Aparna Sen: Art Over Preaching

Filmmaker Aparna Sen articulated her distinct cinematic philosophy at the Kolkata Literary Festival, stating her preference for art over overt preaching. She views cinema as a medium for expressing personal disturbances and communicating what she finds meaningful, rather than as a didactic tool.

Sen recounted that the assassination of journalist Gauri Lankesh deeply disturbed her, leading to the creation of her film "Ghare Baire Aj." Inspired by Rabindranath Tagore's novel, this work reflected her growing concern over the changing perception of India, which she felt compelled to address through her art.

Reflecting on her directorial debut, "36 Chowringhee Lane," Sen highlighted the power of visual nuance in cinema. She expressed that artists navigate a balance between their inner vision and external realities, approaching each project with a fresh perspective, much like a first-timer.