When the lights dim in downtown Chicago this September, an Assamese story rooted in the floodplains of Dibrugarh will find its place on an international stage.

Hiraeth, the debut feature by writer-director-cinematographer Chow Partha Borgohain, has been officially selected for the in-competition category at the 16th Chicago South Asian Film Festival (CSAFF), to be held from September 14 to 21, 2025.

The film will have its world premiere alongside acclaimed works from across the globe, with the festival’s red carpet scheduled for September 19 and the closing ceremony on September 21.

A social realism drama with a deeply personal core, Hiraeth follows the journey of Pori, a village woman whose life is ripped apart by a devastating flood.

Forced to leave her home with her husband, she migrates to the city—only to be met with the harsh realities of socio-economic inequality, corruption, and exploitation.

The film’s Assamese title, which evokes a deep longing for home, mirrors its exploration of displacement, resilience, and survival.

Starring Meghali Kalita as Pori, alongside Ashim Kumar Sharma and Atanu Mahanta, the 100-minute Assamese-language film is a portrait of life on society’s margins—of those whose labour fuels the progress of others, but whose struggles remain invisible.

For Borgohain, the festival selection is more than just professional recognition; it is a deeply emotional milestone.

"I am very overwhelmed and happy by the recognition and love this film is receiving. The story we have tried to tell is based on the harsh realities faced by those who are often ignored," he says.

"I am grateful to everyone who helped me in this journey—especially to my two mothers: my own, who has always supported me, and my mother-in-law, who even helped finance this film. And to my wife—her trust and love are the reasons I was able to complete this work," he further adds.

Hiraeth writer-director-cinematographer Chow Partha Borgohain

"This film is for all those who struggle with dignity and are never seen. Through Pori’s journey, I only hope to spark reflection on the inequalities we have come to accept as normal. Keep loving, keep working hard. Try not to hate anyone—life is too short," the director further states.

The ensemble cast also includes Dipankar Sharma, Archana Bezbaruah, Vishwa Kinkar Baruah, Hemanta Rajkonwar, Smritirekha Chetia Handique, Pradipta Pran Bhattacharya, Rimjhim Deka, Rumi Sharma Pathak and Bhoirab Phukan.

Behind the camera, Borgohain wears multiple hats—writer, director, cinematographer—while Sengpem Borgohain produces the film, with Subhitya Borgohain and Ruchie Baruah serving as executive producers.

The crew includes production designer Jayanta Gogoi, editor Kavin Adithya, composer AT Ram, and a technical team spanning sound, colour, VFX, costumes, and makeup.

Borgohain’s own journey is as layered as his film.

Born in Along, Arunachal Pradesh, on December 6, 1986, he spent his early years moving across districts as his father served in the Arunachal Pradesh Police.

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His mother, a government employee, left her job after his birth to become a full-time homemaker. After schooling in Arunachal, he moved to Chennai to pursue a degree in Visual Arts at Madras Christian College, later studying film and motion photography at Mindscreen Film Institute.

Since 2014, he has worked as a freelance cinematographer and director.

The Chicago South Asian Film Festival—one of North America’s largest platforms for South Asian storytelling—brings together filmmakers, audiences, and industry voices through screenings, panel discussions, and cultural events.

For Borgohain, CSAFF offers the chance to share an Assamese narrative with the world, one that speaks of home, loss, and the quiet strength of the human spirit.

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