Directed and produced by Lohardaga man Lal Vijay Shahdeo, ‘Phulmania’ is a high octane Nagpuri movie slated to hit the theatres on September 6. The female lead is played by Komal Singh who hails from Ranchi. Talking to the media on Wednesday in the State capital, Shahdeo said that the movie is based on true stories from the State.
“Even though it is a commercial film, it is also a movement which highlights some very serious social issues from Jharkhand. The film is based on the practice of witch hunting, which is very popular in some remote areas of the State. It also talks about gender discrimination and female infertility narrated from a women’s perspective. The film highlights the saying ‘Beta bhagya se aur beti saubhagya se’”, said Shahdeo.
Shahdeo further added that 85 per cent of the artists in the film are from Jharkhand. Earlier this year the film was screened at the 72nd International Cannes Film Festival. “This was the first time a Nagpuri film was released at such a big platform where it received very positive reviews. The censor board has also issued the release certificate without any cuts in the film,” Shahdeo added.
The film uses simple Nagpuri language making it easy for everyone to understand. It also starts Hansraj Jagtap, Vineet Kumar, Ravi Bhatia, Rina Sahay, Monica Mundu among other artists. It has been produced by Nitu Aggarwal where as the music has been composed by Nandlal Nayak. Jyoti Sahu has given her voice for two songs in the movie.
The movie has been shot mostly in Ranchi and its surrounding areas. “The film has received immense support from the State government. Along with Jharkhand Film Development Corporation Limited (JFDCL) and the government this movie will help in establishing Jharkhand as a film making hub and also highlight regional issues. It will also help in increasing employment in the State to a great level,” said the director.
JFDCL nodal officer Sayeed Rashid Akhtar said that cinema is a mirror of the society. “The film deals with a social stigma. It also shows the untapped beauty of Jharkhand. Ever since the Film Policy Boards has been set up, film makers from India and abroad are eager to make films here,”
While talking about making Jharkhand a film making hub, Akhtar further added that by casting local artists in lead roles, there are provisions of separate subsidy for the producer.
Ranchi girl Komal plays the titular role in the film. “I love to play challenging roles and I was thrilled to bag this one. Initially I was a little apprehensive about the character but it was a great experience to be a part of this film. I had thought that my family will not agree for this role but they have been immensely supportive and positive,” said the actor.
Information and Public Relations Department Director Ramlakhan Gupta congratulated the makers for making this movie based on a major issue. “Efforts are being made to screen the film in remote areas of the State with LED mobile vans and a road map has also been made in this regard,” Gupta said.
