Mon Duari– A timeless love story

Currently, Bangladeshi filmmakers are producing various types of dramas, films, and OTT content. However, most of these revolve around either comedy or thriller genres, often featuring complex storylines that require deep concentration. But people don't always want or have the mental capacity to process complicated plots. Since entertainment, such as dramas and films, serves as a way for people to unwind from their daily exhaustion, these should sometimes be simple and heartwarming.

One such simple yet touching love story revolving around family bonds has been portrayed in the drama Mon Duari, starring Ziaul Faruq Apurba and Nazneen Nahar Niha. Directed by Zakaria Shoukhin, the drama beautifully captures a straightforward yet engaging narrative that will captivate any audience.

The story begins with Amit (played by Apurba) returning to Bangladesh from New York, intending to take his grandmother (played by Dilara Zaman) back with him. However, Nandini (played by Niha) strongly opposes this decision. She is determined not to let Dilara Zaman leave the country. It is worth mentioning that Amit and Nandini are distant relatives in the drama. This conflict over the grandmother's relocation leads to playful banter between Amit and Nandini. Nandini keeps pulling pranks on Amit, such as throwing him out of the car or scaring him by dressing up as a ghost.

At one point, Amit has a heated argument with his grandmother over his father. His father had left for abroad when Amit was a child, leaving the family behind, and never returned. Due to this, Dilara Zaman holds a deep-seated grudge against her son, and he, in turn, never attempted to mend the relationship. Following the argument, Amit leaves the house in anger, but soon realizes his mistake and returns to make amends with his grandmother. The story progresses as Dilara Zaman secretly plans to arrange Amit’s marriage with Nandini to keep him in Bangladesh.

One day, Nandini takes Amit on a tour of their ancestral village, Rupadighi. They explore the entire village together, unknowingly developing feelings for each other. Nandini shares a secret wish with Amit—that if someone ever gifts her a jar full of fireflies and confesses their love, she will be theirs forever. She subtly directs this message toward Amit, but he fails to understand her true feelings and simply prays for her wish to come true.

As days pass, Amit realizes he is growing emotionally attached to Nandini. However, he is conflicted because he already has a girlfriend in New York, despite their constant arguments. Resolving to return to New York, Amit informs Nandini of his decision, leaving her heartbroken. She isolates herself in her room, refusing to speak to him.

On the day of his departure, Amit bids farewell to his grandmother in a scene reminiscent of classic Bengali cinema—though not overly dramatic, making it touching rather than exaggerated. Nandini doesn’t come to see him off, which leaves Amit with a heavy heart. As he drives away, he suddenly spots Nandini waiting for him on the road. They exchange a sorrowful goodbye, carrying unspoken emotions between them.

But can one truly say goodbye to a loved one so easily? Amit ultimately returns from the airport. As per Nandini’s wish, he leaves a jar full of fireflies by her window and, like the prince of her dreams, holds her hands and confesses, “I love you very much!” The drama concludes with the entire family reuniting, setting aside all misunderstandings and grievances.

The drama beautifully captures the enchanting beauty of rural Bangladesh, a portrayal that has been missing in many recent productions. Watching Amit and Nandini playfully running through the fields evokes childhood nostalgia. The village scenes are masterfully depicted, offering a picturesque view of the countryside. The cinematography is outstanding, making it easy for modern audiences unfamiliar with rural life to appreciate its serene beauty.

The drama features two songs with beautiful lyrics. As always, Apurba excels in romantic roles, delivering impeccable expressions, dialogue delivery, and body language. His performance is simply remarkable. Although Niha acted alongside Apurba for the first time, her performance was noteworthy. She matched his energy without any unnecessary overacting, convincingly portraying a lively, spirited village girl.

Though the story might seem predictable, the impeccable performances of Apurba and Niha, combined with stunning cinematography, make it a delightful watch. The title Mon Duari is aptly chosen, as just as Niha opens the closed doors of Apurba’s heart, this drama also opens the hearts of its viewers.

So, whether you're looking for a break from a hectic schedule or simply want to watch something heartwarming, Mon Duari is a perfect choice to uplift your mood.