Filmmaker Proshoon Rahmaan is gearing up for the world premiere of his latest movie, “Shekor” (The Roots), scheduled to debut on October 18 at the International Film Festival of South Asia (IFFSA) in Toronto. This esteemed festival, dedicated to showcasing South Asian cinema, will be held from October 9 to 19.
Joining Proshoon Rahmaan at the event will be Indian filmmaker Anup Singh, actress Tilottama Shome, and Afghan director Roya Sadat. In addition to film screenings, the festival will feature film forums, panel discussions, and a special commemoration of legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt on his 100th birth anniversary.
“Shekor” represents Rahman’s fifth feature film, following his previous works such as “Sutopar Thikana,” “Jonmobhumi,” “Dhaka Dream,” and “Priyo Satyajit.” With a penchant for narratives centered on migration, displacement, identity, and self-discovery, Rahman initiated production on “Shekor” in May last year, wrapping up the project in June this year. The Toronto premiere marks the film’s debut public screening.
Delving into themes of migration and the pursuit of self-identity, “Shekor” explores the universal human yearning for one’s roots—a connection that transcends linguistic and geographical boundaries. The film narrates the enduring tale of the bond between individuals and their homeland, portraying the emotional odyssey of those who strive to reconnect with their origins and their loved ones left behind, despite geographical separation.
“Life often steers us away from our origins, yet we inevitably find ourselves drawn back to the familiar earthy scent of the soil where we took our first breaths, felt love’s touch, and opened our eyes to the world. ‘Shekor’ serves as a poignant introspection on the magnetic pull of our homeland, as we endeavor to gaze back once more,” Rahman expressed.
Featuring FS Nayeem, Aisha Khan, Dilara Zaman, and Somu Chowdhury, among others, the film was shot at various locations spanning Dhaka, Gazipur, Rajshahi, and Kushtia.
Sahil Rony handled the cinematography, Tarek Bablu oversaw the art direction, Mahfuzul Haque Ashiq managed the editing, and Rokon Emon composed the music for the film. Adapted from a novel by expatriate writer Sanaual Mostafa, the screenplay, direction, and production of “Shekor” were spearheaded by Rahman under his production banner, Imation Creator.
The film is anticipated to hit cinemas nationwide in Bangladesh during the upcoming Eid festive season.