The Square Circle(1996)
The Square Circle (also known as Daayraa) is a 1996 Hindi drama film directed by Amol Palekar. It stars Nirmal Pandey as a transvestite and Sonali Kulkarni as a kidnapped girl. The story follows a young woman who escapes a brothel and finds refuge with a transvestite. He teaches her to disguise herself as a man for protection. The film explores themes of gender identity, love, and societal rejection. It won four awards for its bold storytelling and performances. The film was released in India in 1996 and later in the United Kingdom in 1997.
Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 1996
- Director
- Amol Palekar
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 1h 47m
- Rating
- 4.5/10
Storyline
A young girl is kidnapped and sold into a brothel. After escaping, she finds shelter with a gentle transvestite. To keep her safe, he teaches her to live as a man. As they hide from her abductors, an unexpected love grows between them. They must fight for their freedom and their right to love.
“Love knows no boundaries.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Trivia
- The film's title 'The Square Circle' is an English translation of the Hindi phrase 'Chauraha', which refers to a crossroads or intersection.
- This was one of the earliest mainstream Hindi films to feature a transgender character in a central, sympathetic role.
- Director Amol Palekar, known for his middle-class dramas, took a significant creative risk by tackling this sensitive subject matter.
- The film's soundtrack, composed by Vanraj Bhatia, is noted for its use of classical Indian music to underscore emotional scenes.
- Despite its bold theme, the movie had a very limited theatrical release and is not widely available on home video platforms today.
- The story is set against the backdrop of Mumbai's urban landscape, contrasting traditional neighborhoods with more anonymous city spaces.
- Actress Sonali Kulkarni, who played the young female lead, was early in her career and later became known for more mainstream roles.