Guwahati

A film adaptation of renowned Assamese writer-director Bhabendra Nath Saikia’s celebrated novel “Moromor Deuta” (Dear Father) will have its world premiere at the 23rd Chennai International Film Festival, the makers announced on Saturday.

Originally published in 1989 in the children’s magazine Xophura, the novel remains one of Saikia’s most beloved works and is widely regarded as a classic of Assamese literature. It has also been part of academic study for its sensitive portrayal of emotional and familial bonds.

The film, directed by Himjyoti Talukdar and produced by Mamata Mahilary, stars debutant Bodhisattva Sharma in the lead role, alongside Mintu Barua, Aparna Dutta Choudhury and Gaurav Bora.

Centred on the profound bond between a father and child, the story explores themes of love, separation and resilience — elements that have earned the book a multi-generational readership.

Preeti Saikia, managing trustee of the Bhabendra Nath Saikia Children Welfare Trust and wife of the late author, expressed her joy over the adaptation. “It is a moment of profound pride and emotion to see Moromor Deuta come alive on the big screen. This work was extremely close to his heart, and over the years it has touched countless readers. Watching it find new life through cinema is truly special, as it carries his legacy to a new generation of audiences,” she said.

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The film is slated for a theatrical release in 2026.