The 12-minute Santhali film "Angen" (Invisible) made history by winning the Best Debut Film of a Director in the non-feature category at the 72nd National Film Awards. Directed by Ravi Raj Murmu, it marks the first time a Santhali-language film has ever received a National Award, bringing indigenous Adivasi storytelling to the national stage.
The Creator and Background
The film was written and directed by Ravi Raj Murmu, a 33-year-old filmmaker from East Singhbhum, Jharkhand. A graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, Murmu faced challenges in funding for his long-form feature. Consequently, he adapted his script into a short, 12-minute proof-of-concept with the help of friends and local performers.
Plot and Core Themes
Inspired by indigenous folklore, the movie follows an innocent shepherd boy whose beautiful flute-playing captivates a celestial goddess. She transports him to the heavens, but as the enchantment wears off, he longs to return to his roots. Upon returning, he discovers his home village has vanished.Beyond the myth, the film serves as a poignant allegory for modern social issues, specifically the large-scale migration of young Adivasi youth from rural villages to metropolitan cities in search of opportunities, which often alienates them from their native language and ancestral identity.
Cultural Significance
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren publicly congratulated Murmu, highlighting that this historic milestone is a testament to the "immense creative talent" emerging from the state. The win provides mainstream recognition for Santhali cinema, firmly cementing Jharkhand's growing identity as a hub for indigenous art, culture, and storytelling.
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