Kolkata theatre to screen ‘Aparajito’ in memory of Anik Dutta

Aparajito-The undefeated, directed by late filmmaker Anik Dutta, is set to be screened at Nandan from June 5 to June 7. The decision marks a significant moment for the film, which had not been screened at the state-run theatre at the time of its original release despite earning critical acclaim in 2022 for its portrayal of the making of Satyajit Ray’s Pather Panchali and the struggles behind it. The screenings are being positioned as a tribute to Anik Dutta following his demise.

The development comes years after Dutta’s films reportedly faced an unofficial ban at Nandan. In February 2019, his film Bhobishyoter Bhoot was not screened at the venue on its release day amid a controversy linked to political protests. The episode sparked widespread debate around censorship and access to government-run theatres. Ironically, following his passing, Anik Dutta’s mortal remains were kept at the Nandan premises, making the return of Aparajito to the venue a moment many have described as symbolically significant.

As per producer Firdausul Hasan, the screenings have been organised to honour the filmmaker’s legacy, and tickets will be available online from Wednesday. Actor Jeetu Kamal, who played the role of Apu in Aparajito, confirmed that he had personally reached out to state authorities requesting the screening. He said he received a response within a short time and described the decision as unexpected but meaningful. Jeetu added that the cast and team would remember Dutta during the screenings and expressed hope that audiences would revisit the film and judge its merit. Actor Chanchal Chowdhury has also conveyed his happiness over the film’s return, sending his wishes to the team from Bangladesh.

The return of Aparajito to Nandan is being seen as both a posthumous recognition of Anik Dutta’s work and a renewed opportunity for audiences to watch the film in a space closely associated with Bengali cinema and culture.