Though A Tale of a Naughty Girl is set in 1969, just as man is about to walk on the moon, Dasgupta has fashioned a timeless, indeed universal tale that speaks to women and men everywhere. With a finely-honed poetic sensibility, Dasgupta again weaves a gripping, colorful tapestry out of the lives of the socially marginalized. In the mystical landscapes of the Purulia district of West Bengal, the precocious young Lati is caught between the pull of tradition and promise of a new life. Her aging prostitute mother is trying to sell her to a lecherous movie-theatre owner, who will serve as patron to both women. But having tasted the fruits of education, Lati is yearning for the world beyond her village. On the day of the historic moon-landing, she boards a train, in search of an educated, enlightened existence in Kolkata. (Production Notes)