Watch Choker Bali

Choker Bali is a 2003 Bengali drama film directed by Rituparno Ghosh and starring Prosenjit Chatterjee, Aishwarya Rai, Raima Sen, and Lily Chakravarty. The film is produced by Shree Venkatesh Films and is based on Rabindranath Tagore's novel "Nastanirh" or "The Broken Nest." The film is set in the early 1900s in Kolkata and revolves around the life of Binodini (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan), a young widowed woman who comes to live with a wealthy family. She is taken in by Mahendra (Prosenjit Chatterjee), the head of the family, and his wife Ashalata (Raima Sen). Binodini becomes friends with Ashalata, but gradually develops feelings for Mahendra.

As the story progresses, Binodini's relationship with Mahendra becomes more complicated, and she finds herself battling the societal norms and morals of the time. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, societal expectations, and women's rights.

Choker Bali is a beautifully shot film, with stunning visuals of Kolkata and its surroundings. The cinematography captures the essence of the era flawlessly, with delicate and intricate attention to detail in the sets, costumes, and makeup.

The cast of Choker Bali delivers strong performances throughout the film. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, in particular, commands the screen with her magnetic presence and nuanced portrayal of Binodini. She brings depth and complexity to her character, effortlessly capturing the inner turmoil of this young woman in a society that offers her little agency.

Prosenjit Chatterjee also shines as Mahendra, giving a nuanced and layered performance that captures the complexities of his character's inner struggles. Raima Sen's portrayal of Ashalata is gentle yet strong, offering a compelling contrast to Binodini's fiery personality.

The film's soundtrack is another standout feature, with hauntingly beautiful melodies that perfectly complement the on-screen action. The music, combined with the stunning visuals, creates an immersive and engrossing cinematic experience that transports the viewer to a different time and place.

Overall, Choker Bali is a captivating and thought-provoking film that offers a glimpse into the lives of women in early 20th-century Kolkata. With its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and moving storyline, it is a must-watch for anyone interested in Bengali cinema, historical dramas, or women's rights.