Bengaluru – The Nagpuri feature film Sereng, directed by Purushotam Kumar better known as NPK Purushotam, had its world premiere on February 3, 2026, at the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES) 2026. The film was screened to a full house, receiving strong audience acclaim in the festival’s prestigious “Homage“ category, which highlights cinematic gems from India’s lesser-known linguistic regions.
The film, produced by Ulgulan Film Production, is an inspiring tale of resilience and identity set against the Munda Adivasi milieu of Jharkhand. The narrative revolves around Maghi Munda, a young indigenous girl who faces tremendous hardships following the brutal murder of her parents. Sereng captures her courageous fight against societal odds to assert her identity. Shot entirely in the Nagpuri language, the film offers viewers a visceral glimpse into the region’s unique heritage and contemporary challenges.
The film features a talented ensemble cast including Vivek Nayak, Shweta Prajapati, Kajal Kundu, Nitesh Kachhap, Salib Samir Minz, and Salomi Tirkey. The visual storytelling is helmed by Director of Photography Vikash Aryan, with music composed by Roshan Xavier Oreya, Sachin Sharma, and Manish Roy.
Director NPK Purushotam, known for his 2022 debut Nagpuri feature film Dahleez and short films like Bandha Khet, brings his signature raw and authentic narrative style to this project. His body of work consistently centers on marginalized communities, aligning Sereng with his long-standing commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices in Indian cinema.
The premiere took place during BIFFES 2026, which runs from January 29 to February 6, 2026. The festival’s inclusion of Sereng in the “Unsung Incredible India” section underscores the event’s dedication to promoting regional diversity. This milestone emphasizes the rising prominence of Nagpuri and tribal cinema on national platforms, fostering greater appreciation for India’s linguistic pluralism.
While release plans for Sereng beyond the festival circuit have not yet been announced, its successful premiere marks a significant moment for Jharkhand’s film industry.
