Special screening of the movie 'Taken from Life' in Sydney on February 23

A special screening of the historical Bengali film 'Jibon Te Neya' has been organized at Dumaresque Street Cinema in Campbelltown, Sydney on the evening of February 23 (Sunday). 

Tanim Mannan, founder of Bangaz Films and Bengali Cine Club Australia, has organized a special screening of this historic Bengali film.

There is no exhibition fee for this open event, but since the number of seats is limited, to ensure attendance, you must confirm your name and seat number via SMS to 040606305 by February 14.

The film has been carefully restored in 2K resolution and with HD quality audio. In addition, Tanim Mannan has added English subtitles on his own initiative for the new generation. This initiative is driven by the desire to present the glory of Bengali cinema to the next generation born or raised in Australia.

Jiban Te Neya is a seminal work by the late Zahir Raihan, considered one of the most influential directors of Bengali cinema. Released in 1970, the film is a powerful political satire inspired by the Bengali language movement and the struggle for independence. The story centers on a woman oppressor, who symbolizes the rule of the exploiting class, and a story of resistance against that rule. The figurative depiction of real events captivates the audience and is relevant even today.

Tanim Mannan, founder of Bangaz Films and Bengali Cine Club Australia, said, "Jivan Da Neya is very emotional for me and many Bangladeshis of our generation. We grew up watching it on television or VCR every year on February 21. The story, dialogues and setting of the film are still relevant and very much in line with the current ongoing situation in Bangladesh. The film inspires us to unite to stop the spread of torture and any conspiracy against humanity."

At this event, Tanim expressed his deep gratitude to his friend, writer and film critic Bidhan Ribeiro, who arranged for the family of the late Zahir Raihan to contact him. Tanim is also extremely grateful to Zahir Raihan's children, Anol Raihan and Tapu Raihan, who have willingly granted permission for the screening.

After receiving official approval, Tanim obtained a digitally restored copy of the film from the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) and further developed it through Kaushik of Razor Edge Studios. Tanim and his younger brother Tahinul Mannan transcribed the dialogues and then translated them into English for subtitles.

Tanim has released more than 50 Bengali films in Australia, New Zealand and other countries since 2016. He dreams of showing such extraordinary and inspiring films on a larger scale. “We are eagerly waiting for a housefull show to celebrate International Mother Language Day,” added Tanim.

This exhibition is our tribute to the timeless talent of the late Zahir Raihan. He invites film lovers to participate in this cultural celebration.