Meghe Dhaka Tara (2013)

Set against the turbulent backdrop of Bengal in 1969, "Meghe Dhaka Tara" (The Cloud Capped Star), intricately weaves a compelling tale of an uncompromising artist's struggle against societal norms, his personal demons, and the disillusionment with the politics of his era. The narrative unfolds within the confines of a mental asylum, where our protagonist, Nilkantha, a reflection of the iconic Indian filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak, is admitted for alcohol detoxification and psychiatric treatment. To Nilkantha, cinema isn't mere entertainment, but a powerful tool, a medium to voice the trials of the common man. Despite his artistic prowess, Nilkantha is a failure in the conventional sense, struggling with his career, his family life, and the weight of his own ideals. Yet, he is an unyielding artist, one who staunchly refuses to compromise his craft for personal gain, fame, or profit. Under the watchful eye of Dr. S. P. Mukherjee, Nilkantha's stay at the asylum is marked by a medley of perceptions. From the Prime Minister's fondness for his work to the scornful dismissal by a police officer and fellow patients who label him as a disgraced intellectual and a wasted drunkard, Nilkantha's experiences vary as wildly as the characters he encounters. Despite the challenging circumstances, Nilkantha remains a relentless creator, penning a play and staging it with his fellow asylum inmates. The film highlights his mental torment, inner conflicts, and financial hardships, painting a vivid picture of a man at odds with himself and the world around him. A staunch believer in his role as a "people's artist," Nilkantha defiantly asserts his inability to make frivolous, commercial films in a society that's on the brink of chaos. The narrative further explores Nilkantha's past, his experiences during Bengal's partition, his early attraction towards communism, and the subsequent disillusionment symbolised by a burning book titled "How to be a good communist?" The film also delves into the strained relationship with his wife Durga, who believes that their separation is inevitable. "Meghe Dhaka Tara" is not just a biopic but a poignant exploration of an artist's struggle against self and society, set amidst the socio-political turmoil of Bengal. It captures the essence of a man who, despite his struggles, believed that it's not money, but one's work, that leaves a lasting legacy.

Meghe Dhaka Tara is a drama movie featuring Saswata Chatterjee and directed by Kamaleswar Mukherjee.

Meghe Dhaka Tara is currently streaming on Hoichoi.