Bhubaneswar: National Award-winning filmmaker Anupam Patnaik has announced his next directorial venture titled Mantra Muugdha, a genre-blending fantasy comedy that aims to redefine storytelling in Odia cinema. The film’s mahurat puja was recently held, marking the official beginning of the project, which had been teased for weeks under the initials “MM”.

Produced by Barsha Patnaik under the banner of Amiya Patnaik Productions, Mantra Muugdha follows the massive success of Patnaik’s last film Karma, which grossed over ₹8.5 crore nationwide and had a successful 50-day run. Known for blending entertainment with social commentary, Patnaik promises a film that offers laughter, thrills, and layered meaning.

The film stars Sanoj Kumar and Manmay Dey, who reunite with Patnaik, and introduces newcomer Sarthak Bharadwaj. It also features Dipanwit Dash Mohapatra of Pratikshya fame, alongside seasoned actors Hara Rath, Choudhury Jayprakash Das, Nishant Majithia, Soma Hota, and Bhakti Das. Digital creator Mr Rout and television personality Pihu Mohapatra add a unique blend to the ensemble cast. Notably, Mantra Muugdha marks Bhoomika Dash’s first collaboration with the banner, while Suryamayee Mohapatra returns after her strong performance in Karma.

On the technical side, Patnaik brings back his trusted team, including cinematographer Deepak Kumar, editor Rashmi Ranjan Dash, sound designer Shakti Swaroop Dwibedy, and sync sound specialist Chandrasekhar Sharma. The story is co-written by Patnaik and Roshan Bisoi, with screenplay by Rohit Gehlot and Patnaik himself. Dialogues are penned by Pranab Rath, with additional contributions by Nishant Majithia.

The film's music is another highlight, with five composers—Ashish Pradhan, Anurag Patnaik, Sangeet Patnaik, Anurag Panda, and Roumyaj Pradhan—working together to create a rich, genre-crossing score.

Mantra Muugdha revolves around three central characters who embark on a journey filled with fantastical and humorous situations. The film also challenges societal norms and exposes structural issues through its comedic lens.

The announcement comes shortly after the director’s success with Gangs of Puri Season 2, a gritty crime web series that has garnered a cult following and further solidified Patnaik’s reputation as a storyteller attuned to modern audiences.

As filming begins, Mantra Muugdha is expected to be a significant step forward for Odia cinema, both in scale and ambition. With its unique blend of fantasy, humour, and social relevance, the film is set to cast a powerful spell on viewers nationwide.