Altamis Nabil’s “Lumière to Hiralal” Included in the Library of the British Film Institute - BFI

On 20 March, the author personally visited BFI Southbank in London and handed over a copy of the book to the authorities of the BFI Reuben Library. Globally recognized for film research and archival resources, the library’s inclusion of the book is expected to contribute to a broader understanding of early South Asian film history at an international level. The BFI is one of the world's most important research libraries and archive centers for film and television.

The book has also been accepted for inclusion in the collections of two other prominent research libraries in London - the British Library and the SOAS Library at SOAS University of London.

Published by Youth Upskill Network + YUNet, “Lumière to Hiralal” presents an accessible overview of world cinema history and major film movements. The book traces the evolution of cinema from the earliest screenings by the Lumière Brothers to influential movements such as Soviet Montage, German Expressionism, Italian Neorealism, and the French New Wave. It also highlights the origins of cinema in the Indian subcontinent and explores early developments in Bangladeshi filmmaking.

Author Altamis Nabil said: “The purpose of writing this book was to present an accessible understanding of the contribution of South Asia to world cinema history for international readers. Having the book included in the library of the BFI - one of the world’s most important and historic film research institutions - is a great honor for me.”

Through this inclusion, it is expected that the cinematic heritage of Bangladesh and South Asia will gain greater visibility within global academic and film research communities.

Altamis Nabil is also actively engaged in youth development & training initiatives alongside his work in writing and documentary filmmaking.