The 50 Best Assamese Films: A Journey Through Cinema of Assam

Assamese cinema, known as Jollywood, holds a rich heritage that has evolved over time, producing films that blend art, culture, and storytelling. Since the first Assamese film, *Joymoti* in 1935 by Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, the industry has witnessed a vibrant array of movies that capture the essence of Assamese society, folklore, and contemporary issues. Here is a look at 50 of the best Assamese films, spanning across decades, genres, and styles.

#### **1. Joymoti (1935)**

The first Assamese film, directed by Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, *Joymoti* was a landmark project that told the tale of a brave Ahom princess who sacrificed her life for her kingdom.

#### **2. Indramalati (1939)**

Also directed by Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, this film was among the first romantic dramas of Assamese cinema, focusing on love and societal norms.

#### **3. Siraj (1948)**

Directed by Phani Sarma, *Siraj* dealt with Hindu-Muslim unity, addressing the sensitive issue of communal harmony at a time when the country was healing from the scars of Partition.

#### **4. Piyoli Phukan (1955)**

Directed by Phani Sarma, this historical drama portrays the life of Piyoli Phukan, an Assamese freedom fighter who fought against British colonial rule.

#### **5. Maniram Dewan (1963)**

A tribute to one of Assam's early entrepreneurs and freedom fighters, Maniram Dewan, the film portrays his struggle against British oppression.

#### **6. Dr. Bezbarua (1969)**

The first thriller film in Assamese cinema, directed by Brajen Barua, set a new trend with its suspenseful narrative and melodious music.

#### **7. Aranya (1971)**

Directed by Samarendra Narayan Dev, this film beautifully depicted the relationship between nature and humans, raising awareness about deforestation.

#### **8. Chameli Memsaab (1975)**

This film, directed by Abdul Majid, earned national acclaim for its portrayal of a unique love story set in the tea gardens of Assam. It won the National Award for Best Regional Film.

#### **9. Agnisnan (1985)**

Directed by Bhabendra Nath Saikia, *Agnisnan* explores human relationships and societal hypocrisy, marking an important work in Assamese parallel cinema.

#### **10. Aparoopa (1982)**

The first film directed by Jahnu Barua, *Aparoopa* is a sensitive portrayal of a woman caught in the trap of an arranged marriage, exploring themes of love and freedom.

#### **11. Halodhiya Choraye Baodhan Khai (1987)**

Jahnu Barua's film about the plight of farmers in Assam, this movie received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film. It is a heartbreaking look at the struggles of rural life.

#### **12. Papori (1986)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, *Papori* focuses on corruption and the misuse of power in society, highlighting the importance of justice.

#### **13. Xagoroloi Bohu Door (1995)**

This film by Jahnu Barua explores the bond between a grandfather and his granddaughter, against the backdrop of rural Assam. It was highly praised internationally.

#### **14. Konikar Ramdhenu (2003)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, this film tells the story of a troubled child and his journey to find acceptance, touching on themes of mental health and care.

#### **15. Tora (2004)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, *Tora* deals with the social issue of child trafficking, presented through the innocent eyes of a child.

#### **16. Dwaar (2013)**

Directed by Bidyut Chakravarty, this film explores existential crises, relationships, and self-discovery, making it a notable work in contemporary Assamese cinema.

#### **17. Local Kung Fu (2013)**

A comedy film directed by Kenny Basumatary, *Local Kung Fu* became an instant hit for its hilarious take on martial arts, set in a local context.

#### **18. Othello (2014)**

Directed by Hemanta Kumar Das, this film examines human emotions, jealousy, and betrayal, drawing parallels with Shakespeare's classic play.

#### **19. Kothanodi (2015)**

Directed by Bhaskar Hazarika, *Kothanodi* is a dark adaptation of Assamese folk tales, earning critical acclaim for its unique storytelling and cinematography.

#### **20. Calendar (2017)**

Directed by Himjyoti Talukdar, *Calendar* tells the story of a retired teacher struggling to cope with the loss of his wife, highlighting themes of aging and loneliness.

