Dahan
Dahan

Dahan

1998Movie145 minBengali

On her way home the newlywed Romita is molested by five men. The only one who has the courage to help is the young female teacher Jhinuk. Because of that she becomes a heroine and is on all papers' front page. But the page is turning: As not only the police but also neighbours begin to ask embarrassing questions the two women are eventually intimidated and the five men are getting free with the help of corruption and male domination.

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IMDb7.4/10
Director: Rituparno GhoshGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A successful London-based artist returns to her ancestral home in rural Bengal for her younger sister's wedding. Upon her arrival, she encounters a complex web of family secrets, unspoken desires, and societal pressures that challenge her modern sensibilities and force her to confront her own past. As the wedding preparations unfold, long-held tensions and repressed emotions begin to surface, leading to a dramatic climax that tests the bonds of sisterhood and tradition.

Critical Reception

Dahan was critically acclaimed for its sensitive portrayal of complex human relationships and its nuanced exploration of tradition versus modernity. Critics praised Rituparno Ghosh's direction, the performances of the cast, particularly Shabana Azmi, and its thought-provoking narrative. The film resonated with audiences for its realistic depiction of familial dynamics and societal issues within a Bengali cultural context.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive direction and powerful performances.
  • Commended for its nuanced exploration of tradition, modernity, and female relationships.
  • Hailed as a significant work in contemporary Indian cinema for its social commentary.

Google audience: Audience reviews are generally positive, highlighting the film's strong emotional core and relatable characters. Viewers appreciated the film's ability to delve into complex family dynamics with realism and depth.

Awards & Accolades

Won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Bengali, Best Actress for Shabana Azmi, and Best Supporting Actress for Indrani Halder at the 46th National Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The film's title, 'Dahan,' translates to 'burning' or 'incineration' in Bengali, symbolizing the internal turmoil and societal pressures faced by the characters.

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