Watch Manbhanjan

Manbhanjan is a 2019 Bengali web series on Hoichoi platform, directed by Abhishek Saha. It features Anirban Bhattacharya, Sohini Sarkar, Amrita Chattopadhyay, and Anusha Vishwanathan in prominent roles. The show is set in the 1960s in Kolkata and is based on a story by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

The title 'Manbhanjan' is derived from the titular character Giribala's pet name, which means 'mind stealer'. The show explores the themes of love, obsession, and social conventions in a traditional Bengali setting.

The story primarily revolves around Giribala (Sohini Sarkar), a homemaker who is married to Gopinath (Anirban Bhattacharya), a lawyer. Giribala is a dutiful wife who prides herself on being devoted to her husband. However, when Gopinath is too busy to give her attention due to his work, Giribala becomes increasingly restless and yearns for more. She finds solace in the company of Anupam (Amrita Chattopadhyay), a singer who becomes her confidante.

The show portrays Giribala's gradual transformation from a conservative, submissive housewife to a confident, independent woman burdened by societal norms. Her encounters with Anupam bring out her long-suppressed desires for love, freedom, and individuality. As their friendship blossoms, Giribala begins to question the patriarchal norms that dictate her life choices.

Meanwhile, Gopinath's preoccupation with his work alienates him from his wife, and he fails to notice her emotional turmoil. When he learns of her newfound friendship, he reacts with insecurity and possessiveness, creating a rift between them. Gopinath's character represents the hypocrisy of the male-dominated society, where men expect their wives to be faithful and subservient while they indulge in extramarital affairs.

The show's cinematography and sound design capture the essence of Kolkata in the 1960s, with its cobbled streets, trams, and classical music. The performances of the lead actors are top-notch and effectively convey the emotional depth of their characters. Sohini Sarkar shines as Giribala, portraying a quiet yet powerful presence on the screen. Anirban Bhattacharya delivers a nuanced performance, capturing the complexities of Gopinath's character. Amrita Chattopadhyay is also impressive as the cheerful and vivacious Anupam.

Overall, Manbhanjan is a poignant and thought-provoking show that challenges the traditional notions of love, marriage, and societal norms. The show highlights the importance of individuality, freedom, and emotional fulfillment in relationships. It is a must-watch for fans of Bengali literature and those interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.

Manbhanjan is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on June 11, 2019.