In an unexpected turn of events, the Assamese film “Bidurbhai” has become the talk of the regional film industry, grossing an impressive 3.5 crore rupees in less than two weeks since its release on July 19. Trade analysts are now projecting the film could cross the 10-crore mark, a significant achievement for a regional production.
The success of “Bidurbhai” marks a triumphant return for director SUV, whose previous urban blockbuster “Sri Raghupati” had set high expectations. However, “Bidurbhai” represents a dramatic shift in both setting and style. Unlike its glitzy predecessor, this film is rooted in rural Assam, featuring a cast of relatively unknown actors and a storyline that celebrates the simplicity of village life.
Himangshu Prasad Das, a veteran of the Assamese film industry known for his multiple roles as a writer, director, and actor, shared his insights on the film’s success. “The gripping narrative flow, coupled with authentic performances and top-notch technical work, has clearly struck a chord with audiences,” Das remarked. He particularly praised SUV’s deft handling of the cinematic narrative, noting the director’s growth since his last venture.
However, the film hasn’t been without its share of controversy. Gender activist Rituparna has raised concerns about certain dialogues in the film, which she perceives as making light of issues related to the third gender community.
Adding to the buzz surrounding “Bidurbhai,” industry insiders hint at a potential collaboration between SUV and popular actor Ravi Sarma. Sources suggest that SUV may be in talks to direct a big-budget film featuring Sarma in the lead role, though no official announcement has been made.
The unexpected success of “Bidurbhai” is seen as a potential game-changer in the regional film circuit. It demonstrates that when told effectively, rural-centric stories can compete with and potentially outperform urban-centric blockbusters. This shift could herald a new trend in regional cinema, with more filmmakers potentially exploring stories from India’s heartland.
As “Bidurbhai” continues its successful run in theatres, all eyes are on the SUV’s next move. Will he return to the glitz and glamour of urban storytelling, or will he further explore the untapped potential of rural narratives? Only time will tell, but one thing is sure: “Bidurbhai” has firmly established SUV as a director to watch in the evolving landscape of Indian regional cinema.