Apu, the endearing and enduring character from Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay's landmark Apu Trilogy, immortalised on screen by Oscar-winning director Satyajit Ray about 64 years ago, is set to return on silver screen with filmmaker Subhrajit Mitra's period drama, Avijatrik. The story takes off from where the Apu Trilogy had ended in 1959 with Apur Sansar and focuses on the wanderlust of main protagonist. It's about Apu and his six-year-old son, Kajal.
Other enchanting characters including Dugga, Aparna, Ranudi and Lila will also be seen in real and surreal forms. Apu's adventurer friend, who plays a major role in his life, will also be introduced. Avijatrik (The Wanderlust of Apu, in English) will be shot across India in black and white.
Three times national award winning Bollywood director Madhur Bhandarkar will co-present the film, which will be produced by Gaurang Films.
"I'm very happy to be a part of Avijatrik. I have been a great admirer of Satyajit Ray and the journey of Apu has always fascinated me. The film focuses on the wanderlust of the main protagonist and the sublime bond between a father and a son," says Bhandarkar.
Avijatrik will have a national and international cast and crew. "I have researched for years before coming up with Avijatrik. To maintain the richness and sanctity of the film, I showed the script to several noted scholars before approaching producers for the final stages of production," says the director of the film, Subhrajit Mitra.
@sharmidas
sharmishtha.g@newindianexpress.com