The much-anticipated documentary “Headhunting to Beatboxing,” produced by the Oscar and Grammy award-winning composer AR Rahman, is poised to make its world premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024 in Australia. Directed by vision maestro Rohit Gupta, the film is set to captivate audiences with its rich narrative and mesmerizing visuals. This documentary uniquely traces the journey of rhythm and sound in Nagaland, exploring the evolution of music across various cultures, tribes, and generations.
Commenting on the upcoming premiere, Rahman expressed his enthusiasm and emotional connection to the project. “The film is very special to us,” Rahman remarked, “as it throws light on the beautiful state of Nagaland and highlights the rich cultural and musical history it contains. Rohit and I are looking forward to the premiere and showcasing it to the audiences in Melbourne.” With the film competing for the Best Documentary Film award at the festival, it’s certain Rahman and Gupta have a captivating story to share.
The documentary intertwines the traditional and contemporary musical expressions of Nagaland, showcasing the transition from ancient headhunting rituals to modern-day beatboxing. The film dives into how music has been an integral part of the Naga tribes, chronicling its transformative power and cultural significance. Over five years in the making, “Headhunting to Beatboxing” is not just a documentary but a testament to the dedication and meticulous effort put in by its creators to bring the sounds of Nagaland to the global stage.
Rohit Gupta, the director, elaborated on the broader implications of the film. “I feel the narrative holds global relevance, along with the incredible healing power of music. The film has been painstakingly made in over five years and I am excited to see the audience’s reactions to it and for them to explore the rich cultural and musical tapestry of Nagaland. Especially to hear a completely new sound coming from India,” Gupta explained. His words underline the depth and commitment encapsulated in the documentary’s creation.
This documentary marks AR Rahman’s second significant venture into filmmaking as a producer, following his earlier production “99 Songs,” which premiered at the renowned Busan International Film Festival. Rahman’s latest work promises to resonate with a broad audience, offering a blend of historical depth and artistic exploration.
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Mitu Bhowmick Lange, the Festival Director of IFFM, opened up about the documentary’s inclusion in the festival lineup. “When we saw the documentary, we knew there was something special to it. We are delighted to have the world premiere of the film at IFFM and have Dr. Rahman and filmmaker Rohit Gupta present it to our audiences,” Lange said. Her statement echoes the sentiment of anticipation and excitement surrounding the film’s debut.
The festival, now in its 15th year, is set to commence on August 15 and will continue until August 25. IFFM is an annual celebration of film and culture, supported by the Victorian Government. This year’s festival promises to be a landmark event with the premiere of “Headhunting to Beatboxing,” among other stellar entries.
Supporting the production of “Headhunting to Beatboxing” is a team of esteemed executive producers, including Abu Metha, Adam J. Greig, Theja Meru, Rohit Gupta, Sheila Houlahan, and Rohhit Daas. Their combined expertise and support have been instrumental in bringing this unique documentary to fruition.
As the curtain rises on IFFM 2024, the premiere of “Headhunting to Beatboxing” will surely be a moment of pride and celebration for AR Rahman, Rohit Gupta, and everyone involved in its making. The film not only showcases the sonic landscape of Nagaland but also honors the cultural legacy that music sustains across different epochs and spheres.
Audiences worldwide eagerly await this documentary that promises to bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern musical expressions, reaffirming the timeless and universal language of music. The world premiere will mark a significant milestone, bringing the soulful sounds of Nagaland to the forefront of global cinema.
In conclusion, “Headhunting to Beatboxing” is poised to set a new standard in documentary filmmaking, offering an immersive cultural journey through music’s evolution in Nagaland. With its premiere at IFFM 2024, the world will get a glimpse into the heart and soul of India’s diverse musical heritage, as envisioned by AR Rahman and masterfully crafted by Rohit Gupta.
