Assamese actor Sukanya Boruah says Northeast India have been overlooked by mainstream cinema

(L-R) Director Rima Das with actors Bhuman Bhargav Das and Sukanya Boruah at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival

Working with filmmaker Rima Das was something Sukanya Boruah, an Assam-based actor who used to feature in music videos, had never imagined. Even more unimaginable was going to the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival. Yet, both happened with Not A Hero, which won the Crystal Bear Special Mention for Best Film in the Generation KPlus competition at the film gala.

Recalling the film's February 21 première at the Berlinale, she says, "There were people from so many countries, and they respected cinema so much. They sat through the entire film, even the end credits."

A still from the film

While the win at the Berlinale has put the spotlight on the film in India, the lack of representation of artistes from Northeast India unsettles Boruah. "It shouldn't take global praise for people to be respected in their own country. That part feels disappointing. We face so much racism, but moments like these also remind us that art will travel anyway." The actor adds that Northeast India has always been rich in art, literature, and music.

Singles starring the actor

. ‘Pahariya Dawor'
. ‘Tumi Janane'
. ‘Khaplang Khuplung'