Renowned filmmaker Gias Uddin Selim, known for "Monpura", has garnered widespread acclaim for his latest directorial venture, "Kajolrekha". The film has now been showcased at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) in the Netherlands.

Speaking to The Daily Star over the phone from the Netherlands, Selim expressed his excitement, stating, "It feels wonderful. "Kajolrekha" is our story, a story of our country. Our audience has loved it, and now we are here at the Rotterdam International Film Festival with the film. The joy is beyond words."

Sharing his heartfelt emotions, Gias Uddin Selim further shared, "It is a great privilege for me that "Kajolrekha" has been selected for such a prestigious festival. European audiences at the festival have been deeply moved by the film. I am truly happy."

The director traveled to the Netherlands on February 1 and will remain there until February 12. He has been experiencing a busy schedule. On January 30, the film had its first screening for journalists and members of the film industry.

A screening of Gias Uddin Selim's "Kajolrekha" was held on February 3 for European audiences, followed by another on February 5. Another screening is scheduled for today, with a total of five screenings planned at the festival.

Speaking about the response, Selim shared, "Both foreign audiences and the Bangladeshi community here are highly enthusiastic. They are enjoying the film, and that is my biggest achievement. It feels wonderful just thinking about it."

He further noted, "When Europeans applaud the film, Bangladeshis here also take pride in its success. They can see that we have brought something truly special."

"Members of the Bangladeshi community here have told me that I have made them proud. They are happy, as I have brought recognition to their roots," the director continued. 

Responding to another question, he shared, "Having 'Kajolrekha' selected for the Rotterdam International Film Festival has been a fulfilling experience. As a filmmaker, I feel that all the hard work has paid off."

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"I hope 'Kajolrekha' finds a place in everyone's heart. I have received immense love in Bangladesh, and now, I am experiencing the same appreciation beyond our borders," he concluded.