Watch Komol Gandhar

Komol Gandhar is a Bengali drama film directed by legendary Indian filmmaker, Ritwik Ghatak. The film follows the story of a group of theater artists who reunite after a long time to stage a play. It explores the intricacies of human relationships, creativity, politics, and social change. Abanish Banerjee plays the lead role of Bhrigu, an idealistic director and playwright who wants to use his art to bring about social change. Supria Chouwdhury plays the role of Basanti, a veteran actress who is struggling to come to terms with her own past and her present.

The film begins with Bhrigu returning to his hometown of Kolkata after spending several years in Dhaka. He comes back with the intention of forming a theater group to stage his play, which he hopes will be a catalyst for change in society. He enlists the help of his old friend and fellow actor, Shombhu (Rabi Ghosh), to recruit the rest of the cast.

Eventually, Bhrigu assembles a group of actors, including Basanti, who are willing to work with him. The group rehearses diligently for weeks, and the play starts to take shape. However, as the performance draws closer, tensions rise within the group as personal conflicts and past grievances come to the fore. The politics of the theater industry also come into play, as the group struggles to find funding and venues for their show.

Throughout the film, Ghatak skillfully weaves together the main narrative with a series of subplots and flashbacks that add depth and complexity to the characters. For instance, Basanti's character is explored in great detail, and we learn about her past and her struggles to remain relevant in an industry that is increasingly dominated by younger actors.

The film is shot in a neorealist style, with long takes, naturalistic lighting, and a focus on realism over melodrama. The script is also peppered with conversations and debates about the role of art and artists in society, making it a highly intellectual and thought-provoking film.

Overall, Komol Gandhar is a poignant drama about the challenges facing artists and the power of art to effect change. Ghatak's direction is masterful, and the performances by the entire cast, especially Banerjee and Chouwdhury, are superb. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in Bengali cinema or theater, and it remains a classic of Indian cinema to this day.