Psychological thriller short film ‘Kokua’ set to premiere on Tarang Plus on May 16

Popular OTT platform Tarang Plus is coming up with a short film ‘Kokua’, set against the haunting backdrop of an isolated forest. The psychological thriller tells a gripping tale where folklore, fear, and fatal choices collide.

The short film is all set to premiere on May 16, diving deep into the fear of the ‘unknown’ rooted in rural superstition and personal trauma. 

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A Tale of Fear, Folklore & Fate

The story follows Muna, a timid young man, and his domineering uncle Ashok as they take shelter from the rain during a boar hunt. Inside an abandoned hut, Ashok taunts Muna’s fear, warning that fear attracts death, just as panic dooms the boar they pursue. As they continue deeper into the jungle, Ashok recounts the chilling legend of Rabandhara, a local deity said to claim two lives at the end of each monsoon. 

What will happen next to Ashok and Muna in the forest? Will they encounter the legend of Rabandhara in the deep forest? All these questions are sure to keep the audience hook to this Tarang Plus’ gripping short film.

More About ‘Kokua’: Rooted in Ancient Odia Literature

The word Kokua itself first appeared in Sarala Das’s Mahabharata in 1467 AD. It describes an undefined yet overwhelming fear — the kind that grips the soul without explanation. Kokua draws from this literary and cultural concept to build a narrative where unseen forces and inner demons collide with deadly consequences.

Recognition and Accolades

Kokua has already made its mark on the festival circuit. It won the Best Background Score at the 15th Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival.

It was also nominated for Best Film, ultimately competing with Anurag Kashyap’s The Last Ride. It was selected in the 5th Kerala Short Film Festival also.

Creative Team and Cast

Kokua is directed by Soumya Ranjan Rana and written by Sameer Ranjan Rana. The film features powerful performances by Lalit Pujhari and Srinibash Mishra. 

Its dark and emotional mood is brought to life by Sai Charan’s music, with haunting songs sung by Murli Pati and Sai Charan. The dialogues are written by Dayasagar Dharua, and the visuals are beautifully captured by cinematographer Sangram Mahapatra, adding to the film’s suspenseful and eerie feel.

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With themes of superstition, inner conflict, and the blurred lines between myth and reality, ‘Kokua’ promises a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll. 

Streaming begins May 16, only on Tarang Plus.