We are thrilled to announce that SURAIYA, an upcoming Bangladeshi feature film directed by Robiul Alam Robi, is now an official Bangladesh–Norway co-production.
This cross-continental collaboration brings together Dhaka-based Ratherhood Initiatives Ltd. and Oslo’s Lightsource Film Productions as co-producing partners. The deal marks a significant milestone not only for the project itself but also for the broader landscape of South Asian-European cinematic cooperation.
Produced by Fazle Hasan Shishir, and co-produced by Arne Dahr (Lightsource, Norway) and Shibabrata Barman (Made in Banialulu, Bangladesh), Suraiya is adapted from Barman’s own novel of the same name. The screenplay is co-written by Barman and director Robi, both of whom bring a deeply grounded and literary approach to the project.
Earlier selected for Busan International Film Festival’s Asian Project Market (APM), Asia’s largest co-production and investment platform, Suraiya stood out among 399 submissions from 50 countries. The film’s selection signaled its international appeal and narrative depth, earning praise from noted filmmakers including Mostofa Sarwar Farooki.
In addition to Busan, Suraiya has been chosen for the Tasveer Film Market in Seattle, where it continues to garner interest from global partners and receive support through funding, marketing, and mentorship opportunities. The project has also received a government film grant in Bangladesh, further cementing its momentum.
This co-production agreement between Bangladesh and Norway opens the door to a broader exchange of ideas, talent, and resources. It reaffirms Ratherhood Initiatives’ mission to facilitate cross-border collaboration while championing Bangladeshi stories on a global stage.
With the Norway deal now formalized, the team looks forward to moving into the next phase of development and production.
Stay connected as we share more updates on Suraiya in the coming months. This is only the beginning.
