Konkani film to have a special release in Pune

When it comes to connecting with their native roots, Pune’s growing Mangalorean community has at the most enjoyed Konkani dramas (nataks), staged in the city by visiting troupes, over the years (barring other community celebrations). But they will now get to bond over their regional cinema, with the Konkani film 'Ek Aslyar Ek Na' (You have one, but not the other), that will have a special release in the city.
A growing community
Patrick Dsouza, part of the team instrumental in getting the film to the city, says, “There are over 800-1,000 Konkani speaking families in the city, and while there was always the option of a private screening, we wanted to provide a full-fledged viewing experience without compromise on the audio or visuals.” The film will hence be released for a one-day, one-show viewing in September. “As per our records, this will be the first Konkani (Mangalorean dialect) film to release in Pune,” adds Patrick, who is also the cultural secretary of Pune's Mangalorean Catholic Association
Confirming the news, the film’s production supervisor, Alphons Moodubelle, also involved with film publicity, said, “The film released in May and has been well-received by Konkani-speaking communities across Qatar, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Kuwait. Before going to Canada, UK and Australia, there will also be a screening in Pune, home to the growing community.”
Release at a city theatre
The planning team has been in liaison with the film’s distributors for some time now. “It took a while to finalise on a theatre. Since this is a first-of-its kind viewing, a movie hall with only 350 seats has been
allotted. Based on the response we get, plans will be made for releasing more Konkani films in the future,” said Patrick, adding that they will approach other Konkani speaking communities in the city, including the Goud Saraswat Brahmins and those hailing from Karwar, to spread word about the screening. With English subtitles, the film would be open to anyone interested. The distributors are working towards fixing nominal ticket rates for the screening.
Produced by Ferns Movies International and directed by Pradeep Barboza Paladka, the film features Priya Menezes Hospet and renowned Goan tiatrist John D’Silva, among others, in prominent roles, talking about the aspirations of a young man who falls in love with his landlord’s daughter. The story ensues amidst comedy, music and drama. Its production value close to Rs 80 lakh, considered a big budget in the Konkani industry, the film boasts of high production value and rich musical brilliance. This is producer Frank Fernandes' fifth film.
Watch the trailer of Ek Aslay Ek Na:
Listen to the music of Ek Aslyar Ek Na: