Bangladeshi short film Kraati earns nominations at international film festivals

'Kraati', the debut short film by Bangladeshi filmmaker Dibarah Mahboob, is making waves on the global stage. 

The film has been officially selected for the Anatolia International Film Festival' and 'Cine Paris International Film Festival' in France, earning nominations for Best Short Film and Best First-Time Director at Cine Paris. Its lead actresses, Tasneem Islam Arna and Palama Ahmed, are also up for Best Female Lead at The Anatolia International Film Festival.  

"World cinema needs more South Asian stories—especially from Bangladesh, one of the largest populations in the world," shared the director.

She further said, "Our stories, our women, and our history are distinct and deserve to be shared. I wanted to get into filmmaking to ensure that Bangladeshi women aren't sidelined—neither in history nor on screen. And I want those stories to be told through the pen and lens of a Bangladeshi woman."

Set against the July Uprising of 2024, Kraati highlights women's role in Bangladesh's uprisings. With a women-led crew, Mahboob aims to amplify Bangladeshi female voices in cinema. The film recently had a sold-out screening at Naveed's Comedy Club in Dhaka, reinforcing its impact as more than just a film—it's a movement.