Acclaimed Assamese filmmaker Rima Das premiered her latest film Not a Hero at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, where it received warm applause from audiences. The film was screened on Sunday, February 15, in the Generation Kplus Competition section, which focuses on stories centred on children and young people.
For Guwahati’s film community, the premiere marks another significant global milestone for Assamese cinema, reinforcing the city’s growing reputation as a creative hub connected to international platforms.
Assamese filmmaker Rima Das premiered her new film Not a Hero at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival on February 15 in the Generation Kplus Competition section. The film received warm applause and marks Das’s third appearance at Berlinale, bringing global recognition to Assamese cinema and Guwahati’s creative ecosystem.
A Global Stage, A Local Connection
Rima Das’s consistent presence at the Berlin International Film Festival has become a point of pride for Assam’s film fraternity. While Berlin may be thousands of kilometres away, the achievement resonates strongly in Guwahati, where independent cinema movements and film discussions have steadily grown over the years.
This marks Das’s third appearance at Berlinale, following Village Rockstars and its sequel, Village Rockstars 2. Her continued selection at one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals strengthens the visibility of regional storytelling from Assam.
About ‘Not a Hero’
Not a Hero follows a young boy who is sent from the city to his ancestral village. In the unfamiliar rural environment, he gradually reshapes his understanding of strength, masculinity and belonging.
The official synopsis reads:
“Exiled from city comforts to his ancestral village, a boy encounters his bitter aunt, befriends a horse, and joins wild local children on untamed adventures, discovering the beauty of life and a courage he never knew he had.”
The film is shot in Assamese, Hindi, and English.
Cast and Production
The film features Bhuman Bhargav Das, who previously appeared in Das’s 2022 film Tora’s Husband. Actor Sukanya Boruah also stars in the film alongside a cast of non-professional performers.
The project is produced under Rima Das’s banner, Flying River Films, in association with Akanga Film Asia and TrainTripper Films.
Generation Kplus Section
The Generation Kplus Competition section of the Berlin International Film Festival focuses on stories centred around children and young audiences.
Das reportedly described Not a Hero as an exploration of emotional complexity that respects the intelligence of young viewers. She expressed gratitude for the film’s selection in a section that views children as fully formed individuals rather than symbolic figures.
What This Means for Guwahati
Guwahati remains the nerve centre of Assam’s film discussions, screenings, and independent creative exchanges. International recognition of Assamese films often inspires emerging filmmakers, students and artists in the city.
Film enthusiasts in Guwahati see such global premieres as a reminder that regional narratives can travel beyond language barriers. It also strengthens Assam’s position within India’s independent cinema movement.
With multiple appearances at Berlinale, Rima Das continues to connect Assam’s storytelling traditions with global audiences.
What Happens Next?
The Berlin screening places Not a Hero within the global festival circuit. Further international screenings and possible releases may follow, though no additional details have been announced yet.
For Guwahati’s creative community, the premiere adds another chapter to Assam’s growing international cinematic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did ‘Not a Hero’ premiere?
The film premiered on February 15 at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival.
In which section was the film screened?
It was screened in the Generation Kplus Competition section, which focused on films about children and young people.
Why is this important for Guwahati?
Rima Das’s international recognition strengthens the global visibility of Assamese cinema and inspires Guwahati’s growing film community.
