Rukmini Maitra's 'Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan' to be premiered at 8th London Bengali Film Festival

London, April 25 (IANS) Actress Rukmini Maitra-starrer “Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan” helmed by National Award-winning filmmaker Ram Kamal Mukherjee will have its UK premiere on April 25 at the 8th London Bengali Film Festival (LBFF).

The premiere of the Bengali biopic, which traces the extraordinary journey of theatre legend Binodini Dasi in late 19th century Bengal, will take place at the BLOC Cinema of Queen Mary University of London, and will be introduced by the director, followed by an engaging Q&A session.

Director Ram Kamal Mukherjee said: "I am extremely happy and proud to be a part of this prestigious film festival. I am glad that Honourable jury members have considered our magnum opus 'Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan' as part of their eighth edition celebrations at London Bengali Film Festival 2025.”

He added: “The film depicts the journey of a woman who fought for her dream. Binodini Dasi, portrayed by Rukmini Maitra, deals with the untold saga of a theatre legend who paved the path for aspiring female actors almost 140 years ago."

The London Bengali Film Festival 2025 officially launches at the prestigious Barbican Centre,

Europe’s largest art centre, offering attendees the chance to experience the richness and diversity of global Bengali cinema and conversations at iconic London locations, including the Guildhall, Queen Mary University of London, and the Bank of England.

This year’s 8th edition of Europe’s largest Bengali film festival, running from April 22 to 27, 2025, features six films – four narrative features, one documentary, and one short film in Bengali and English languages (with English subtitles) from Bangladesh, India, and global South Asian diasporic communities.

Munsur Ali, the Founder & CEO of the London Bengali Film Festival, said: "Mainstream films have a global audience, but global stories also need to be seen by the mainstream audience. The London Bengali Film Festival does exactly that. We believe 'Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan' will resonate deeply with our audience and celebrate the rich tapestry of Bengali cinema."

Subidita Bhattacharya, the LBFF Festival Director, added, "We are thrilled to present 'Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan' at this year's film festival. This Bengali masterpiece beautifully captures the essence of theatre and the indomitable spirit of Binodini, a pioneering actress of her time. Through its compelling narrative and stunning visuals, the film offers a profound exploration of art, resilience, and cultural heritage."

“Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan” released on January 23. It also stars Kaushik Ganguly, Rahul Bose, Mir Afsar Ali, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Om Sahani.

The film narrates the life of the renowned theatre artist Binodini Dasi, celebrated for defying societal norms and conventions, and chronicles her journey from a courtesan to the queen of Bengali theatre, highlighting her struggles, passions, betrayals, and triumphs.

--IANS

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