In 1970, reporters uncover the tragic past of Tara Moi, saved from prostitution by Bhawani Prasad in 1910. The film honors forgotten female theatre pioneers like Binodini and Tinkori Dashi.
In 1970, two reporters embark on an interview with the 85-year-old Tara Moi, the central figure of a film, in Banaras. As she recounts her life, a tale of horrors unfolds, transporting us back to 1910. Tara Moi, once a celebrated theatre star, and Bismillah, a deprived violinist, form an unbreakable bond amid their shared exploitation during the zenith of Bengali theatre culture in early 20th-century India. The narrative is intricately woven around Bhawani Prasad, the film's main male protagonist and a revered theatre guru. In a pivotal moment, he rescues Tara Moi from the perilous path of prostitution, introducing her to the world of theatre. The ensuing events unfold in shocking ways, offering a glimpse into the tumultuous era when Bengali theatre witnessed the rise of formidable female personalities. During a time when societal norms confined women from recognized families, theatre became a refuge solely for those deemed undesirable-prostitutes and the lower caste. Despite facing constant exploitation from their mentors, these women, driven by love, passion, and devotion to the performing arts, elevated Bengali theatre to unparalleled heights. The film pays homage to notable figures like Binodini Dashi and Tinkori Dashi, who, against societal odds, left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. Yet, countless other names, obscured by the annals of history, remain forgotten. The narrative poignantly underscores the sacrifices and triumphs of these unsung heroines, illuminating a chapter of Bengali theatre obscured by time, where the echoes of their contributions linger in the shadows, largely unnoticed and unremembered.
