Watch Dekha

Dekha, released in 2001, is a Bengali film that explores the nuances of human relationships and the complexities of life. Directed by Gautam Ghose, the movie revolves around the lives of three women and their struggles to find meaning in their existence. The central character is Rishi, played by Soumitra Chatterjee, a doctor suffering from a rare neurological condition that puts him in a state of perpetual sleep. His wife Sandhya, played by Debashree Roy, is a devoted housewife who takes care of him and sees him as her entire world. Indrani Haldar plays Jui, a young nurse who gets appointed to look after Rishi.

The film opens with Rishi’s parents introducing Sandhya to their son at a party. Rishi is immediately smitten by Sandhya’s beauty and they soon get married. However, Rishi’s illness gradually causes a rift between the couple as Sandhya is unable to cope with the stress of taking care of him alone. She becomes bitter and resentful, constantly bickering with her in-laws and blaming them for the situation.

That’s when Jui, a bubbly and kind-hearted nurse, enters the scene. She forms a close bond with Rishi and tries to lift his spirits by reading books, singing songs and engaging him in conversation. Sandhya initially views Jui with suspicion and hostility, but gradually accepts her as a friend and confidante. Jui, however, has her own set of problems to deal with as she tries to balance her job, her relationship with her fiancé, and her obligation towards Rishi.

Throughout the movie, the characters grapple with their own inner demons and insecurities. Rishi, despite his condition, remains wise and philosophical, dispensing nuggets of wisdom to those around him. Sandhya, who is initially portrayed as a selfish and shallow character, gradually reveals her vulnerabilities as she confronts the harsh realities of life. Jui, on the other hand, represents the younger generation struggling to find its place in a changing society.

Dekha is a slow-paced and contemplative film that deals with themes such as love, loss, and mortality. Gautam Ghose’s direction is sensitive and understated, allowing the actors to emote without resorting to melodrama. The film is also notable for its exceptional cinematography, capturing the beauty of Kolkata and its surrounds in vivid detail. The use of light and shadow to convey the characters’ moods is particularly striking.

The movie is enriched by its soundtrack, which features haunting melodies by Pandit Ravi Shankar and Bhupen Hazarika. The songs are not mere fillers but serve to heighten the emotional impact of the scenes. The background score by Zakir Hussain is also top-notch, seamlessly integrating with the visuals.

Dekha is a movie that appeals to the heart rather than the mind. It is not a film that offers easy answers or solutions, but rather invites the viewer to reflect on the human condition. The movie’s climax is poignant and profound, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. Soumitra Chatterjee delivers an outstanding performance, conveying the depth and complexity of Rishi’s character with ease. Debashree Roy and Indrani Haldar also shine in their respective roles, bringing a sense of authenticity and depth to the characters they portray.

Overall, Dekha is a movie that deserves to be seen by anyone who appreciates good cinema. It is a rare gem that captures the essence of life and its many contradictions. The film’s universal themes and nuanced portrayal of characters make it a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with viewers for years to come.