Kolkata celebrates Satyajit Ray’s 94th birth anniversay

Fondly recalling his evergreen films, the eastern metropolis paid homage to Indian master storyteller Satyajit Ray on his 94th birth anniversary on Saturday with reruns of his pathbreaking movies, launch of collectibles and visits to his home.

Netizens hailed him as ‘Maharaj’ (King) and remembered their favourite moments from Ray’s legendary films like “Ghare Baire”, “Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne”, “Sonar Kella” and several others.

At his Bishop Lefroy Road residence in south Kolkata, a steady stream of visitors made floral offerings while his son Sandip recounted anecdotes about the creator of the Apu film trilogy and Feluda series.

“He loved jaggery which was available in winter. And whenever his birthday came on May 2, he used to be disappointed because it was not available in the summer,” said Sandip.

Across the city, discussions and meets celebrated the Oscar-winner’s numerous talents as a graphic artist, illustrator and music composer.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter to salute the auteur.

“Salute you Maharaja,” she tweeted.

Leading Bengali actor Prosenjit Chatterjee said Ait was his dream to work with the genius, affectionately known as ‘Manik da’ by industry insiders.

“Happy Birthday to such a director wrknf wd whom ws always a dream.wshng Manik jethu (uncle)#SatyajitRay a happy birthday love and lots of respect,” Prosenjit tweeted.

Thespian Soumitra Chatterjee who made his debut in Ray’s “Apur Sansar” in 1959 along with the then 13-year-old school-going Sharmila Tagore, shared his insights into the filmmaker’s vision for selecting actors, at an event a day ago.

Amit Kumar, son of singing legend Kishore Kumar, also tweeted to express his feelings. Kishore gave his voice in “Ghare Baire” and “Charulata”.

“Many happy returns of the day to #SatyajitRay,” Kumar said.

For enthusiasts and collectors, a notebook, titled ‘Ray/Short Takes’ showcasing some of the iconic posters and booklet covers created by the master, was unveiled.