"The day has finally arrived. 'Ekhon Nedekha Nodir Xipaare' is going to have the first public screening tomorrow. Am I nervous? Can't say really...," says Kotoky.
"The screening has come as a pleasant surprise to me. As also knowing the fact that producers National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) entered the film at Osian's Cinefan," the Mumbai-based director told PTI.
The film, also starring Raj Zutshi, Preeti Jhangiani and Bidita Bag, was in news recently for more than one reason.
The National Awards jury had dismissed the film as a non-Assamese work, angering its cast and crew as well as other members of the industry. Earlier, it had to await clearance for nearly two years because of funds.
The NFDC was of the contention that the bilingual film -- also "As the River Flows" in Hindi) -- exceeded its budget. The delay in the film's clearance prompted several MPs from the northeast to intervene. The NDFC later gave its nod.
According to Kotoky, his film is "straight from the heart. And regardless of what a few individuals have to say, 'Ekhon Nedekha Nodir Xipaare' is an Assamese film. Will be shattered if there is any question mark still left on these aspects..."
The film is a socio-political thriller and talks of social conflicts and individual commitments in an age where the society has become so self-centred. Set in the world's biggest inhabited river island of Majuli, the rich culture and lifestyle of the famous Vaishnavite centres form its theme.