Ghosh’s most recent picture transpires between 1902 and 1905, as a British viceroy prepares to hack Bengal in two to mesh with his notions of policy. His actions invoke waves of potests through India, with citizens demanding their independence. Against this sweltering backdrop, the film focuses on the story of a woman, Binodini, who struggles to free herself from the oppression of widowhood. Binodini forms the center of a mesmerizing web of destiny and desire as she pursues love and suffers hardship in the midst of a political revolution. Aishwarya Rai, one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, ventured into a new kind of role when she took on the character of Binodini. She comes through with a powerhouse performance in this scintillating drama that redefines our stereotypical notions of Indian film. Rituparno Ghosh made his first film at the age of 23. After earning a Master’s in economics, he followed in his father’s footsteps to and entered into the world of filmmaking. His films include Shubho Mahurat (’03), The First Monsoon Day (’02), and Utsab (2000), among others. He is known for his woman-centered films, and he is known for his nuanced portrayals of the unique combination of female strength and vulnerability.-EC