Jaya triumphs with Putulnacher Itikotha 

The new year has commenced on a high note for acclaimed actress Jaya Ahsan, who has secured the Best Actress (Critics) award for her evocative portrayal in 'Putulnacher Itikotha'. The accolade was presented at the prestigious "Binodoner Shera 24" ceremony, an annual event hosted by the Kolkata-based television channel Zee 24 Ghanta to honour the finest in Bengali entertainment.

Expressing her gratitude on social media, Ahsan remarked that she felt "honoured and humbled" to receive her first recognition of 2026. Her performance as the complex character Kusum has been lauded by critics for its emotional depth and nuanced restraint, further cementing her reputation as a powerhouse of South Asian cinema.

Directed by Suman Mukhopadhyay, Putulnacher Itikotha is a cinematic adaptation of Manik Bandyopadhyay's timeless 1936 novel. While the literary masterpiece was published nearly ninety years ago, Mukhopadhyay's vision shifts the narrative slightly to the late 1930s and early 1940s. 

The film explores the intricate psychological puppet-play of human existence, featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Abir Chatterjee as Shashi and Parambrata Chattopadhyay as Kumud.

Following its theatrical release in West Bengal last August and its subsequent debut on the streaming platform Hoichoi in November, the film has sustained significant momentum. This latest award highlights the enduring relevance of Bandyopadhyay's prose when paired with modern directorial finesse and Ahsan's compelling screen presence.