Watch Nayak

Nayak is a 1966 Bengali-language movie directed by Satyajit Ray and starring Uttam Kumar, Sharmila Tagore, and Bireswar Sen. It tells the story of a famous actor named Arindam Mukherjee (played by Kumar), who is travelling on a train to receive an award. During the journey, he meets a young journalist (Tagore) who interviews him and explores the dark side of his glamorous life.

This movie is considered one of the best works of Satyajit Ray's career and has won several accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Bengali. The story delves deep into the psyche of a successful movie star and reflects on the complexities of human relationships.

Uttam Kumar plays the protagonist, Arindam Mukherjee, with great skill, as the movie oscillates between his public and private personas. He tries to conceal his insecurities, guilt, and emotional turmoil behind his public image, but Tagore's probing questions force him to face the truth. The chemistry between the two actors is sizzling, and they have given some of the most memorable performances in their careers.

Sharmila Tagore also shines in her role as the journalist, Aditi Sengupta. She is intelligent, fierce, and unafraid to ask tough questions. Her character acts as a catalyst in Mukherjee's journey of self-discovery and forms a strong emotional connection with him. Bireswar Sen, who plays Mukherjee's assistant, adds a touch of humour to the movie and delivers a solid performance.

Apart from the central characters, the movie also has several memorable supporting roles. The other passengers on the train, including a shrewd businessman, a young woman, and a former actor, add depth and realism to the story. The movie also features some soulful songs and beautiful cinematography that capture the essence of Kolkata and the people who reside there.

Overall, Nayak is a classic movie that explores the human condition in a profound and nuanced manner. It raises important questions about fame, success, personal relationships, and the price one pays for achieving one's dreams. Satyajit Ray's direction, coupled with the brilliant performances of Uttam Kumar and Sharmila Tagore, has made Nayak an unforgettable experience for movie lovers. The movie remains a masterpiece of Bengali cinema and continues to inspire aspiring filmmakers to this day.