Kolkata : Acclaimed filmmaker Gautam Ghosh’s latest film, Parikrama, weaves an intricate tapestry of personal loss, environmental despair, and cross-cultural connections. Inspired by the writings of Italian author-director Sergio, this Indo-Italian collaboration brings together the emotional resonance of the Narmada Bachao Andolan and the tender story of a motherless teenager, Lala. The film was discussed at length during a special session at the Kolkata International Film Festival on Sunday, where Ghosh revealed the film's long creative journey and his enduring connection to its story.
“This is not a political film,” Ghosh clarified during the discussion. “As a citizen in a democracy, I have every right to question the world around me, and Parikrama raises many questions. It’s a journey—an exploration of human emotions, identity, and our shared connection to the environment.”
Set against the backdrop of the Narmada Bachao Andolan, Parikrama unites celebrated Italian actor Marco Leonardi (Cinema Paradiso, Maradona) with rising talents Chitrangada Singha and Aryan Badkul, who plays Lala. Leonardi portrays Alessandro, an Italian writer-director grappling with personal loss as he journeys to India and forms a poignant bond with Lala. Their shared experiences reveal a universal pain—the loss of family and homeland.
Leonardi described his deep attachment to the project, saying, “When I was offered the role, I began researching the Narmada River extensively. Witnessing its transformation during filming—from its majestic beauty to its degraded state—was heartbreaking. This film has been an emotional journey for me.”
The production of Parikrama faced unique challenges, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the Italian segments were filmed before the global lockdown, the extended hiatus led to recasting Lala’s role. Aryan Badkul ultimately brought the character to life, with Ghosh praising his naturalistic performance. A humorous anecdote from the shoot highlighted Aryan’s authenticity when locals mistook him for a real street vendor during a scene.
Parikrama is more than just a narrative; it is a cultural and emotional confluence. Ghosh described the film as an “orchestra” with himself as the conductor, striving to maintain harmony among its diverse elements. The film juxtaposes the struggles of a displaced Indian teenager with the grief of an Italian father, creating a universal story of resilience and connection.
The discussion also offered glimpses into the vivid memories from the film’s production, underscoring its unique blend of East and West. With breathtaking cinematography capturing the essence of the Narmada River and powerful performances by its cast, Parikrama promises to be a poignant cinematic experience.
The film’s narrative of personal and environmental loss resonates deeply in today’s world, making Parikrama not just a film, but a reflection on humanity’s shared journey.
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