Lukanand Kshetrimayum, known globally as Mister International India 2019 and Mister International 2022, is set to step into the world of cinema with his acting debut in Birangana Xaadhani, a historical feature film directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Biswajeet Bora.
The project, produced by the Sootiya Development Council under a cultural initiative championed by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is already being described as one of the most ambitious cinematic undertakings in Northeast India in terms of scale, storytelling, and production.
A Story Rooted in History
Birangana Xaadhani tells the story of the Sootiya dynasty, a powerful medieval kingdom that played a defining role in shaping Assam’s history. Lukanand plays Maharaja Nitipal, the last king of the dynasty—a simple villager who rose to power and became the husband of Queen Sati Sadhani, remembered as a warrior queen and cultural icon.
Speaking about his role, Lukanand shared:
“Portraying Maharaja Nitipal connects me deeply to Assam’s rich heritage. As a non-Assamese speaker, I have poured my soul into this movie over the last four years. It is not just a role—it is a responsibility. To step into the shoes of a historical figure from Assam and bring his story alive on screen is profoundly humbling. I thank the director, Shri Biswajeet Bora, for entrusting me with this character.”
Four Years of Preparation
Far from being a glamour-driven debut, Lukanand’s entry into films has been forged through discipline and dedication. He underwent four years of acting and action training, guided by alumni of the National School of Drama. From combat sequences to courtroom intensity, the preparation was designed to match the gravitas of a historical role.
Reflecting on the journey, he added:
“As someone who has represented the region on international platforms, I feel an even greater sense of duty to ensure our history is told with authenticity and respect. This film gives me the opportunity to present a piece of Assam’s legacy to national and global audiences—something I consider both an honour and a calling. I hope Birangana Xaadhani sparks renewed interest in our cultural narratives and reminds people around the world of the richness of Northeast India’s past.”
Big Screen Ambition
Directed by Biswajeet Bora, whose films have won both national and international recognition, Birangana Xaadhani is being positioned as a pan-India release. The film will hit theatres later this year in Hindi, Assamese, Telugu, and several other Indian languages, ensuring accessibility across diverse audiences.
With 90% of filming already complete, the production is now in its final phase. The scale of the project—spanning elaborate sets, detailed period costumes, and historically researched sequences—signals an effort to put Assam’s untold stories on the national map.
Why It Matters
For Northeast India, Birangana Xaadhani represents more than just a film—it is an assertion of identity and pride. By dramatizing the life of Maharaja Nitipal and Queen Sati Sadhani, the film is poised to revive interest in a dynasty that has remained largely absent from mainstream historical narratives.
If successful, the project could set a new precedent for how regional histories are presented to a larger audience, offering a cinematic bridge between local heritage and national consciousness.
Release Timeline
Birangana Xaadhani is expected to release across theatres in late 2025. With its sweeping historical narrative, multilingual release, and a fresh talent in the lead role, the film is being closely watched as one of the most significant cultural projects emerging from Northeast India this year.