The Chess Players

…movie Shatranj ke Khilari (1977; The Chess Players), directed by Satyajit Ray. His choreography for Devdas (2002), particularly the song “Kaahe Chhed Mohe” (“Why Does He Tease Me?”), is widely recognized for its intricate classical elements and visual appeal. He choreographed “Unnai Kaanadhu Naan” (“Without Seeing You”) in Vishwaroopam (“The…

…Khan in Satyajit Ray’s acclaimed Shatranj Ke Khilari (1978; “The Chess Players”), set in colonial Lucknow against the impending ouster of the ruler of Awadh (part of present-day Uttar Pradesh), Wajid Ali Shah (Khan), by British forces. Kumar and costar Saeed Jaffrey played noblemen devoted to their game of chess,…