SATYAJIT RAY’S MASTERPIECE RETURNS: COLLECTOR’S EDITION OF FELUDA IN THE GOLDEN FORTRESS REVEALS RARE ARTWORK, UNSEEN WRITINGS, AND BEHIND-THE-SCENES INSIGHTS
“Feluda in the Golden Fortress” is a captivating tribute to Satyajit Ray’s enduring creation, Sonar Kella (The Golden Fortress), as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic film adaptation. This book offers a unique insight into the world of Feluda, Ray’s famous fictional detective, presenting a treasure trove of never-before-seen materials, including rare sketches, original drafts, and previously unpublished behind-the-scenes content. For Feluda fans and admirers of Satyajit Ray’s genius, this book is a priceless collection that shines a spotlight on the artistry and vision behind both the novel and the film.
Sonar Kella, first published in Bengali in 1971, is not just a beloved detective story but also marks the first film adaptation of the Feluda series. This novel was not only penned by Ray but was also adapted into a movie that he both directed and wrote the screenplay for. In addition to his storytelling talents, Ray composed the film’s memorable music, adding another layer to the rich narrative experience. The plot centers around Mukul, a young boy plagued by unsettling memories tied to his birth. His father takes him to Dr. Hemanga Hazra, a respected parapsychologist, who interprets the boy’s drawings as depicting the Indian province of Rajasthan. Hazra recommends taking Mukul to Rajasthan, which sets the stage for the adventure that unfolds.
Meanwhile, a dangerous group of brigands, aware of Mukul’s ability to uncover treasure, kidnaps him, believing that he will lead them to an invaluable hidden fortune they have long sought. Feluda, the sharp and resourceful detective, along with his loyal assistant Topse, embarks on a journey to rescue Mukul and solve the mystery of his birth and the treasure. They are joined on their adventure by Lalmohan Ganguly, an eccentric pulp writer who goes by the pen name Jatayu, adding a comic touch to the otherwise tense narrative. Together, they travel across Rajasthan, unraveling secrets and outwitting the criminals in a race against time.
“Feluda in the Golden Fortress” opens a window into Satyajit Ray’s creative process, allowing readers to explore the behind-the-scenes magic that brought Sonar Kella to life. The book features a rich collection of previously unseen works from Ray’s personal journals. Among the treasures are the first sketches of Feluda, Topse, and Jatayu, which bring the beloved characters to life in their early conceptual stages. The original drafts of the story offer a fascinating look at how Ray crafted the intricate plot and dialogue that made Sonar Kella a timeless classic. In addition, colorful title cards sketched by Ray himself are included, providing a visual glimpse into the artistic choices that contributed to the film’s distinct style.
The book also includes rare photographs, interviews with those involved in the making of the film, and film stills, creating a comprehensive experience for Feluda enthusiasts. It delves into the cultural and historical context of the story and explores the impact Sonar Kella has had on generations of viewers and readers. For fans of Ray’s work, this book is an ultimate collector’s item, offering new perspectives on one of his most celebrated creations.
Currently available for pre-order, Feluda in the Golden Fortress will be hitting bookstores across the country by mid-December. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Feluda or new to his world, this book is sure to captivate and inspire, offering a deeper understanding of the genius of Satyajit Ray and his iconic detective.
