Simanta Shekhar – a name that needs no introduction – has earned immense recognition for his remarkable contributions as an artist, establishing himself as one of the most influential figures in the Assamese entertainment industry. Beyond his musical talents, Simanta Shekhar also serves as the Chairman of the Assam State Film (Finance and Development) Corporation (ASFFDC), where he is shaping plans and policies to promote local talent and push for greater recognition of Assamese cinema on the global stage.
Now, in an exciting new chapter of his career, the singer-turned-politician is stepping into the world of acting with a pivotal role in the much-anticipated film Kaziranga 0.1. A few days ago, the 39-year-old set social media ablaze when he shared a screenshot from the film, sending fans and netizens into a frenzy. In the image, Simanta appeared in a striking commando-like avatar, sparking even more curiosity about his role. However, just as quickly as it appeared, the screenshot was deleted, leaving many speculating about what’s next.
When asked about the now-deleted post, Simanta smiles and says, “Well, I shared a screenshot from Kaziranga 0.1 a few days ago. The post garnered a massive positive response from fans and social media users. After speaking with the film’s promotion and branding teams, the post was removed. It gave us some great publicity.” He adds, “I can’t share too many details right now, but I assure you that the entire film will be shot in Assam. The audience will love it – I’m confident of that.”
With his latest venture stirring up curiosity, Simanta Shekhar gets candid on the Assamese film industry, new-age filmmakers, and the boom of OTT platforms. Excerpts:
Q. Your latest venture, Kaziranga 0.1, has sparked a lot of curiosity on digital platforms. What inspired you to take up acting for this project?
A. If we don’t tell our stories, who else will? The film is about Assam and will be shot in various locations across the State. It’s a project that excites me, and I agreed to be a part of it. The production house is from the mainstream. As for acting, we should keep our creativity alive and explore new areas.
Q. As the chairman of the ASFFDC, your role is crucial in shaping the future of Assamese cinema. What steps are being taken to produce high-quality, commercial content that will attract audiences and generate revenue?
A. We are building the present Assamese film society day by day to turn it into an industry. The film industry generates revenue through various interconnected sectors, including food chains, ticket pricing, cinema halls, and more. Each aspect plays a crucial role in sustaining and driving the industry forward.
Under the leadership of Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, the ASFFDC and the Department of Cultural Affairs are focusing on increasing the number of cinema halls in rural areas and towns. To bring audiences to theatres, we need to produce standard content that can be commercialized to generate revenue. I’ve personally requested cinema hall owners to keep ticket prices low to encourage more footfall. There is more that needs to be done.
Q. How do you see the rise of OTT platforms impacting traditional Assamese cinema? Do you think they offer a bigger opportunity for regional content to reach a broader audience, and have they affected box office revenues?
A. Watching a film on the big screen in a theatre is an experience like no other, and nothing can truly match the immersive atmosphere it offers. OTT platforms and cinema halls each have dedicated audiences, with cinema halls still being popular in rural areas. Filmmakers can capitalize on both by releasing films in cinemas first to generate box office revenue and later on OTT platforms to reach a wider digital audience. This approach maximizes revenue potential and ensures content reaches diverse viewers, benefiting from both traditional and online platforms.
Q. The Indian film industry has seen major changes in terms of content, technology, and funding. How do you see the ASFFDC’s role in nurturing new talent and supporting emerging filmmakers from Assam? What steps are being taken to improve infrastructure, funding, promotions, and participation in film festivals?
A. The Government of Assam offers several incentives to boost local filmmaking. The State Government has issued advertisements announcing subsidies of Rs 50 lakh each for 50 cinema halls and Rs 10 lakh each for 20 new cinemas.
Recently, Gulai Soor, directed by Raktim Kamal Baruah and receiving rave reviews, was financed by the ASFFDC. The production company, Zeng Entertainment, was facing challenges in releasing the film, and we intervened to get things back on track.
The ASFFDC will continue to provide unconditional support to new-age filmmakers if they come forward with high-quality content. We are also in talks with an OTT platform to promote our content.
Q. With Assam’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural diversity, how do you envision the growth of film tourism, and what role do you see it playing in boosting the state’s economy?
A. The Northeast boasts an incredible range of breathtaking landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of Arunachal Pradesh to the picturesque waterfalls of Meghalaya, as well as Assam’s verdant tea gardens and Tripura’s historic temples – all within close proximity to the State. In recent years, Assam has seen significant growth in air and road connectivity, and improvements in law and order have further boosted accessibility. Furthermore, all the state capitals in the Northeast are now connected by air.
Bollywood films, which often highlight stunning destinations, have demonstrated how powerful such cinematic exposure can be in promoting tourism, much like the impact of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge shot in Switzerland, which led to a tourism surge. This kind of film promotion can greatly benefit Assam, eliminating the need for additional marketing efforts and simultaneously boosting the state’s economy.
Chief Minister Sarma has pledged full support to any filmmaker who wishes to shoot in Assam. The state government is keen to collaborate with filmmakers working on both OTT projects and films. A new policy specifically aimed at supporting filmmakers who choose Assam as their shooting location will be announced soon.
Q. Are there any specific regional stories or cultural themes you believe should be explored more in Assamese cinema? How can filmmakers create a distinctive voice that appeals to global audiences while staying true to regional roots?
A. The youth and emerging filmmakers have a major role to play in shaping the future of Assamese cinema. I encourage budding filmmakers to showcase Assam’s traditions, heritage, and culture, either through documentaries, docuseries, or short films. We must remain true to our roots. Assam has an abundance of stories and talent. If we create high-quality content, the audience will flock to the theatres.
Q. You have an impressive journey as a singer. Can you tell us about your latest project or any exciting collaborations you’ve been working on?
A. First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Assam for showering me with so much love over the years. Their support for my songs and the respect they’ve shown me as an artist mean the world. Singing has always been my passion – my first love. While I had plans in the past, for one reason or another, I couldn’t execute them. But I’m excited to share that I have a new project coming up soon.
