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Basundhara premiere at the Nehru Centre in London

By Rini Kakati |


On August 13 at Nehru Centre, the cultural Wing of High Commission of India, London, screened Basundhara: the earth as part of event 'Celebrate Assam' for the first time with a month long programme of film and music. The place was decorated with Asomiya japi, sarai, Bhagabat-Gita, dhoop, gamoscha - a real picturesque of Assamese tradition and culture.


The story of Basundhara written by director Hiren Bora himself depicts man-elephant conflict and socio-economic development issues of the present society. The theme song O' Basundhara is the stunning voice of Tarali Sharma which echoed in and out of the auditorium.


In her opening speech Monika Kopil Mohta (Director and Minister for Culture) spoke highly about the art and culture of Assam, its scenic beauty with flora and fauna which is shown in every shot of Basundhara. She also introduced the invited guest from Assam, Dr. Syed Iftikar Ahmed who played an important role in Basundhara.


Dr. Ahmed delivered a short speech about the present market of Assamese film industry and praised Hiren Bora for his hard work and effort to create Basundhara for the highest award. He also thanked Rini Kakati who is instrumental to bring Basundhara to this prestigious venue in London.


The invited dignitaries were Dan Bucknell (Head of Conservation & Campaign) from Elephant Family, Rosemary Crill (Senior Curator for Asian Department) Victoria & Albert Museum, Representatives from British Film Institute, Ministers from Indian High Commission and workers from Animal Liberation Forum.


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