(Please note that this write-up has spoilers!)

"If I have to go away, can I leave a little bit of me with you?" These heartfelt words beautifully capture the soul of film "Memories in March". The film explores love, grief, and acceptance with remarkable sensitivity. Directed by Sanjoy Nag and written by Rituparno Ghosh, this 2010 drama unfolds in the bustling yet melancholic city of Kolkata, weaving a story that lingers long after the movie ends.

The plot centers around Arti Mishra (Deepti Naval), a grieving mother who travels from Delhi to Kolkata after the tragic death of her only son, Siddharth, in a car accident. In the midst of her sorrow, she learns a truth that shocks her—her son was gay and in a committed relationship with his boss, Ornob Mitra (played by Rituparno Ghosh). This revelation, shared by Siddharth’s colleague Shahana (Raima Sen), challenges Arti to reconcile her memories of her son with the life he lived in secret. Alone in her late son’s apartment, Arti slowly pieces together his life through his emails and texts. These intimate glimpses reveal not just Siddharth’s struggles and joys but also his courage to live authentically, even in a society that often shuns such truths.

The performances are the heart of the film. Deepti Naval delivers a deeply emotional portrayal of a mother torn between grief and the journey to acceptance. Rituparno Ghosh’s subtle yet powerful performance as Ornob conveys the quiet dignity of a man who loved Siddharth deeply. Raima Sen adds warmth and grounding as Shahana, a bridge between Arti and her son’s hidden world. What sets "Memories in March" apart is its simplicity in the narrative. It is free of unnecessary theatrics, relying instead on raw, unfiltered emotions that feel genuine and relatable. The film’s music, haunting and poetic, amplifies its emotional depth, making each scene resonate even more.

Sanjoy Nag’s direction beautifully captures the complex layers of human relationships and the nuances of navigating societal prejudices. The film doesn’t just address the challenges of a homosexual relationship but also portrays how love, in all its forms, can leave an indelible mark on those it touches.

"Memories in March" is not just a film about loss, it’s a story about understanding and embracing the fragments of those we love, even when they challenge our expectations. It’s a tender reminder that love and acceptance are often found in the most unexpected places.

TL;DR

Bechdel Test: Pass

Rewatch: Yes, many times.

Awards: 2010 Winner Silver Lotus Award: National Film Awards (Best Feature Film in English)

My Rating: 4/5

Final Word: One of the best in Indian movies about parental acceptance of Queerness.