Papa Buka is a 2025 Tok Pisin-language drama film co-written and directed by Dr. Biju, featuring Sine Boboro in the titular role. The film follows Papa Buka, an elderly war veteran, who helps two Indian historians discover forgotten World War II events that link India and Papua New Guinea through acts of bravery and kindness. The film premiered on 19 September 2025 in Papua New Guinea. The timing of the film release is significant as Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence will be celebrated on 16 September 2025.[1]
Two Indian historians, Romila Chatterjee and Anand Kunhiraman, travel to Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea to research and write a book about Indian soldiers who served alongside British and Australian forces during World War II, fighting against the Japanese. In their search for firsthand accounts, they meet Papa Buka, an 80-year-old war veteran from the Kokoda Track campaign. He becomes their guide, leading them through remote jungle villages where they interview other veterans and collect memories of the war. As their journey unfolds, they encounter surprising and unforeseen events.
The film was announced in May 2024 by Inbasekar Sundaramurti, Indian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea. It is the first Papua New Guinea–India co-produced feature film, marking a milestone in cinematic collaboration between the two countries and Papua New Guinea's representation at major international film festivals.[3] Native Arts Fashion Academy Production of Papua New Guinea and the Indian producers Akshay Parija, Pa. Ranjith and Prakash Bare are co-producing the film. It is supported by the Papua New Guinea Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture, National Cultural Commission, and the High Commission of India.[4]
In 2024, Ritabhari Chakraborty was selected to play lead in the film.[5] Yedhu Radhakrishnan, is making his debut as a cinematographer with the film.[6]
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