Bhubaneswar/Cuttack: Raja stands as one of Odisha’s most vibrant and cherished festivals, marked by joyous celebrations, family gatherings, and cultural festivities. With merry-making in full swing, families and friends often head to cinemas during the three-day holiday, creating the perfect backdrop for new film releases.
This year, audiences have an exciting lineup as four Odia films across diverse genres hit theatres on June 12.
1. Chhaki Suna – A Twisting Murder Mystery Thriller
Anubhav Mohanty leads Chhaki Suna, a suspenseful murder mystery where he portrays a police officer unraveling a complex case. The teaser promises: “Every murder leaves a clue. Every game has a winner. But in this story, winning might cost you everything.” The film intriguingly incorporates the childhood game of “Chhaki Suna” as a tool in the investigation of a serial killer.
Directed by Manash Padhiary, the movie is produced by Jagrati A Mohanty, Anubhav’s wife, Naveen Bhandari, and Suvam Mohanty under Amara Studios and 29 Two Nine Films, in association with SM Entertainment and Shivaansh Production.
The supporting cast features Sambhabana Mohanty, Abhishek Panda, Divya Mohanty, Choudhury Jayprakash Das, Sukumar Tudu, and others. The teaser also pays heartfelt tribute to late music composer Abhijit Majumdar and singer Humane Sagar. Rajshri Films is handling all-India distribution.
2. Shikar – Courtroom Drama with Social Undercurrents
Shikar blends courtroom drama with themes of class differences and societal battles. Amlan Dash plays a man facing serious charges, while Elina Samantaray stars as a determined lawyer. The teaser captures its essence: “Not every hunter carries a weapon. Some hunt with pain. Some hunt with love. Some hunt with betrayal… In a world where everyone is a hero in their own story and a villain in someone else’s, the hunter’s trail begins.”
Directed by Mrityunjaya Sahoo and produced by Sachikanta Jena under Moon TV, the film features a strong supporting cast including Supriya, Ankit, Tapas Saragharia, Pradyumna Lenka, Prasanta, Prabhati, Smita Mohanty, Avinab Singh, Gyana Hota, Pushpa Panda, Soham Singh, Mitu Mithun and Rishi (child artist). Priyabrata Panda has written the screenplay and dialogues, with editing by Rajesh Das. It appeals to viewers seeking an underdog story confronting societal evils.
3. Diary – Emotional Love Story with Suspense
Diary offers an emotional rollercoaster filled with love, suspense, memories, and heartfelt moments. Led by Ardhendu Sundar Sahu, Jashmin Rath, Prangya and Kuna Tripathy, the film appears to center on a romantic narrative enriched by mystery and character-driven drama. The teaser uses emotional mood-building and mystery to draw audience interest. Its nostalgic and touching visuals make it ideal for watching with loved ones.
Directed by Susant Mani, the film is produced by Ardhendu Sundar Sahu and co-produced by Adikanda Sahu. Kuna Tripathy handled the story, screenplay, and dialogues, while Sukant Mani managed editing. Prem Anand has composed the soulful music.
4. The Millet Diary – Wholesome Family Entertainer
The Millet Diary celebrates tradition, compassion, and nature through a story where “love becomes care, and care becomes strength.” Starring Sivani Sangita, Abhishek Panda, Siddhant Mohapatra, and Santu Nije in key roles, it promises a wholesome entertainer with commercial elements, perfect for family viewing.
Rooted in tradition, guided by compassion, and inspired by nature, this film celebrates love that heals and life choices that matter.
Directed by Rajendra Mohanta and produced by Infyson Entertainment (with co-producer Rojalin Mohanty), the supporting cast includes Kuna Tripathy , Raj Rajesh ,Sritam Das,Susant Dashmohapatra, Shakti Baral ,Santu Nije,Revansh Mohanty and Shreeya Satapathy. The film has soulful music composed by Prem Anand.
With a major clash among these releases, Raja 2026 is poised to be a blockbuster period for Ollywood, offering something for every taste—from edge-of-the-seat thrillers and intense dramas to emotional romances and feel-good family stories.
Book your tickets early and enjoy the festival with cinema and family!