Watch Basanta Bilap

Basanta Bilap is a 1973 Bengali film directed by Dinen Gupta and starring Soumitra Chatterjee, Aparna Sen, and Rabi Ghosh. The film is a romantic comedy that tells the story of two young college students, Dilip (Soumitra Chatterjee) and Madhu (Aparna Sen), who are both deeply in love with each other but face cultural barriers that make their relationship difficult.

The film is set in Kolkata during the spring season or Basanta (in Bengali), where the city is in full bloom, and people of all ages feel happier and more relaxed. In this vibrant atmosphere, Dilip and Madhu meet and fall in love. However, their love story is caught in a mesh of societal norms and cultural expectations. Dilip comes from a traditional Bengali middle-class family and wants to pursue a career in law, while Madhu comes from a rich family and is expected to marry someone of the same status. Both are hesitant to open up to their families about their love for each other, and the story follows the different trials and tribulations they face in keeping their love alive.

Apart from Dilip and Madhu, the film also features other interesting characters that add flavour to the story. Rabi Ghosh, playing the role of Madhu's uncle, brings comic relief with his quintessential Bengali jokes and one-liners. A prominent scene in the film involves a hilarious interaction between Ghosh and an over-enthusiastic salesman that is sure to leave the audience in splits.

One of the strengths of the movie is its portrayal of Kolkata in the 1970s. The city was still developing and lacked the modern infrastructure it has today. The film showcases different parts of the city, capturing the essence of the people and the environment of the time. The music of the film also reflects the mood and tone of the story, with songs that are both soulful and uplifting.

Another notable feature of Basanta Bilap is the performances of Soumitra Chatterjee and Aparna Sen. Both are seasoned actors in Bengali cinema and have given stellar performances in the film. The pair complemented each other well and brought life to the characters of Dilip and Madhu. Their chemistry is palpable and adds to the overall charm of the movie.

Overall, Basanta Bilap is an entertaining movie that is sure to take the audience on an enjoyable journey. It touches on societal norms, cultural differences, and the challenge of pursuing one's dreams. The film remains relevant to this day, as it highlights issues that many people still face in India. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Bengali cinema and a great introduction for those who are new to it.