Noted actress Moushumi, who has been living in the United States for nearly three years, will see her latest film “Ordhangini” released directly on YouTube, after plans for a theatrical release in both Bangladesh and the US fell through.
Directed by Syed R Saeed (Emon), the film was initially slated for cinema release. However, the makers failed to secure support from theatre owners in either country, prompting a shift to digital release.
“We had planned to release the film in 2024. But after the July mass uprising and the ensuing political instability in Bangladesh, the release had to be postponed,” Syed said. “We are also not getting theatres in the United States. Ramadan is approaching, and our sponsors are no longer willing to wait. So we have decided to release ‘Ordhangini’ directly on YouTube.”
Despite repeated efforts to engage distributors in Bangladesh, the director said he received no positive response. The film is now scheduled to premiere before Eid on the YouTube channel BDFilms USA.
A social and family-oriented film, “Ordhangini” centres on Moushumi’s character and reflects on changing definitions of life, evolving human struggles, and society’s growing indifference during times of crisis.
The film was shot in New York and New Jersey under harsh winter conditions. Syed recalled the demanding schedule, particularly Moushumi’s commitment during the shoot.
“She is not accustomed to US winters. Yet she shot for eight hours on a hill in strong winds, wearing a sari, in minus 16 degrees Celsius. It still amazes me,” he said.
The project began as a telefilm and was later expanded for theatrical release. After further additions and editing, the runtime now stands at 1 hour and 56 minutes.
Alongside Moushumi, the cast includes Bangladeshi expatriate artistes Toriqul Islam Mithu, Jolly Ahmed, Sarwar Premel, Sumit Chowdhury, Nausheen Mridula, Abul Hossain, Sohail Rana, Naeem Bhuiyan, Rehana Chowdhury Lea, Joy Chowdhury, Mamun Rashid, and others.
The film is produced by Toriqul Islam Mithu, with music arranged by Mehdi Hasan Tamjid.
