Satyajit Ray’s final film once more explores the bonds and battles of family life. Announced only by a single letter, the arrival of the long-lost, globetrotting great-uncle of Anila after 35 years is a shock to all in her Calcutta home. Regaling Anila’s young son with tall tales from his world travels, the enigmatic grand uncle Manomohan (Utpal Dutt) strikes suspicion in everyone, not the least regarding his identity. (Scholars of Ray’s work have noted the anthropologist uncle’s measured approach to science and technology echo statements Ray himself made in interviews.) Ray’s film is based on his own short story originally written for the children’s magazine he edited, Sandesh. The year following the film’s release, Ray received an Honorary Award from the Academy. He passed away on April 23, 1992.