The Worlds Of Aparna

Over her distinguished six-decade journey in cinema, internationally renowned Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, and actress, Aparna Sen has directed seventeen films and holds the unique distinction of being the only woman to win the National Award for Best Director twice -first for her debut film 36 Chowringhee Lane in 1981, and again for Mr. and Mrs Iyer in 2002.

Aparna Sen: A Life Less Ordinary represents the first comprehensive attempt to chronicle her remarkable career as both actor and director. Structured as an intimate conversation between filmmaker Suman Ghosh and Sen herself, the book offers unprecedented insights into her life, work, and the intellectual and artistic influences that shaped her creative vision.

The book extends beyond Sen’s cinematic achievements to explore her political perspectives, feminist ideology, and personal reflections as she reaches her 80th year. It presents a portrait of a filmmaker who has consistently championed religious and ethnic minorities while advocating for pluralism and diversity throughout her career. As a witness to Indian cinema during a period of exceptional transformation, Sen emerges as both artist and social commentator.

To provide historical context and depth, Ghosh also engages in conversations with Sen’s most influential colleagues and collaborators, including Shabana Azmi, Konkona SenSharma, Goutam Ghose, and Anjan Dutt. These additional perspectives help situate Sen’s work within the broader landscape of Indian cinema and illuminate her lasting impact as an artist.