Watch Lal Darja

Lal Darja, a Bangladeshi film from 1997, follows the story of protagonist Kuasha, portrayed by Champa. The film is set in the early 1990s and explores themes of love, loss, and societal expectations. Kuasha is a middle-aged, uneducated housewife living in a poverty-stricken area of Dhaka with her husband and children. She spends most of her days taking care of her family and doing household chores. One day, she meets a middle-aged writer named Amit, played by Raisul Islam Asad, who lives in a nearby apartment. Amit is estranged from his wife and is struggling with writer's block.

Kuasha and Amit strike up an unlikely friendship that eventually turns into a romantic relationship. They discuss their hopes, dreams, and fears, and Kuasha confides in Amit about her unhappy marriage. However, their relationship is not socially acceptable, and they face opposition from their families and society.

The film also explores the lives of those around Kuasha and Amit, including Kuasha's husband and daughter, as well as Amit's wife and daughter. Each character has their own struggles and aspirations, offering a glimpse into the complexities of life in Bangladesh.

Sunetra Banerjee plays the role of a close friend of Kuasha, who is an advocate for women's rights and encourages Kuasha to stand up for herself. Her character provides a strong voice of reason and represents the progressive attitudes that are slowly gaining momentum in Bangladesh.

The film is directed by Syed Haider Raza and features a score composed by Indian musician Amitabh Bachchan. Lal Darja received critical acclaim and won several awards at international film festivals, including Best Picture at the 1997 Kolkata International Film Festival.

Overall, Lal Darja is a poignant and thought-provoking film that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. It offers a glimpse into the struggles and aspirations of the people of Bangladesh and shines a light on the changing attitudes towards gender roles and women's rights in the country.