Renowned filmmaker Rahhat Shah Kazmi, celebrated for his directorial hits such as “Lihaaf,” “Mantostaan,” and “Country of Blind,” is stepping into the limelight as an actor once again in his latest venture, “Kaya Palat.” Directed by Shoib Nikash Shah and co-written by Rahhat himself, the film stars the talented Helly Shah in the lead role. This cinematic masterpiece, which delves into the intriguing world of river mafias in Jammu, has not only gained international acclaim but has also marked Rahhat’s triumphant return to acting after his blockbuster directorial success.
“Kaya Palat” has garnered attention and accolades, closing the Namaste Vietnam festival in Ho Chi Minh City before making waves in the USA. Rahhat Kazmi, reflecting on his dual role as actor and director, shared, “Kaya Palat is a film that holds a special place in my heart. It marks a thrilling and humbling chapter for me. When Tariq Khan, my longtime friend and industry partner, and I started our careers, we began as actors. Over time, I transitioned into writing and directing, while Tariq focused on production. We always talked about making a film that brought us back to where we started – as actors, and ‘Kaya Palat’ brings that dream to life.”
He continued, “Going back in front of the camera after directing for years felt like meeting an old friend again. It brought back memories of when Tariq Khan and I were young actors with big dreams. But, it wasn’t easy. Challenges were right there, staring at me through the lens. It was like starting over, figuring out the details of a craft I knew but kind of forgot.
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Switching from being the one in charge to following directions needed a different vibe, a new kind of openness. I took on the challenge with all my heart because I believe that real growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones. It was like rediscovering my love for acting, remembering the excitement and passion that got me into this world in the first place.”
“Kaya Palat” recently earned accolades at the Indian International Film Festival of Boston, USA, where Rahhat and his co-star Helly Shah received two prestigious awards. The film’s uniqueness lies in its gripping narrative, unexpected twists, and stellar storytelling, which garnered praise during its screening in Vietnam. Rahhat Kazmi’s decision to step into the role of an actor once again was met with both critical acclaim and audience appreciation, solidifying his versatility in the world of cinema.
Expressing his happiness about winning the Best Actor award at the Indian International Film Festival of Boston, Rahhat shared, “Bagging the Best Actor award at the Indian International Film Festival of Boston felt unreal. Farida Jalal ji’s words on destiny and gratitude hit home. This unexpected win just shows the magic that unfolds when you follow your heart.”
Director Shoib Nikash Shah highlighted the film’s unique storyline, stating, “I believe in the power of a compelling narrative, and ‘Kaya Palat’ delivers just that. With unexpected twists and turns, the film has garnered praise for its screenplay and storytelling, especially during our screening in Vietnam. Working with Helly and the dedicated cast has been a rewarding experience, and the results are now evident.”
Apart from Rahhat and Helly, “Kaya Palat” features an ensemble cast including seasoned actors like Mir Sarwar and veteran actress Swaroopa Ghosh, alongside indie-music singer and composer Rohil Bhatia in a significant role.
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Rahhat Shah Kazmi’s journey with “Kaya Palat” is more than just a return to acting; it’s a celebration of his dual expertise as both a director and an actor. The film’s success is a testament to the creative prowess of Rahhat and the entire team involved. As “Kaya Palat” continues to make waves and capture hearts, Rahhat Kazmi’s legacy in the world of cinema is further solidified, showcasing his ability to seamlessly transition between roles and deliver cinematic gems that resonate with audiences globally. The film’s journey is a testament to the magic that happens when passion, talent, and storytelling prowess converge on the silver screen.
