Movies have the remarkable power to delve deep into the essence of aesthetics and stir emotions within us. They make us feel like part of the story, connecting us intimately with the characters we encounter on screen. While movies span various genres, some are crafted purely for entertainment, while others delve into real-life issues, catering to specific audiences. The Odia film industry, known as Ollywood, has produced several gems that take viewers on a cinematic journey, showcasing Odia culture and traditions while addressing societal issues. Today, we’re excited to present a curated list of Odia films that have not only made waves among the masses but have also earned well-deserved accolades and praises from film critics.
1. Prateeksha:
In a world often captivated by romance and happy endings, Prateeksha stands apart. This national award-winning film, directed by Anupam Pattnaik was released in 2022 and connects you intimately with the trials and tribulations of life. It’s a sublime blend of all human emotions, making it a must-watch for those who cherish family-oriented films.
The movie won the 69th National Film Award for Best Feature film in Odia in 2023.
2. Sala Budha Ra Badla:
Among the most critically acclaimed films from Odisha, Sala Budha Ra Badla not only boasts a prestigious national award but also won the hearts of countless viewers.
Released in 2020 and directed by Sabyasachi Mohapatra, this masterpiece in the Kosali language beautifully portrays the essence of Odia culture and customs.
The film received the 67th National Award for Best Odia Film in 2021 and garnered numerous international awards, elevating the standards of the Ollywood industry.
Sala Budhar Badla (Sambalpuri) / Sala Budha Ra Badla( Odia) is an absolute must-watch!
3. Aadim Vichar:
An Ollywood masterpiece that sheds light on the challenges of village life, the 2014 release stars veteran actor Atal Bihari Panda as the lead. Directed by Sabyasachi Mohapatra, the film is a pure delight for every movie freak.
The film illustrates the power of greed and the lust for property, ultimately leading to the triumph of happiness within the family.
This Sambalpuri-language gem secured the 62nd National Film Award for Best Odia Feature Film in 2015, and 26th Odisha State Film Award in the same year.
4. Hello Arshi:
Hello Arshi blends compelling storytelling with talented casting and brilliant acting. Released in 2018, it explores the complexities of the modern world, addressing the struggles brought on by industrialization and social alienation.
Directed by Sambhit Mohanty and produced by Ajaya Routray it features Prakruti Mishra and Partha Sarathi Ray in lead roles and offers its viewers a taste of art, creativity, and stark reality.
The film bagged the 65th National Film Award for Best Odia Feature Film in 2018.
5.Kalira Atita:
A movie that beautifully depicts the nature’s wrath that ravages a man’s life, leaving him in a state of disillusion, is yet another path-breaking movie Ollywood has ever produced.
The film released in 2020 and directed by Nila Madhab Panda features Pitobhash Tripathy as the lead. It talks about a man who relentlessly struggles to move on from bitter memories of a deadly cyclone to meet his lost family at a time when another major cyclone is about to hit.
The film is a beautiful portrayal of emotional trauma and triumph he attains over the troubles. The movie bagged a National Award in 2021 for best Odia film.
If you have not watched it yet, add it to your list of must-watch movies.
Latest Odia Movies You Shouldn’t Miss:
While we’ve discussed some award-winning classics, here’s a list of the latest Odia movies you should definitely watch:
1. Pushkara:
A film that reconnects us with age-old customs and traditions, Pushkara is a crowd-pleaser that delivers high-quality content. It has been directed by Shubhransu Das and was released recently in September 2023.
Starring Sabyasachi and Supriya in lead roles, this movie is based on the novel ‘Nadabindu’ by the eminent writer Shankar Tripathy, leaving an indelible impact on our hearts.
2. Daman :
Considered a trailblazing movie for Ollywood, Daman skillfully connects viewers with the traditional mindset of people who prioritize superstition.
Written and directed by Vishal Morya and Debiprasad Lenka, the story follows a young doctor posted in the Malkangiri district, striving to liberate people from superstition and raise awareness about malaria. The 2022 release is an inspiration for young doctors looking to make a difference.
3. Phalguna Chaitra:
A romantic drama that encapsulates the essence of love, togetherness, sacrifice and sorrow. Featuring Partha Sarathi Ray, Chandan Biswal, and Choudhary Bikas Dash in leading roles, the unexpected twists in the plot are sure to leave you in awe.
The film released in 12th May, 2023. Directed by Sisir Kumar Sahu and Pinakee Singh, it is a film that will immerse you in its pure magic.
So do plan to watch these movies and let us know which ones you enjoyed the most.
