Sep. 15, 2015|Bangladesh|92 Min.|R
Genre: Adventure;Bangla;Documentary;Drama;Family;History;Reality;War
Description: Meghmallar, also known as Raincoat, is a 2014 Bangladeshi drama film directed by Zahidur Rahim Anjan. The movie is an adaptation of Akhtaruzzaman Elias’s story titled “Raincoat.” It was featured in the Discovery section of the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival and later screened at the 51st International Film Festival of India in January 2021 as part of the Country in Focus section.
The film follows the story of an ordinary family living in Bangladesh during the Liberation War of 1971. Nurul Huda, a chemistry teacher at a suburban government college, lives with his wife, Asma, their daughter, Sudha, and Asma’s brother, Mintu. Their lives take a dramatic turn when Mintu decides to join the Freedom Fighters. Asma secretly maintains communication with her brother without sharing this with anyone. One rainy day, Nurul attends a school function wearing Mintu’s raincoat and is mistakenly arrested by government forces, who suspect him of being a rebel. This incident forces Nurul to make a decision that impacts not only his family but also the fate of the nation.
National award-winning actor Shahiduzzaman Selim, who plays the lead role in the film, emphasizes that Meghmallar tells the story of every family in Bangladesh during the 1971 Liberation War. He stated, “This is not the story of one family but of every family in the then East Pakistan. Every family contributed to the Liberation War, the most significant event in our history.”
Director Zahidur Rahman Anjan described the film as a portrayal of a small-town family’s struggle during the war. He said, “In Bangladesh, we call the 1971 Liberation War the People’s War. My film Meghmallar tells the story of a family’s struggle during this time.” The movie is based on a short story by renowned novelist Akhteruzzaman Elias and narrates the tragic, life-altering experiences of an ordinary family over just three days. The film also beautifully captures the essence of Bangladesh.
Aparna Ghose, associated with the film, highlighted its significance by stating, “We belong to the post-war generation who did not witness the events of 1971. Through Meghmallar, you can experience the real war situations.” The film serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and struggles endured by countless families during this pivotal moment in history.
Cast director: Zahidur Rahim Anjan
Cast actor: Shahiduzzaman Selim, Aporna Ghosh
Original name: Meghmallar