Odia Film ‘Tula’ Begins Journey, Inspired by Life of Philanthropic Beggar Tula Behera
Bhubaneswar: The mahurat ceremony of Artmas Screens Pvt. Ltd.’s second Odia film ‘Tula’ was held on Sunday (February 1, 2026), marking an auspicious beginning for a film inspired by the extraordinary life of Tula Behera, a philanthropic beggar from Odisha whose selfless act touched the nation.
Produced by Ajay Kumar Raut and directed by Jitendra Jena, Tula narrates a compelling story of service, struggle, dignity, and dedication, rooted in the real-life journey of Tula Behera—fondly known as Tula Mausi in her locality.
The film features Sheetal Patra in titular role alongwith Siddhnath Mohapatra, Abhishek Giri, Samaresh Routray, and Bidushmita Dash in key roles.
Sharing her emotions ahead of the mahurat, Sheetal Patra said, “When it’s not about what you have, but what you stand for. This is a performance-driven journey that begins with honesty, gratitude, and purpose. Seeking love, support, and blessings.”
The mahurat ceremony was graced by assembly Speaker Surama Padhy as chief guest, along with Tula Behera herself and prominent actors associated with the project, lending the occasion deep emotional and social significance.
Seventy-year-old Tula Behera, a resident of Phulbani in Odisha’s Kandhamal district, earns her livelihood through begging. She came into the national spotlight after donating her entire life savings of ₹1 lakh to a Jagannath temple in Phulbani—an act that redefined the meaning of philanthropy.
During his visit to the tribal-dominated district in May 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated her publicly, sought her blessings, and shared photographs with her. One such photograph later found pride of place on the first page of the Indian Railways’ 2025 calendar, symbolising compassion beyond wealth.
With Tula, the filmmakers aim to present a deeply human story that celebrates moral courage, generosity amid poverty, and the quiet power of giving, proving that true philanthropy lies not in abundance, but in intent.