In a significant moment for regional Indian cinema, actress and producer Neetu Chandra participated in an exclusive conversation at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 28, 2025. The discussion, held with Pranav Kumar and Korean producer Lewis, centered on her pioneering Bhojpuri-language film, Chhath, and the burgeoning film industry in Bihar.
A Landmark Moment for Bhojpuri Cinema
Neetu Chandra's film, Chhath, has created history by becoming the first Bhojpuri-language film to represent Bihar at IFFI Goa. This milestone marks a pivotal shift, bringing the rich cultural narratives of the state to a prestigious national and international platform. The conversation highlighted the film's role in showcasing authentic Bihari stories and traditions to a wider audience.
Bihar's Evolving Film Ecosystem
A major focus of the dialogue was Bihar's evolving film policy. The discussion shed light on the state government's proactive measures to boost local film production. Key initiatives include the implementation of a single-window clearance system, designed to streamline permissions and make filming in the region more accessible and efficient for producers.
Furthermore, the policy aims to unlock new opportunities for local talent, from actors and directors to technicians. The panel emphasized Bihar's strong potential for powerful storytelling, suggesting that the state is an untapped reservoir of compelling content waiting to be discovered by the world.
International Collaborations and Digital Frontiers
The conversation took an international turn with insights from Korean producer Lewis, pointing towards growing international collaborations between Bihar and Korea. This cross-cultural exchange promises to bring new techniques and perspectives to the local industry.
Another critical topic was the role of digital distribution. The panel explored how online platforms are revolutionizing the way regional content reaches viewers, bypassing traditional barriers and connecting directly with a global diaspora.
Concluding the session, Neetu Chandra expressed her deep passion for bringing Bihar's unique stories to the global stage. She reiterated her commitment to this vision through her upcoming projects, signaling an exciting new chapter for Bhojpuri cinema and the cultural identity of Bihar.
