Bhuvan Shome

Bhuvan Shome is a 1969 Indian movie directed by Mrinal Sen. It stars Utpal Dutt, Suhasini Mulay, and Shekhar Chatterjee. The film centers on the character of Bhuvan Shome, a government employee who leads a dull and monotonous life until he takes a break from his routine to go on a hunting trip to Gujarat.

The movie begins by showing the protagonist as an oppressive boss who is disliked by his peers and subordinates. Bhuvan Shome is a rigid man who takes pride in his job and is considered an expert in his field. His reputation precedes him, and people are afraid to go against him or anger him.

However, things take a turn when he decides to go on a wild goose chase hunting trip to Gujarat. The trip turns into a life-changing experience for Bhuvan Shome as he encounters a young village girl, Gouri, on the way. As he gets to know her and their interactions, his stubbornness and arrogance start to dissolve, and he starts to see the world with new eyes.

The movie portrays Bhuvan Shome's transformation from a self-centered man to a kind and compassionate person. It shows how his conversations with a rural girl bring out the humane side of his personality and how he changes his ways of living.

As the movie progresses, it becomes apparent that Bhuvan Shome has become a different person than what he was before the trip. He is more empathetic and caring, and he realizes that there is more to life than just work and money. Bhuvan Shome's newfound character shines through as he returns back to work and finds himself at ease with his colleagues and subordinates.

The cinematography of the film is exceptional, capturing the stark beauty of the Gujarati landscape, and the director Mrinal Sen's use of humor is an added bonus which makes this movie enjoyable and light-hearted. The movie's script is also notable, depicting the social and economic dynamics that existed in the 1960s Indian society.

Overall, Bhuvan Shome is a heartwarming film that showcases the personal growth of the protagonist with humor and simplicity. Its commentary on the societal norms coupled with the incredible performances by the actors, especially Utpal Dutt, make it a classic piece of Indian cinema. The movie has won many awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and the Filmfare Award for Best Film in 1970.

In conclusion, Bhuvan Shome is a must-watch for anyone interested in Indian cinema and a classic example of how a simple story can be transformed into a masterpiece.