The Assamese feature film Hiraeth, written, shot, and directed by Chow Partha Borgohain, has been officially selected for the in-competition category at the 16th Chicago South Asian Film Festival (CSAFF). The festival will be held from September 14 to 21, 2025, in Chicago, USA.
The world premiere of Hiraeth will take place during the festival, alongside acclaimed films from across the world. The festival’s opening night red carpet will be on September 19 in downtown Chicago, and the closing ceremony will be on September 21.
Story of ‘Hiraeth’
Shot mainly in Dibrugarh, the 100-minute Assamese-language drama is rooted in social realism. It tells the story of Pori, a village woman whose life changes after a devastating flood. Forced to move to the city with her husband, Pori faces harsh truths of urban life — poverty, inequality, corruption, and exploitation.
The lead roles are played by Meghali Kalita, Ashim Kumar Sharma, and Atanu Mahanta. The film portrays the strength of people living on the margins of society and the injustices they face every day.
Director’s Reaction
Speaking about the selection, director Chow Partha Borgohain said: “I am overwhelmed and happy with the recognition this film is receiving. The story is based on the harsh realities faced by people who are often ignored. I am grateful to everyone who helped me — my mother, my mother-in-law who helped finance the film, and my wife whose love and trust gave me the strength to finish it. This film is for all those who struggle with dignity and are never seen. Through Pori’s journey, I hope people will reflect on the inequalities we accept as normal.”
Cast and Crew
Apart from the lead actors, the film also features Dipankar Sharma, Archana Bezbaruah, Vishwa Kinkar Baruah, Hemanta Rajkonwar, Smritirekha Chetia Handique, Pradipta Pran Bhattacharya, Rimjhim Deka, Rumi Sharma Pathak, and Bhoirab Phukan.
The film is produced by Sengpem Borgohain, with Subhitya Borgohain and Ruchie Baruah as executive producers. Cinematography is by the director himself, production design by Jayanta Gogoi, editing by Kavin Adithya, and music by AT Ram. The technical team includes Delepan Rajan and Dhiru (colorists), Nabapan Deka (sound designer), Rhitwik Raj Pathak (re-recording mixer), Bishal Nath (location sound), and Pixel Light Studio, Rza Boitlung, Dhrubajit Kalita (VFX). Costume and make-up were done by Paran Sharma and Mandita Goswami, with Victor Das as the first assistant director.
About the Director
Born on December 6, 1986, in Along, Arunachal Pradesh, Chow Partha Borgohain grew up in different parts of Arunachal Pradesh as his father served in the state police. His mother left her government job to take care of the family.
After schooling in Arunachal, Partha moved to Chennai, where he graduated in Visual Arts from Madras Christian College. He later studied film and motion photography at Mindscreen Film Institute. Since 2014, he has been working as a freelance cinematographer and director.
About CSAFF
The Chicago South Asian Film Festival is one of the largest platforms in North America for South Asian films. It celebrates diverse stories from the subcontinent and its diaspora through screenings, Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and cultural events.