In yet another effort to take indigenous cinema to an international level, Nandlal Nayak’s ‘Dhumkkudiya’ won the hearts of film critics and journalists with its special screening on Saturday followed by a gathering for government officials of the State. An experimental approach by the director, first of its kind - to screen the film for critics and make necessary changes based on their response - was much appreciated and strives to refine it further for the audience.

‘Dhumkkudiya’ is inspired by true incidents and throws light on concerning issues like human trafficking, migration and exploitation of tribals by the urban society. As an attempt to restore the cultural integrity and identity of the tribals of Jharkhand, Nandlal Nayak left no stone unturned to take his film to another level of cimenatic excellence.

“It is the first feature film of Jharkhand in its truest sense. The film is not merely a story, it revokes feeling of shock, grief and empathy,” said Ajit Kumar Rai, international film critic and journalist.

With the maximum number of artists from the State, the film tries to capture the true essence of Jharkhandi culture.

The character of protagonist is played by Rinkal Kacchap and that of the antagonist is played by Pradhuman Nayak, both dedicated to the upliftment of cultural and regional films.

Rupesh Kumar, as director of photography and cinematographer has created a strong visual language for the film that leaves a long lasting impact on the viewer’s mind.

‘Dhumkkudiya’ qualifies as a critically acclaimed ‘Content Cinema’ with a strong message for the society. Rajesh Jais, veteran theatre actor who is an integral part of the film claims ‘Dhumkkudiya’ to be far away from the commercial- entertainment genre. “Issue based cinema with some philosophy is the need of the hour. It is our moral duty to give back to the society and to the new generation, to provide them with content driven and meaningful storylines and not abuse the powerful medium of cinema that we have with trashy films,” said Rajesh.

Many veteran journalists and critics, all gathered in support of the film discussed the future of regional films at international level.

Culturally rich and content driven cinema needs tax relaxation and financial aid from the government concluded the discussion.

Sowing the seeds of film appreciation, opening up of film schools to enhance opportunities for regional artists and setting up of single theatres are few other measures that were discussed.