The upcoming film ‘Charak – Fear of Faith’ is backed by ‘The Kerala Story’ director Sudipto Sen. Regarding this film which talks about superstition and tantra-mantra, Sudipto Sen says that this film tells true human stories and exposes the harsh truths of the society. He believes that the aim of this film is not to create controversy, but to show the events as they happened, even if the realities are uncomfortable. He said that any human story attracts me a lot. ‘The Kerala Story’ started with four girls and I met 3,500 girls. So, I thought I should tell his story. The way I tell my story is as close to the truth as I can get. However, my aim has never been to make controversial films, but to bring uncomfortable truths to light. As an artist, as a storyteller, I feel this story needs to be told. Someone had to tell it. That’s probably why I chose it.
Approval from censor after debate and discussion
The producer further informed that his film has been cleared by the Censor Board after detailed debate and discussion. When I met the Censor Board, there were many debates which I found very important. The panel included both young members in the age group of 30 years and senior members in the age group of 70-75 years. Initially some people felt that the film criticized saints and sages. But they understood that it was not against the community, but showed the exploitative practices that existed in some sections of the society.
OTT plays safe now
Sudipto Sen also spoke on the approach of OTT platforms in dealing with sensitive topics. He said that the focus should be on the story rather than the pressure of political or commercial success. I think OTT is playing safe now. If any religious or social issue comes up, they avoid it. Be it positive or negative. I have been talking about people’s pain since childhood. We must always live with the truth. No matter what happens, truth will prevail.
The film will be released on March 6
Directed by Shiladitya Maulik, ‘Charak: Aastha Ka Mela’ talks about the superstitions and customs prevalent in rural areas of India. The horrific truths of Tantra-Mantra and superstition are shown in the trailer of the film. Produced by Sudipto Sen, the film is scheduled to release in theaters on March 6. It is set against the backdrop of the sacred fair, a traditional festival that involves deep devotion and dangerous rituals. The film has many strong actors including Anjali Patil, Sahidur Rehman, Subrata Dutta, Shashi Bhushan, Nalneesh Neel, Shankhdeep and Shaunak Shyamal.
