Raima Sen’s ‘Maa Kaali’ to Premiere at 55th IFFI

Actress Raima Sen’s upcoming trilingual film Maa Kaali – The Erased History of Bengal is set to have its world premiere at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).

The film, which also features actor Abhishek Singh, is directed by Vijay Yelakanti. It is based on significant historical events surrounding Direct Action Day in 1946 and explores the overlooked history of Bengal, shedding light on the tragic massacres in Calcutta and Naokhali, which are now part of modern-day India and Bangladesh.

Director Vijay Yelakanti shared his thoughts in a statement, saying, “Maa Kaali is not necessarily meant to be a mass entertainer, but rather a mass thinker. It’s a film designed to teach a lesson on preventing history from repeating itself. We are extremely glad and honoured that IFFI has recognized the importance of our film and our vision aligns with their prestigious platform.”

The film is set to premiere on November 26 at IFFI in Goa. The premiere will be attended by director Vijay Yelakanti, the producers from People Media Factory, as well as actors Abhishek Singh and Raima Sen. The event is expected to be graced by Goa’s Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, who had previously met with the Maa Kaali team earlier on Sunday.

Abhishek Singh, an IAS officer-turned-actor, commented, “Given the current situation in Bangladesh, it takes us back to a time when religious disturbances in Bengal began. A film like Maa Kaali is extremely important today, and IFFI provides the perfect platform to showcase it.”

He further added, “We are deeply humbled and encouraged by the support of IFFI and the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa. We can’t wait to share this film with everyone.”

Written and directed by Vijay Yelakanti, Maa Kaali is produced by TG Vishwa Prasad, co-produced by Vivek Kuchibhotla, and presented by People Media Factory, the team behind Karthikeya 2. The pan-Indian film has been shot in Hindi and will also release in Bengali and Telugu in theatres in 2025.