Chitrangada - The Crowning Wish

Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish is a 2012 Bengali film directed by the masterful and talented late filmmaker, Rituparno Ghosh. Not only did Ghosh direct this highly thought-provoking film but he also plays the central character, Radha, with similar brilliance. Other notable members of the cast include the versatile Jisshu Sengupta and Kaushik Banerjee, who contribute to the authenticity and depth of the movie's narrative.

Layered, profound and deeply moving, Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish is a pivotal film in Indian cinema that tackles issues pertaining to gender identity, self-realization, and societal acceptance. The film takes its name from the renowned mythical character from Mahabharata, Chitrangada, who was a princess with the traits usually associated with a man, in contrast to the generally prescribed norms of femininity of her times.

The film follows the complex and beautiful journey of a homosexual theatre director named Rudra who directs a play based on Rabindranath Tagore's 'Chitrangada.' As an individual, Rudra has spent much of his life wrestling his own demons, trying both to accept himself and gain acceptance from society; this is mirrored in his play, as he takes on the role of Chitrangada, exploring issues of gender identity and sexuality decades ahead of his peers in theatre.

The narrative takes off when Rudra falls in love with Partho, a narcotic substance-abusing drummer played by Jisshu Sengupta. Their deep connection prompts Rudra to think about adopting a child with Partho. To do so, however, he must navigate the societal, legal and personal implications of being a homosexual man seeking parental rights, eventually leading him to consider gender reassignment surgery.

Kaushik Banerjee also gives an exceptional performance as the empathetic psychiatrist, Dr. Samiran Mukhopadhyay. His character plays a crucial role in guiding Rudra through his complex emotions and choices, grounding the story in a compassionate yet objective perspective.

Rituparno Ghosh's film is a unique portrayal of an individual's search for self-identity and recognition. He skillfully intertwines Rudra's own journey of self-realization with the narrative of the play 'Chitrangada', creating a story-within-a-story that allows us to engage with complex questions of identity, desire and societal acceptance. Ghosh manipulates the layers of fiction and reality, the persona of the actor and character, to foreground his critique of stereotypical gender norms and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish sheds light on the punishing social norms in India that limit the freedom of individuals to determine their identities. However, Ghosh handles these issues with grace and sensitivity, avoiding any sensationalism. He uses the power of cinema to initiate such crucial conversations about sexuality and gender identity that most shy away from.

This film is not just about personal journeys but also a commentary on society, tradition, and the impositions they often bring. It challenges the audience's understanding and perceptions about identity and reveals the human experience's diverse spectrums. It delves into the idea that gender and identity are constructs, and how one chooses to identify is heavily influenced by societal norms and expectations.

The film also showcases stunning cinematography, and its art direction further reinforces the cultural context and theme. The colour, music, and traditional dance forms have been used effectively to create a vivid and poignant cinematic experience.

The performances in Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish are impactful. As the protagonist, Rituparno Ghosh delivers a powerful and sensitive performance. Jisshu Sengupta, as Partho, skillfully depicts the struggles of a man caught in a maelstrom of love, confusion, and societal expectations. Meanwhile, Banerjee as Dr. Mukhopadhyay, offers a stabilising presence throughout the film.

In conclusion, Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish is a beautiful meditative film – a cinematic tribute to an individual’s struggle to define and express their unique identity in a world that often forces conformism. The film is a must-watch for its critical portrayal of issues that continue to resonate today and its courage in challenging societal norms. It is a thought-provoking cinematic experience that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling and will leave audiences with a deeper reflection on life, identity, and acceptance.