This is one of the earlier dramas directed by India's
Mrinal Sen, before his reputation was solidly established. The story is a poignant, well-observed etching of the personality changes in a salesman as his world, that was always a little wobbly, begins to deteriorate beyond anyone's ability to control. The salesman marries a sixteen-year-old woman who is about half his age. He has always struggled to make ends meet and now after the marriage his luck starts to go downhill. His mother dies and his sales work declines, affecting him in adverse ways. As he tries to come to grips with these misfortunes, World War II erupts and brings widespread hardships -- including famine -- to India. Unable to stand this final strain, the man breaks apart with tragic consequences. ~ Eleanor Mannikka, All Movie Guide