Guwahati, Oct. 30 -- Released on 23 October 2026, Ratanpur is one of those Assamese films that leaves a lasting impression because of the uncomfortable social realities it chooses to confront. I happened to watch its final screening at Kalpana Cinema Hall in Charaideo district.

What surprised me more than the film itself was the almost deserted theatre, with barely five people occupying the seats. It was difficult to reconcile such a sparse audience with a film that had so much emotional depth and social relevance.

The disappointing turnout also raises questions about the grassroots promotion, distribution and audience outreach of contemporary Assamese cinema. Directed by Kangkan Rajkhowa, known for films such as Dur and Shinyor, and pr...