3 Bengali Classic Book to Film Adaptations in Modern Context

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Satyajit Ray's 1964 classic, Charulata, a screen adaptation of Tagore's Nastanirh, still creates ripples inside us as viewers. Likewise, there have been numerous other books that have inspired filmmakers to bring them to celluloid, time and again, like Saratchandra Chattopadhyay's Devdas. Today, as I was reflecting on modern Bengali cinema, I researched and found several Classic Bengali books presented in a contemporary perspective by various filmmakers in recent times. I have some of these films; however, some are still on my wishlist. 

1. Ghawre Bairey Aj (2019): Directed by critically acclaimed director Aparna Sen, this movie, adapted from Rabindranath Tagore's Ghare Baire, is set in a modern set-up. Brinda, a tribal girl, is adopted by Nikhilesh's family and eventually marries him. A curious and wild-at-heart Brinda struggles to keep herself bound by Nikhilesh's much more mature and composed lifestyle. A naive Brinda is drawn to a corrupt politician, Sandip Jha, who happens to be Nikhilesh's college friend. His aggressiveness and calculated wildness attract her to break boundaries. What happens next differs from the book, and that's what makes this film the best of all the other modern adaptations of Bengali Classic Books. 

Anirban Bhattacharya, as Nikhilesh, delivers an endearing performance, essential to the character's mature and compassionate portrayal. Jisshu Sengupta as Sandip Jha provides a convincing performance. Tuhina Das as Brinda looks beautiful and is a good fit for the much-younger, inexperienced female lead.

2. Devi (2017): Imagine if Devdas were a woman, what would happen? Director Rick Basu dared to bring this idea to the screen, starring Paoli Dam as Devi, a woman driven mad by betrayal who embarks on an absolutely uninhibited, self-destructive journey. The movie is wild and daring; however, the dialogue could have been better. But a huge applause for the maker for experimenting with something new.

Paoli Dam is the main highlight you root for. Shataf Figar as Charlie gives a commendable screen presence. If not, one can watch the film for its novel concept of role reversal.

3. Charulata 2011 (2012): A modern adaptation of Tagore's Nastanirh, by Agnidev Chatterji, the story revolves around a woman, Chaiti, who finds a spark in her lacklustre and boring life through a chat-friend. Things get much more intense and unavoidable as the woman finally meets him, knowing little of what it will lead them to. 

Rituparna Sengupta, as Chaiti, is perfect in the role. The movie presents the story from a different perspective, focusing more on the erotic elements than on the emotional connections. Indradip Dasgupta's music is a major highlight.


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