Chicago Filmmaker Mina Purohit’s First Film Receives 6 Awards

Kanku Entire Group photo (from Left to Right) Mina Purohit, Kamini Panchal, Hitesh Raval, Vallabh Patel, Mona Thiba,Agneya Mankad, Falak Antani, Deepak Antani, Rani Sharma, Hitu Kanodia, Kamlesh Solanki, Randev Bhaduri.

The host and producer of IndiaTV USA, Mina Purohit has created and produced a Gujarati film titled ‘Kanku Purayu Maa Amba Na Chowk Ma.’ This groundbreaking film has received 6 awards at the Transmedia Gujarati Film and Stage Awards. ‘Kanku Purayu Maa Amba Na Chowk Ma’ is the story of a US born and raised girl caught between a love triangle; taking the moviegoer on an emotional rollercoaster of her life’s happiness, trials and tribulations. The film is deep rooted in Indian culture; celebrating the oneness of family and community brotherhood through the fun of festivals.

This entertaining film is filled with sweet melodies and gazals that are sure to become blockbusters. The popular gazal ‘M Le Na M Le,’ by well-known and renowned poet, Late Adil Mansuri has been immortalized in this film. The movie is shot in Ambaji near Abu and in Ahmedabad at the impressive and gorgeous 30 crore rupees bungalow built by Shree Mukesh Patel of Bhavani Tractors. Although this film is strongly rooted in faith and culture, it is a modern film with very new ideas, twists and turns. A filmgoer commented that “many years after ‘Paarki Thapan’ I’ve seen a good Gujarati film.” Another filmgoer noted that as of late, “they have not seen as good of a family film even in Hindi.” Without spoiling the story, the movie is filled with emotions and is sure to have tears rolling down your cheeks.

The story and ideas of the film was the creation of Mina Purohit, for which she also received a nomination. Mina is thrilled that her first film received six awards in all. Mona Thiba took home the award for Best Actress, Rani Sharma for Best Supporting Actress, Best Child Actor award went to Agneya, Best Lyrics awarded to Tushar Shukla, Best Music honor went to Iqbal Darbar, and Best Cinematography was presented to Ranadev Bhaduri.

(Left to Right) Rani Sharma, Mina Purohit, Mona Thiba.

With a solid storyline, and vivid imagination; Mina enlisted the support of Vallabh Patel, and along with her, he also joined hands as a producer. Mina would also like to extend her heartfelt gratitude to Bhagu Patel (Amitron USA) for his encouragement and moral support, a vital ingredient in making the film possible. Of course a filmmaker is nothing without those that help you reach the end of the rainbow. Mina would like to credit the entire film production team in the success it has received. Special thanks to Director Deepak Antani who poured his heart into the film; giving immeasurable hours and dedication.

Mina Purohit

When asked what her reason for entering the film industry was, Mina responded by saying, “I believe that film is the strongest and most effective medium that impacts society.” Mina’s father, late Krishnalal Dave was a social reformer in their hometown. Growing up and having her father as a propagator of change and progress instilled in her the urge to do something for the community. The big dream buried deep within for Mina is to produce topnotch Hindi films. By starting in her own backyard and producing a Gujarati language film, her dream is quickly transpiring. So what’s next for Mina? “After the successful completion of this project and by the grace of god, I will be able to work on projects that have to do with a variety subjects that I have only dreamt of.” Mina would like to inspire all those interested in film production, from artists to investors to join her in this incredible journey and leave their mark on society.

BY NIGAM PATEL