The first 'Suchitra Sen International Bengali Film Festival' is set to take place in New York next April. It will run from 11 am to 11 pm on April 20 and 21 at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center.
The festival aims to promote Bengali films globally and honor the legendary actress Suchitra Sen. The organizers announced this at a press conference held at the National Press Club, with popular actor Ferdous Ahmed as the chief guest.
Key figures from the Indian and Bangladeshi film industries, including actress Rituparna Sengupta and filmmaker Reshmi Mitra, were present at the announcement. The festival's chief coordinator, Hasanuzzaman Saki, outlined its objectives, focusing on expanding the audience for Bengali films, recognizing the work of Bengali filmmakers worldwide, and fostering connections between immigrant and American filmmakers.
Ferdous Ahmed praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of spreading Bengali cinema globally and paying tribute to Bengali language martyrs. He also hailed Suchitra Sen's enduring influence on Bengali cinema.
The festival will feature a selection of feature films, shorts, and documentaries, with submissions accepted through Filmfreeway until April 6. Awards will be given in various categories, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Cinematographer. Separate award categories will be established for Bangladeshi and Indian films, including those made by immigrant filmmakers.
The press conference was attended by notable personalities, including writers, scientists, and freedom fighters. Coordination for the event is being managed by a dedicated team from Dhaka and Kolkata, with renowned filmmaker Morshedul Islam serving as a jury member.