Rima Das, a filmmaker from Assam, spoke at a recent event aimed at discussing political and social issues in Assam, coinciding with the upcoming elections. During a special session titled 'From Assam to Oscars', she shared her personal journey and the challenges she faced in her career. Rima emphasized the disconnect she feels between urban and rural India, highlighting that real representation comes from the simplicity of rural people, where she believes the true essence of India lies.

She recounted her experiences in Mumbai where, during auditions, she was often asked if she was from Nepal or China, which reflects a broader issue of stereotyping and cultural misunderstandings of Northeastern Indians. This prompted her to assert her identity as a proud Indian from the Northeast, further underlining the challenges that people from her region face in mainstream cinema and society. Rima Das not only aims to tell her own story but also wants to shine a light on the untold narratives of her community through her films.

Rima's situation resonates with many Northeastern Indians who frequently confront prejudice and a lack of awareness about their diverse culture and identity in the rest of India. Her commitment to making films that capture the essence of her roots provides a counter-narrative to the misconceptions prevalent in bigger cities, driving a much-needed dialogue about inclusion and representation in the Indian film industry.