Assamese Film 'Kok Kok Kookkook' Shines at Busan Film Festival

Guwahati: Assamese director Maharshi Tuhin Kashyap's debut feature film "Kok Kok Kookkook" has been selected for the 30th edition of the Busan International Film Festival in South Korea, under the prestigious Vision Asia section.

The film, produced by the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) of Kolkata, is a magic realist horror drama that was unveiled in a press release on Wednesday.

Set against the backdrop of a gritty yet scenic city, this cinematic piece delves into the intense lives of migrants striving for identity.

Kashyap, who has transitioned from a renowned short filmmaker to a feature director, is known for his distinct use of magic realism and poetic imagination. He presents a deeply personal yet universal narrative set in Guwahati, his hometown in Assam.

"This film is dedicated to the people of Assam, who once celebrated diversity without hesitation. I fear times and minds are changing," Kashyap remarked, expressing his sentiments.

He hopes that the film will stand as "a testament of my existence and of those who fight for identity every day."

An alumnus of SRFTI, Kashyap developed this project as his final dissertation, mentored by esteemed filmmaker Dominic Sangma.

His short films have already garnered international acclaim with screenings at various global festivals and several awards.

The film's world premiere at Busan marks a significant milestone for both Kashyap and contemporary Assamese cinema, which is gaining growing recognition on the global platform.

The Vision Asia section at BIFF is known for introducing groundbreaking works from Korea and Asia, highlighting bold, boundary-pushing films from emerging voices that signify the future of Asian cinema.

The 30th Busan International Film Festival is scheduled to take place from September 17 to 26.

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