Kolkata, July 2025:
West Bengal’s cultural canvas shines brighter with the release of ‘Minority Diary’, a powerful socio-economic documentary exploring the lives of four minority communities Christians, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists whose combined population constitutes less than 1% of the state.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Indranil Sarkar, the film delves into the shared identity of these communities as Bengalis while celebrating their distinct histories, languages, food habits, and costume sensibilities. Through this, the film eloquently presents a compelling message: unity in diversity.
The project began pre-production in January 2020, with principal photography kicking off in September 2021. Shot extensively across West Bengal from the northern districts of Nadia and Kalimpong to the heartlands of Kolkata, Burdwan, and Murshidabad the documentary unfolds in four poignant chapters:
🔹 Part One: Explores the Bengali Christian community in Northern and Central Bengal
🔹 Part Two: Highlights the Sikh community’s lives and livelihoods in Kolkata and Burdwan
🔹 Part Three: Documents the Jain community in Murshidabad and adjoining areas
🔹 Part Four: Concludes with the Buddhist community in Kalimpong and Kolkata
Each segment brings forth the contribution of these minorities to the larger societal fabric, stitched together with an overarching Bengali ethos.
🎬 About the Director
Indranil Sarkar, a seasoned cinematographer and director, began his journey with The Worker for a Drop of Honey (2005), and has since built an impressive portfolio across documentaries, fiction, and experimental films. His works such as Utopic Assassin, Daniel’s Diary, The Rhythm of Life, and The Turning Point have received critical acclaim.
His recent endeavors include The Doyen’s Journey Through Time (2023), a docu-feature on legendary filmmaker Sushil Majumdar, and Worker II – Man Woman and The Gentle Giant (2024).
With Minority Diary, Sarkar adds another feather to his cap presenting not just a film but a heartfelt documentation of identity, coexistence, and community.
Upcoming projects under his lens include Mask Lore of India and A Tale of Seven Sisters, promising further rich explorations into India’s tribal, rural, and North Eastern cultural heritage.
