Manoj Mishra Meets Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Discusses Rural Release Plan for Sambalpuri Film “AWM”

Bhubaneswar: Actor and filmmaker Manoj Mishra recently met acclaimed Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, where the two held an engaging discussion on cinema and Mishra’s ambitious plan to take films directly to rural audiences across Odisha.

During the meeting, Mishra also announced details of his upcoming Sambalpuri film AWM, which is inspired by real-life love stories and relationships of couples. Nawazuddin Siddiqui reportedly appreciated the concept and encouraged Mishra’s initiative to expand cinema’s reach beyond urban centres.

The discussion also touched upon Mishra’s larger vision of screening films in villages, making regional cinema more accessible and connecting storytelling with grassroots audiences. Sources said Siddiqui was supportive of the idea and urged him to move forward with the plan.

Earlier, Mishra had also met veteran Bollywood actor Aamir Khan, who is known for championing meaningful and socially driven cinema, further strengthening support for his rural outreach concept.

The film AWM is being produced by Manoj Mishra, Mamta Nanda, and Rishav Agrawal under the banners Manoj Mishra Films, Shalom Films, and Bhavya Films. It is co-produced by Sasank Shekharpadhee, Mamta Agrawal, Bunty Jain, and Abhishek Ojha.
Directed by Rishav Agrawal, the film is written by Rishav Agrawal and Deepesh Gupta, with additional writing by Atishya Mishra. The ensemble cast includes several regional and emerging talents alongside Mishra in key roles.

The makers have confirmed that AWM will be showcased across villages in Odisha as part of a special outreach initiative aimed at bringing cinema closer to rural audiences.