Mrinal Sen directed Matira Manisha (Man of the Soil) in 1966.The film, based on Kalindi Charan Panigrahi’s novel of the same name, contrasts traditional and modern ideals as shown by the opposing views of two brothers regarding their inherited family estate. The plot delves into human interactions through a variety of issues such as Gandhian and Marxist beliefs, postwar societal conditions, rural culture, rustic living, and traditional family values.
The plot centres around Shama Pradhan, a rural farmer, and his two sons, Baraju (Sarat Pujari) and Chakadi (Prashanta Nanda), and their disagreements over the family home and land following his death.On his death, Shama Pradhan entrusts his elder son Baraju with the obligation of caring for his younger son Chakadi, and begs him not to divide the family property and home between the two brothers. Baraju is a peace-loving person who commands the villagers’ respect for his idealistic way of life, and Baraju’s wife Harabou (played by Bhanumati Devi) is portrayed as an ideal housewife who is very caring and affectionate towards Chakadi, his wife Netramani (played by Sujata Anand), and their two children.
Chakadi, on the other hand, is portrayed as carefree and irresponsible, content to loaf around the village. His wife, Netramani, who is envious of Harabou, insists on splitting the property between the two brothers. Hari Mishra (Dukhiram Swain), a local troublemaker, also tries to cause division between the two brothers.Chakadi requests that his elder brother share the property between him and his wife Netramani, as well as the troublemaker Hari Mishra. Baraju is taken aback and conflicted between his father’s wishes and his feelings for his sibling. His solution is to give Chakadi the land and the house, meeting Chakadi’s desire while keeping his pledge to his father not to divide the property. Baraju exits the house with his wife Harabou and their two children, without regret or rancour.
Chakadi is depressed after Baraju’s departure, misses his brother and family, and wishes he could go back in time. He goes to Baraju and begs him to take him back home. However, Baraju, who believes in the spirit of sacrifice, non-attachment, and love, tells Chakadi to return home and take care of what he has left behind.
Books Info
| Books name | Matira Manisha / ମାଟିର ମଣିଷ |
| Author | Kalindi Charan Panigrahi |
| No Of pages | 165 |
| Publisher | New Student Store |
| Publication | 1955 |
| Printed At | NA |
| Distributor | NA |