Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Feb 25: Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha, known for his impactful films like Thappad, Mulk, Article 15, and the globally acclaimed Netflix series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, recently expressed his admiration for Kolkata’s thriving film culture. While inaugurating the second edition of the French Film Festival in Kolkata, Sinha lauded the city’s rich cinematic heritage and its abundance of film festivals.
Sharing the stage with legendary actor Naseeruddin Shah, National Award-winning filmmaker Goutam Ghose, and actor Anasuya Sengupta at Nandan on the festival’s opening day, Sinha reflected on Kolkata’s deep-rooted love for cinema. “I love Kolkata, and also the films and food they make here. The city is fortunate to have so many film festivals,” he remarked, acknowledging the city's role as a cultural powerhouse in Indian cinema.
Known for his socially relevant and hard-hitting storytelling, Sinha has carved a niche for himself in the industry, blending meticulous craftsmanship with compelling narratives. His recent project, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, captivated global audiences, earning widespread acclaim for its gripping storytelling, powerful performances, and attention to historical detail. The show emerged as the most searched series on Google in 2024, securing a place in the global top 10 charts for three weeks and maintaining its position in India’s top 10 charts for 11 weeks.
The series, based on the real-life hijacking of an Air India flight, unfolds across five airports, five countries, and seven harrowing days, capturing the ordeal of 188 passengers. Reflecting on the success of the series, Sinha shared, “Stories like these are not just meant to entertain; they remind us of resilience, courage, and humanity in the face of unimaginable adversity. It was a humbling experience to bring this story to the screen, and I am deeply grateful for the love it has received from audiences worldwide.”
With his ability to craft thought-provoking narratives that resonate with audiences, Sinha remains one of the most celebrated filmmakers in contemporary Indian cinema. As anticipation builds for his next project, his presence at the French Film Festival in Kolkata further solidifies the city’s reputation as a hub for film lovers and storytellers alike.