‘Bikingti Etchaluk’ to screen at Dharamshala Film Festival

The Bangladeshi short film Bikingti Etchaluk, which translates to “A Snail Without Shell”, is making waves on the international film festival circuit.

Directed by the talented Mohin Rakhaine, this 15-minute film explores the lives of a Garo tribal couple.

The short film had previously been selected for screenings at other international festivals.

Bikingti Etchaluk will now be showcased at the 13th Dharamshala International Film Festival in India.

The film tells the touching story of an elderly couple eagerly waiting for the arrival of their grandson, a firefighter from Chittagong.

As they go about their simple rural routines, their anticipation turns to heartbreak when they learn that he may have died in a rescue operation.

However, they continue to hope for his arrival.

Since its world premiere at the 12th African Diaspora International Film Festival (ADIFF), Bikingti Etchaluk has struck a chord with audiences.

It has been praised for its subtle yet powerful depiction of loss, hope, and resilience. Aside from this, the film has also been selected for other notable events.

This includes the 23rd New York Asian Film Festival and the International Film Festival of South Asia in Toronto in 2024.

Despite being produced on a modest budget, the film captivates viewers with its universal themes and authentic portrayal of rural life.

Mohin Rakhaine, who hails from the Indigenous Rakhaine community in Rangamati, has employed a documentary-style approach.

It emphasises the slow, rhythmic pace of the couple’s daily existence, making the unfolding tragedy all the more poignant.

The film features impressive performances by Subinath Mankhin, Projuta Raksam, and Elias Raksam.

The portrayal of the elderly couple conveys a depth of emotion and nuanced storytelling.

Behind the scenes, the film is the result of collaborative efforts with screenwriter Sahinur Rahman and cinematographers Irfan Rashid and Chiya Rai.

It has been co-produced by Earth Reel and Emahin Rakhain.

The 13th Dharamshala International Film Festival will be held at the Tibetan Children’s Village in Upper Dharamshala.

This year’s line-up includes over 80 films, featuring a mix of narrative features, documentaries, short films, and mid-length films, from South Asia and beyond.

As Bikingti Etchaluk continues its journey through film festivals, the film’s heartfelt narrative and stunning visuals continue to resonate with audiences around the globe.