#### **21. Village Rockstars (2017)**

Directed by Rima Das, this internationally acclaimed film follows a young girl’s dream to form a rock band, against all odds. It won the National Award for Best Feature Film.

#### **22. Bulbul Can Sing (2018)**

Another gem from Rima Das, the film explores the life of three teenagers dealing with love, identity, and societal expectations in rural Assam.

#### **23. Aamis (2019)**

Directed by Bhaskar Hazarika, *Aamis* is a unique love story that delves into themes of obsession and taboo, earning widespread praise for its originality.

#### **24. Ratnakar (2019)**

Directed by Jatin Bora, this film was a commercial success, blending action, drama, and family themes, resonating well with the Assamese audience.

#### **25. Jonaki Mon (2002)**

Directed by Jibanraj Barman, this film is a love story set in the beautiful rural landscape of Assam, emphasizing simplicity and warmth.

#### **26. Firingoti (1992)**

Another masterpiece by Jahnu Barua, *Firingoti* portrays the challenges of a woman struggling to educate children in a rural setting, highlighting themes of literacy and empowerment.

#### **27. Pratighat (2019)**

This action-drama film by Achinta Shankar deals with social issues and the fight against injustice, creating a blend of entertainment and message.

#### **28. Bonani (1991)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, *Bonani* explores love, betrayal, and social dynamics in rural Assam, capturing the intricacies of relationships.

#### **29. Bristi (1996)**

Directed by Manju Borah, this film addresses the issue of sexual harassment, showcasing the strength and resilience of women.

#### **30. Sonar Baran Pakhi (2016)**

Directed by Bobby Sarma Baruah, this film tells the story of legendary folk singer Padma Shri Pratima Barua Pandey, capturing the essence of Assamese folk music.

#### **31. Pokhi (1998)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, *Pokhi* deals with the theme of childhood innocence and the harsh realities of life, making it an emotionally charged film.

#### **32. Anuradha (1960)**

Directed by Arup Manna, *Anuradha* is a musical that showcases the power of music and love, set against societal expectations.

#### **33. Sonali Din (2017)**

Directed by Moloya Goswami, this film highlights the issues faced by senior citizens in the modern world, blending emotion and reality.

#### **34. Adajya (1996)**

Directed by Santwana Bardoloi, this film depicts the struggles of three widows living in a traditional Assamese society, earning critical acclaim.

#### **35. Ekhon Nedekha Nadir Xhipare (2012)**

Directed by Bidyut Kotoky, this film explores human rights issues in Assam, particularly focusing on insurgency and its impact.

#### **36. Baandhon (2012)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, *Baandhon* deals with the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, following an elderly couple in search of their missing grandson.

#### **37. Bhoga Khirikee (2018)**

Directed by Jahnu Barua, *Bhoga Khirikee* focuses on the lives of rural Assamese women, addressing the complexity of gender roles.

#### **38. Jwlwi - The Seed (2019)**

Directed by Rajni Basumatary, this film addresses the issue of insurgency in Assam, focusing on the story of a mother's search for her lost son.

#### **39. Khoj (2017)**

Directed by Arup Manna, *Khoj* is a suspense thriller that takes a closer look at the human psyche and moral dilemmas.

#### **40. Tumi Aahibaane (2017)**

Directed by Prerana Barbarooah, this romantic drama emphasizes love, nostalgia, and the bond of human relationships.

#### **41. Mission China (2017)**

Directed by Zubeen Garg, this action-packed film was a massive hit, bringing mainstream commercial cinema to the forefront in Assam.

#### **42. Bokul (1976)**

Directed by Phani Sarma, *Bokul* captures the essence of rural Assam, with a storyline that deals with family values and social customs.

#### **43. Jeevan Surabhi (1971)**

Directed by Prodyut Kumar Deka, this film focuses on the challenges of maintaining traditional values in a rapidly changing world.

#### **44. Gangs of North East (2017)**

Directed by Rupak Gogoi, this film combines crime and action, offering a gripping story set in the North East.

#### **45. Alifa (2016)**

Directed by Deep Choud