‘Barir Naam Shahana’ to release in theatres across Bangladesh

After winning awards at international film festivals in London, Chicago, Melbourne, Rome, and Mumbai, the much-discussed film "Barir Naam Shahana" is set for release in Bangladesh on September 19, director Leesa Gazi has announced. This marks Gazi's debut as a feature filmmaker.

"This is my first full-length narrative film," said the director. "It is not a story of despair, but a celebration of life and resilience."

Based on true events, the film follows the dreams and struggles of a woman determined to live on her own terms. Set in the conservative small-town environment of the 1990s, it tells the story of Deepa, who, under family pressure, agrees to a trunk-call marriage with a widower living in England after an act of teenage defiance. Alone, she travels to London, only to confront a reality far harsher than she imagined.

Produced jointly by Gupi Bagha Productions Limited and Komola Collective, "Bari'r Naam Shahana" stars Anan Siddiqua as Deepa, with performances by Lutfor Rahman George, Iresh Zaker, Kazi Ruma, and Kamrunnahar Muni, among others.