Movies have the remarkable power to delve deep into the essence of aesthetics and stir emotions within us. They make us feel like part of the story, connecting us intimately with the characters we encounter on screen. While movies span various genres, some are crafted purely for entertainment, while others delve into real-life issues, catering to specific audiences. The Odia film industry, known as Ollywood, has produced several gems that take viewers on a cinematic journey, showcasing Odia culture and traditions while addressing societal issues. Today, we’re excited to present a curated list of Odia films that have not only made waves among the masses but have also earned well-deserved accolades and praises from film critics.
1. Prateeksha:
In a world often captivated by romance and happy endings, Prateeksha stands apart. This national award-winning film, directed by Anupam Pattnaik was released in 2022 and connects you intimately with the trials and tribulations of life. It’s a sublime blend of all human emotions, making it a must-watch for those who cherish family-oriented films.
The movie won the 69th National Film Award for Best Feature film in Odia in 2023.
2. Sala Budha Ra Badla:
Among the most critically acclaimed films from Odisha, Sala Budha Ra Badla not only boasts a prestigious national award but also won the hearts of countless viewers.
Released in 2020 and directed by Sabyasachi Mohapatra, this masterpiece in the Kosali language beautifully portrays the essence of Odia culture and customs.
The film received the 67th National Award for Best Odia Film in 2021 and garnered numerous international awards, elevating the standards of the Ollywood industry.
Sala Budhar Badla (Sambalpuri) / Sala Budha Ra Badla( Odia) is an absolute must-watch!
3. Aadim Vichar:
An Ollywood masterpiece that sheds light on the challenges of village life, the 2014 release stars veteran actor Atal Bihari Panda as the lead. Directed by Sabyasachi Mohapatra, the film is a pure delight for every movie freak.
The film illustrates the power of greed and the lust for property, ultimately leading to the triumph of happiness within the family.
This Sambalpuri-language gem secured the 62nd National Film Award for Best Odia Feature Film in 2015, and 26th Odisha State Film Award in the same year.
4. Hello Arshi:
Hello Arshi blends compelling storytelling with talented casting and brilliant acting. Released in 2018, it explores the complexities of the modern world, addressing the struggles brought on by industrialization and social alienation.
Directed by Sambhit Mohanty and produced by Ajaya Routray it features Prakruti Mishra and Partha Sarathi Ray in lead roles and offers its viewers a taste of art, creativity, and stark reality.
The film bagged the 65th National Film Award for Best Odia Feature Film in 2018.
5.Kalira Atita:
A movie that beautifully depicts the nature’s wrath that ravages a man’s life, leaving him in a state of disillusion, is yet another path-breaking movie Ollywood has ever produced.
The film released in 2020 and directed by Nila Madhab Panda features Pitobhash Tripathy as the lead. It talks about a man who relentlessly struggles to move on from bitter memories of a deadly cyclone to meet his lost family at a time when another major cyclone is about to hit.
The film is a beautiful portrayal of emotional trauma and triumph he attains over the troubles. The movie bagged a National Award in 2021 for best Odia film.
If you have not watched it yet, add it to your list of must-watch movies.
Latest Odia Movies You Shouldn’t Miss:
While we’ve discussed some award-winning classics, here’s a list of the latest Odia movies you should definitely watch:
1. Pushkara:
A film that reconnects us with age-old customs and traditions, Pushkara is a crowd-pleaser that delivers high-quality content. It has been directed by Shubhransu Das and was released recently in September 2023.
Starring Sabyasachi and Supriya in lead roles, this movie is based on the novel ‘Nadabindu’ by the eminent writer Shankar Tripathy, leaving an indelible impact on our hearts.
2. Daman :
Considered a trailblazing movie for Ollywood, Daman skillfully connects viewers with the traditional mindset of people who prioritize superstition.
Written and directed by Vishal Morya and Debiprasad Lenka, the story follows a young doctor posted in the Malkangiri district, striving to liberate people from superstition and raise awareness about malaria. The 2022 release is an inspiration for young doctors looking to make a difference.
3. Phalguna Chaitra:
A romantic drama that encapsulates the essence of love, togetherness, sacrifice and sorrow. Featuring Partha Sarathi Ray, Chandan Biswal, and Choudhary Bikas Dash in leading roles, the unexpected twists in the plot are sure to leave you in awe.
The film released in 12th May, 2023. Directed by Sisir Kumar Sahu and Pinakee Singh, it is a film that will immerse you in its pure magic.
So do plan to watch these movies and let us know which ones you enjoyed the most.
