Cinema lovers across major Indian cities are in for a rare treat. The timeless classic 'Aranyer Din Ratri' (Days and Nights in the Forest), directed by the legendary Satyajit Ray, is set for a grand re-release. The film will be screened in a newly restored 4K print with English subtitles in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune on January 9, 2026.
A Cinematic Revival After Cannes Honour
This special theatrical event comes on the heels of the film's prestigious selection in the Cannes Classics section at the 2025 Festival de Cannes. The recognition at one of the world's most revered film festivals has spurred this initiative to bring the restored masterpiece back to Indian audiences. The re-release is part of a broader movement to preserve and reintroduce seminal works of Indian cinema in their original cinematic glory.
Exploring Timeless Themes of Class and Human Nature
Originally released over 55 years ago, the film is an adaptation of Sunil Gangopadhyay's novel. It follows the journey of four young, urban men from Kolkata who embark on a trip into the forests of Jharkhand. What begins as a leisure escape quickly transforms into a profound encounter that challenges their deep-seated assumptions about class, privilege, and human relationships.
The narrative is powered by stellar performances from some of Indian cinema's most celebrated actors, including:
- Soumitra Chatterjee
- Sharmila Tagore
- Aparna Sen
- Simi Garewal
Critics and scholars have long praised the film for its nuanced exploration of gender dynamics, morality, and social structures. Its themes remain strikingly relevant in contemporary society. Ray's masterful blend of evocative visual composition, layered storytelling, and powerful ensemble acting has cemented the film's status as a true milestone in the history of Indian filmmaking.
A New Generation's Chance to Experience Ray on the Big Screen
Cultural commentators highlight that this re-release serves a dual purpose. It offers a golden opportunity for younger audiences, who may have only seen Ray's work on small screens, to experience the director's genius in a theatre. Simultaneously, it allows earlier generations to revisit and rediscover a landmark film in a pristine, enhanced format. The 4K restoration promises to bring out the subtle textures and visual poetry of the original cinematography like never before.
The screening event underscores the enduring legacy of Satyajit Ray and the continuing importance of preserving cinematic heritage. It is a significant moment for film aficionados and a celebration of a story that continues to resonate across decades.
