Aranyer Din Ratri
Over 50 years after its original release, Satyajit Ray’s Aranyer Din Ratri (Days and Nights in the Forest, 1970) is returning to the global spotlight as part of this year’s Cannes Classics section, which is a celebration of restored cinematic treasures.
Widely regarded as one of Ray’s most sophisticated and contemplative works, the film offers a piercing look at male entitlement, urban ennui and the fragile boundaries between civilisation and nature.
The story follows four upper-middle-class men from Calcutta who escape the city for a holiday in the forests of Bihar, hoping for an adventure and a break from their everyday responsibilities.
But what begins as a light-hearted getaway slowly unravels into a series of introspective reckonings, as the men’s interactions with the local people and a nearby family of vacationing women bring their assumptions, privileges and inner contradictions to the surface.
Ray crafts each character with quiet precision, aided by an exceptional ensemble cast that includes Soumitra Chatterjee, Sharmila Tagore and Samit Bhanja.
Kamal Haasan THR Interview
In a wide-ranging and introspective conversation with Anupama Chopra for The Hollywood Reporter, veteran actor Kamal Haasan opens up about his decades-spanning journey in Indian cinema, his enduring passion for storytelling and his renewed presence on the global stage.
Haasan reflects on landmark moments in his career – from the political boldness of Hey Ram to his collaborations with auteurs like Mani Ratnam and Shankar.
This interview is a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema and anyone fascinated by a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of film.
Turri Jandi
Turri Jandi is a captivating blend of Punjabi folk and contemporary R&B, featuring the legendary Shazia Manzoor and rising star Hasan Raheem.
Released on World Music Day 2024, the track transports listeners into a futuristic disco aboard the TJ 2056, a time capsule that offers an escape from earthly worries.
Directed by Kamal Khan, the music video showcases a vibrant, retro sci-fi universe, complete with eclectic fashion. Manzoor’s commanding presence and Raheem’s soulful vocals create a mesmerising auditory and visual experience.
The song’s lyrics reflect on life’s fleeting nature and the pursuit of happiness, resonating with audiences worldwide.
