5 films to look back on Ritwik Ghatak’s birth anniversary that defined his cinematic genius

On his 99th birth anniversary, Ritwik Ghatak remains a visionary whose lens captured the wounds of Partition, the depths of displacement, and the resilience of the human spirit. While often overshadowed by his contemporaries, Ritwik’s works remain essential viewing, particularly for those who seek art that unflinchingly confronts harsh truths while also preserving hope and humanity.

His work transcends time, and offers a raw, visceral experience that resonates with viewers from every generation. His approach to cinema was unique; he combined raw emotion with a profound narrative, portraying characters not just as individuals but as symbols of a greater collective experience. His films continue to resonate, bridging generations through their explorations of identity, loss, and survival. Here are five essential Ritwik Ghatak films that encapsulate his cinematic genius:

Breaking away from typical narratives, Ajantrik follows the relationship between a cab driver and his dilapidated car, Jagaddal. With a dash of humour and pathos, the cinematic genius masterfully examines the human attachment to inanimate objects as symbols of comfort and familiarity. This unconventional yet deeply philosophical film reveals Ritwik’s interest in existential themes, inviting viewers to reflect on the intersections of human and material bonds.

One of Ritwik’s most celebrated works, Meghe Dhaka Tara is an exploration of sacrifice and survival. Centred on Nita, a young woman burdened by family obligations amidst the fallout of Partition, the film presents an intense portrayal of endurance in the face of overwhelming despair. With its striking use of sound and symbolic imagery, this film is a heart-wrenching masterpiece that embodies Ritwik’s empathy for the displaced.

A film that marries realism with musical overtones, Komal Gandhar tells the story of two theatre troupes navigating post-Partition Bengal. Through its central characters, Ghatak explores fractured identities, longing, and the power of collective art. The film’s evocative score and subtle political undertones make it an experience, shedding light on the artist’s struggle to reconcile personal and collective trauma.

In Subarnarekha, the director presents one of his most tragic and stirring works, portraying the cyclical despair of displacement through the journey of siblings Ishwar and Sita. Set along the banks of the Subarnarekha River, the film underscores the harshness of socio-political divides while illustrating the emotional turmoil of uprooted lives. This film showcases Ritwik’s flair for intertwining landscape with narrative, making nature a silent yet powerful character.

Based on the novel by Advaita Malla Barman, Titash Ekti Nadir Naam is a powerful commentary on the erosion of traditional ways of life, set against the backdrop of a river-centric fishing community. The director’s eye for authenticity and cultural nuance shines as he paints an evocative picture of people bound to nature, yet slowly losing their livelihoods and identities. The film captures the impermanence of life, making it a poignant finale to his storied career.