Top 13 Satyajit Ray movies that redefined Indian cinema

Some of Satyajit Ray’s best films continue to stand as pillars of cinematic excellence that the world has admired over the years. From his debut film ‘Pather Panchali’ to his last masterpiece ‘Agantuk’, Ray’s works have won awards and accolades alike. Let’s take a look at some of Satyajit Ray’s best films that shaped fresh narratives for showbiz storytellers.

13 best Satyajit Ray movies you should watch at least once:-

1. Father Panchali

– cast: Subir Banerjee, Kanu Banerjee, Karuna Banerjee

– where to watch: Plex, Amazon Prime

Ray’s debut film ‘Pather Panchali’ depicted rural life in Bengal. The film depicts the struggles of the impoverished Roy family and remains a cornerstone of Indian cinema. The film won Ray his first BAFTA Award for Best Picture.

2. Aparajito

– cast: Kanu Banerjee, Karuna Banerjee, Semaran Ghosal

– where to watch: Plex, Amazon Prime

Aparajito, the second book in the Apu trilogy, chronicles Apu’s journey from childhood to adolescence against the backdrop of changing family relationships and social pressures. Satyajit Roy won the Golden Lion for this film.

3. Apur Sansar

– cast: Sumitra Chatterjee, Sharmila Tagore, Alok Chakravarti

– where to watch: Amazon Prime

Apur Sansar, the last of the Apu trilogy, depicts Apu’s struggles with love, loss, and identity as he comes of age in the bustling city of Calcutta.

4. Charulata

– cast: Madhavi Mukherjee, Soumitra Chatterjee, Siren Mukherjee

– where to watch: YouTube

Charulata explores the complexities of women’s desires and aspirations within the confines of a stifling patriarchal society. She perfectly demonstrates Ray’s masterful storytelling and character development skills.

5. Devi

– cast: Sharmila Tagore, Sumitra Chatterjee, Chhavi Biswas

– where to watch: Criterion Channel, YouTube

Ray explores religious fanaticism and superstition, while Devi follows the restless journey of a young woman believed to be the incarnation of a goddess.

6. Nayak

– cast: Uttam Kumar, Sharmila Tagore, Bireswar Sen

– where to watch: YouTube

Nayak narrates the story of the famous actor’s mind during a train journey, with its anxieties, regrets and existential dilemmas.

7. Teen Kanya

– cast: Sumitra Chatterjee, Aparna Sen, Kali Banerjee

– where to watch: Criterion Channel, YouTube

Consisting of three short films, Teen Kanya is a sensitive and profound exploration of the complexities of female relationships and social norms.

8. Jalsagar

– cast: Chhavi Biswas, Padma Devi, Pinaki Sengupta

– where to watch: Amazon Prime

Jalsagar takes viewers into the corrupt world of zamindars who are obsessed with maintaining their aristocratic status through lavish musical concerts.

9. Mahanagar

– cast: Madhavi Mukherjee, Anil Chatterjee, Jaya Bhaduri

– where to watch: YouTube

Mahanagar explores a woman’s journey towards self-discovery and empowerment in a rapidly changing society, set against the backdrop of growing urbanization.

10. Gupi Gaen Baga Bayen

– cast: Tapen Chatterjee, Ravi Ghosh, Santosh Dutta

– where to watch: YouTube

A fun fantasy musical, Gupi Gayen Baga Bayen follows the adventures of two struggling musicians who are endowed with magical powers. Come join us for a special escape into a world of imagination.

11. Sonar Kela

– cast: Sumitra Chatterjee, Santanu Bagki, Siddhartha Chattopadhyay

– where to watch:Zee 5, Amazon Prime

Sonar Kela is a mix of mystery and adventure that follows the journey of a young boy with memories from his past life, which leads him to explore a mythical golden fortress.

12. Hirak Rajal Deshe

– cast: Tapen Chatterjee, Ravi Ghosh, Utpal Dutt

– where to watch: Amazon Prime

A masterpiece of satire, Hirak Rajal Deshe criticizes authoritarianism and propaganda through a story set in a kingdom ruled by an oppressive king.

13. Agantuk

– cast: Utpal Dutt, Mamata Shankar, Dipankar Dey

– where to watch: YouTube

Ray’s last film, Agantuk, explored the collision of tradition and modernity through the unexpected visit of a mysterious stranger, inviting viewers to question their perceptions of truth and identity.

Throughout his career, Satyajit Ray directed 36 films, including 29 feature films, 5 documentaries, and 2 short films. Satyajit Ray’s films, which have gained fame over the decades, are a testament to his superior storytelling skills in cinema. Satyajit Ray’s name has many awards like Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Shri, Dadasaheb Phalke Award, four BAFTAs for Best Picture, and several National Film Awards. There were several accolades coveted by the.