After receiving wide acclaim at several international film festivals, Bhabantar had its theatrical release across Odisha on May 30 this year. The film is a sensitive exploration of love, duty, and emotional transformation, unfolding through the intertwined lives of three central characters—Sritam, Shravani, and Milan.

Bound by tradition, Sritam and Shravani enter into an arranged marriage, but Shravani confides to her husband on their wedding night that she still loves her former partner, Milan. In an act of quiet grace, Sritam agrees to live as her husband only until Milan can be found. What follows is a subtle yet powerful narrative of evolving relationships—raising the question of whether Shravani will return to her first love or discover a new bond with Sritam.

Directed by Ananta Mahapatra, recipient of the Mohan Sunder Devgoswami Lifetime Achievement Award and the Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Amrit Award, the film bears the mark of his characteristic storytelling—delicate, layered, and deeply human. Known for cinematic milestones such as Batighara (1968), Mamu (1982), and the Hindi film Shodh, Mahapatra continues to explore complex emotional landscapes through Bhabantar.

The film features Suryamayee Mohapatra, Abhishek Giri, and Saroj Nanda in pivotal roles. Suryamayee, acclaimed for her performance in Rangashoor—a film celebrating the Bagha Nacha dance form—delivers a compelling portrayal in Bhabantar. She is joined by Abhishek Giri, noted for his performances in Ashram and the popular web series Naali Cha.

As audiences eagerly await its digital premiere, Bhabantar stands as another testament to Mahapatra’s enduring vision in blending cinematic art with human depth. The director’s next venture, Smurti, currently in post-production, is also set to release soon.