Overview

Of Reels, Romance and Retakes carries the reader on a fascinating journey into the genesis, evolution and reception of Odia cinema. Telling the story of its quiet emergence in 1936, the book goes on to chronicle its unexpected triumphs in the coming decades when cinema arose as an undisputed cultural form of both the middle class and the masses. The account the book gives of how Odia cinema, aesthetically intertwined with the indigenous folk and literary tradition, carried forward both the project of modernity and Odia cultural identity is particularly illuminating and instructive. At the same time it takes an introspective look at the crisis Odia cinema faces now, sandwiched as it is between two competing social trends - one following the route to Hindi as the chief language of entertainment and the other that is focused on regional cultural assertion as a key to commercial success. On the whole, it is a timely and much awaited book that seeks to construct the hitherto uncharted ‘social narratives’ of cinema in Odisha.

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9781032511320

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Reviews

‘The book is a significant work on Odia cultural identity as mediated by cinema. It sheds substantial light on the role of ‘reels’ as a begetter of ethno-linguistic pride, and, it does so beautifully in the context of Odisha. I am sure the book will attract the attention of cinephiles and scholars in the fi eld of cultural studies in Odisha and beyond.’ - Prashant Nanda, Celebrated Actor-Director-Producer and Member of Parliament ‘A pioneering work on sociology of cinema in Odisha, telling the complex story of a unique linguistic and cultural identity in accessible and simple language. An ethno-historical account of aesthetics, technology, conflicts, and struggles narrated within the broad frame of tradition and modernity. It is a must-read for lovers of cinema and scholars of the myriad aspects of Odia cultural history.’ - Dr. Pragati Mohapatra, Associate Professor, Department of History, Indraprastha College, University of Delhi ‘In its unique ability to imagine a nation the cultural form of cinema is second to none. Sanjoy Patnaik’s book holds a cinematic mirror up to the kaleidoscope that is Odisha, capturing its diverse artistic and musical traditions in the vibrant colors of its cinema. Passionately and knowledgeably written, the book is a commendable effort to give Odia cinema its due share in the pantheon of Indian cinema.’ - Mahasweta Ray, Acclaimed Actor ‘A timely book that depicts the interconnectivity between society, its people and art forms, and, a scholarly exercise analysing socio-cultural processes that influenced film making in Odisha. I extend an appeal to film enthusiasts and lovers to read and preserve this as a memento. The book is an authentic representation of Odia cultural space, cinema in particular.’ - Misra, Eminent Director

Author Information

Sanjoy Patnaik, a social development professional, worked extensively on forests and environment issues in India. He studied International Politics in Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and also took a course on Film Appreciation in the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune. Sanjoy is a film maker. He scripted and directed the award-winning Odia fi lm Shuka Asuchi (2014), a critique of the contemporary development model. The fi lm depicted the pangs of displacement and the predicament of the rural youth who swing between being indifferent farmers and petty power brokers in the rich mining belts of Odisha. An ardent fi lm enthusiast, Sanjoy continues to write on cinema both in the print and digital space.

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