Bimal Roy’s daughter honours his memory

Forty-four years after his death, late filmmaker Bimal Roy’s memory lives on. Rinki Roy Bhattacharya is honouring her father’s legacy through the Bimal Roy Memorial, set up in 1997.

Over the years, the organisation has screened films as well as honoured technicians from the film industry, whose efforts had gone unnoticed. “The first recipient was Dilip Gupta, cinematography for Madhumati. He did amazing work, but never got recognition for it,” says Bhattacharya. “We’ve also instituted honours for make up, still photography and many other aspects that are so important, but do not get appreciated enough.”

The Bimal Roy Memorial that started with a concert of popular songs from his films has more recently been in the news for hosting bi-monthly film screenings. Initially restricted to Roy’s films, the event has grown to accommodate several other films from across the world, especially those of social relevance.

“It’s not always possible to screen our films twice a month. Raising funds can be difficult at times. There is also a general lack of theatres that suit our needs,” says Bhattacharya.

Onir’s My Brother Nikhil, Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan and Rajkumar Hirani’s Munnabhai series are among many films that have been screened by the organisation.