“Kathakar Ki Diary” (The Tale of Ordinary Lives) is a unique film that weaves together stories of common people, celebrating their diversity and struggles. This special film captures the ordeals of Adivasi youngsters in Odisha’s forests and the challenges faced by the third gender, portraying their lives with a deep sense of empathy and realism.
The inspiration behind this film comes from Anwesh, a 2013 batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer. Often moved by stories of ordinary people, Anwesh conceived the idea of sharing these narratives through cinema. Despite holding a significant position as Joint Commissioner in the GST, Anwesh’s passion and dedication have enabled him to create this two-hour film on an incredibly low budget, proving that creativity and enthusiasm are powerful driving forces.
Anwesh holds the distinction of being the first officer in the history of Civil Services to have a graduation in classical music and Performing Arts. His artistic inclination began in childhood when he started learning classical music at the age of two. Despite his artistic pursuits, Anwesh excelled academically, securing the 236th rank in the Civil Services Exam of 2013 without any coaching. His career choice in the IRS has not diminished his artistic interests, as evidenced by his directorial debut, “Kathakar Ki Diary.”
Currently posted as Joint Commissioner in GST, Pune, Anwesh balances his professional responsibilities with his creative passions. He has produced several documentaries for the GST, Customs, and DRI departments, directed and composed music videos, and acted in short films, including a cameo in Nagesh Kukunoor’s web series “City of Dreams.”
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Reflecting on the journey of making “Kathakar Ki Diary,” Anwesh shared that the film’s script was written during his posting in Mumbai amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Filming began in 2022, and the production process continued even after his transfer to Pune. His dedication saw him working late into the night for nearly two years, juggling his official duties with his creative work.
The film features five protagonists, each determined to overcome life’s challenges, symbolizing resilience and diversity. It includes three songs and aims to resonate with the masses, dedicated to humanity as a whole. Anwesh emphasizes that this film is not for any specific class but for everyone, reflecting the shared experiences and struggles of ordinary people.
The release date for “Kathakar Ki Diary” is yet to be finalized, as some post-production work remains. The decision will be made by the producers and collaborators. However, early screenings to industry insiders have received positive feedback, and Anwesh is hopeful that the audience will connect with this film that represents the lives of everyday people.
Anwesh’s story and his film “Kathakar Ki Diary” stand as a testament to his belief in the power of storytelling and his commitment to bringing the narratives of common people to the forefront.
