Arindam Sil’s film Mahananda, which is inspired by the life and works of Mahasweta Devi, releases in theatres on April 8. The film, which stars Gargee Roychowdhury, Debshankar Haldar, Ishaa Saha and more, tells the story of an author called Mahananda, whose personality bears similarities with the life and persona of Mahasweta Devi. A candid chat with Arindam Sil.
Mahananda is inspired by Mahasweta Devi. What are you trying to convey through this film?
It is about her works, her philosophy. We have portrayed how the work evolved through her philosophy of life. And how that reflected on the personality she developed. There was her personal life, and political and social life. All of which are extremely important. And they have evolved from certain principles. It flows like the river. From one generation to another. Today we need to talk about her philosophy, her uncompromising ethics.
What does the film talk about?
The film talks about the essence of Mahasweta Devi. And it is so very important. I feel it is an extremely contemporary film. It is very important to make very clear-cut statements. The film clearly goes ahead in talking about the principles of Mahasweta Devi.
How did it feel to be back on the sets, and directing a new feature film?
It was definitely wonderful, it felt like homecoming. It was a very difficult shoot. The production design ranges from 1900 to 2011. We have taken a lot of care to design each and every set. We have some lovely locations.
People are now talking about the look of the film. The film is made in two aspect ratios and that has been noticed and is being discussed on social media. They are talking about the treatment.
Why did you want to experiment with the aspect ratio?
To bring in the flavours of the past and present. And I would like to give the credit to Ayan (Sil; cinematographer). He had first suggested this... that we could work on the aspect ratio. Then we went ahead with it. He has contributed a lot.
Tell us about the storyline....
There’s a university student (Ishaa) who wants to do research work on Mahananda. She reaches the place where Mahananda is busy with her work. Their interactions take off from there and the film goes on to show how she gets inspired by the works of Mahananda. Various incidents from Mahananda’s life come up... characters from her work of fiction appear along with people from her life. The backbone of the film is Mahananda’s principles. She has led her life only through principles, and this becomes so important when it is put in the context of today’s times.
How challenging was it to shoot a period film?
It has become really difficult to shoot a period film on the streets of Kolkata. We shot in front of a cinema hall but changed it through VFX. Everything was pre-decided... especially how we will use VFX in the film.
Are you taking a certain stand when it comes to Mahananda’s politics?
No, I am not taking any stand. I have just shown the stand that Mahananda has taken. If someone can identify with that stand, it’ll become personal for them. She didn’t know anything about communism. She lost her job when she was the only earning member of her family. They were in dire straits. She didn’t have any exposure to communism till then. Later she becomes a communist.
How has Mahasweta Devi’s writing influenced you?
Since my childhood. Through her books. The stories had a deep impact on me. I was deeply moved. There is great honesty in her writing. And realism. Also, her documentation was impeccable. She has vividly documented lives and societies. And I know her through her body of work, how she led her life.
Have you portrayed incidents from her personal life?
We have gone only where it had an impact on her life and principles. Otherwise, we have steered away from her personal life.
How is her writing perceived by young readers now?
Her works are deeply relevant and I feel the young readers can do more to explore and connect with her works. She was one of the few people who had shaped society. Her thoughts on the marginalised hold true even today.
Did you discover anything new about her during your research?
How she would write, how she would sit, her body language and so much more. She would write for 16-18 hours.
How did Gargee become Mahananda?
Gargee has been associated with the script from Day One. Everything was discussed. The challenging part was to create a character who would go from mid-30s to 80s. It was about capturing the essence. Gargee has delivered an incredible performance. Perhaps her best. At the end of the day, she knew that she had to give her best.
How has make-up helped in creating the character?
The make-up is world-class and Somnath Kundu deserves the National Award for this. Same for Ayan Sil, who has done an incredible work with the cinematography.
How was it like directing Ishaa?
I was looking for a fresh pair of eyes, someone who looks innocent. Ishaa is a revelation. She has acted with her eyes. I believe the best performance happens in silence. And Ishaa is an actor who can emote. I am extremely proud of her. I would like to work with her again. Before each scene, she would be on the floor, prepared. That would allow me to improvise a lot. Everyone was very organic in this film.
How different is their approach to acting?
Gargee is more method while Ishaa is more spontaneous.
What can the audience expect from the film?
The story is told in a lucid way. It is an innocent film with a point of view. It creates the glory of being principally motivated in life. Since I have a way of creating thrills, the thriller element is there in the film. That’s my signature.