The Cast

Sine Boboro as Papa Buka

Mr. Sine Boboro is an esteemed community leader and former rural counselor who represented the Government of Papua and New Guinea during its colonial period under Australian administration. In his youth, he traveled extensively throughout Papua New Guinea and even to India. Mr. Boboro hails from Ogotana village on the Sogeri Plateau in the Koiari Local Level Government (LLG) area of Central Province, Papua New Guinea. At 81 years old, he perfectly fits the age requirement for the main character of the movie "Papa Buka." Despite his age, he remains very active and is capable of walking long distances. He speaks Tok Pisin fluently and is also proficient in English.

John Sike as Sike Yuants

John Sike, born in 1999, is a dedicated student pursuing a certificate in IT and Business Management. Hailing from the picturesque regions of Jiwaka and Simbu in Papua New Guinea, John brings a unique blend of cultural richness and academic ambition to his studies. His passion for technology and business has driven him to acquire skills in both fields, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern advancements. With a strong commitment to personal growth and community development, John is poised to make a significant impact in his chosen fields, leveraging his education to create opportunities and drive progress in his homeland.

Ritabari Chakraborty as Romila Chatterjee

Ritabhari Chakraborty is an Indian Bollywood and Bengali film actress. She is a prominent name in the Indian television and film industry. She has been voted by Times of India as the Most Desirable Woman of 2018 in East as well as one of The Top 50 Most Desirable Woman of the country leaving many Bollywood actors behind. She is also the youngest producer in West Bengal. Chakraborty is known to voice her opinions free of inhibitions and she has shared her own journey and experiences in various events like TedX,Josh Talks,and Ink Talk. Chakraborty was also affiliated to the theatre group Jojok. Chakraborty also runs an NGO, SCUD Society for Social Communication,which aims at providing medical camp, cultural activity and training for economic empowerment of the under privileged people.

Prakash Bare as Anand Kunjiraman

Prakash Bare is an Indian theater and film actor focusing on Malayalam, English and other south Indian language productions. Starting with the 2010 Malayalam film Sufi Paranja Katha, Prakash has acted in more than 30 films directed by some of the most eminent filmmakers. He is now a live presence in south Indian art house movies and theater scene. Prakash is also a technologist and entrepreneur focusing on VLSI, Software, media production etc. As a social activist, Prakash is involved in the Endosulfan struggle of Kasaragod and is the president of CERV Collectives which secured interim compensation of 5Lakhs for 6000 plus affected patients through a legal campaign.

Yatendra Agarwal as Romila's Grandfather

Yatendra Kumar Agrawal is a seasoned Chartered Accountant and Business Development Specialist with over 18 years of expertise in financial management, business planning, treasury, taxation, and MIS analysis. Currently the Financial Controller at Digicel (PNG) Ltd, he oversees finance functions, budgeting, financial modeling, and audits, driving operational efficiency through robust financial systems. Key achievements include facilitating a Telstra acquisition, securing USD 1.8 million in tax savings, and launching Mobile Financial Services in new markets. Known for strategic planning, risk management, and cross-cultural leadership, Yatendra holds a Bachelor’s in Commerce, is a CPA PNG member, and excels in leveraging financial software for optimal outcomes.

Sangeeta Singh as Romila's Grandmother

Sangeeta Singh possesses a robust blend of academic qualifications and professional experience, making her well-equipped to lead the Papa Buka Backend Team. With a strong foundation in safety and quality management, complemented by extensive teaching and research experience in related fields, she brings a detailed-oriented and systematic approach to her work. Her certifications in food safety, advanced IT skills, and hands-on experience in various educational roles demonstrate her ability to manage complex projects, ensure adherence to industry standards, and effectively communicate with diverse teams. Additionally, her role as a compere highlights her excellent communication and leadership abilities, essential for guiding and motivating the backend team towards achieving project goals.

Rejeev Sharfma as Indian High Commissioner

Rajeev Sharma - As the CEO of NASFUND since 2023, Mr. Sharma brings over 30 years of financial sector experience from India, the Middle East, and Papua New Guinea. He is a Chartered Accountant, a Certified Public Accountant in both PNG and Australia, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Honours) from Delhi University. Additionally, he is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a professional member of the PNG Institute of Directors.

Barbara Anatau as National Museum Officer

Barbara Anatau is an experienced educator with a background in science teaching and mentoring. She currently works as a Science Tutor at WizzKids Coaching Centre, where she teaches basic science, chemistry, and biology while developing online course materials. Barbara previously taught at Kopkop College, holding roles such as Head of the Science Department and Acting Deputy Principal. She has also been involved in organizing events like the 2024 inter-Secondary School Science, Math, and English Quiz in NCD. Skilled in Microsoft Office and Moodle, Barbara is passionate about supporting students, especially female students, and organizing extracurricular activities. She holds a certificate in Soft Skills from the National Institute of Skills Training, India.

