The Square Circle (1996)
A bold and tender Hindi drama from director Amol Palekar, exploring gender identity, trauma, and compassion through an unlikely bond between two women.
The Square Circle - Movie Information
- Original Title: Daayraa
- Release Year: 1996
- Directed by: Amol Palekar
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Music, Romance
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Original Language: Hindi
- Spoken Languages: Hindi
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 12, 1996 (Canada), June 13, 1997 (United Kingdom), September 12, 1996 (India)
- Alternative Titles: Daayraa (IN)
- Production Companies: Gateway Entertainment
- Production Countries: India
The Square Circle - Plot
An abducted and sexually abused girl has her traditional views towards sexuality changed after finding refuge and kindness with a trans woman.
Where to Watch The Square Circle
Looking for where to watch The Square Circle?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Square Circle - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Amol Palekar
Main Cast
- Nirmal Pandey
- Sonali Kulkarni
- Faiyyaz
- Rekha Sahay
- Nina Kulkarni
- Haidar Ali
- Nandu Madhav
- Nagesh Bhonsle
- Rekha Sabnis
- Sanjay Sharma
Writers
- Chitra Palekar
- Shashank Shanker
- Timeri N. Murari
- Amol Palekar
The Square Circle - FAQs
What is The Square Circle about?
The Square Circle follows a young woman who, after being abducted and sexually abused, finds unexpected shelter and compassion with a trans woman. The experience profoundly challenges her traditional views on gender and sexuality, leading to a moving journey of empathy, identity, and human connection.
Is The Square Circle based on a true story?
The Square Circle is not based on a specific true story. It is an original drama written by Chitra Palekar, Shashank Shanker, Timeri N. Murari, and director Amol Palekar, drawing on broader social realities surrounding gender identity, sexual violence, and the lives of transgender individuals in India.
Who are the main actors in The Square Circle?
The Square Circle stars Nirmal Pandey as the trans woman and Sonali Kulkarni as the young girl at the heart of the story. The supporting cast includes Faiyyaz, Rekha Sahay, Nina Kulkarni, Haidar Ali, Nandu Madhav, Nagesh Bhonsle, Rekha Sabnis, and Sanjay Sharma.
Where can you watch The Square Circle?
You can find current streaming and viewing options for The Square Circle on JustWatch, which lists all available platforms in your region. Availability may vary depending on your country, so checking JustWatch ensures you get the most up-to-date information on where to watch the film.
Who directed The Square Circle?
The Square Circle was directed by Amol Palekar, the acclaimed Indian actor and filmmaker known for his sensitive, socially conscious storytelling. The film stands as one of his most celebrated directorial works, praised for its nuanced portrayal of gender identity and human compassion.
Did The Square Circle win any awards?
The Square Circle received notable recognition on the international festival circuit. It won the Silver Leopard at the Locarno International Film Festival in 1996, bringing significant global attention to its bold and empathetic treatment of transgender identity and gender politics in Indian society.
What genre is The Square Circle?
The Square Circle is a Drama, Music, and Romance film. It blends emotionally charged narrative drama with musical elements and a tender romantic undercurrent, creating a layered cinematic experience that explores gender, identity, trauma, and the transformative power of human kindness.
How long is The Square Circle?
The Square Circle has a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes (107 minutes). The film's measured pace allows its themes of gender identity, trauma, and compassion to unfold gradually, giving both the central characters and their evolving relationship the space they deserve.
More About The Square Circle
Explore further details, credits, and community data for The Square Circle on these trusted resources.