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Sudipto Sen's 'Charak: Fair of Faith' Questions Rituals, Missing Children

Director Sudipto Sen discusses his upcoming film 'Charak: Fair of Faith,' which examines the traditional Charak festival and the dangerous rituals associated with it. He recalls the festival's vibrant childhood memories but emphasizes the film's aim to question practices like cannibalism and child sacrifice that persist despite laws. Sen states it is the responsibility of artists and journalists to speak up on such issues, including the alarming number of missing children. The film, set against this backdrop, explores the thin line between devotion and destruction.

Key Points: 'Charak: Fair of Faith' Director on Faith, Fanaticism & Film's Message

  • Film critiques ritualistic extremities
  • Based on the Charak festival
  • Questions faith vs. fanaticism
  • Highlights issue of missing children
3 min read

Sudipto Sen opens up on why 'Charak: Fair of Faith' raises serious questions

Director Sudipto Sen discusses his film 'Charak: Fair of Faith,' its critique of dangerous rituals, and the issue of missing children.

"There are almost 7 lakhs children missing, who will question them. - Sudipto Sen"

Mumbai, March 5

Director Sudipto Sen opened up about his upcoming film 'Charak: Fair of Faith' and the strong message it carries.

While speaknig to ANI, the Kerala Story director recalled his childhood memories of the "Charak" festival and also spoke about the serious issues shown in the film. Calling it one of the "biggest festivals after Durga Puja," he said he remembers feeling very excited as a child.

"Charak is a popular festival of Eastern India, Tamil Nadu and Eastern Karnataka that comes in the month of Chaitra... It was one of the biggest festivals after Durga Puja, and we used to get very excited as kids. There used to be colours, masks, song and dance. It was a colourful festival," Sen told ANI.

"Charak is also an invocation festival for Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali. It is believed that they both return to Earth during this festival... This gave rise to the aghori and tantric practices, which included things like cannibalism and child sacrifices... There are laws regarding these things, but it is still practised. So, someone has to speak up. Now, as I speak about the custom, many will think that I am against religion...," he added.

"If you watch the film, you will understand that it is for their own good... I feel people will oppose because, apparently, if you speak against a sustained system, then people will try to brand it. This is very common... There are almost 7 lakhs children missing, who will question them. It is our responsibility as artists and journalists to question these things..." he further said

The trailer, unveiled last month, shows a community preparing for the Charak mela, believing it to be their final hope to fulfil long-pending wishes. However, as the rituals grow more intense and frenzied, the narrative begins questioning the thin line between faith and fanaticism, devotion and destruction.

It is set against the backdrop of the sacred fair, a traditional festival which involves deep devotion and dangerous rituals.

Directed by Shieladitya Moulik, 'Charak: Fair of Faith' brings out the superstition and ritualistic extremities prevalent in India's hinterlands.The film features a powerful ensemble cast including Anjali Patil, Sahidur Rahaman, Subrat Dutta, Shashi Bhushan, Nalneesh Neel, Shankhadeep, and Shounak Shyamal.

Produced by Dhaval Jayantilal Gada and Sipping Tea Cinemas in association with Sudipto Sen Productions, with Rajesh Bhatt acting as associate producer.

'Charak: Fair of Faith' is set to release theatrically on March 6.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As someone from Bengal, Charak Mela is a part of our culture. While the film's intent to question harmful practices is good, I hope it doesn't paint the entire festival and its devotees with the same brush. Balance is key. 🙏
A
Arjun K
The number of missing children mentioned is chilling. If even a fraction of that is linked to such superstitions, it's a national shame. More power to filmmakers who dare to spotlight these issues.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to learn about this festival. The line between faith and dangerous ritual is a global issue. Hope the film handles the subject with the sensitivity it deserves.
V
Vikram M
Sudipto Sen is becoming the voice for uncomfortable truths. After 'The Kerala Story', this seems like another hard-hitting project. The trailer was intense. Definitely watching it this weekend.
K
Karthik V
With respect, I feel a bit cautious. The director's last film was controversial for its portrayal. We must question harmful practices, but we must also ensure the narrative doesn't unfairly target specific communities or traditions. Let's see how this unfolds.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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