Berhampur: The much-awaited big-budget Odia movie Challenge has been released across Odisha, opening in 50 theatres with 150 shows on its first day. For the first time, the premiere show was held in Berhmapur city Saturday, alongside earlier premieres in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
The excitement in Berhamapur was palpable as the city welcomed its own stars, Real Star Ardhendu Sahu and popular actress Lipi Mahapatra, who hail from the region. The film’s team received a grand reception with a 150-bike rally before arriving at Rukmini Cinema Hall for the premiere.
Superstar Ardhendu Sahu, actress Elina Samantaray, director Sai Kiran Mangaraj, cinematographer Pratap Chandra Raut, publicity and promotions head Pranaya Jethi, actors Bhupinder Singh, Lipi Mahapatra, and Bibhas joined fans at the venue. They interacted with the audience, took selfies, made reels, and later enjoyed the full screening alongside moviegoers.
Residents of Brahmapur, known as the “Silk City,” were delighted to witness such a grand premiere in their city for the first time. Fans also expressed excitement at seeing Bollywood veteran Puneet Issar, famed for his role as “Duryodhan,” in the film.
Packed with high-octane action, family drama, foot-tapping songs, and traditional Odia art forms integrated into dance sequences, Challenge promises to be a festive entertainer. The makers said the film will offer audiences a complete package of entertainment this Dussehra.