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7 years of ‘Proloy’: Why Raj Chakraborty’s political thriller packs a punch even today
Aug 10, 2020 Publication : Entertainment Times
In 2013, Raj Chakraborty had kicked up a storm with his political thriller ‘Proloy’. The film revolves around the anti-rape crusader, Barun Biswas, of Dukhiya village. A teacher by profession, Barun is upright, fearless and is ever ready to fight for a cause. It’s a film with a good intention at heart pillared by a strong social message and a plot that grabs attention with its characters. As ‘Proloy’ clocks 7 years let’s revisit the film to take a quick look at why it struck the right chord among audiences.Inspired by the true story of Barun Biswas, ‘Proloy’ is Raj’s tribute to the braveheart of Sutia, a village in North 24-Parganas, West Bengal. Though there are elements of fiction in the script, Raj manages to convey the message that comes what may, one should firmly stand by what he/she believes in.We see a dauntless young teacher, Barun Biswas (Parambrata), popularly called Masterda by the villagers. Though a firm believer in non-violence, Barun is upright and doesn’t hesitate to protest when there is need. He not only fights on the behalf of rape victims, but also takes steps to secure their future socially. He relentlessly writes letters to the chief minister and the governor, requesting them to look into the problems plaguing the village.Due to the rise in crime rate, he takes it upon himself to play a vigilante at night. The sound of his bike comes as an assurance and villagers are able to sleep peacefully at night. Barun receives several life threats from the local MLA’s mercenaries, but he chooses to ignore them. He, along with his gang of friends, continue with their social work.
Though Raj sticks closer to facts in the first half, he springs a real surprise in the second half. The plot not only becomes more gripping, stellar performances also make it an engaging watch. Saswata Chatterjee and Paran Bandopadhyay make for a fantastic team, complementing each other at every step, in every scene. Saswata perhaps has the best of lines, and he does full justice to his character as Animesh Dutta, police officer, special branch. The character has several layers to it. Interestingly, the director leaves the audience confused till the end as to whether he’s a bad guy or a good soul.
Source : bit.ly/37vRcvAParan, on the other hand, puts up a brilliant front as Binod Bihari Dutta, Barun’s colleague from school. After Barun’s murder, Binod arrives at Dukhiya. Inspired by Barun’s philosophies, he too decides to dedicate his life to the welfare of the villagers. Soon, he becomes an active member of the forum, Jagaran Mancha, once led by Barun. The way Binod starts guiding and motivating Barun’s friends, is heart-warming. The scenes where he is hallucinating, having a conversation with Barun, really move you.
Rudranil in a villainous role — as the local MLA’s brother, Prashanta Mondol — does a good job. You hate him, but you can’t ignore him. While Parambrata brings alive Barun’s character with natural ease, Mimi, as Durga — an integral part of Barun’s gang — looks her part without makeup. The subtle romance, brewing between Durga and Barun, has been handled well.
The best part about the film is the director’s sensitive approach in handling the subject. An admirable endeavour, it feels great to see Barun getting justice, at least on screen.
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