Palash and Maloti had a small but peaceful and happy life. Palash worked at a shop, while Maloti was pregnant. On their wedding anniversary, they went on a boat ride, cut a cake, and explored the surroundings. Like any other lower-middle-class couple, they dreamed of a happy and stable future together.
One day, Maloti playfully told Palash, “Buy me a sewing machine. I will stitch like actress Shabana and build my own factory.” Palash laughed and replied, “Then I’ll get a pushcart like Jashim and sell lace and ribbons.”
But their well-arranged life suddenly turned upside down. One day, as usual, Palash went to work. A while later, Maloti saw on the news that the building where Palash’s shop was located had caught fire. Palash was nowhere to be found. In an instant, their lives changed forever.
Priyo Maloti – A Film Based on True Events, Soon on Chorki
Chorki recently announced that Priyo Maloti, a film based on a true story, will premiere on its platform on Thursday, February 6, at 8 PM. The film has already been screened at the Cairo International Film Festival and the International Film Festival of India. Additionally, it won the Best Film award in the Bangladesh Panorama section at the 23rd Dhaka International Film Festival.
Maloti’s character in the film represents resilience and struggle. The story portrays a woman’s journey through social, economic, and emotional hardships. Many women in our society share similar struggles, questioning their place in a rigid system. Beyond personal struggles, the film challenges some long-standing societal norms. Maloti’s fight is not just her own; it reflects the struggles of countless others. As a pregnant woman, she battles against her in-laws, society, and religious conventions.
Released in theaters on December 20, Priyo Maloti marks the directorial debut of Shankha Dasgupta in feature films. The lead role of Maloti is played by Mehazabien Chowdhury, making her big-screen debut. Although she has had a successful 15-year career in TV dramas and series, audiences and critics alike believe her performance in Priyo Maloti surpasses all her previous work. Viewers were seen leaving the theaters with teary eyes, deeply moved by her performance. Speaking about the overwhelming response, Mehazabien shared, “I expected people to like the film, but I never imagined they would be this emotional.” She considers this role the best of her career so far.
Filmmaker-producer Adnan Al Rajeev also made his debut as a feature film producer with this project. Having previously produced multiple OTT content, he shared his thoughts on stepping into film production: “The story of Priyo Maloti is so unique that I felt this film needed to be made. That urgency drove me to be part of it. I have always admired Shankha’s dedication to making quality films. As fellow filmmakers, I believe supporting one another and growing together is crucial.”
The film was produced by Frame Per Second and Chorki. The official announcement came on April 19, 2023, followed by filming in various locations, including Dhaka and Barishal, between September and October. After completing all post-production work, the theatrical release was announced on December 5, and the trailer was unveiled on December 14. The film received a “U” grade censor certificate for public screening.
