What are your first memories of watching Satyajit Ray’s 1969 film Goopi Gayen Bagha Bayen?
I saw the film when I was pursuing my graduation. The charm of the film drew me and I watched it repeatedly over the years. Its simplicity and child-likeness makes it thoroughly captivating. The two protagonists are guileless and completely lovable, their travails are yours and you wish all the best things for them. Finally, their wishes come true through the benevolence of the strange and wonderful Bhuter Raja (King of ghosts). The movie was based on a story written by Ray’s grandfather Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury and has seen many versions. Several of these were brilliantly illustrated bringing the story to life. The tale was thus embedded in my mind as a jigsaw of the many images associated with it, each equally powerful and evocative.

Goopi Gawaiyaa Bagha Bajaiyaa has myriad characters and vibrant hues that lend a colourful vibe to the film.