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The Rise and Reign of Arati Bhattacharya: A Star of the Seventies
From her breakout role in "Stree" to collaborations with renowned directors like Mrinal Sen and Satyajit Ray, Arati's on-screen presence was unforgettable. But that's not where her story ends. After her acting career, she ventured into directing and scriptwriting as well.
Arati Bhattacharya in movies. | Source: GetBengali
Arati Bhattacharya & her journey
In the bustling city of Jamshedpur, a young woman named Arati Bhattacharya dreamt of becoming a physician. However, fate had a grander plan in store for her, one that would lead her on an extraordinary journey through the glitz and glamour of the Indian film industry. Born on 8 November, 1951, Arati had an inherent passion for the Performing Arts. Even during her school days at D.M. Madan Girls High School, she dazzled audiences with her stage performances, winning numerous prizes and accolades. Little did she know that a chance encounter with actor Satya Bandopadhyay during a college drama would change the course of her life forever.
Bandopadhyay recognised Arati's immense talent and invited her to Kolkata, the city of dreams, to work as a professional theatre artist. Alongside her mother, Arati embarked on a new chapter, leaving behind her aspirations of a medical career. Her first role came in the form of "Nahabat," a play written and directed by Bandopadhyay himself. Arati's portrayal of the lead character, Keya, mesmerised audiences and critics alike, catapulting her to stardom. With her newfound fame, Arati made her way into the enchanting world of celluloid. In 1971, she was selected for the lead role in the Hindi film "Rewaz," but sadly, the project never saw the light of day. However, Arati's talent and dedication caught the attention of renowned filmmaker Mrinal Sen, who cast her in his Hindi film "Ek Adhuri Kahani" in 1972. That same year, she appeared in "Picnic," captivating audiences with her refreshing looks and natural acting style, free from mannerisms.
But it was her portrayal of Mrinoyee in the cult film "Stree" that truly solidified Arati's position as a rising star. Directed by Salil Dutta and based on Bimal Mitra's novel, the film delved into the decadence of zamindars, with Arati delivering a brilliant performance that showcased her vast range of emotions. Alongside acting stalwarts Uttam Kumar and Soumitra Chattopadhyay, Arati held her own and became a force to be reckoned with.
Arati's acting career flourished throughout the 1970s, with her radiant presence gracing over 50 Bengali films. Her performances garnered critical acclaim, earning her nominations and awards, including the prestigious Bengal Film Journalists' Association – Best Supporting Actress Award for "Ami Shay O Sokha" in 1976.
Despite her remarkable success, Arati's journey did not end with acting. She embarked on a new path as a director, helming films like the Hindi romcom "Mashuka" in 1987 and venturing into the vibrant world of Bhojpuri cinema with "Dangabaaz Balma" in 1988. However, it was her transition to scriptwriting that truly showcased her creative prowess. Arati became a highly regarded veteran author and renowned scriptwriter in the Bhojpuri film industry, crafting compelling narratives that captivated audiences.
Even in her seventies, Arati's passion for the film industry burns brightly. She continues to write scripts for successful Bhojpuri films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Her son, Akash Singh, has followed in her footsteps, stepping into the acting limelight in Bollywood. Arati Bhattacharya's journey is one of talent, passion, and resilience. From her humble beginnings in Jamshedpur to conquering the hearts of audiences across India, she embodies the spirit of a true artist. Her ability to portray a wide range of emotions and her dedication to her craft made her a shining star in Bengali cinema. And now, as she continues to pursue her love for writing and storytelling, Arati's legacy remains a testament to the power of following one's dreams and embracing new horizons.
In the ever-evolving world of Indian cinema, Arati Bhattacharya stands tall as an inspiration to aspiring actors, directors, and writers, proving that true talent knows no boundaries and that a determined spirit can leave an indelible mark on the silver screen.
Anirban Kar Author
I am a 3X Top Writer on Medium.com and have been published by top publications like Start Up, Mind Cafe, Better Marketing, & The Writing Cooperative. I'm also an editor for The Brave Writer, a pub for aspiring writers.
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