A highly critical look at the role of "progressive" art and artists in a changing society.

Set in the contentious 1950s, the film's plot is structured around the rivalry of two radical theatre groups. One is lead by Bhrigu, the other by Shanta. Shanta's niece Anusuya participates in Bhrigu's work to the disapproval of her own group. When the two groups join together for a production, Shanta deliberately sabotages it. Bhrigu and Anusuya both discover they are both refugees separated from their country (Bangladesh) and they fall in love. Eventually Anusuya, scheduled to marry Samar and move to France, decides to stay with Bhrigu.—Swarup Basak

Through the microcosmic perspectivising of a group of devoted and uncompromising IPTA workers, Ghatak with his signature style touches on varied issues of partition, idealism, corruption, the interdependence of art and life, the scope of art, and class-struggle.