KIFF 2024 paid special tribute by remembering Utpalendu Chakraborty and Manoj Mitra through cinema

The Kolkata International Film Festival 2024 paid a heartfelt tribute to two towering figures of Bengali cinema and theatre, Utpalendu Chakraborty and Manoj Mitra, both of whom passed away in Kolkata earlier this year. The festival celebrated their invaluable contributions through special screenings of their iconic works.

Utpalendu Chakraborty’s Chokh (1983), a searing portrayal of social injustice, highlighted his unique voice in Bengali cinema. Known for addressing themes of oppression and inequality, Chakraborty’s work resonated deeply with audiences, making him a pioneer of politically charged storytelling in Indian films.

The screening of Banchharamer Bagan honoured Manoj Mitra, the legendary playwright and actor whose wit and nuanced portrayal of human dilemmas left an indelible mark on Bengali culture. Mitra’s Banchharam, a character etched into the collective memory of Bengali audiences, remains a testament to his brilliance as both an actor and a storyteller.

The tribute served as a poignant reminder of the artistic legacy of these stalwarts, whose works continue to inspire and influence generations of filmmakers, playwrights, and audiences. The screenings evoked nostalgia and admiration, ensuring their legacies live on in the hearts of cinephiles.

Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”