Satyajit Ray, a name associated with revolutionising Indian
cinema, has created many extraordinary masterpieces of cinematic beauty. Born
in a Bengali family, prominently known for their contributions to art and
literature, young Ray was naturally inclined towards writing and storytelling
since early childhood. Ray is celebrated worldwide as a renowned motion-picture
director, writer, and illustrator and also regarded as one of the greatest
filmmakers of all time. 

On Satyajit Ray’s Birth anniversary, here are some of his best
films that one should definitely watch:

1. Pather Panchali

Pather Panchali was Satyajit Ray’s first film, which was
released in 1955. It is the story of a humble priest from a remote village in
Bengal. However, the trials and tribulations of life takes away his daughter
and the entire family. Stricken with grief, leaves their home in search of a
better life. This is one of the best Satyajit Ray’s movies till now and is also
highly acclaimed. The movie, Pather Panchali has been adapted from
Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay’s novel of the same name. Ray also made a sequel to
the movie called Apur Sangsar which stars Soumitra Chatterjee and Sharmila
Tagore.

2. Aparajito

Aparajito is the sequel to Pather Panchali and was released in
1957. The film revolves around the life of Apu, who moves to Calcutta to
complete his studies after his father’s death. As Apu’s mother’s health goes
downhill, she decides not to send the news of her deteriorating health to him,
fearing his studies will be impacted.

3. Parash Pathar

Parash Pathar translated to English is
The Philosopher’s Stone. It is a Bengali language Indian fantasy comedy film.
This was Ray’s first film outside the Apu Trilogy. He directed this film and
wrote the screenplay. It gives us a glimpse into his funny side.

  Also Read: Ray Day: Cannes Film Festival to pay tribute to Satyajit Ray screening 10 films

4. Sonar Kella

Sonar Kella is one of the stories in Satyajit Ray’s detective
series called Feluda. The movie revolves around a small boy who has been
reincarnated and knows the location of jewels belonging to a royal family of
Rajasthan. His scared father seeks the aid of Feluda to solve the case while
goons are also trying to kidnap the boy. The movie had earned a nomination in
the Chicago International Film Award in 1975 and is also considered to be one
of the greatest Satyajit Ray’s movies.

5. Charulata

The film was released in 1964 and is considered one of Satyajit
Ray’s finest works. Charulata falls in love with her brother-in-law Amal after
her husband Bhupati, a newspaper editor, has no time for her.