Chakranta stars light up Hockey India League opener in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The stars of the upcoming Odia film Chakranta added glamour to the opening day of the Bhubaneswar leg of the Hockey India League (HIL) 2026, which got underway at the Kalinga Stadium on Saturday.

Actors Bhoomika Dash and Subhasish Sharma promoted the film ahead of the opening match and performed at the opening ceremony, drawing loud cheers from the crowd before the contest between Vedanta Kalinga Lancers and Delhi SG Pipers.

The inaugural day was graced by the Governor of Odisha, Hari Babu Kambhampati, who attended as Chief Guest. On arrival, he was received by Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services, and Odia Language, Literature & Culture, along with other dignitaries.

The Governor later met the playing elevens of both teams on the field, extending his best wishes and commending their commitment to the sport. He watched the match alongside the Minister as the contest showcased high-quality hockey and sportsmanship. Hosts Vedanta Kalinga Lancers emerged victorious, after which the Governor presented the Player of the Match award.

Reflecting on the occasion, the Governor said hockey holds a special place in Odisha, adding that the State’s sustained support has been vital in nurturing the game. He noted that events like the Hockey India League not only bring world-class talent to the fore but also inspire young players across the State to aim higher.

The evening also doubled as a promotional platform for Chakranta, whose trailer was recently unveiled on the Babu Bhai Productions YouTube channel. Headlined by Bhoomika Dash, the film traces the journey of a young woman who leaves home to pursue education and career opportunities, only to face temptations, negative influences and unforeseen challenges. The story explores strained relationships, overlooked parental sacrifices and the consequences of life choices, blending social realism with mystery and intrigue.

Directed by Pinu Nayak and produced by Saurabh Padhi, Chakranta is slated for a theatrical release in 2026. The film marks Bhoomika Dash’s first on-screen pairing with Subhasish Sharma and features an ensemble cast including Harihar Mahapatra, Chaudhury Jayprakash Das, Pradyumna Lenka, Dharitri Khandual, Surabhi, Soumya Satapathy, Shubham Padhi, Suman Mahanty, Kusum Tripathy, Pramod Raut, Tushar, Umakant, Niranjan Nirua, Punyatoya Mishra and Krishnarani Dash, with a special guest appearance by Ashrumochan Mahanty.

With a vibrant HIL opener and a socially relevant film promotion sharing the spotlight, the event underlined Bhubaneswar’s growing stature as a hub for both sport and culture.