Watch Nagarik

Nagarik is a Bengali movie released in 1977 that tells the story of an ordinary middle-class family and the struggles they face. Directed by legendary filmmaker Mrinal Sen, Nagarik is a heartwarming tale that showcases the director's mastery in portraying the complexities of life in a subtle yet powerful way. The movie stars Ajit Banerjee as Sudhindra Bose, the head of the family, Kali Bannerjee as his father, and Gangapada Basu as a close family friend. The story revolves around Sudhindra's simple life and his efforts to provide for his family, which includes his wife, son, and father.

One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its realism. The story is set in the 1970s, a time of great social and political upheaval in India. The director cleverly weaves in significant events of that time, such as the infamous Marichjhapi massacre, which led to the death of thousands of Bangladeshi refugees who had sought shelter in India.

The characters in the movie are well fleshed out, and the performances are top-notch. Ajit Banerjee, in particular, delivers a stellar performance as Sudhindra. He portrays the character with great nuance, balancing his struggles with a sense of resilience and hope. Kali Bannerjee and Gangapada Basu also shine in their respective roles, providing solid support to Ajit Banerjee's character.

The movie's music, composed by Mrinal Sen himself, is another highlight. The songs are soulful and add to the movie's overall emotional impact. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with the director making excellent use of natural light and shooting on location to create a sense of authenticity.

One of the themes explored in the movie is the tension between tradition and modernity. Sudhindra embodies the struggle of the middle-class Indian who is torn between his own desires and fulfilling the expectations of his family and society. On the one hand, he wants to provide a better life for his family, but on the other, he is duty-bound to respect his father's wishes. This inner conflict is further exacerbated by the changing political and social landscape of India at the time.

Nagarik also offers a scathing critique of the Indian bureaucracy and political system of the time. The movie portrays the corruption and apathy of government officials as well as the lack of empathy towards the plight of the common man.

Overall, Nagarik is a must-watch for anyone interested in Indian cinema. It is a movie that explores the complexities of life and the struggles of an ordinary family with great sensitivity and nuance. With its superb performances, excellent music, and realistic portrayal of the times, Nagarik is a movie that has stood the test of time and remains relevant even today.