The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) witnessed a thought-provoking media interaction as the cast and crew of two films — Amar Aaj Marega (Hindi) and Swargarath(Assamese) — addressed the media during a Press Conference, today in Panaji, Goa, as part of the festival’s dedication to showcasing emerging filmmakers and regional cinema.
Rajat Laxman Kariya, a first-time director, shared his journey of bringing Amar Aai Marega to life. A story that began as a dream on paper, Kariya’s film made its way to IFFI, a significant achievement that he attributed to his producer Prakash Jha and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). Kariya expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to showcase new talent, crediting IFFI 2024 for offering a platform to new voices in cinema.
The film tackles the delicate subject of death with a positive twist. While its title may sound grim — “Amar will die today”— the film conveys the message that “Death is a celebration of Life.” The director spoke of how the film’s philosophical approach was influenced by themes of life and death, which were subconsciously reflected in the editing process.
“My movie starts with a quotation from the film ‘Anand’. Although it wasn’t a conscious reference during the making, I realized during editing that the film explores how to celebrate life in the face of death. I don’t think death is a taboo; it’s just a fear people have. In this generation, memes have become popular, and growing up in 2005, I was influenced by Priyadarshan’s comedies like Bhagam Bhaag and Hera Pheri which became role models for comedy. Today, after 15 years we still make and laugh memes from these films”, he shares saying Priyadarshan is the role model for comedy films.
About ‘Swargarath’
Swargarath is an Assamese feature film that follows Baikuntha, a mortuary van driver, as he crosses paths with a group of college students and two policemen who come into possession of a bag full of money. Set during the demonetization period of 2016, the film explores the idea that fate governs the path to wealth, with black comedy used to highlight the absurdities of life and death. The film balances humor and social commentary, addressing the pursuit of easy money and its inevitable consequences, culminating in the notion that death is an inescapable part of the human journey. The film, blending moments of farce with reflection, aims to make serious points through a comedic lens.
About ‘Amar Aaj Marega’
Amar Aaj Marega is a Hindi non-feature film that follows Amar Singh Bapat, a 62-year-old widower, who plans to end his life, believing that his life has reached perfection. His quiet exit, however, becomes a source of debate for his neighbors as they question his right to die. The film explores the moral dilemmas surrounding suicide, questioning societal views on death and life.
