Kolkata: Srijit Mukherji's ‘Padatik' – a tribute to Mrinal Sen – was selected for special screening as Indian Panorama Feature Jury Recommends at the 55th International Film Festival of India, which will be held in Goa from Nov 20 to 28. The selection resolves the controversy regarding the film's initial exclusion allegedly due to its Mrinal Sen association.
Whilst discussing the exclusion of ‘Padatik' from the Indian Panorama and its subsequent inclusion for special screening, Mukherji referenced Prasun Chatterjee's ‘Dostojee'. "The film initially wasn't included but was subsequently added upon jury recommendation. I'm delighted this occurred with ‘Padatik' as well," Mukherji said.
Concerns were previously raised about the exclusion of ‘Padatik' this year. "Trade organisations submitted it to the mainstream category; however, the jury deemed it more suitable in the non-mainstream section," jury member Ratnottama Sengupta told TOI. Sengupta advocated for ‘Padatik', screened amongst mainstream cinema submissions, to be considered for the Homage section of the 55th IFFI. "The film would serve as an appropriate birth centenary tribute to Mrinal Sen, an international icon of Indian cinema. Without any commemorative screening even in 2023, misconceptions persist amongst cinephiles," she said during jury deliberations.
Director Chandraprakash Dwivedi, I-Pan jury chairperson, said, "Mrinal Sen was and remains an icon of Bharat and an inspiration for countless cinema enthusiasts worldwide who cherished his storytelling and admired his approach to social issues through films. I'm exceedingly pleased to see ‘Padatik' at the 55th IFFI through the jury's collective wisdom and endeavour."
Sengupta pointed out, "This inclusion is a significant achievement. We need to review this inconsistency regarding trade bodies' exclusive authority to nominate films for the mainstream category."
Producer of ‘Padatik' Firdasul Hasan said: "I am very happy with the news of Padatik's screening. It is prestigious, and we thank the jury for the recommendations. Greater transparency would benefit producers' understanding of trade body selections."
Many feel the inclusion of four contemporary Bengali films in the Indian Panorama exemplifies Tollywood's achievements.