Rukmini Maitra starrer, helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Ram Kamal Mukherjee, the Bengali biopic “Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan,” which traces the extraordinary journey of theatre legend Binodini Dasi in late 19th century Bengal, will have its UK premiere on April 25, 2025, at the 8th London Bengali Film Festival (LBFF). The premiere will take place at the BLOC Cinema of Queen Mary University of London, and will be introduced by the director, followed by an engaging Q&A session.

The London Bengali Film Festival 2025 officially launches at the prestigious Barbican Centre, Europe’s largest art centre, offering attendees the chance to experience the richness and diversity of global Bengali cinema and conversations at iconic London locations, including the Guildhall, Queen Mary University of London, and the Bank of England.

This year’s 8th edition of Europe’s largest Bengali film festival, running from April 22 to 27, 2025, features six films – four narrative features, one documentary, and one short film – in Bengali and English languages (with English subtitles) from Bangladesh, India, and global South Asian diasporic communities.

Mr. Munsur Ali, the Founder & CEO of the London Bengali Film Festival, is a British Bangladeshi filmmaker who has been working in film and media for over 15 years and is currently the Chairman for Culture, Heritage, and Libraries at the City of London Corporation. He stated, “Mainstream films have a global audience, but global stories also need to be seen by the mainstream audience. The London Bengali Film Festival does exactly that. We believe ‘Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan’ will resonate deeply with our audience and celebrate the rich tapestry of Bengali cinema.”

Director Ram Kamal Mukherjee expressed his pride in being part of the prestigious film festival, stating, “I am extremely happy and proud to be a part of this prestigious film festival. I am glad that Honourable jury members have considered our magnum opus ‘Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan’ as part of their eighth edition celebrations at London Bengali Film Festival 2025. The film depicts the journey of a woman who fought for her dream. Binodini Dasi, portrayed by Rukmini Maitra, deals with the untold saga of a theatre legend who paved the path for aspiring female actors almost 140 years ago.”

Subidita Bhattacharya, the LBFF Festival Director, added, “We are thrilled to present ‘Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan’ at this year’s film festival. This Bengali masterpiece beautifully captures the essence of theatre and the indomitable spirit of Binodini, a pioneering actress of her time. Through its compelling narrative and stunning visuals, the film offers a profound exploration of art, resilience, and cultural heritage.”

Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan released on 23rd January 2025 and still running successfully in Kolkata.