Watch Shahar Thekey Durey
- 1979
- 2 hr 14 min
Shahar Thekey Durey is a classic Bengali film from 1979, directed by the renowned filmmaker, Mrinal Sen. The movie is a masterpiece that showcases Sen's unique style and impeccable filmmaking skills. The film features Sandhya Roy, Rabi Ghosh, Anjan Dutt, and Satya Banerjee in lead roles. Set in Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta), the film revolves around the lives of a group of working-class people living in a shanty town on the outskirts of the city. It portrays the hardships and struggles that they face in their daily lives, including poverty, unemployment, and social discrimination.
Sandhya Roy plays the role of Basanti, a young woman who lives in the shanty town with her mother and brother. She is a strong and determined character who works hard as a domestic servant to provide for her family. Rabi Ghosh plays the role of a retired school teacher named Madhusudan, who lives alone in a small shanty near Basanti's house.
The film explores the relationship between Basanti and Madhusudan and how it evolves over time. Initially, Madhusudan is skeptical of Basanti and the people living in the shanty town, but gradually, he begins to empathize with their struggles and becomes their friend and mentor.
The movie also highlights the political and social issues of the time, including the Naxalite movement, which was a revolutionary communist movement that originated in West Bengal during the 1960s. The film depicts the tension between the Naxalites and the government and how it affects the lives of the people living in the shanty town.
One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its realistic portrayal of urban poverty and the working-class struggle. The film's visual style is grounded in realism, with long takes and natural lighting, capturing the gritty and chaotic atmosphere of the shanty town. The film's soundtrack, composed by the legendary Bengali musician, Salil Chowdhury, also adds to the film's poignant and powerful impact.
Shahar Thekey Durey is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and remains relevant even today, more than four decades after its release. It's a touching and poignant tale of humanity, friendship, and struggle that will resonate with audiences across generations. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in Bengali cinema, social realism, or urban poverty, and is a testament to Mrinal Sen's skill as a master filmmaker.