Binodiini—Ekti Natir Upakhyan is a 2025 Bengali biographical drama that endeavors to resurrect the legacy of Binodini Dasi, a pioneering figure of 19th-century Bengali theater. Directed by Ram Kamal Mukherjee in his Bengali debut, the film charts the remarkable journey of Binodini—from her early days as a courtesan-turned-actress to her eventual status as the queen of the stage. With an ambitious narrative, the film not only celebrates her artistic triumphs but also hints at the social prejudices and personal struggles that defined her life.
A Glimpse into the Story
The film follows Binodini’s evolution from a hopeful young girl (portrayed with endearing innocence by Swara Bhattacharya as Puti) to a mature theater icon, brought to life with passionate fervor by Rukmini Maitra. Under the mentorship of the famed playwright Girish Chandra Ghosh (Kaushik Ganguly) and surrounded by a strong supporting cast including Rahul Bose and Chandan Roy Sanyal, Binodini’s tale is woven through a series of dramatic, emotionally charged sequences that capture both the glitter and the grit of 19th-century Bengali theater. The narrative focuses primarily on the phase when Binodini is already established in the world of stagecraft, leaving her earlier struggles more implied than explicitly detailed.
Visual Splendor and Stellar Performances
One of the film’s undeniable strengths is its sumptuous visual design. Cinematographer Soumik Halder transforms each frame into a meticulous recreation of late 19th-century Kolkata. The production design—evident in the opulent costumes, carefully recreated sets, and period-appropriate details—imbues the film with a rich, textured atmosphere that transports viewers back in time. This commitment to authenticity is further underscored by thoughtful lighting and dynamic camera work, which have been widely praised by critics.
Rukmini Maitra delivers a performance that is both captivating and layered. Her portrayal of Binodini manages to balance vulnerability with fierce determination, a feat that resonates deeply with audiences. Critics from Hindustan Times noted that Maitra “has not only portrayed but lived the character of Binodini Dasi,” highlighting how her subtle expressions and commanding presence become the emotional core of the film.
Kaushik Ganguly and Rahul Bose also bring gravitas to their roles, though some critics feel that certain supporting characters—like the underutilized role played by Bose—could have been further developed.
Rukmini—The Heartbeat of Binodiini
At the very core of this cinematic sonnet lies Rukmini Maitra, whose performance is nothing short of extraordinary—a luminous ode to the spirit of Binodini. With every nuanced gesture and every soulful glance, Rukmini breathes life into the character, transforming her into both a fragile blossom and a fierce warrior.
Her portrayal is a stirring symphony of vulnerability and strength; in moments of quiet reflection, her eyes echo the untold tales of passion and pain. Rukmini’s presence is the gentle murmur of a heart in turmoil, yet filled with an undying fire to rise above the constraints of time and society. She does not merely act; she becomes the legend, embodying every sorrow and every triumph of a woman who dared to break the chains of convention. Her performance is a poetic soliloquy—an emotional dance that tugs at the very strings of the soul, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the audience.
Narrative and Auditory Choices
Despite its many visual and performance merits, Binodiini-Ekti Natir Upakhyan is not without its shortcomings. Several critics, including a review from The Telegraph, argue that the film’s execution veers towards melodrama at times. The modern diction and occasionally out-of-place accents among some actors detract from the period setting, making the narrative feel uneven.
Additionally, while the film’s music—composed by the duo Sourendro-Soumyojit—features moments of brilliance, there are instances where the score and background tracks seem underwhelming relative to the grandeur of the visuals. The focus on Binodini’s established success, rather than a deeper exploration of her early hardships, is seen as a missed opportunity to provide a fuller portrait of the iconic figure.
Critical Reception and Final Thoughts
The film has garnered a mixed-to-positive reception from critics. Saptarshi Roy of Anandabazar Patrika rated it 8/10, appreciating its lyrical and introspective approach, while Hindustan Times’ Subhasmita Kanji awarded it 4 out of 5 stars, applauding the performances and the emotionally resonant dialogues.In contrast, The Times of India gave it a modest 3/5, pointing to the uneven narrative focus and certain missed thematic opportunities.
Ultimately, Binodiini—Ekti Natir Upakhyan stands out as a visually arresting and emotionally charged cinematic experience. Its ambitious attempt to encapsulate the brilliance and the burden of a trailblazing theater artist is both its strength and its Achilles’ heel. For viewers who appreciate period dramas rich in visual detail and strong central performances, this film is a must-watch—an evocative celebration of art, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Binodiini-Ekti Natir Upakhyan: A Cinematic Revival of Bengali Theater