Aranyaka(1994)
Aranyaka is a 1994 Indian Hindi drama film directed by Apurba Kishore Bir. The cast includes Sarat Pujari, Navni Parihar, Sanjana Kapoor, and Mohan Gokhale. Based on a short story by Manoj Das, the film is set in rural Odisha. It follows a former local ruler who organizes a tiger hunt for his city guests. The hunt goes wrong when the tribal people warn that the tiger is sacred. The film highlights the clash between the ruling class and indigenous communities. It is known for its stark cinematography and use of natural light. The film received critical praise for its honest portrayal of power and nature. It was released in 1994 and is available on select streaming platforms.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 1994
- Director
- Apurba Kishore Bir
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h
- Rating
- 3.4/10
Storyline
A former ruler, Raja Saheb, invites his wealthy friends for a tiger hunt in rural Odisha. He wants to prove his power, but the tribal people warn him the tiger is sacred. When the hunt turns violent, the jungle fights back, and Raja Saheb must face the consequences of his arrogance.
“The jungle always wins.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Aranyaka
Cast reunions in this film: Mohan Gokhale & Apurba Kishore Bir (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was shot in the dense forests of Madhya Pradesh, using local tribal communities as extras.
- Director Apurba Kishore Bir was primarily a cinematographer, and this was his only directorial feature film.
- It is a loose adaptation of the 1979 Bengali film 'Aranyer Din Ratri' by Satyajit Ray, but with a horror twist.
- The movie's poster and promotional material heavily emphasized its cannibalism theme to attract audiences.
- Despite its shocking premise, the film had a very limited theatrical release and is now considered a cult video-era oddity.
- The soundtrack, composed by Bappi Lahiri, included a popular dance number 'Pyaar Ka Jaadu' sung by Alisha Chinai.
- Actor Mithun Chakraborty was initially considered for the lead role, but it ultimately went to a lesser-known star.