Kariyatthi

Synopsis

“Kariyatthi” is a film set in Bihar, based on Saroj Singh’s Bhojpuri literature. Spanning 1960 to 1990, it tells the poignant story of Rani, a dark-skinned girl born into an upper-caste family, where her complexion becomes a source of constant discrimination. Despite her father’s status as an Ayurvedic doctor, his desire for a son and societal bias leave Rani and her similarly dark-skinned sister marginalized, particularly by their grandmother.

As Rani grows up facing prejudice at home and school, her prospects for marriage remain bleak. However, when Jagdish Dubey, a widowed teacher, brings his ailing son for treatment, Rani forms a bond with the child. Moved by her care and character, Jagdish proposes marriage, which is accepted with relief by her family.

Rani and Jagdish share a happy life, and she soon becomes pregnant. Tragically, she dies after slipping into a river while returning from a medical visit. The truth behind her death is revealed only thirty years later.

The Director will be present for a post screening discussion.