IFFI 2024 Films ‘Amar Aaj Marega’ and ‘Swargarath’ explore
Celebrating Life and Death at IFFI 2024
The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) took place in Panaji, Goa, showcasing a rich tapestry of films that explore profound themes. Among the highlights were two films, Amar Aaj Marega and Swargarath, which tackled the delicate subjects of life and death through unique narratives. During a recent press conference, the cast and crew of these films shared their insights, experiences, and the challenges they faced in bringing their stories to life. Their discussions revealed not only the creative processes behind the films but also the cultural significance of addressing such weighty topics in cinema.
A Journey of New Voices: Amar Aaj Marega
Director Rajat Laxman Kariya, a newcomer in the film industry, shared his inspiring journey of creating Amar Aaj Marega. This Hindi film tells the story of Amar Singh Bapat, a 62-year-old widower contemplating suicide. Kariya described how the film began as a dream on paper and evolved into a significant project, thanks to the support of producer Prakash Jha and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). He expressed gratitude for IFFI 2024, which provided a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work.
Kariya emphasized that the film’s title, which translates to “Amar will die today,” carries a deeper message. It challenges the conventional view of death by suggesting that it can be a celebration of life. He noted that the film’s philosophical approach emerged organically during the editing process. Kariya referenced the classic film Anand, highlighting how it influenced his understanding of life and death. He believes that death should not be viewed as a taboo but rather as a natural part of existence. His reflections on comedy, particularly the works of Priyadarshan, reveal how humor can serve as a powerful tool to address serious subjects. Kariya’s film aims to encourage audiences to celebrate life, even in the face of mortality.
Humor and Reflection: Swargarath
Director Rajesh Bhuyan discussed the challenges of creating Swargarath, an Assamese film that uses humor to explore the serious topic of death. He acknowledged that comedy is often underestimated, yet it is one of the most challenging genres to master. Bhuyan credited the film’s success to its ability to provoke laughter while simultaneously encouraging reflection on life, death, and societal values. He noted that Swargarath has made a significant impact on the Assamese film industry, moving away from traditional themes of action and romance.
Writer Santanu Rowmuria elaborated on the film’s narrative, which follows Baikuntha, a mortuary van driver, and a group of characters, including college students and police officers. Set against the backdrop of India’s 2016 demonetization, the film blends black comedy with serious social commentary. Rowmuria explained how the film captures the absurdities of life and death, using humor to address the pursuit of wealth and its consequences. He expressed pride in how the film resonates with audiences, showcasing the strength of content-driven cinema. The film’s unique perspective and treatment of a potentially dark subject turned it into a meaningful exploration of human experiences.
Overcoming Challenges in Production
The production of Swargarath faced significant challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Producer Akshata Narain shared her pride in completing the film despite these obstacles. She emphasized that the film’s success reflects the strong script and the team’s determination to persevere during difficult times. Narain noted that the story’s resonance with audiences highlights the importance of content-driven cinema in today’s landscape.
Sanjiv Narain, another producer of Swargarath, expressed gratitude for the recognition the film received at IFFI. He highlighted the importance of being acknowledged on a national platform, especially for filmmakers from the Northeast. The film’s critical and commercial success has opened doors for future projects, including an offer to create a Hindi version. The press conference, moderated by Ms. Hiramani, underscored the significance of these films in promoting new voices in cinema and addressing complex themes with creativity and humor.
In conclusion, the press conference at IFFI 2024 showcased the power of cinema to explore profound themes of life and death. Both Amar Aaj Marega and Swargarath exemplify how emerging filmmakers are using their craft to challenge societal norms and provoke thought. As the festival continues to celebrate regional cinema and new talent, it highlights the importance of storytelling in understanding the human experience.
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