The burning issue of witch hunting across Assam is the subject of eminent theatre activist Sitanath Lahkar's first feature film.
"Aei Maatite" will be an adaptation of his stage play "Tamasaa". The story, screenplay, lyrics and direction of the film will be by Lahkar, a retired professor of mathematics.
Commenting on his venture, Lahkar said, "Witch hunting, born out of superstition and all-round backwardness of people and aggravated by a small powerful section of society with the help of sorcerers, stands out to be an enemy of humanity, stigma of civilisation and hence a big challenge for us.
"Hundreds of people in Assam have lost their lives in the name of witch hunting. So, this is the reason for choosing this issue as the subject of my first feature film."
To be made under the banner of Angeekar Films, "Aei Maatite" will have Rupam Chetia and Monisha Goswami in the lead roles with Khwrwm Narzary playing a negative character.
National Award-winning actress Malaya Goswami will play a significant character, Lahkar said, adding noted crusader against witch hunting Birubala Rabha will also be seen in the film.
Tezpur University Pro VC and well-known lyricist-poet Amarjyoti Choudhury, Thengal-Kachari Autonomous Council CEM Kumud Kachari, ABSU leader Pramod Boro, SFI leader Nirankush Nath and former Inspector General of Police SP Kar will also act in the film which has over 100 characters, most of which will be played by newcomers.
The shooting of the film will start from next month and is expected to be released by the year-end, Lahkar said.
The music will be composed by Bibhuranjan Choudhury and art direction by Nuruddin Ahmed.
