Mahanagar — a classic by Satyajit Ray — to be released: Here is what we know

With Madhabi Mukhopadhyay and Anil Chattopadhyay in the lead, the film holds a mirror to the socio-economic reality of Kolkata.

Madhabi Mukhopadhyay and Anil Chatterjee in Mahanagar

Actor-producer Sohum Shah’s Tumbbad made a remarkable return to theatres six years after its first release. SVF has recently announced that their superhit film Chander Pahar will also be released during Puja. Now, Satyajit Ray’s Mahanagar will also be released in theatres. With Madhabi Mukhopadhyay and Anil Chattopadhyay in the lead, the film holds a mirror to the socio-economic reality of Kolkata. 

Undoubtedly, the big screens bring a magical charm to films. When a classic like Mahanagar was released in 1963, it was widely praised by critics. After almost 61 years, the film will be rereleased on Friday, September 20.

Mahanagar delves into the economic freedom that touched the women of middle-class Kolkata households. Arati, played by Madhabi Mukhopadhyay, takes up the job of saleswoman due to the financial pressure in her family. The conflict between the orthodox mindset of her family and the need for her job is beautifully captured in the film. The re-release of Mahanagar is expected to intrigue Kolkata’s film-buff audience. 

On the other hand, the film business in Kolkata took a hit after the heinous rape and murder at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. A large number of people have been taking part in protest rallies. The films — Raj Chakraborty’s Babli and Srijit Mukherji’s Padatik — which were released on August 15 did poorly at the box office. The makers attributed this lack of audience to the ongoing protest.  

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