Anjan Dutt brings back the iconic Bela Bose on the big screen with Bela Bose Er Jonye

Back in 1994, Actor-filmmaker-singer-songwriter Anjan Dutt’s creation Bela Bose captured the popular imagination as the unseen face of the Bengali everywoman in love, in the romantic Bengali song 244-1139. The song was on the album ‘Shunte Ki Chao?’ comprising original compositions released during Durga Puja that year. Bela’s lover, who cannot wait to break the news about landing his first job, is trying to reach her on her landline phone number. This job is the key and a window into the happily-ever-after for them.

The song, upon release, became an instant rage with Bengali music lovers. Anjan Dutt joined the likes of the pioneering precedents set by singer-songwriter Kabir Suman and Nachiketa, who ushered in a new paradigm and genre of modernist, alternative Bengali music. The genre comprises original albums of songs written, composed, and sung by a single artiste. These compositions often touch upon contemporary issues.

Forward to 2021.

The fictional creation Bela Bose is reportedly inspired from a woman Dutt was attracted to in his personal life. She will now be etched in a full-bodied form on the big screen. Anjan Dutt told Entertainment Times that the film will be a musical, mixing and matching a string of old and new songs. He confirmed that the film has ‘little connection’ with the cult classic song, factored by landline phones going obsolete. ``So, there is no relevance to the famous phone number – 244-1139.” He said, adding that the story is set in the current socio-political climate. The multi-talented Dutt is working on the script.

Dutt is also collaborating with Rana Sarkar, the producer of Ranjana Ami Ar Ashbona after a decade. However, he has refuted the floating rumours of Bela Bose er Jonye having some connection with Ranjana Ami Ar Ashbona, the well-made rock musical drama that went on to win three National Awards.

The cast is yet to be locked. Neel Dutta is on board as the music composer.

Bela Bose er Jonye will go on floors in winter 2021.

Anjan Dutt made heads turn with a flying start in Bengali cinema. He clinched the best newcomer actor award at the Venice Film Festival for his role in Mrinal Sen’s Chalachitro and ventured into direction with the Hindi film Badadin. His debut web series Murder in The Hills premiered on Hoichoi on July 23.