Devi Chowdhurani: Bandit Queen of Bengal is an upcoming Indian Bengali language period film directed by Subhrajit Mitra. Produced by ADited Motion Pictures, this ambitious period drama features a powerful star cast headlined by Srabanti Chatterjee, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Sabyasachi Chakrabarty and Arjun Chakrabarty.
Based on Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s famous novel, Devi Chowdhurani tells the story of the brave and rebellious female bandit queen of 19th century Bengal. With its grand scale, strong characters and compelling storyline, this film is poised to be an epic theatrical experience celebrating the iconic Bengali folk heroine.
The Legendary Tale
Devi Chowdhurani is set in colonial Bengal when the region was facing poverty and oppression under the British Raj. In these difficult times, a courageous woman named Prafullamukhi turns into a bandit and leads a rebellion against the tyrannical zamindars and British officers.
Donning a masculine persona under the name Devi Chowdhurani, Prafullamukhi relentlessly robs the oppressive elite to distribute wealth among impoverished peasants. She challenges patriarchal norms by leading a bandit gang herself.
The story follows Chowdhurani’s exploits as she becomes an almost mythical bandit queen. Her transformation from an ordinary girl into a fearless revolutionary makes Chowdhurani a legendary icon of courage and justice.
With its empowering narrative arc underscoring themes of rebellion, justice and female valour, Devi Chowdhurani promises to be an epic saga celebrating an iconic chapter in Bengal’s history.
Cast and Characters
The film boasts of a powerful cast combining established actors and fresh faces:
Srabanti Chatterjee as Prafullamukhi/Devi Chowdhurani
In the central role of the fierce bandit queen, Srabanti lands another power-packed historical character after playing freedom fighter Pritilata Waddedar. Her performance will be integral to portraying Chowdhurani’s complex transformation.
Prosenjit Chatterjee as Bhavani Pathak
As Chowdhurani’s close associate and partner-in-crime Bhavani Pathak, Prosenjit enacts another authoritative character. His chemistry with Srabanti will showcase the camaraderie between the two outlaws.
Sabyasachi Chakraborty as Haraballabh Ray
Veteran actor Sabyasachi Chakraborty returns to films after a break to play the antagonist zamindar Haraballabh Ray. His performance promises to add an impactful edge.
Arjun Chakrabarty as Rangaraj
Popular actor Arjun Chakrabarty portrays Rangaraj, a ruthless police officer hell-bent on capturing Chowdhurani. His confrontations with Srabanti will heighten the drama.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast comprises capable actors like Bibriti Chatterjee, Darshana Banik, Kinjal Nanda, Alex O’Nell and Carl Harte in key roles.
Crew
Direction
Devi Chowdhurani is directed by veteran Bengali director Subhrajit Mitra who has extensively researched the subject and its backdrop. He successfully handles the large canvas while extracting impactful performances.
Writing
Mitra himself crafts the screenplay along with dialogues that keep the period flavor alive through language. The writing stays true to the source novel in spirit.
Production
The film is co-produced by Aniruddha Dasgupta and Aparna Dasgupta‘s production house ADited Motion Pictures along with LOK Studios, HC Films and Moringa Studios. The collective backing of these major studios gives the film grand production value.
Cinematography
Renowned cinematographer Anirban Chatterjee’s lens captures the visual splendor of the period setting and brings the action sequences to life. His framing enhances the emotions.
Music
The background score is composed by Bickram Ghosh while the songs are rendered by acclaimed singers to maintain the authenticity. The music adds immensely to the viewing experience.
Pre-Release Buzz
Devi Chowdhurani generated positive buzz ever since its announcement for several reasons. Srabanti playing the fierce protagonist after acing such forceful roles has increased expectations from her performance. Meanwhile, the return of veteran Sabyasachi Chakraborty was welcomed by fans.
Moreover, the film’s novel concept of celebrating a iconic female bandit from history makes it stand out. Chowdhurani’s inspiring story of courage promised to be a treat for period drama lovers.
The film also marks director Subhrajit Mitra’s first attempt at realizing such an epic historical tale on celluloid. His extensive research into the subject has been appreciated.
If the final product does justice to recreating the era authentically and translating the legendary tale convincingly on screen, Devi Chowdhurani could very well emerge as an immersive cinematic spectacle.
What Makes Devi Chowdhurani Unique?
Here are some key aspects that lend Devi Chowdhurani a special and unique edge:
Fascinating Historical Tale
The film brings alive the iconic story of one of Bengal’s bravest female icon through a fictionalized account.
Powerful Leading Lady
Srabanti’s commanding presence suits the larger-than-life persona of Devi Chowdhurani. Her performance will be gripping.
Grand Production Value
The film is mounted on a lavish scale with meticulous period detailing to transport viewers to 19th century Bengal convincingly.
Sweeping Storytelling
Subhrajit Mitra narrates this legendary tale in an epic fashion complete with drama, action, emotions and romance.
Social Commentary
It highlights pertinent issues like women’s empowerment, class divide, and colonial oppression through Chowdhurani’s rebellious journey.
Visual Splendor
From grand palaces to raw rural landscapes, the cinematography utilizes exotic real locations to create visual allure.
Resonant Background Score
Bickram Ghosh’s rousing musical score accentuates the inspiration, rebellion and romance depicted on screen.
The combination of these stellar aspects makes Devi Chowdhurani a truly unique and exemplary piece of period cinema.
Additional Interesting Details
- This film marks Sabyasachi Chakraborty’s comeback after announcing his retirement. He was convinced by the weighty role.
- Director Mitra travelled extensively across Bengal to identify real outdoor locations that would authentically depict 1840s backdrop.
- Leading actresses reportedly underwent horse riding training for weeks to perform the stunt sequences convincingly.
- Expensive custom costumes reflecting the period were designed for the principal cast after extensive research.
- The film’s pooja ceremony was attended by eminent personalities related to Bengal’s art and culture.
- The censor board has cleared the film with a U/A certificate and run time of nearly 2 hours 40 minutes.
- Elaborate sets recreating 19th century houses, markets, etc were built on studios for key sequences.
Conclusion
With its captivating premise, accomplished starcast, grand mounting and sweeping storytelling, Devi Chowdhurani: Bandit Queen of Bengal has all the makings of an epic period drama. Watching the larger-than-life Chowdhurani come alive on screen through Srabanti’s eyes should make for an immersive experience.
Backed by a talented technical crew, this film promises to pay a befitting cinematic tribute to Bengal’s valiant bandit queen. Here’s hoping Devi Chowdhurani delivers an entertaining yet insightful ride into an iconic chapter of the region’s history.