Title: Kharij (1982)
Director: Mrinal Sen
Genre: Drama
Review:
Mrinal Sen's "Kharij" stands as a seminal work in Indian cinema, encapsulating the director's adeptness at weaving social commentary into deeply personal narratives. The film, based on a novel by Ramapada Chowdhury, is a gripping exploration of the moral and ethical underpinnings of the middle class, set in the socio-political landscape of early 1980s Calcutta.
Plot Summary:
The narrative revolves around a middle-class couple, Anjan (played by Anjan Dutt) and Mamata (played by Mamata Shankar), who live with their young son in a modest apartment. Their household dynamic shifts with the introduction of Palan, a young boy from the countryside, whom they employ as a domestic servant. Palan's presence initially seems to bring a semblance of convenience and normalcy to their lives, highlighting the casual acceptance of child labor in Indian society.
However, the story takes a dark turn when Palan is found dead in the kitchen, having accidentally suffocated due to a malfunctioning coal stove. This tragic incident serves as the catalyst for a deep, unsettling examination of the characters' morals and the societal structures they inhabit. The police investigation that follows forces Anjan and Mamata to confront their own complicity and the societal indifference towards the plight of the underprivileged.
Characters and Performances:
Anjan Dutt and Mamata Shankar deliver powerful performances, embodying the complexities and contradictions of their characters. Anjan, initially portrayed as a liberal and kind-hearted man, slowly reveals his deep-seated anxieties and self-interest as the investigation unfolds. Mamata's character, on the other hand, reflects the pervasive passivity and moral complacency often found in the middle class.
The supporting cast, including Sreela Majumdar as the empathetic neighbor and the actors portraying the local police, add depth and realism to the story. The depiction of Palan, though brief, is haunting and serves as a constant reminder of the human cost of societal negligence.
Direction and Cinematography:
Mrinal Sen's direction is marked by his characteristic realism and attention to detail. He eschews melodrama in favor of a restrained, almost clinical approach, allowing the story to unfold organically. This method enhances the film's impact, making Palan's death and the subsequent fallout all the more poignant.
K. K. Mahajan's cinematography complements Sen's vision, using stark, unembellished visuals to underscore the film's themes. The confined spaces of the apartment, the cold, gray tones of the city, and the subtle play of light and shadow create a sense of claustrophobia and moral ambiguity. The minimal use of music and reliance on natural sounds further immerses the audience in the characters' world, heightening the tension and emotional resonance.
Themes and Social Commentary:
"Kharij" is a trenchant critique of middle-class hypocrisy and the broader societal indifference towards marginalized communities. Through the lens of Palan's death, Sen exposes the superficial benevolence of the middle class, which often masks a deeper moral indifference. The film also highlights the systemic exploitation of child labor and the inherent inequalities that perpetuate such practices.
The title, "Kharij," which translates to "The Case is Closed," is a pointed commentary on society's tendency to quickly move past uncomfortable truths. It reflects the superficial resolution of deeper issues, as the characters and, by extension, society at large, seek to close the case without addressing the underlying injustices.
Conclusion:
"Kharij" is a masterful piece of cinema that challenges viewers to reflect on their own ethical and moral standings. Mrinal Sen's deft direction, combined with stellar performances and a gripping narrative, makes it a timeless critique of societal norms. The film's relevance persists, urging contemporary audiences to confront the uncomfortable realities of social inequality and moral complacency.
In summary, "Kharij" is more than just a film; it is a mirror held up to society, reflecting the uncomfortable truths we often choose to ignore. It is a poignant reminder of the cost of our indifference and the moral responsibilities we bear as individuals within a larger social fabric.
