Indira Dhar’s Oscar acclaimed Debut Feature Putul acquired by Prasar Bharati; to stream globally on waves OTT

The announcement comes after Putul was chosen for a special showcase at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025, demonstrating its widespread appeal.

Filmmaker Indira Dhar’s critically acclaimed debut feature Putul has officially been acquired by Prasar Bharati, India’s public service broadcaster under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. The film is set to reach audiences worldwide on Waves OTT, marking a significant milestone for the homegrown independent Bengali feature, which has steadily earned international recognition and acclaim.

The announcement comes after Putul was chosen for a special showcase at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025, demonstrating its widespread appeal.

Putul, which made its world premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival's Marché du Film in 2024, won a standing ovation for its moving narrative. The film offers a profoundly moving story that has resonated with viewers all over the world as it explores the everyday realities of street children while looking at the social hypocrisies that surround them.

Earlier this year, Putul made waves on the global stage by being included in the Oscars’ longlist for Best Picture, becoming the only Bengali film to make the cut. Additionally, its song “Iti Maa,” composed by Sayan Ganguly and sung by Iman Chakraborty, was selected in the Best Original Song category, adding yet another feather to the film’s cap.

Speaking about the acquisition, Indira Dhar shared, “For a debut film that started as a very personal story rooted in my own city, this truly feels like a milestone moment. Having Putul acquired by Prasar Bharati and reaching a global audience through Waves OTT is something I’m very grateful for. From Cannes to the Oscars longlist to now IFFI, the film has travelled in ways that feel both surreal and deeply affirming. I’m grateful to the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and everyone at Prasar Bharati for believing in the film and giving it a platform worthy of its spirit.”

Also read: Anupam Kher revisits strained equation with Naseeruddin Shah after 'clown' remark; says, ‘He just says things like that’

Putul continues to cement Indira Dhar’s position as one of the most exciting and emotionally intuitive new voices in Indian cinema.

Indira’s Bollywood debut feature, Echoes of Valour, starring Divya Dutta and Neeraj Kabi, also captured international attention this year, further establishing her as a filmmaker of global significance.