has so far remained underrepresented in global cinema. But behind this cinematic milestone lies the inspiring journey of Partha Sarathi Panda, a soft-spoken yet determined cultural ambassador, who hails from Odisha and now lives in Gravesend, Kent, in the United Kingdom. It is his vision, effort, and relentless drive to promote Odia identity that has led to this cultural leap -- from Bhubaneswar to London, and now, to Cannes. A Dream Rooted in Identity For Mr. Panda, Baghuni is not just a film -- it is the manifestation of a long-cherished dream. Over the past decade, he has dedicated himself to the promotion of Odia language, literature, arts, and heritage in the UK. As the Director of Odisha Society of the United Kingdom (OSUK), he has curated festivals, language workshops, trade forums, and tourism drives. But cinema, he believed, could be the most powerful vehicle yet. "Cinema has a soul that speaks beyond borders," Mr. Panda says. "I wanted to create something that would carry the spirit of Odisha into the hearts of people far beyond our land." It was this conviction that inspired him to set up Glocal Films UK Limited, a production house with an international outlook but rooted in regional ethos. Through a close collaboration with NFDC India and Cinema4Good Pvt. Ltd., the seeds of Baghuni were sown. The Moment at Cannes On 15th May 2025, amidst a room full of international filmmakers, media, and Indian dignitaries, the first look of Baghuni was unveiled at the Bharat Pavilion at 78th Cannes Film Festival, curated by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Govt. of India in collaboration with FICCI and NFDC. The event was graced by celebrated names including filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, National award-winning filmmaker Ms Rima Das, Mr Sreerag M, OSD(Films), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Govt. of India, Mr Gautam Bhanot GM - Film Promotions and International Participation, NFDC, Ms Vineeta Mishra, Head of Programming, NFDC FilmBazaar among others. The unveiling wasn't just the launch of a film poster -- it was the announcement of a cultural resurgence. Written & directed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Jitendra Mishra Baghuni is the first international co-production from Odisha, featuring celebrated Odia actor Sabyasachi Mishra as lead actor, and boasts a talented crew that includes multiple National Award-winning industry professionals. Subash Sahoo as sound designer, Sukant Panigrahy as production designer, and Prem Anand as the music director. The script is written by National Award-winning filmmaker Shankhajeet De, Dr. Sulagna Mohany. Multiple National Award-winning filmmaker Utpal Borpujari is the script consultant whereas Dialogue is written by acclaimed filmmaker Susanta Mani. The story is a stirring tale of resilience and resistance -- a young woman challenging deeply entrenched societal norms, told through the lens of Odia culture and language. Partha Panda: From Odisha to Global Stage What truly distinguishes this project is its deep-rooted cultural vision -- a vision shaped significantly by Mr. Partha Sarathi Panda. Through the Odisha Society of the United Kingdom (OSUK), he has been instrumental in bridging Odisha and the UK across various platforms. He has facilitated connections between Odia entrepreneurs and British markets, celebrated iconic festivals like Bali Jatra and Utkal Divas in London, and initiated investment dialogues that have fostered meaningful economic partnerships. But the journey has not been easy. "Being far from home, I have often faced questions like: 'Why Odia?' or 'Is there an audience for regional stories abroad?'" he recalls. "My answer has always been: the world is ready -- we just need to tell our story with conviction." That conviction is now taking cinematic form. Baghuni will be produced in Odia, Sambalpuri, Koshli, Hindi, and other languages to reach both regional and international audiences. It will feature a mix of local Odia artists and international technicians, thereby creating a genuine Indo-UK collaboration in both creative and production processes. Cultural Diplomacy Through Cinema For the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Baghuni marks a significant return to Odisha after more than two decades, rekindling its engagement with the region's vibrant cinematic potential. Reflecting on this milestone, NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum stated: "Baghuni is a culturally rich and globally resonant story. It is our honour to support this Indo-UK partnership and take Odisha's unique voice to the