TEHRAN-The Cinematheque of the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) will screen Indian director and screenwriter Satyajit Ray’s film “Pather Panchali” on Monday. 

The screening will be followed by a review session by Iranian film critic Ilia Mohammadinia. 

"Pather Panchali" is a classic Indian film directed by the legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray. This critically acclaimed movie is the first installment in Ray's renowned "Apu Trilogy", which also includes "Aparajito" and "The World of Apu".

Released in 1955, "Pather Panchali" is based on a novel of the same name by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay. The film follows the story of a young boy named Apu, who grows up in a rural village in West Bengal. The movie beautifully captures the joys, sorrows, struggles, and triumphs of everyday life in a small Indian village.

One of the most striking aspects of "Pather Panchali" is its stunning cinematography and breathtaking visuals. Satyajit Ray expertly captures the lush landscapes of rural Bengal, as well as the intimate moments of the characters. The film is filled with powerful imagery and poignant symbolism, which adds to its emotional depth and resonance.

The performances in "Pather Panchali" are also commendable, with the cast delivering heartfelt and authentic portrayals of their characters. Apu, played by Subir Banerjee, is especially memorable, as he navigates the challenges of growing up in poverty and facing loss and hardship.

"Pather Panchali" is a masterpiece of Indian cinema and a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Satyajit Ray's sensitive direction, coupled with the film's emotional depth and visual beauty, makes it a must-see for any film lover.

At the 1956 Cannes Film Festival, "Pather Panchali" won the Best Human Document award, marking the first time that an Indian film had received international recognition on such a prestigious platform. The film was also a critical success in India, where it won several National Film Awards, including the Best Feature Film and Best Direction honors.

The success of "Pather Panchali" paved the way for Satyajit Ray's subsequent films and solidified his reputation as a pioneering filmmaker in world cinema. 

Satyajit Ray, born in 1921 in Calcutta, India, is widely regarded as one of the greatest filmmakers in the history of cinema. A multifaceted artist, Ray was not only a filmmaker but also a writer, composer, and illustrator. He is best known for his masterful storytelling, keen observation of human behavior, and his ability to create rich, nuanced characters on screen.

Ray's most iconic works include the "Apu Trilogy" consisting of "Pather Panchali", "Aparajito", and "The World of Apu", which are considered masterpieces of world cinema. Throughout his career, Ray received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to film, including an honorary Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1991. His films often explore themes of social realism, human relationships, and the complexities of Indian society, earning him a reputation as a socially conscious filmmaker whose works resonate beyond borders and cultures. Overall, Satyajit Ray's influence on Indian cinema and world cinema as a whole is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and cinephiles around the globe.

SAB/