‘Cha Gorom’, an upcoming film exploring the untold realities of Bangladesh’s tea garden communities, is set to premiere on Chorki on April 14, coinciding with the celebration of Pahela Baishakh.
Directed by Shankha Dasgupta, the film aims to move beyond the conventional portrayal of tea gardens as scenic backdrops and instead delve into the lives and struggles of workers within the sector.
The project is produced by Oxfam in collaboration with Chorki, with support from the European Union. The film’s official poster was unveiled on April 5.
Speaking about Cha Gorom, Shankha Dasgupta said, “As a filmmaker, I have always observed that tea gardens in Bangladesh are mostly used as a visual backdrop, beautiful locations where stories unfold against scenic landscapes. I felt this needed to be challenged. With Cha Gorom, we entered the inner workings of the tea gardens and explored life from within. This time, we did not merely capture the beauty; we went inside the gardens and had the opportunity to closely observe the lives of the workers.”
Shankha Dasgupta shared that during his time living in tea garden communities to develop the story, he realised how little he and the general public knew about these environments.
‘Cha Gorom’ is scheduled for release on Chorki on 14 April, marking the celebration of Pahela Baishakh. While the Bengali New Year symbolises renewal and new beginnings, the director has not disclosed whether the film reflects similar themes.
The film features a cast of emerging talents, including Safa Kabir, Partho Sheikh, Rezwan Pervez, and Sarah Jabin Aditi. The official poster offers limited insight into their characters, but audiences can expect further revelations through the upcoming teaser or trailer.
The cast members have also shared their perspectives on being part of the film, offering additional insight into the project.
Actress Safa Kabir said, “One of the main reasons I was drawn to Cha Gorom was director Shankha Dasgupta. He consistently works with unconventional narratives and brings a clear vision to his storytelling. At the same time, the story felt very powerful to me. It highlights a side of our society that we often overlook, even though it exists very close to us. That aspect strongly motivated me to be part of this film.”
Actor Rezwan Parvez also wanted to join the work after seeing the producer. But he loves his character.
"Looking at the director's recent work, it felt good to work with him. I got that opportunity, the character that I got with him was also very challenging. You can understand why I am saying this by watching the teaser or trailer. What I liked about the story of 'Chai Garam' is that the story very succinctly portrays some of the harsh realities of tea garden life," Aditi said.
Actor Parth said, "Shankha da told me that there is a character for me. All in all, it seemed like a good opportunity for me, and I had never worked with Shankha da in fiction before. I was very inspired by the story and the character and felt that such work was very less. So, I agreed.”
Ashis Damle, country director of Oxfam in Bangladesh, said: "Tea garden workers are an integral part of Bangladesh's economy. But their stories are rarely told. 'Cha Garam' brings to the fore those unseen struggles, dreams and realities. Through this collaboration with Chorki, we hope viewers do not merely watch a film but gain insight into a community—their aspirations, challenges, and desire for change.”
Robi has also partnered with the film. Describing the film as an inspirational story, Redwan Rony, Chief Executive Officer of Chorki, said, “From national life to personal journeys, Baishakh symbolises renewal and the determination to begin again. Through this content, we want to spread that very spirit. We hope Cha Gorom encourages a positive mindset among viewers. Wishing everyone an advanced Happy New Year.”
AK Azad Setu is also there in the story. 'Cha Garam 'is written and directed by Saifullah Riyad. The main idea, research and project of the film was led by Md. Saariful Islam, who coordinates the entire film initiative from conception to implementation on behalf of Oxfam.