world." A compelling narrative cantered on themes of resistance, resilience, and the courage to confront deeply ingrained societal norms, Baghuni was selected for the prestigious Film Bazaar 2023 -- a flagship co-production market hosted alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Among 20 projects shortlisted from 11 countries during its 17th edition, Baghuni distinguished itself through its strong storytelling and international collaboration framework. The filmmakers shared their vision behind the project: "This is an inspiring story of resilience and unstoppable courage. Through this project, we aim to showcase Odisha's rich art, culture, and heritage values on a global stage. It is also a sincere effort to create international opportunities for local stories and talent. We are proud to have collaborated with the prestigious National Film Development Corporation - NFDC for our dream project." Further elaborating on the organization's mission, Mr. Magdum quoted: "At NFDC, we are proud to support Baghuni, a path-breaking Indo-UK co-production that powerfully amplifies the voice of regional cinema from Odisha. The film reflects the richness of India's diverse storytelling and its growing resonance on the global stage. This collaboration highlights our continued commitment to promoting cultural heritage, supporting unique narratives, and creating meaningful international opportunities for Indian talent." The film's selection at Film Bazaar solidified its promise -- not just as a cinematic endeavour, but as a cultural movement. For Partha Sarathi Panda, it marks not an endpoint, but the start of a broader mission. "I see Baghuni as the first of many stories. Odisha has hundreds of untold narratives -- of forests, rivers, women, farmers, traditions. These need a global stage," he says. A State Watches Proudly Back in Bhubaneswar, news of Baghuni's unveiling at Cannes has sparked celebration. Cultural organizations, cinema halls, and social media are buzzing with anticipation. For a state often underrepresented in national narratives, this marks a proud turning point. The Road Ahead As Baghuni prepares for filming later this year, the story that began in a quiet corner of Bhubanewswar now walks on the red carpets of Cannes. It is a testament to vision, persistence, and the enduring power of cultural identity. For Partha Sarathi Panda, it is not just a film -- it is his tribute to Odisha. And for every Odia, at home and abroad, it is a moment of celebration, pride, and hope.
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Odia film's motion poster unveiled at Cannes
1 2 Bhubaneswar: The first look of an Odia film , 'Baghuni (Dance Like a Tiger)', was unveiled at the prestigious 78th Cannes Film Festival on Thursday. "The film, a ground-breaking Indo-UK co-production , is the first-ever international cinematic collaboration of its kind from Odisha to be showcased on such a prominent global platform," said director Jitendra Mishra. The unveiling took place at the Bharat Pavilion, hosted by the ministry of information and broadcasting, where the release of the film's motion poster took place in the presence of several national and international dignitaries. Directed and co-produced by Mishra, the film is being produced in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), Glocal Films UK, and Cinema4Good Pvt Ltd. "The film marks NFDC's return to Odisha after over two decades, in a move that signifies renewed interest in the state's rich storytelling traditions. The story is described as a powerful tale of resistance and resilience, delving deep into themes of courage and the defiance of age-old societal norms. It celebrates Odisha's cultural heritage while amplifying local voices for a global audience," said Mishra. Featuring Sabyasachi Mishra in the lead, 'Baghuni' brings together an acclaimed creative team. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Todos os idosos deveriam ter um desse no banheiro! Veja só! Evite quedas e escorregões Saiba Mais Undo Set to be filmed across scenic locations in Odisha and London during Sept and Oct, the film will be made in Odia, Sambalpuri, Koshli and Hindi. "We are proud to showcase Odisha's rich art and culture through this inspiring story. Baghuni is not just a film — it's a movement to bring local narratives to the international stage," Mishra added. NFDC managing director Prakash Magdum said, "Baghuni is a path-breaking co-production that exemplifies the diversity of India's storytelling. At NFDC, we remain committed to promoting unique narratives and fostering international platforms for Indian talent."
