Jul. 27, 1973|India | Bangladesh|159 Min.|n/A
Genre: Bangla;Drama;Family
Description: “A River Called Titas,” a 1973 film, is a significant work that often prompts a reevaluation of film history, especially in the context of national cinemas. While some may argue about the superiority of one filmmaker over another, such comparisons, like those between Ritwik Ghatak and Satyajit Ray, are unnecessary. Both filmmakers admired each other’s work, and their contributions to cinema stand on their own merits.
Satyajit Ray’s films were known for their humanism and realism, distinct from mainstream Indian cinema, and they gained international acclaim. In contrast, Ritwik Ghatak, a Bengali filmmaker, occupied a more avant-garde position within Indian art cinema. Although he explored elements of popular culture, his work remained largely underappreciated during his lifetime, primarily resonating with artists, intellectuals, and students.
Ghatak’s films, totaling eight feature films along with several shorts and documentaries, are marked by a raw, modern sensibility. His work is characterized by a sense of constant tension, partly influenced by his personal struggles. Ghatak battled alcoholism from the time of his second feature, *Ajantrik* (1958), and faced periods of severe depression and hospitalization. His untimely death at 50 in 1976 followed a series of illnesses. These personal challenges are integral to understanding his unique artistic vision, which continues to captivate audiences today.
“A River Called Titas” remains a testament to Ghatak’s exceptional talent and his ability to create films that challenge and inspire.
Cast director: Ritwik Ghatak
Cast actor: Fakrul Hasan Bairagi , Narain Chakraborty , Kabari Choudhury , Sirajul Islam, Shafikul Islam, Ritwik Ghatak, M.A. Khair, Prabir Mitra, Golam Mustafa, Sufia Rustam
Original name: তিতাস একটি নদীর নাম