Dev’s Khadaan Explores a New Dimension in Bengali Cinema

Stepping away from the current trends of mystery thrillers and chamber dramas dominating Bengali cinema, actor-producer Dev ventures into the realm of testosterone-fueled mass entertainers reminiscent of South Indian blockbusters with Khadaan. Not only does he play the lead role, but he also serves as the film’s co-producer and creative director, marking his active involvement in crafting a unique cinematic experience.

The film, directed by Soojit Rino Dutta, is set in the coal mines of the Damodar Valley region during the 1990s. It incorporates key elements associated with mass cinema: a gritty, working-class setting; themes of friendship, deception, and revenge; a central savior figure driving the narrative; high-octane action sequences; and vibrant song-and-dance routines.

The story follows Shyam Mahato, played by Dev, a coal smuggler who rises to become a Robin Hood-like figure for the miners. His camaraderie with Mohan Das, portrayed by Jisshu Sengupta, forms the crux of the tale. Shyam’s physical prowess and Mohan’s sharp intellect make them an unbeatable team in the coal syndicate. However, their success attracts the attention of local politician Siddqui, played by Sujan Neel Mukherjee, who promotes them to joint heads of the coal business.

A twist soon disrupts their rise to power. Shyam lands in prison after accidentally killing a cop and is later found dead in his cell. Fast forward to the present, and Shyam’s son, Madhu (also played by Dev), works as a coal transporter. Meanwhile, Mohan has become the sole owner of the mines. Mohan convinces Madhu to join him, sparking tensions with his son Makhan, played by John Bhattacharya, who had envisioned taking over the business. As Madhu earns Mohan’s trust, secrets surrounding Shyam’s death surface, setting the stage for a revenge-driven climax.

Dev’s performance as Shyam is noteworthy. "He wears the rugged look well, the unkempt hair, the half-unbuttoned shirt, and the bidi pressed between his lips giving the effect of a man of the soil." The transition to a lover boy in the second half, coupled with the popular song Kishori alongside Idhika Paul’s Latika, shows his versatility. "But it’s his return to the ‘angry young man’ avatar that drives the narrative when the tales of betrayal unfold."

Jisshu Sengupta shines as the calm and calculating Mohan Das, providing a perfect counterbalance to Shyam’s fiery demeanor. "The synergy between Shyam and Mohan anchors the film and helps this otherwise straightforward story sail through."

The supporting cast delivers mixed results. Anirban Chakrabarti impresses as Mandi, a loyal aide to Shyam, while John Bhattacharya’s Makhan falls short of creating a formidable antagonist. Barkha Bisht as Shyam’s wife Jamuna and Idhika Paul’s Latika offer little to the story's progression.

What truly elevates Khadaan is its music. Tracks like Kishori by Rathijit Bhattacharjee, Baap Eseche by Nilayan Chatterjee, and Rajar Raja by Savvy resonate with audiences. The kirtan-inspired Radharani, accompanying an intense action sequence, stands out for its visual and emotional impact.

While the film treads familiar territory with its plot, Khadaan excels in its execution, capturing the ethos of massy entertainers and blending it with a uniquely Bengali narrative. With Dev at its helm, it’s a refreshing departure that could pave the way for more genre experiments in Bengali cinema.