Clement Gima as War Veteran 1

Mr. Clement M. Gima, born on April 22, 1967, in Unea Island, WNBP, Papua New Guinea, is a dedicated musician, educator, and ethno-musicologist with over three decades of experience. He holds a Diploma in Music from FCA–UPNG and has undertaken various short courses in Business English, Music Education, and Dramatic Arts. His professional roles include Trainee Ethnomusicologist at the Institute of PNG Studies, Senior Research Officer at the NRI, and Piano Mentor & Keyboardist with MMPUG (2023–2024). With expertise in music education, cultural research, and talent scouting, Mr. Gima has significantly contributed to preserving PNG’s musical heritage. A devout Catholic, he is married with three children.

Yacob Oburi as War Cemetery Officer

Yacob Oburi - Born on December 25, 1971, in Imonda, West Sepik Province, and originally from Bogia, Madang Province, Yacob Duduman Oburi is a passionate educator, musician, and performer. Educated in Catholic-run schools, he studied Music and Cultural Arts at the University of Papua New Guinea’s Creative Arts School in 1993 and earned a degree in Education from Divine Word University in 2010. Yacob specializes in teaching music, expressive arts, and social studies while actively engaging in performing arts, charity, and environmental conservation. A skilled pianist, trombonist, and bassist, he has performed as a session musician, appeared in theatrical productions, and contributed to the indigenous music for the film Papa Buka. Notably, he represented Papua New Guinea at the 2006 World Expo in Japan. Now based in Port Moresby, Yacob continues to inspire through his teaching and freelance performances, blending education with his passion for the arts.

Sukanth Agarwal as Professor Anirudh Chowdhury

Sukant Agarwal, born on July 26, 1976, in Mathura, is a chartered accountant with a distinguished career in finance. A graduate of Delhi University in 1995, he has developed his expertise in accounting and financial management over the years. Since 2015, Sukant has served as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Fletcher Morobe Construction Ltd, where he plays a key role in managing the company’s financial strategies and operations. Known for his dedication and leadership, Sukant’s contributions have significantly impacted the organizations he has worked with, solidifying his reputation as a proficient and reliable financial professional.

Ashi Agarwal as Romila's Mother

Ashi Agarwal - Ashi Agarwal is a skilled HR, administration, and training professional with over a decade of experience across industries. She holds an MBA in HR and Operations from the Institute of Management Technologies, Ghaziabad, and a B.Com. (Hons.) from Delhi University. Ashi has held roles such as Public Area Manager at Lamana Hotel in Papua New Guinea, Store Manager at Parnit Softech in India, and Recruitment Executive at Exceed IT Solutions. Her expertise includes recruitment, employee training, performance appraisals, and event organization. Proficient in MS Office and other software, Ashi is fluent in English and Hindi, with a good command of Pidgin. Known for her leadership, problem-solving, and team management skills, she has received multiple letters of appreciation for meeting targets and enhancing organizational processes. Ashi’s interests in marketing, travel, and volunteering further reflect her dynamic personality and commitment to community involvement.

Max Maso as Sogeri Police Commander

Maso Wakiam is a seasoned professional with a diverse career in agriculture and law enforcement. After graduating from Saint Paul's Lutheran High School in Pausa, Enga Province, in 1980, he earned a certificate in Tropical Agriculture from the Tropical Agriculture College in 1982. He began his career as a Rural Development Technician in Situm, Morobe Province, where he worked for two years supporting community development. In 1985, Maso joined the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, where he has served in various roles with dedication and distinction. Currently, he is the Station Commander at Sogeri Police Station, where his leadership and commitment to public service continue to make a significant impact on his community.

Joyce Imini as Sogeri Police Officer

Joyce Imini, REG# 14448, is a First Constable with 13 years of service in the Papua New Guinea Police Force. She began her career as part of the second batch of 2011 recruit training at Bomana and Police College, swearing in on December 7, 2011. Joyce graduated in March 2012 and was initially posted to Alotau Police Station, where she served for five years, focusing on public safety and the Family and Sexual Violence Unit (FSVU). From 2017 to 2021, she worked at Wewak Police Station in the CID-SOS unit, serving as a/oic SOS Wewak from 2019-2021 and attending Detective Training School in 2019. In 2022, she was transferred to the Central Province Police Headquarters, working with the FSVU until March 2023. Currently, Joyce is stationed at Sogeri Police Station as an Admin Clerk, also overseeing FSVU matters.

