Film ‘Moromor Deuta’, inspired by Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia’s novel, set to hit theatres on May 15

The much-anticipated Assamese film ‘Moromor Deuta’, inspired by the acclaimed novel of the same name by renowned author and filmmaker Dr Bhabendra Nath Saikia, is scheduled to hit theatres throughout Assam on May 15. Directed by Himjyoti Talukdar and produced by Mamata Mahilari, this film promises to be a captivating adaptation of the  literary work.

            First published in the children’s magazine Xofura as a serial from 1989 to 1990, ‘Moromor Deuta’ is celebrated as one of the premier Assamese novels that beautifully captures the essence of adolescent life. In the 1990s, it was incorporated into the academic curriculum of various educational institutions throughout Assam. The novel offers a poignant exploration of teenage psychology and the intricate emotional dynamics within families.

            The story begins with Pradip Barua, a headmaster of a school in a secluded hill town in Arunachal Pradesh. He faces the challenge of keeping life as normal as possible, despite the distance from his family. His wife, daughter, and troubled son, Partha, reside in a small Assamese town, far from him.

            As time passes, the emotional gap between Pradip and his family grows ever wider. Partha, grappling with his own demons, descends into a cycle of aggression, alcoholism, and self-destructive behaviour, causing pain and turmoil for his mother and sister in the absence of their father.

            What starts as typical household turmoil takes a sinister turn when Partha brutally assaults a local electrician, driving the already vulnerable family to their breaking point. Pradip and his wife find themselves engulfed in feelings of helplessness and guilt, pondering where they might have strayed off course.

            However, when Partha is subsequently discovered to have been brutally attacked and is rushed to the hospital for urgent medical intervention, a police investigation is launched that begins to uncover links to local criminal elements. As the family prepares themselves for the answers they so desperately seek, the narrative takes an unforeseen twist – unveiling concealed truths, deep-seated conflicts, and a father’s frantic struggle to shield his family from the dangers posed by their own kin.

            Director Himjyoti Talukdar, recognised for his earlier acclaimed works ‘Calendar’ (2018) and ‘Taarikh’ (2025), shares that the film delves into the unspoken struggles that families endure – the guilt, fear, and emotional isolation that parents experience when love alone isn’t enough to protect their child. “Through the journey of Pradip Barua, the film poignantly illustrates themes of helplessness and resilience, while also exploring the complex moral dilemmas that can influence the delicate relationships within a home,” he says.

            Talukdar also shared his vision for the film adaptation, revealing that the script development commenced back in 2018. Although the story is rooted in a different era, the team has diligently crafted a cinematic interpretation that strikes a chord with modern audiences, all while staying true to the emotional core of the original narrative.

            In discussing the adaptation, Smti Preeti Saikia, the Managing Trustee of the Bhabendra Nath Saikia Children Welfare Trust and spouse of Dr Saikia, expressed, “It is a moment of immense pride and deep emotion to witness ‘Moromor Deuta’ come to life on the big screen. This work held great significance for Dr Saikia, and throughout the years, it has resonated with innumerable readers. Observing it being revitalised through cinema is indeed remarkable, as it extends his legacy to a new generation of viewers.”

            The film showcases the talents of Bodhisattva Sharma, a fresh face in Assamese cinema, who takes on the lead role. Sharma has already made waves on a national level, earning acclaim for his compelling performances in the web series ‘Paatal Lok’ and ‘Rana Naidu’, as well as in the film ‘All India Rank’, directed by Varun Grover. The cast also includes Mintu Baruah, Aparna Dutta Choudhury, Gaurav Bora, Arun Nath, Kula Kuldeep, along with several other new and veteran actors.

            The film’s music is scored by Arnab Bashistha, while the editing has been handled by Uddipta Kumar Bhattacharyya. The screenplay is a collaborative effort from Abhishek Dutta, Santanu Rowmuria, and Himjyoti Talukdar. The Executive Producers are Dr Muktishmaan Hazarika and Jyoti Prakash Nath. Chandra Kumar Das takes charge as the Director of Photography, with colour grading by Upamanyoo Das. The sound design and mixing have been executed by Debajit Gayan. Costumes are designed by Rani Dutta Baruah and Sanjana Baruah, with make-up provided by Poly Gogoi. Motion graphics are created by Samudra Kajal Saikia, and the art direction is led by Bhaskar Jyoti Kalita.

            Since the film's release date was announced on social media, 'Moromor Deuta' has sparked a significant wave of excitement among audiences. Those who cherished the novel during the 1990s are particularly eager to see this beloved story brought to life on the big screen.

           The filmmakers are confident that the film will bridge the gap between modern audiences and the enduring legacy of Assamese literature, introducing the esteemed works of filmmaker and writer Dr. Bhabendra Nath Saikia to a fresh generation of viewers.

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