Three Bangladeshi films selected for World Film Festival in Kolkata

Three Bangladeshi productions have been selected for the 5th World Film Festival, scheduled to take place at Nandan in Kolkata from September 8 to 13.

Two Bangladeshi feature films—Piplu R Khan Jaya Aar Sharmin and Nurul Alam Atique’s Manusher Bagan—will compete in the festival’s feature film competition alongside 19 films from around the world. Both films will vie for the Bimal Roy Golden and Silver Awards.

Jaya Aar Sharmin, directed by Piplu R Khan, explores the relationship between two women from contrasting socioeconomic backgrounds who become confined to the same house during the COVID-19 lockdown. Jaya Ahsan plays Jaya, while Mohsina Akter portrays Sharmin. Released in 2025, the film has received critical acclaim.

Nurul Alam Atique’s Manusher Bagan weaves together five stories centred on people from different walks of life. The film won the Best Film award at the Delhi International Film Festival earlier this year, further drawing attention to the production. Its cast includes Manoj Pramanik, Orchita Sporshia, Proshun Azad, Dipanwita Martin and Jyotika Jyoti.

The festival’s documentary section will feature Mamun-In Praise of Shadows, a Bangladesh-UK co-production directed by Makbul Chowdhury. The documentary will compete for the Harisadhan Dasgupta Golden and Silver Awards.

The selection puts three Bangladeshi productions on an international platform and adds another notable chapter to the country’s growing presence in regional and global film festivals.