Prosenjit Chatterjee's 'Devi Chowdhurani': A Revolutionary Retelling with Global Appeal

Prosenjit Chatterjee is set to bring a pivotal chapter of history to life with his upcoming film 'Devi Chowdhurani'. This remarkable cinematic venture is not just a film, but a retelling of a tale that actor Prosenjit insists deserves global attention.

Inspired by the 1882 novel Anandamath penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the movie delves into an era crucial to India's resistance against British colonial rule. Bankim Chandra, the composer of the iconic 'Vande Mataram', lays the foundation for this story which beautifully intertwines history, rebellion, and cultural heritage. The film's producers, Aparna Dasgupta, Aniruddha Dasgupta, and Soumyajit Majumdar, have nurtured this project into fruition alongside LOK Arts Collective.

The film is enriched with an ensemble cast including Srabanti Chatterjee, Sabyasachi Chakraborty, and Arjun Chakraborty, woven into the narrative of 1770 Bengal. It tracks the inspiring journey of a village girl into the legendary revolutionary leader, Devi Chowdhurani, under the guidance of Bhawani Pathak, a rebel leader akin to Robin Hood in his resistance against the British regime.

Speaking to ANI, Prosenjit emphasized the unique narrative of 'Devi Chowdhurani', drawing parallels to the socio-cultural landscape preceding the famed Rani of Jhansi. He notes the continued reverence for Devi Chowdhurani, marked by a 200-year-old temple in her honor in North Bengal.

The film takes on special significance this year as it coincides with the 150th anniversary of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's legacy, underscoring 'Devi Chowdhurani' as a national and international release, backed by both Indian and UK governments. Prosenjit's affection for his audience shines through as he acknowledges their longstanding anticipation of his Durga Puja releases, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support.

With a release slated for September 26, just before Durga Puja, Prosenjit aptly describes the project as embodying 'Maa Ki Shakti'. Through its narrative, the film promises to offer both entertainment and education, enlightening the younger generation on pre-independence revolutions.

In a heartfelt appeal, Prosenjit invites viewers to experience this cinematic movement. "This is our history. It's a film, but it's also a movement. And we say, Vande Mataram," he declares.

(With inputs from agencies.)