Lucknow: “Shatranj Ke Khiladi” (The Chess Players) is a 1977 Indian film directed by Satyajit Ray. It is based on a short story of the same name by Munshi Premchand, one of the foremost writers in Hindi literature. The film, set in 1856, portrays the decadence of Indian aristocracy on the eve of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Here is a detailed look at the story behind its making:
Concept and Source Material
- Munshi Premchand’s Story: The original story by Munshi Premchand is a satirical take on the apathy of the Indian nobility in the face of British colonization. It focuses on two aristocrats, Mirza Sajjad Ali and Mir Roshan Ali, who are so obsessed with playing chess that they are oblivious to the historical events unfolding around them.
- Satyajit Ray’s Vision: Ray was intrigued by the story’s potential to comment on the socio-political conditions of pre-Independence India. He saw it as an opportunity to explore themes of colonialism, indifference, and the cultural decline of the aristocracy.
Pre-Production
- Research: Ray conducted extensive research on the historical context, costumes, and settings of mid-19th century India. He aimed for historical accuracy to bring authenticity to the film.
- Screenplay: Ray adapted Premchand’s short story into a screenplay, expanding the narrative to include more characters and subplots to give a broader context of the period.
- Casting: The film featured an ensemble cast, including Sanjeev Kumar and Saeed Jaffrey as the two chess-obsessed noblemen, and Amjad Khan as Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. Richard Attenborough played the role of General Outram, the British officer overseeing the annexation of the princely state of Awadh.
Filming
- Locations: The film was shot in various historical locations in India, including the city of Lucknow, to capture the authentic ambiance of the era.
- Art Direction: Ray paid meticulous attention to set design, costumes, and props to recreate the period accurately. His background in graphic design and illustration was evident in the visual richness of the film.
- Music: The soundtrack of the film was composed by Satyajit Ray himself, incorporating traditional Indian music to enhance the period feel.
Challenges
- Language: The film is notable for its use of multiple languages, including Hindi, Urdu, and English. This reflected the linguistic diversity of the period and the interaction between different cultural groups.
- Political Context: The film’s release in the 1970s came at a time when India was navigating its post-independence identity, and Ray’s subtle critique of colonialism and aristocratic complacency resonated with contemporary audiences.
Reception
- Critical Acclaim: “Shatranj Ke Khiladi” was widely praised for its direction, performances, and historical accuracy. It is considered one of Ray’s masterpieces and a significant work in Indian cinema.
- International Recognition: The film received international attention and was screened at various film festivals, further cementing Ray’s reputation as a filmmaker of global stature.
Legacy
“Shatranj Ke Khiladi” remains a significant film for its nuanced portrayal of a crucial period in Indian history. It showcases Satyajit Ray’s ability to adapt literary works into compelling cinema and his dedication to historical and cultural authenticity. The film continues to be studied and appreciated for its artistic and narrative depth, reflecting the socio-political dynamics of 19th century India.
