Taarikh

Taarikh takes a bold and thoughtful dive into the quiet yet enduring aftermath of mental health struggles. Avoiding the dramatic flourishes often associated with the topic, the film opts instead for a grounded, unhurried portrayal of its characters and the ripple effects of trauma through relationships, time, and memory.

The storytelling is linear and intentionally slow-paced, allowing viewers to fully absorb the emotional texture of each moment, focusing on the quiet resilience and subtle shifts that define healing. It's sincere, and quietly impactful.

Himjyoti Talukdar's sophomore feature, Taarikh, is a quietly powerful exploration of grief, memory, and healing. Rooted in Assam's ethos, the film follows characters navigating the lingering effects of a past tragedy, capturing the emotional and psychological depth of loss with sensitivity and nuance. It has roots to the 2008 bomb blast.

Talukdar's storytelling is intimate and reflective, supported by evocative cinematography, a moving score, and strong performances, particularly from Arun Nath and Boloram Das. The film balances its poignant themes with subtle threads of hope, emphasizing human connection and compassion as pathways to healing.

A contemplative and heartfelt cinematic experience, Taarikh memorializes both personal grief and the city it inhabits, making it a standout in contemporary Assamese cinema.

I had the privilege of watching this film 17th Habitat Film festival in Delhi.