First film, first win: JnU student’s What If steals the spotlight at DIFF

A first-time filmmaker just made waves at the 24th Dhaka International Film Festival. 

Tanha Tabassum, a student of Jagannath University, took home the Best Film Award in the Panorama Talent Section for her debut short, What If, a story inspired by the everyday struggles of commuting in Dhaka.

The winners were announced at the festival’s closing ceremony on Sunday, January 18, held at the National Museum’s main auditorium.

Speaking about her debut, Tanha Tabassum said, “This is the first film I have made. While commuting on public transport, we face various challenges, and the film explores how these challenges can be addressed. Winning this award is a huge achievement for me.”

The film boasts a talented cast, including Hasan Al Sabit, Tasnim Suchi, Kabya Raha, Alvi Abib, and Sain Ahmed Pabon. Behind the scenes, Arifur Rahman served as Chief Assistant Director, Rudra Banerjee as First Assistant Director, Mursalin handled colour grading, Saikat Sinha took care of sound mixing and design, and Jannatul Tosha lent her voice as a vocal artist. Alvi Abib was Executive Producer, and Shah Sakib Sobhan served as Creative Producer.

The 24th DIFF, held under the slogan “Aesthetic Cinema, Mindful Audience, Enlightened Society”, ran from January 10 to 18, showcasing 245 films from 91 countries, cementing its reputation as one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals.

Tanha’s win highlights the emergence of young Bangladeshi filmmakers ready to tell local stories with universal appeal – and it seems “What If” is just the beginning of her cinematic journey.