I was thinking about the present conditions of #India when I suddenly thought of revisiting this #movie by #SatyajitRay. "Hirak Rajar Deshe" (In the Land of the Diamond-King). Its portrayal of moving to dictatorial rule is dangerously accurate.
I really wanted to share this#song from the #film. It is in #bengali so I shall provide a translation.
I see such funny things in the world.
Everywhere I look, I am confused beyond words.
I can't make sense of this world.
Oh brother!
Look at the good fellows stuck in their dilapidated homes.
The evil one ascends the throne.
The wheat farmer can't manage two square meals.
The diamond mine's labours are living in poverty.
Oh Brother, how funny is our world!
as a child I loved this #movie as a comedy. the lively humour is extremely well delivered by every actor.
as an adult I feel the pain and fear shown on the faces of the farmer, the mining labour and the teacher. I can appreciate the political satire that it is.
watching it today was almost like #SatyajitRay talking to the current population of #India, before the #LokSabhaElections2024, through this 1980 movie. he is telling us to be extremely careful of the ruler who is willing to #brainwash the public using targeted #misinformation.
Had a great time on Saturday evening at the "Remembering Ray" event by Katha Khoj. Six lovely stories by the brilliant #SatyajitRay, told by six talented storytellers from #Pune. Not a dull moment.
Katha Khoj (the FB page link included) are a #Pune based org that is creating a lovely community of story tellers. If in Pune, check out their FB page for any future programs. I will totally recommend them.