Bhubaneswar: 2025 proved to be a defining year for Odia cinema — not merely for the films released, but for the stories they told and the audiences they captivated. From festival-acclaimed social dramas to nostalgic revivals and experimental OTT ventures, the year unfolded like a carefully curated cinematic reel.
Odia cinema also made its presence felt on international platforms, representing the region’s storytelling at prestigious events such as the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM).
Here’s a closer look at the Odia films and web series that are shaping the industry in 2025:
Naali Cha (Release Date: 21 February 2025)
Format: Web Series | Platform: YouTube
Naali Cha, a six-part Odia web series directed by Snehasis Das, explores life in rural Odisha as it intersects with the digital age. The arrival of smartphones and social media brings profound, subtle changes to village life, affecting relationships, culture, and daily routines.
The series stars Gargi (Mamta), Abhishek Giri (Lakhia), Anubha Sourya (Mili), and Somesh Mohanty. Praised for its realistic depiction and creative storytelling, Naali Cha (The Taste of Life) won the Best Feature Award (Bharat/ Indian Film Category) at the UTSAV International Film Festival 2025 in Mumbai, signaling a fresh wave of content appealing to younger and broader audiences.
Bou Buttu Bhuta (Release Date: 12 June 2025)
Genre: Horror-Thriller Comedy
Directed by Jagdish Mishra and produced under Babushaan Films, Bou Buttu Bhuta stars Babushaan Mohanty and Archita Sahu, supported by Aparajita Mohanty. The film follows Buttu, a fish farmer whose quest for a better life leads to unexpected supernatural encounters, blending suspense, humor, and social commentary.
The movie achieved unprecedented success, becoming the highest-grossing Odia film of 2025 with box office collections nearing Rs 20 crore. It also marked a milestone with a midnight screening on ‘Raja Parba’, attracting record audiences.
Lahari (Release Date:12 September 2025)
Genre: Drama
Directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya, Lahari delves into the life of a village fisherman and his son, exploring familial bonds, cultural shifts, and personal growth. Filmed against the lush backdrop of rural Odisha, the movie combines emotion, realism, and visually rich storytelling.
Key cast members include Choudhury Jayaprakash Das (Dinu), Bikas Das, Zeinab Doer, Dipanwit Dashmohapatra, Jhilik Bhattacharya, and child artist Smruti Ranjan Mahala. The film also earned international recognition with a screening at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, putting Odia cinema on the global map.
Charidham – A Journey Within (Release Date: 25 September 2025)
Genre: Family Drama
Directed by Tapas Sargharia, this film stars Anubhav Mohanty and Anuradha Panigrahi. Charidham – A Journey Within traces a spiritual journey across the iconic four Dhams — Puri, Rameswaram, Dwarka, and Badrinath — blending introspection, devotion, and personal transformation. The film was widely appreciated as a cinematic tribute to faith and self-discovery.
Maya Miriga: A Restored Classic Returns (Screening Date: 13 November 2025)
Special Screening: Film Preservation & Restoration Workshop
After 41 years, the restored version of Maya Miriga (1984), directed by Nirad Mohapatra, returned to Bhubaneswar theatres. Organised by the Film Heritage Foundation, the screening at Keshari Talkies reintroduced this Odia classic to new audiences, highlighting its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of middle-class life.
The restoration not only revived a cinematic gem but also underscored the importance of preserving Odisha’s rich film heritage.
Sir (Release Date: 14 November 2025)
Genre: Drama
Released on Children’s Day, Sir revolves around the life of Agani Mohanty (Samaresh Routray), a devoted teacher whose mentorship transforms generations of students. Directed by Keshab Mallick and produced by Dr. Kamal Lochan Sahu, the film captures the emotional bond between teacher and student, highlighting themes of integrity, loyalty, and justice.
The story takes a dramatic turn when a former student, Ramesh (Avisekh Rath), is falsely accused of a land scam, prompting Agani Sir and his students to fight for justice, showcasing the enduring power of guidance and values.
2025 has firmly established itself as a transformative year for Odia cinema. From experimental web series to blockbuster hits and restored classics, the industry has showcased its versatility, creative depth, and global appeal.
Odia storytelling is no longer confined to regional audiences — it is now making its mark on international platforms, redefining the future of the state’s cinema.
