There was always something reassuring about Rituparna
Ghosh’s movies. No matter how they ended, they always seemed to say, “It’s OK to
be different.” His movies were a reflection of him and were therefore all about
finding the courage to fight for what you believe in, regardless of the
consequences.
Many of his characters took on the challenge that Ghosh had
made his life’s mission… to question the stereotypes perpetuated by the gender
binary. These characters did it with such dignity and grace that after a point
you looked at them just as people, not men or women, just human beings with
dreams and extraordinary strength.
Meanwhile speculation is ripe that Sujoy Ghosh could step
into Rituda’s shoes to finish Satyanweshi, a film based on one of Bengal ’s
favourite detectives, Byomkesh Bakshi. This is his last film, but that
shouldn’t stop you from revisiting some of his best work.
Our pick is Ar Ekti Premer Golpo where Rituda plays two
characters, a jatra actor who has spent a lifetime playing female characters
and a gay filmmaker who is making a film based on the actor’s life. The film is
a rare treat where you also get to see the legendary Chapal Bhaduri play
himself. Rituparno plays the younger Chapal and the director Abhiroop. The film
is a discovery of every element of one’s identity personal, social and sexual.
Ar Ekti Premer Golpo shines like a tiny flame atop a fast
melting candle in a dark old crumbling house braving against a crushing storm.
It is bright as a beacon of hope, yet vulnerable to its life being snuffed out
by one strong gust of wind.
Rituparno Ghosh, you will be missed.
