A Passion Play|Aug. 09, 2003|India|167 Min.|R
Genre: Bangla;Drama;Family;History;Reality;Romance
Description: Chokher Bali is a 2003 Indian Bengali-language drama film directed by Rituparno Ghosh. The movie is based on the 1903 novel of the same name by Rabindranath Tagore and features Aishwarya Rai as Binodini and Raima Sen as Ashalata.
The story revolves around Binodini, a young woman whose life takes a turn when her ailing husband passes away shortly after their marriage. After returning to her village, she encounters an aunt and her two sons, who invite her to live with them. One of the sons, Mahendra, had previously refused to marry Binodini, claiming he was unprepared for marriage. However, when Binodini moves in, Mahendra, now married to Ashalata, becomes infatuated with her.
Their affair disrupts family dynamics, leading to conflict. Binodini eventually realizes Mahendra’s self-centered nature and leaves. She proposes marriage to Behari, who rejects her due to his principles. Later, Binodini travels to Kashi, where she meets Behari again. Despite agreeing to marry her, Binodini disappears on their wedding day, leaving behind a letter for Ashalata.
The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships, capturing the emotional struggles of its characters. The title, “Chokher Bali,” meaning “sand in the eye,” symbolizes the persistent irritation and turmoil faced by those involved.
Cast director: Rituparno Ghosh
Cast actor: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Raima Sen, Lily Chakravarty, Tota Roy Chowdhury, Prosenjit Chatterjee
Original name: চোখের বালি