Guwahati: After a long wait, the much-anticipated Assamese film Mahabahu -The Brahmaputra is set to release in theatres on September 11.
Produced by Monarijit Entertainment in association with Louhitya Arts, the film has been written and directed by Pranjal Pratim Chetia, who also plays the lead role.
The film was originally scheduled for release on June 19 but was postponed due to the flood situation in Assam, among other reasons.
Speaking about the project, Chetia said the title Mahabahu reflects the immense scale and power of the Brahmaputra and immediately establishes the river as the film’s central theme.
He described the making of the film as a challenging seven-year journey, during which the team faced several major disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic and devastating floods in Assam. After years of work, September 11 has now been finalised as the film’s release date.
Mahabahu – The Brahmaputra revolves around a scientific expedition travelling along the Brahmaputra, exploring the challenges faced by the team as they navigate the river’s unpredictable and powerful currents.
The film presents the Brahmaputra as both a spectacular natural force and a formidable challenge, placing human endurance against the power of nature. Alongside the expedition, the story explores the devastating impact of recurring floods and the lives of communities living along the river.
Sivasagar forms the central setting of the narrative, with the film seeking to portray the relationship between the Brahmaputra, its surrounding communities and the larger challenges confronting Assam.
Chetia also highlighted the cultural significance of the title Mahabahu, which is closely associated with legendary Assamese singer and cultural icon Dr Bhupen Hazarika.
The film’s first public screening was held on Dr Hazarika’s birth anniversary. It also features vocals by popular Assamese singer Zubeen Garg, alongside a broader musical ensemble.
According to Chetia, the team has attempted to present the subject in a distinctive and contemporary cinematic style.
Chetia leads the cast opposite actress Preety K Kongana, who plays the female lead. The film also features Jadumoni Dutta, NSD-trained theatre artiste Palash Pratim Mech, nationally recognised actor Sewan Singh Yein, Prayash (Kalpa), Gigi Prabhat Dutta, Diyashree and Pallavi Gohain Pathak.
Kongana said the film explores the major crises faced by people in Assam, including recurring floods and other pressing regional concerns. She added that audiences will see her in a different persona in the film and expressed hope that viewers would connect with the story.
The film has been produced by Monuj Sangbun Phukon, with Chetia serving as co-producer. Bidyut Konwar, Akash Duwori and Hemanta Phukon are the associate producers, while Samir Dutta is the executive producer.
The music has been composed by Shankuraj Konwar, Savvi Sabarwal and Sukumar Dutta. The soundtrack features Zubeen Garg, Deeplina Deka, Shankuraj Konwar, Papori Gogoi, Simanta Shekhar and Garima Kristy.
Sukumar Dutta has composed the background score, while cinematography has been handled by Ripu Kashyap and Raja Gogoi. Taposh Phukan is responsible for editing, with choreography by Ashim Gogoi and Pabitra Borah.
With the Brahmaputra at the heart of its story and Assam’s social and environmental realities forming a key part of its narrative, Mahabahu – The Brahmaputra is scheduled to reach theatres across the state on September 11.