Guwahati: Assamese film 'Aamis', written and directed by Bhaskar Hazarika, has received two awards at the just concluded Singapore South Asian International Film Festival (Sg.SAIFF). Lima Das received the Best Actor (Female) award, while Bhaskar Hazarika was handed the Best Director award. In addition, editor of ‘Aamis’ Shweta Rai Chamling was nominated for the Best Editor award. The award ceremony was held at on the 7th of September. Sg.SAIFF 2019 featured over forty films from South Asia, with Assamese cinema represented by 'Aamis' and Jahnu Barua’s Bhoga Khirkee.
Speaking to the media, director Bhaskar Hazarika said – “It is always a great feeling to have one’s work recognized in international platforms. I thank the jury and the festival for bestowing this honour on me. Much love and thanks to the cast and crew of Aamis, whose passionate work made the film what it is.” Actor Lima Das, who is making her feature film debut with Aamis, said – “I am delighted and proud to be honoured with such a prestigious award for my first ever role in a film. My heartfelt thanks to our director, crew, and all those who supported our film.”
Aamis is a contemporary love story set in Guwahati, and recently wowed audiences in Mumbai when it was screened for the first time in India. Bollywood producer and director Vikramaditya Motwane reacted enthusiastically to the film in a tweet, where he said – “I have never seen a film this original and tender.” The film had premiered earlier this year at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival in New York, where it was nominated in five categories, including Best International Film. Speaking about the film’s theatrical release, producer Shyam Bora said – “We are in advanced talks with partners to bring ‘Aamis’ to theatres in Assam by November this year.” Produced by Poonam Deol and Bora, 'Aamis' stars newcomers Lima Das and Arghadeep Barua, supported by Neetali Das, Sagar Saurabh, and Manash K Das.