‘Debakanya’ team begins promotional campaign, film to release on November 20

Bhubaneswar: The team of upcoming Odia film ‘Debakanya’ has begun its promotional campaign after seeking the blessings of Goddess Gajalaxmi at a puja pandal in Kharavel Nagar here. The much-awaited film is scheduled to hit theatres on November 20.

The film’s cast and crew visited the Gajalaxmi Puja pandal near Priya Hotel, organised by the Gajalaxmi Puja Committee, to offer prayers and seek the deity’s blessings before commencing the promotional activities.

The team included actor Subhasish Sharma (Mantu), actress Sushree, director Rasesh Mohanty (Silu), cinematographer Sudarshan Senapati, executive officer Mahesh Barik and media and marketing head Pranay Jethi. Committee chief adviser and social worker Rudra Narayan Samantaray, secretary Debashish Padhi, Nilima Rajguru, Mukta Manjari Sutar and Rajashree Das were also present.

Produced under the banner of Supreme Entertainment, the film is bankrolled by Suresh Kumar Sahu and Bhargavi Tripathy. Based on a story and screenplay by Shankar Prasad Tripathy, it is directed by Rasheesh Mohanty (Silu). Sudarshan Senapati has handled cinematography, while Chandrasekhar Mishra is the editor.

Subhasish Sharma, popularly known for his lover-boy and chocolate-boy roles, will be seen in a different and challenging character in the film.

Set against the backdrop of Puri’s traditional folk dance form, Ghoda Nacha, the film explores the life of a young man who performs the dance dressed as a woman. Gradually, his gestures, mannerisms, speech and behaviour begin to reflect the feminine character he portrays on stage. Owing to his deep devotion and dedication to Goddess Mangala, he comes to be known as ‘Debakanya’.

The film explores the unusual journey of the protagonist while bringing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, traditions and folk art to the forefront. The makers have kept the eventual outcome of the character’s journey under wraps, leaving audiences to discover it when the film releases.

Besides Subhasish Sharma, the film features veteran actors Kuna Tripathy, Ashrumochan Mohanty, Kedar Mishra and Deb, along with newcomer Manaswini and several others.

Ashutosh Kumar is the cultural adviser to the film, while Pranay Jethi, creative head of Media Planner, is overseeing its publicity and promotions. Biranchi Narayan has penned the lyrics, with Bikas Das composing the music. Abhijit Mishra and Nishant Mishra have lent their voices to the songs.

Following the release of its poster, trailer and audio, the film has generated considerable interest among Odia cinema audiences. The production house expressed confidence that the November 20 release would offer viewers an entertaining cinematic experience.