The Eunuch and the Flute Player

In the world full of cliché love stories, Kaushik Ganguly delivers a love story which doesn't remain an ordinary love story. I haven't seen such a movie in a decade or two. Ritwik Chakraborty and Riddhi Sen, who plays a transgender have put up a show which is beyond imagination. They have outdone their roles with so much ease. Every frame, every moment, every scene is directed so beautifully by Kaushik Ganguly. This will surely create a benchmark in the history of Indian cinema.

In one word it's a Masterpiece. A movie which is beyond reviews and awards. If you haven't watched it yet, please do catch this movie ASAP, for Madhu and Puti will stay with you even after you've left the theatres.

Nagarkirtan (2017) written and directed by Kaushik Ganguly is a sensitive essay of Puti's (Riddhi Sen) life. Puti is actually born as Parimal, a trans woman who faces hurdles and gender identity issues from the very childhood. Having faced deception in a relationship early in life, Parimal escapes from Bagnan to Kolkata, where he is inducted into a clan of eunuchs and other trans women and earns a living from begging. Love blooms yet again in his life in the form of Madhu (Ritwick Chakraborty), who doesn't care about Puti's sexual identity but wants to lead a life together. Nagarkirtan charts their journey as they plan their own little bubble where outsiders will not be able to judge them, and how Puti will undergo the physical and hormonal transformation to achieve his own desired gender identity.

In a place like India, it's still early days, and albeit there may be sympathisers and broad minded individuals, they remain far and few. Puti and Madhu's journey isn't an easy one - as they find themselves cornered by the insensitive and uninformed population that pushes them to the edge of a tragic consequence.

Riddhi Sen is simply awe inspiring. His performance is well nuanced, delicate and evokes instantaneous compassion with the character. Ritwick Chakraborty is natural with his flair for realism as always, helping Riddhi Sen bring out the very best. Together it's a crackling combination that stirs up a degree of discomfort initially, and then blends in empathy to the extent that makes us root for the couple and a happy ending. Nagarkirtan finally belongs to Kaushik Ganguly for his competent direction, costume design by Gobinda Mondal, cinematography by Sirsha Ray and a classic editing by Subhajit Singha.

Nagarkirtan by Kaushik Ganguly is the most powerful command made on eunuch culture, transgender practice & homosexuality in recent years. A spiritual poetry. Raw, real & moving. A very essential work of art. Ganguly is a magician. A jewel of Indian cinema. Must watch!

"Nagarkirtan" is affectionate, revolutionary & immanently shattering all at the same time. An unconventional story of love that knows no bounds. A daring narrative challenging the very foundation of Gender norms & Societal acceptance.

Harnessing moral values underneath, the storyline consists of two human beings deeply in love with each other! Separating themselves from so called social criterion, in the name of Love. Kaushik Ganguly's poignancy in direction helps to craft an ethereal tale, sculpting inmost longings of an innocent soul. And a dithering young bloke, struggling to come to terms with his sexual preferences.

Technically it's as good as it gets. With astutely conducted social commentary aside, Cinematography speaks volumes! The Soundscore deriving nuances from Kirtan; a recitation of chants or songs that express loving devotion to deities! Those Soulful notes gently tugging the heartstrings!

When the performances are concerned, the name of 'Riddhi Sen' comes first. What an exemplary, awe-inspiring act; take a bow! Playing a Transgender character, in that tender age; audacious to say the least! He won the National Award for this role and I'm not surprised. Ritwick Chakraborty as the second lead plays his part with enough proficiency. Handily complimenting such arresting feat from Riddhi!

Sad to say, for few of the notable lapses as per the backstories of these two lead go and a somewhat abridged annotation regarding the betterment of the LGBTQ community restrained me from giving the perfect mark here! Albeit I revere the importance of the message it delivers and the righteous value it bears!

Another superb movie by Koushik Ganguly demonstrating the presence of love beyond gender. Riddhi Sen was super in portraying the character of Puti and not to forget Ritwick, who was once again brilliant. Many things to learn from this movie and hopefully we will get more such movies from the brilliant director in the near future. Once again well done to the each and every film crew.