WHEN naxalism has spread its impact on all walks of life in Orissa, how long can Ollywood be behind! So, finally here is a film in the wings - Swayamsiddha – inspired by the Naxal movment.
Set for release in February, the newly launched Naxatra News television channel forays into film production under the banner Naxatra Media with this film. Producer Pravat Mallick who has scripted the story has roped in Sudhansu Sahoo (who has directed films like Sahara Jaluchhi and Don) for his venture.
“This film is inspired by a real-life incident but the details would be revealed by the story writer later,” hints the director.
Actor turned politician Siddhant Mohapatra essays the character of a Naxal leader while Sunil Kumar plays the role of a journalist tracing the genesis of the movement. However, the focus of the film has been on budding Bengali actress Yukta who makes her debut in feature films with the movie. Yukta plays Swayamsiddha, an innocent village lass who turns a red rebel under circumstances. And she is torn between her commitment to the mission and love for the scribe. “For a city-bred girl like me, shooting in such an inaccessible region is an adventure which I am enjoying thoroughly. It’s a character full of challenges and I am trying hard to live up to the expectations of my director,” says Yukta.
The film is being shot in the Naxal-infested Koraput forests to give the film an authentic look, says the director who has roped in Mumbai-based Oriya cinematographer Sanjib Mohapatra. “Though a film on Naxalism, it has its usual ingredients of entertainment,” assures the director. Veteran lyricist-composer Swarup Nayak has scored the music for the film.