The saga of the Paika Rebellion would soon be on screens as filmmaker Akshay Parija is all set to produce a movie entitled Buxi Jagabandhu which would depict the historic armed revolt by the Paikas against the British East India Company’s rule in Odisha in 1817.
Buxi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar Mohapatra Bhramarbar Ray, the then landlord of Rodhanga and nominated as ‘Senapati’ by the King of Khurda, was the leader of the Paika Revolt.
In a bid to ensure a global reach for the historic rebellion, Parija has decided to produce the film in English and Hindi languages. The movie has a budget of Rs 15 crore, and research for the film has already began in Khordha. The film would feature Odia actors.
“This is an initiative to claim the Paika Rebellion as the first freedom movement of India. If the Odisha Government provides assistance, the movie can be made in Odia language as well,” Parija said.
“If a fictional story like Baahubali could be successful, a movie based on real incidents can give a thrilling experience to audience, especially youths,” Parija added.
Notably, the Paikas of Khordha headed by Buxi Jagabandhu were up in arms against heavy taxation and illegal encroachment of the tax-free lands and restriction on salt during the British rule.
Buxi Jagabandhu was well adept in horse-riding, axe fighting and Guerilla war. Starting from the year of 1817, the great Paika Revolt ended after a long period of 10 years.
The British Government imprisoned the legendary warrior at Cuttack, where he took his last breath on January 24, 1829.