200 Artists, One Dream: IRS Officer Anwesh’s ‘Kathakar Ki Diary’ Shines At KIFF, Nominated For Prestigious NETPAC Award

The 31st Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) celebrates the unwavering dedication of 200 independent artists who poured their hearts into the micro-budget film ‘Kathakar Ki Diary’, directed by IRS officer Anwesh.

This poignant story of ordinary lives has not only earned critical acclaim but also highlighted the unyielding spirit of these unsung creative heroes.

Most of the 200 artists hail from marginalised and rural regions of Odisha, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra.

Driven by passion and a desire to showcase their craft, they worked tirelessly to bring this cinematic vision to life. Their collective perseverance has resulted in a masterpiece that transcends boundaries and touches the heart.

A Testament to the Power of Art

‘Kathakar Ki Diary’ is more than just a film—it is a powerful testament to the transformative nature of art.

Through the intertwined stories of five protagonists, set to an evocative blend of Indian and Western folk music, the film takes audiences on a moving journey of self-discovery, resilience, and hope.

A Tribute to Independent Artists

Directed by Anwesh, an Indian Revenue Service officer posted in Pune as Joint Commissioner in the GST department, the film stands as a tribute to the collaboration and determination of independent artists and technicians, including those from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).

In a remarkably short time, ‘Kathakar Ki Diary’ has already won the Best Film in the No-Budget Category at the International New York Film Festival (INYFF) and earned nominations at festivals in British Columbia, Vancouver, and Canada. It is also contending as a nominee at the Abuja International Film Festival, one of West Africa’s major film events.

Recognition at Kolkata International Film Festival

The Kolkata International Film Festival, running from 6–13 November, will feature 215 films from 39 countries, including 185 full-length features and 30 short films.

‘Kathakar Ki Diary’ has been nominated for the prestigious NETPAC Award and will be screened under the Asian Select category.

According to director Anwesh, the film celebrates the collaborative spirit of over 200 independent artists and technicians, all of whom eagerly await its screening at KIFF.

This year’s festival will also commemorate the centenary of legendary filmmakers and actors such as Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, and Guru Dutt, adding to the grandeur of the event.