Private Project

The Kali ghat road : journey through contrasting realities

"Kalighat Road: Journey through Contrasting Realities" is a thought-provoking documentary film that delves into the multifaceted dynamics of a singular road situated in a bustling urban landscape. The road, named Kalighat Road, serves as the backdrop for a captivating exploration of contrasting realities and the diverse experiences of the people who inhabit it.
At the heart of Kalighat Road lies a sequence of distinct spaces, each symbolizing a different aspect of human existence. The journey begins with a brothel, where the illusion of the world is presented through the lens of sexuality and desire. Through interviews with sex workers the film delves into the complex interplay between pleasure, exploitation, and the human need for connection.
Moving forward, the narrative transitions to a temple that stands adjacent to the brothel. Here, religion becomes a focal point for individuals seeking solace, enlightenment, and a path to self-realization. The film captures the rituals, prayers, and personal reflections of devotees, revealing the juxtaposition of spiritual fervor against the backdrop of the brothel's presence.
Continuing along Kalighat Road, the documentary uncovers the world of the dying destitute. In this space, the film confronts the harsh realities of poverty, illness, and the fragility of human life.
Finally, the narrative concludes at the crematorium, where the journey reaches its ultimate destination: salvation. The crematorium stands as a space of both physical and metaphorical transformation, as the film explores themes of mortality, grief, and the cycle of life and death. Through observations and conversations with the people who burn the deceased, the documentary examines the diverse rituals and cultural perspectives surrounding death, inviting contemplation on the existential nature of our existence.
Throughout the film, "Kalighat Road: journey through contrasting realities" captures the inherent diversity of the road, serving as a microcosm of society itself. By juxtaposing these four contrasting spaces—brothel, temple, dying destitute, and crematorium—the documentary prompts viewers to reflect on the universal human experiences that underlie them all.

  • AALOK AARAV
    Director
  • SATYAJIT RAY FILM AND TELEVISION INSTITUTE
    Producer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    18 minutes 2 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 5, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    200 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    India
  • Country of Filming:
    India
  • Shooting Format:
    DIGITAL
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - SATAJIT RAY FILM AND TELEVISION INSTITUTE
Director - AALOK AARAV