Ariful Islam/Guwahati

Guwahati filmmaker Aminul Haque, who has several short films to his credit is winning accolades for his latest film 'Ikigai' which is based on a serious topic like mental health and racial discrimination.

His film is set to be released at the end of January. In an interview with

Awaz-the Voice, Assam, Aminul Haque said that 'Ikigai' is based on the story of a girl who dreams of becoming an actor.

Ikigia is the Japanese concept of every individual identifying the purpose of his life and following a set of rule to enjoy longevity. Ikigai: the japanese secret of living a long and happy life is the best seller book on the same topic.

Aminul Haque with Ikigai team

Due to her dark skin, she faces discrimination and has to overcome many obstacles in her struggle to fulfill her dream. The film is about her journey of dealing with stress and mental health problems while making an effort to lighten the colour of her skin.

Aminul Haque shared that shooting 'Ikigai' was a challenging task for him. He had to shoot this film twice. The first time, the entire data of the film was lost. Despite this, he did not give up.

He restarted the work. He spent about Rs 50,000 in making this film. The film also has a song, which, he says, "will surely move the audience."

Aminul hopes that this film will give a deep message to the people.

Aminul Haque has made short films and documentaries on social issues. His major works include 'The Silent Killer', 'Hope Not Out', and a documentary on East Kamrup College.

Aminul Haque shooting in a University campus

He made Assam's first full-length documentary on the occasion of the golden jubilee of East Kamrup College.

Aminul always releases his films through free screening in the presence of well-wishers.

However, for 'Ikigai' he has taken a new initiative. This time the audience will be allowed free entry to the screening venue. If they like the film, they can voluntarily cooperate with Aminul in the form of a minimum ticket price. This method is an attempt to encourage young filmmakers.

Aminul Haque said that he cannot even recover 5% of the money spent on making a short film.

He has no other source of income. Still, he works hard to fulfill his social responsibility and hobby. Aminul has made short films like 'The Silent Killer', which focused on the ill effects of drugs and was also appreciated by the government administration.

After completing his graduation from East Kamrup College, Aminul obtained a postgraduate degree from the Department of Communication and Journalism of Guwahati University. He started filmmaking during his student life and made his first documentary on the Char Chapari area of ​​Assam.

Aminul Haque behind the camera

His first short film 'Marichikkar Rang' was made at just Rs 500, while the budget of 'Hope Not Out' was Rs 30,000. Now the budget of 'Ikigai' is Rs 50,000. Aminul Haque is working on topics like superstition prevalent in society, the ill effects of drugs, and racial discrimination. His dream is to become a successful filmmaker. His short films work to make the youth aware of the evils of society.

Aminul says that instead of seeking a government job, he wants to bring change in society through films.

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His short films are not only a means of entertainment but also try to bring positive change in society. Films like 'Ikigai' are an excellent medium to promote discussion on sensitive topics like social and mental health.