A special documentary called “Bhabar Bhita – The House that Held Bhaba” is set to debut today at Bengal Shilpalay in Dhanmondi, the capital city. This documentary marks the birth centenary of the renowned filmmaker Ritwik Kumar Ghatak.
Directed by Molla Sagar, the documentary serves as a heartfelt tribute to Ghatak, a highly influential filmmaker in South Asia. The film chronicles Sagar’s exploration of Old Dhaka to locate the ancestral home where Ritwik and his twin sister, Pratiti Devi Ghatak, known as “Bhaba” and “Bhabi,” were born and raised. It delves into the history and current state of the house that played a significant role in their early years.
The premiere will be graced by prominent artists, filmmakers, cultural figures, critics, journalists, and admirers, coming together to celebrate Ghatak’s lasting legacy.
Ritwik and Pratiti, born on November 4, 1925, in a house in Old Dhaka, were separated after the Partition of 1947. While Ritwik and his family relocated to India, Pratiti remained in what later became Bangladesh. Ritwik, who passed away in 1976, continued his quest for a new home through his creative pursuits.
Director Sagar drew inspiration for the project from his encounter with Pratiti in Dhaka in 2014. Despite her advanced age and failing memory, Pratiti graciously gifted Sagar a black-and-white photograph of Bhaba, which he cherished as a priceless memento.
Armed with the photograph, Sagar embarked on a journey with his camera to locate the old house in Old Dhaka. Bhaba’s presence resonated through the photograph, guiding them on their quest, while conversations with Bhabi fueled the creation of the film ‘Bhabar Bhita’.
The event is being organized by Life Bangladesh in collaboration with Chhut Chhobi Chhaya Adda.