A New Dawn for Odia Cinema: ChaariKaandha Screening in Belgium Marks a Global Milestone

Bhubaneswar: For the first time ever, the rich cultural tapestry of Odisha was showcased in Belgium, as the Odia Cultural Association of Belgium (OCAB) recently hosted a monumental screening of *ChaariKaandha*, a social comedy-drama that has been making waves in international film circles. The screening was not just a cinematic event, but a celebration of cultural unity, bridging the gap between India and Europe.

The screening, held as part of the Utkal Divas 2025 celebrations, was a fitting tribute to Odisha’s vibrant heritage and artistic contributions. With over 50 members of the Odia community present, the event was a testament to the growing influence of Odia cinema globally. The film, *ChaariKaandha*, was directed by the acclaimed Biswanath Rath, who also wrote the script, and produced by Atish Kumar Rout under the banner of Ritupriya Productions. Its mid-length format—often referred to as a long short film—was a perfect blend of humor, emotion, and social commentary, capturing the essence of everyday life in Odisha.

The event was attended by not just film enthusiasts, but also members of the diaspora who had long yearned for a connection with their cultural roots through the silver screen. The screening itself was a dynamic mix of laughter and poignant moments that echoed the emotional pulse of Odia society. As the lights dimmed and the opening scene unfolded, the audience was immediately transported into a world that felt both familiar and new, thanks to the meticulous work put in by the entire creative team.

For director Biswanath Rath, this was not just another screening. It was a chance to share a piece of his heart with the community that had supported him throughout his journey. “The love and appreciation for *ChaariKaandha* during this screening have overwhelmed me,” Rath shared after the film concluded. “This is a dream come true not just for me, but for everyone who contributed to this project. Every laugh, every tear, every moment of this film is a result of our collective effort.”

The film’s humor, sharp yet relatable, connected deeply with the audience. The seamless blending of laughter and emotion left a lasting impression, as one viewer expressed, “The movie was incredible. Even in just 37 minutes, it held our attention completely. The comic timing and emotional depth were so well-balanced that it made us both laugh and tear up.”

The emotional impact of *ChaariKaandha* was evident in the reactions of the attendees, who appreciated how the film balanced humor with a sense of gravitas. The ensemble cast—featuring Shakti Baral, Susil Mishra, Satabdi Suryasnata, and others—delivered performances that resonated with both the heart and the intellect, allowing the audience to reflect on deeper themes while still enjoying the lighter moments.

The film’s technical achievements were also worth noting, with Harish Sethy serving as the Chief Assistant Director, Lingaraj Kumbhar behind the camera as the Director of Photography, and Dileswar Pradhan handling the sound. The carefully crafted background score by Parag Kumar Behera and Amit Yuvraaj’s music added depth and atmosphere, enhancing the film’s impact. As one viewer put it, “It touched every emotion—it hit hard, and we laughed hard too.”

Producer Atish Kumar Rout, who has become a cornerstone of Odia cinema through Ritupriya Productions, expressed his pride in the success of the screening. His previous works, including the award-winning films *Bhaunri* and *Vote*, have been recognized for their social relevance and artistic merit. However, for Rout, this screening in Belgium marked a unique achievement. “There can’t be a bigger award than the laughter and tears of our beloved Odia audience,” he said. “I am thankful to everyone who made this historic screening possible, and our goal is to bring *ChaariKaandha* to a global audience.”

The screening was more than just a film showing; it was a vibrant cultural celebration. The evening was filled with traditional Odia music and dance performances, culminating in a joyous Holi celebration that united the community in the spirit of togetherness. The event also served as a reminder of the broader cultural exchanges that OCAB has been fostering in Belgium, not only among the Odia diaspora but also with the local Belgian population and other expatriate communities.

As the evening concluded, the sense of pride and accomplishment was palpable. The historic screening of *ChaariKaandha* in Belgium represented more than just the international recognition of Odia cinema; it marked the beginning of a new chapter for Odia films on the global stage. With international film festivals already showing interest, the future of Odia cinema looks brighter than ever.

Looking ahead, the impact of this event will likely ripple across Europe, opening doors for other Odia films to be showcased globally. For Rath, Rout, and the entire team behind *ChaariKaandha*, this moment was just the beginning. As they continue to push the boundaries of Odia storytelling, one thing is certain—Odia cinema is poised to take its rightful place on the world stage.