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Harishchandra, a timeless classic of Indian cinema, is a 1957 Bengali film directed by Prafulla Chakraborty. The movie is based on the life of King Harishchandra, who is regarded as a symbol of truthfulness and righteousness in Hindu mythology. Although the story is an adaptation of the legendary Indian tale, the film is unique in its portrayal of the character of Harishchandra, which is profoundly humanized.

The film stars Deben Bandopadhyay as the virtuous ruler and Biman Bannerjee and Bibhu Bhattacharya as his trusted aides. Chhabi Biswas, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema, plays the role of the sage Vishwamitra. The film features a remarkable ensemble cast and some of the most memorable dialogues ever written for Indian cinema.

The story of Harishchandra revolves around the titular king, who is renowned for his honesty and integrity. The film opens with the king on the battlefield, where he is fighting against his arch-nemesis, Vishwamitra. The sage tests Harishchandra's integrity by offering him gold in exchange for his allegiance. Harishchandra flatly refuses the offer, declaring that his duty as a king is to protect his people, not to enrich himself.

The story then follows Harishchandra as he faces a series of personal and professional trials. He loses his kingdom, his wealth, and even his family, all the while upholding his principles of truth and honesty. He is forced to work in a crematorium, which is a lowly and despised profession in Indian society. His wife and son are sold into slavery, and he must perform the last rites on numerous deceased persons, including children and his own family members.

Despite these hardships, Harishchandra remains steadfast in his principles. He fights against injustice and brutality, never losing his faith in humanity. The film's treatment of Harishchandra's character is nuanced and complex, portraying him not as an unattainable ideal but as a flawed and relatable human being. The film beautifully captures Harishchandra's dilemma as a king torn between his duty to his people and his personal values.

The movie is steeped in Indian myth and culture and serves as a powerful commentary on the importance of truth and integrity in human life. The film is a remarkable achievement in its use of symbolism, visual imagery, and dialogue. The characters are brought to life with remarkable sensitivity and depth, and the film's emotional impact is heightened by its haunting music and minimalist cinematography.

The film's most iconic scene is perhaps the one where Harishchandra is faced with the dilemma of whether to sell his wife and child into slavery to pay for a funeral. In a heart-wrenching moment, Harishchandra grapples with his conscience, poring over his options and their consequences. The scene is a testament to the film's intricate and nuanced characterization, portraying Harishchandra not as an infallible hero but as a human being struggling to do what is right.

Harishchandra is a masterful piece of cinema that transcends time and culture. Its themes of truth, morality, and humanity are universal, and its portrayal of the legendary king is one of the greatest character studies in Indian cinema. The film's cast and crew, including the legendary Chhabi Biswas, deliver performances of incredible depth and nuance. The film's importance in Indian and global cinema cannot be overstated and remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the human spirit.