Sylvester Wemuru as Sogeri Police Officer

Sylvester Wemuru serves as a Constable and the Police Media Officer, bringing a rich background in journalism to his role. He holds a Degree in Communication Arts Journalism from Divine Word University, graduating in 2023. Sylvester's career in journalism began with freelance work for the Post Courier after leaving Divine Word in 2013. He later gained full-time experience with The National Newspaper, where he worked as a journalist from 2019 to 2020. During his studies, he also contributed to TVWan in 2022, balancing his academic commitments with professional responsibilities. His journey in law enforcement started in 2015, and he has since seamlessly integrated his communication expertise with his duties as a police officer. Sylvester's unique combination of skills and experiences, both in the media and law enforcement, has equipped him to handle the complex responsibilities of his current position, making him a valuable asset to the police force and the community.

Sandra Dauma as Wahu

Sandra Dauma, a 22-year-old Theatre Arts student at the University of Papua New Guinea, specializes in media arts, technology, and scripting, with a minor in journalism and public relations. She is highly creative, excelling in scriptwriting, graphic designing, drawing, poetry, and motion videos. Sandra has gained hands-on experience as an assistant stage manager for major fashion events, a performer at prominent venues like the Hilton Hotels and LNG events, and a certified camera operator for live-streaming events such as the 69th UPNG Graduation. Dedicated and adaptable, she actively participates in artistic gigs and volunteer activities to hone her skills and explore new opportunities.

Dhrisha Jay Thakrar as Romila's Mother at Young Age

Dhrisha Thakrar, born on April 30, 2013, is a Grade 6 student at South Bridges International School. A creative and vibrant individual, she is passionate about dance and drawing, expressing her artistic flair through various mediums. Dhrisha has a keen interest in fashion design, showcasing her innovative ideas and a growing sense of style. Her enthusiasm for learning and creativity sets her apart, making her a promising young talent with a bright future ahead.

Zillah Naku Pa'aka as the Singer

Zillah Naku Pa'aka is a 15-year-old young talent from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. Having recently graduated from Grade 8, Zillah is a gifted young artist with a strong passion for music and creativity. She has performed at prominent events like the Masters Concert and Deepa Vizha Music Festival, captivating audiences with Indian and English songs. Her hobbies include drawing, painting, dancing, singing, reading, arts and crafts, and songwriting, showcasing her artistic versatility and dedication. Zillah’s vibrant personality and creative pursuits make her a promising talent to watch.

Ryan Hakalitz as the Band Drummer

Ryan Hakalitz is an Entry-Level IT Support specialist with strong skills in software, hardware, and networking. He holds certifications in Digital Media and IT Networking from IEA College of TAFE and has gained practical experience as a Graphic Designer at Alibi Bar & Grill, managing marketing materials, social media, and technical support. In 2024, Ryan also served as the Drummer for Music Masters of PNG, demonstrating remarkable musical abilities. He contributed to events like the Deepa Vizha Music Fest and the Masters Concerts, where his expertise in both Indian and Western music styles enhanced the performances. With proficiency in Microsoft Office, network troubleshooting, and virtualization platforms, Ryan brings a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and adaptability to his work.

Jesse James as the Lead Guitarist

Jesse James is a motivated team player with a passion for growth and learning. He completed high school at Kila Kila Secondary (2011–2014), furthered his studies at UPNG Open Campus (2015), and pursued a culinary course at TAFE Down Town (2016–2017). Jesse's professional background includes roles in inventory management, customer service, and fuel distribution. In 2024, he served as Lead Guitarist for Music Masters of PNG, showcasing his mastery of Indian and Western musical styles at events like the Deepa Vizha Music Fest. With strong leadership, interpersonal abilities, and stage presence, Jesse is well-equipped for future opportunities.

Daniel Jonerdghatt as Bass Guitarist and Singer

Daniel Maralouse Jonerdhagtt, 56, holds an Honors Degree in Arts (Modern Language and Communication) from the University of Papua New Guinea and Queensland University of Technology. He served as a Music Lecturer at UPNG (1995–2010), including roles as Head of Performing Arts and Grade 12 National Music Moderator. Specializing in ethnomusicology, music theory, and performance, Daniel presented at major events and showcased PNG’s musical heritage internationally. Career highlights include touring with the Profile Unity Band, acting in Peace Child, and performing Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. He also served as Choral Master and contributed to the Education Arts Advisory Committee.