‘Karthikeya 2’ producer and director Vijay Yelakanti is all set to release ‘Maa Kali’, a film based on the tragic events of Direct Action Day* and Naokhali massacre*.

The teaser of the film, starring Raima Sen and Abhishek Singh, reminds the audience of the events of August 16, 1946, depicting the atrocities committed against Hindus in Bengal and the subsequent spread of the fire of partition in British India.

Releasing this year on the 78th anniversary of these events, the film pays tribute to those killed in the brutal massacre and aims to expose the political machinations that led to the biggest humanitarian crisis of the 20th century. It also highlights how the consequences of these events are still felt today.

Watch the teaser here:

Through the lens of a Hindu family reliving the atrocities of the time, the teaser sheds light on the motives, processes, and consequences of seeking the partition of India. The filmmakers boldly declare, “Put away the earphones. Let the truth be heard loud and clear,” inviting the audience to connect with the powerful narrative.

The teaser depicts the communal turmoil in Bengal with a compelling story, impactful dialogues and poignant scenes. Tilak From the beheading of young Hindu girls to the desecration of the idol of Goddess Kali, the scenes are designed to leave a lasting impression on the viewers.

Speaking about her role, Raima Sen says, “Being a Bengali, this story is deeply relatable to the atrocities committed on our people in the genocide. However, being a Bengali, even I was unaware of many details of this heart-wrenching event, so when this film came to me, it became my moral responsibility to narrate the truth of Direct Action Day.”

IAS turned actor Abhishek Singh says, “Maa Kali shares the agony of one of the most important and relevant events in our history, yet the details of this monstrous tragedy remain unknown to this day. With the film, we aim to create awareness about the massacre that shook the nation.”

Written and directed by Vijay Yelakanti, ‘Maa Kali’ is produced by TG Vishwa Prasad, co-produced by Vivek Kuchibhotla and presented by People Media Factory. Shot in Hindi, this pan-India film will also release in Bengali and Telugu in theatres in 2024.

(*Direct Action Day: The Direct Action Day observed on 16 August 1946 was a black chapter in Indian history. It arose from the All India Muslim League’s demand for a separate Muslim homeland after the departure of the British from India.)

(*Noakhali Massacre: The Noakhali riots, also called the massacre, was a horrific episode of communal violence in October 1946 in which Hindus were targeted in the Noakhali district of Bengal (present-day Bangladesh). Muslim mobs, incited by rumours and fuelled by tensions over the partition of India, attacked Hindus, resulting in thousands of deaths, forced conversions, and widespread property damage.)