ChaariKaandha
ChaariKaandha (2026) is an Odia mid-length comedy-drama about an elderly man confronting loneliness and mortality in modern urban life. Directed by Biswanath Rath, the 36-minute film received multiple national and international festival awards.
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Movie Details
ChaariKaandha (Odia: ଚାରିକାନ୍ଧ) is an Indian Odia-language mid-length film released theatrically on 27 February 2026. The film is directed and written by Biswanath Rath and explores themes of ageing, loneliness, and social responsibility through a blend of comedy and drama. With a runtime of 36 minutes, it is among the earliest Odia mid-length films to receive a theatrical release and festival circulation.
Plot
Baidyanath Mishra, a technologically adept and progressive elderly man, lives alone in his apartment complex. His son is settled in the United States, while his daily life is supported by Lakshmi, a domestic helper. Though accompanied by his close friend Ramakant, Baidyanath is troubled by a persistent existential question – whether there will be “four shoulders” to carry him to the cremation ground after his death.
The narrative examines urban isolation, ageing in modern society, and the erosion of community bonds, using understated humour and social commentary.
Cast
- Shakti Baral as Baidyanath Mishra
- Sushil Mishra as Ramakant
- Satabdi Suryasnata as Soni
- Gourrab Mohanty as Kulu
Production
The film was produced under the banner of Ritupriya Productions. Principal photography was carried out in urban residential settings, with a focus on realism and minimalistic production design to reflect everyday life.
Crew
- Director & Writer: Biswanath Rath
- Producer: Atish Kumar Rout
- Co-Producers: Supriya Rout, Akhil Rajurkar
- Cinematography: Lingaraj Kumbhar
- Editing: Veer Kumaar Nanda
- Music, Lyrics & Playback Singing: Amit Yuvraaj
- Audiography: Dilesshwar Pradhan
Music
The film’s soundtrack and background score were composed by Amit Yuvraaj. The music is used sparingly, primarily to support emotional transitions rather than as standalone musical sequences.
Release
ChaariKaandha was released in cinemas on 27 February 2026 following a special screening on the same date. The film holds a U (Universal) certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Reception and Awards
ChaariKaandha received recognition at several national and international film festivals, particularly in short and alternative cinema categories.
Awards and Festival Screenings
- Winner – Best Short Film, Gossner Cine Fest, Ranchi (2025)
- Winner, Durgapur International Film Festival, Kolkata (2025)
- Outstanding Achievement, IDEAL International Film Festival, Aurangabad (2025)
- Special Mention – Jury, IDEAL International Film Festival, Aurangabad (2025)
- Jury Mention – Short Fiction, Bengal International Short Film Festival, Kolkata (2025)
Official Selections
- Alternative Film Festival, Canada (Best Long Short Film – Nominated; Best Writer – Nominated)
- Bioscope Global Film Festival, Cuttack (2025)
- World Film Festival, Kolkata (2025)
- Ritu Rangam International Film Festival, Kolkata (2025)
- Swami Vivekananda International Film Festival, Kolkata (2025)
- South Asian Short Film Festival, Kolkata (2025)
- Pimpri Chinchwad International Film Festival, Pune (2025)
Special Screening
- Utkala Dibasa Special Screening, OCAB, Brussels (2025)
Technical Details
- Runtime: 36 minutes
- Language: Odia
- Country: India
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Social
- Certification: U
Official Posters
News Clippings
References
- BookMyShow. ChaariKaandha (2026) – Film details, cast, and certification.
- Official festival poster and laurels released by Ritupriya Productions.
- Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) release information.
