By Kaushik Nath
In an encouraging moment for Assamese cinema, Jolaxoi (The Wetland), directed and produced by Reema Borah, has found a place among promising film projects at the IFFD CineXchange Co-Pro 2026. Scheduled from March 25 to 30, this prestigious platform brings together carefully selected projects that are still in development but show strong creative and production potential. The inclusion of Jolaxoi reflects the growing recognition of regional storytelling from Assam in national and international film circuits.
The CineXchange Co-Pro is designed as a collaborative marketplace where filmmakers present their projects before producers, distributors, funding bodies, and sales agents. Only those projects that demonstrate preparedness in terms of treatment, storyline, visual moodboard, and partial financial backing are selected. In this context, Jolaxoi stands as a testament to both artistic vision and professional readiness. With two representatives pitching the film, the project is expected to open doors for meaningful collaborations that can take it from concept to completion.
The title Jolaxoi, meaning wetland, immediately evokes the ecological and cultural landscape of Assam. Wetlands in the region are not just geographical features but living ecosystems that sustain livelihoods, biodiversity, and community traditions. By choosing such a theme, the film promises to explore a deeply rooted narrative, possibly blending environmental concerns with human stories. Assamese cinema has often drawn strength from its natural surroundings, and Jolaxoi appears to continue this tradition with a contemporary sensibility.
Reema Borah, the creative force behind the project, is already known for her thoughtful storytelling. Her earlier film Bokul received critical appreciation for its sensitive portrayal of human relationships, while Noi earned her the Assam State Film Award for Best Screenplay in 2021. Her work reflects a consistent engagement with layered narratives and social realities, making Jolaxoi one of the most anticipated upcoming projects from the region. Her ability to blend realism with emotional depth adds credibility to the film’s potential impact.
Another notable aspect of this selection is the presence of Love You Messi, a Karbi Hindi film by Khanjan Nath, alongside Jolaxoi. This highlights the diversity of voices emerging from Assam, where multiple linguistic and cultural identities are finding expression through cinema. Together, these projects represent a broader movement of storytelling from the Northeast that is gradually gaining space in larger cinematic conversations.
The journey from a developing project to a finished film is often challenging, especially for regional filmmakers who face constraints in funding and distribution. Platforms like the IFFD CineXchange Co-Pro play a crucial role in bridging this gap by connecting creators with the resources they need. For Jolaxoi, this opportunity could be transformative, enabling it to reach audiences beyond Assam while retaining its local essence.
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