Indian Bengali film "Baksho Bondi" (Shadowbox) has been nominated for the prestigious 75th Berlin International Film Festival, featuring the title track sung by Bangladesh's "Gully Boy" famed duo, Tabib Mahmud and Rana Mridha. 

The song, titled "Shudhu Takar Jonno", was written and composed by Tabib Mahmud, with music arranged by Shubhro Raha. The 75th edition of Berlin International Film Festival announced the list of selected films earlier today, with "Baksho Bondi" featured in the Berlinale Perspectives category. This section showcases 13 films from emerging directors worldwide. 

When Tabib Mahmud heard the news yesterday evening, he was elated. Speaking to Prothom Alo, he shared, "It has boosted my confidence. I'm truly thrilled and honoured."

"Baksho Bondi" was co-directed by Indian filmmakers Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi. Tabib was asked how he connected with the Indian filmmakers, to which he responded, "It all started about a year and a half ago. They reached out to me after listening to my music. One of my songs, 'Shudhu Takar Jonno', caught their attention, and Saumyananda Sahi contacted me after hearing it. We had several discussions, and shortly after, she shared her vision with me." 

About a year ago, she informed me that a documentary she worked on had been nominated for the Oscars, where she was the cinematographer. We want to feature 'Shudhu Takar Jonno' as the title track.' She asked me to recreate the song for the film, which I did. Now, to my surprise, the film has been selected for such a prestigious festival like Berlin," the singer added. 

Tabib sees this as an excellent opportunity to represent Bangladesh on the global stage. "At such festivals, the most talented filmmakers from around the world showcase their best work. To be part of an Indian film's title track is a huge honour for me and my country. It's an incredible opportunity to showcase Bangladesh in a positive light," he remarked.

Tabib Mahmud and Rana first gained widespread recognition in 2019 with their hit song "Gully Boy". Since then, they've released a series of successful tracks. Reflecting on his six-year music career, Tabib commented, "In such a short musical journey, having a title track in a film that's been nominated at the Berlin Film Festival is a massive accomplishment."

Earlier in 2023, Tabib and Rana also made waves with their song "Chap Nai", which was featured in the Indian series "Kaala" on Disney Hotstar, directed by Bejoy Nambiar. 

The Berlin International Film Festival will kick off on February 13 and conclude on February 23, 2024.

According to the synopsis shared by Berlinale, "Baksho Bondi" follows the story of Maya (Tillotama Shome), who "discovers that her husband, a former soldier who is suffering from PTSD — is the prime suspect in a murder investigation. She and her teenage son are now forced to go to extremes to keep the family together".

Alongside Tillotama, the cast of "Baksho Bondi" includes Chandan Bisht, Sayan Karmakar, and Suman Saha, among others.

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