Watch Chaturanga

Chaturanga is a Bengali film from 2008 which explores the complexities of human relationships and the hunt for identity amidst political upheavals. The movie is directed by Suman Mukhopadhyay with an excellent ensemble cast including Dhritiman Chatterjee, Rituparna Sengupta, and Joy Sengupta. The movie is set in the 1970s when West Bengal was rife with leftist uprisings and political movements. The story revolves around Sachish (played by Joy Sengupta), a young man who is disillusioned with the politics of the time and seeks deeper meaning in life. A chance meeting with a mysterious stranger (played by Dhritiman Chatterjee) sets Sachish on a journey of self-discovery that leads him down a path of lust, love, and betrayal.

Rituparna Sengupta plays the role of a woman named Damini who becomes the object of Sachish's affections. Sachish, who had an estranged relationship with his father (played by Subrata Dutta), battles to find his place in the world and Damini becomes his anchor. However, Damini is a woman of secrets and her alluring personality has a dangerous edge which threatens to consume Sachish.

As the story unfolds, the audience is taken on a journey through the lives of the main characters, exploring complex emotions and relationships. Director Suman Mukhopadhyay does an excellent job of weaving a narrative that encourages the audience to question their beliefs and assumptions throughout the movie.

The film's cinematography, by Soumik Halder, is nothing short of breathtaking. The visuals capture the essence of the period and add depth and ambiance to the story. The movie's soundtrack, by Debojyoti Mishra, blends seamlessly with the visuals, elevating the movie's emotional resonance.

The performances of the cast are also noteworthy. Joy Sengupta puts in a strong performance, portraying the fragility of Sachish's character with ease. Dhritiman Chatterjee, as the mysterious stranger, is enigmatic and compelling, and Rituparna Sengupta, as Damini, excels in her portrayal of the complex, layered character.

One of the most significant themes explored in the movie is the search for identity. All the main characters struggle with finding their place in a world that is in political and social upheaval. The movie encourages the audience to question their beliefs and their place in the world they inhabit, making it a thought-provoking piece of cinema.

The movie's title, Chaturanga, means 'four divisions' and refers to the Indian board game of chess. The game serves as an allegory for the movie's central theme, exploring how choices and movements can lead to victory or defeat.

In conclusion, Chaturanga is a beautifully crafted piece of Indian cinema that explores complex emotions and relationships amidst a turbulent political backdrop. The movie's stunning visuals, excellent performances, and thought-provoking narrative make it a must-watch for cinema lovers.