`As the River Flows`, a socio-political thriller on Majuli

Mumbai, May 23: `As the River Flows` is a socio-political thriller inspired by a true incident, says National Award winning director Bidyut Kotkoy.The film, produced by National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), is the story of a journalist, Abhijit Shandilya who is caught in a multi-layered world of intriguing happenings in the largest inhabited river island in the world, Majuli in Assam.

`As the River Flows`, starring actors Victor Banerjee and Sanjay Suri, talks of social conflicts and individual commitments in an age where being self centered is the norm, the filmmaker said. Kotkoy said, "Initially, I had my apprehensions regarding NFDC, considering the general perception associated with a government organisation. But, I must say, my experience with them came as a pleasant surprise. NFDC still remains the best bet for a newcomer if you have a good story to tell." Besides Banerjee and Suri, the cast includes Raj Zutshi, Nakul Vaid, Naved Aslam and newcomer Bidita Bag. The music has been composed by well-known singer and composer from Assam, Zubin Garg. `As the River Flows` is a bilingual film, being made in Hindi and Assamese. The Assamese title is named `Ekhon Nedheka Nadir Shipaare`.Kotkoy is the recipient of a Special Mention at the 53rd National Award for the film `Bhraimonman Theatre`. He has more than 100 short films (non-fiction) to his credit. NFDC, till date, has produced and financed more than 300 films in 15 Indian languages and has more than 15 international co-productions. Its catalogue includes award winning films like `Gandhi`, `Salaam Bombay`, `Massey Sahib`, `The Making of Mahatma` and `Train to Pakistan`. NFDC has worked with some of the most acclaimed filmmakers like Satyajit Ray, Shyam Benegal, Mrinal Sen, Mira Nair, Aparna Sen, Ketan Mehta and Girish Kasarvalli. Bureau Report