The first song from Dhrubo Banerjee’s upcoming larger-than-life spectacle Raghu Dakat has unleashed a wave of excitement and frenzy among fans. Offering an intriguing glimpse into the mythical, titular character of rebel and robber, the song serves as the perfect prelude to the film, establishing its setting and intensifying curiosity about the story of Raghu Dakat, who is considered one of Bengal’s most legendary outlaw figures.

Titled Joy Kali, the song is full of passion, devotion and grandeur and is an ode to Goddess Kali. Showcasing Dev as Raghu Dakat, who is a fierce devotee of the Goddess of Shakti or power, the song is an invocation that seeks divine blessings, protection and power. An energetic anthem that radiates Kali Puja vibes, it roars and thunders with the voices of a massive chorus consisting of male and female robbers led by their leader Raghu, as they offer prayers to the Goddess at night in the middle of a forest.

Clad in attire and accessories that reflect a tribal or folk heredity, the bandits are armed with spears and lances while Raghu ominously wields a shiny kharga (a curved Indian sword), a weapon traditionally associated with Goddess Kali. With his bearded visage, the red tilak on his forehead, piercing gaze, formidable strides and vigorous dance steps, Dev strikes awe and terror as Raghu, establishing him as the undisputed leader of the band of robbers.

The rhythmic beats of drums, splashes of vermilion smeared on the huge deity and fiery flames from torches create a powerful and menacing atmosphere as the song plays out. Roopa Ganguli as Dakat Maa (mother of the robbers) is seen in the visuals as a worshipper or a priestess, who performs the puja and doles out prasad to everybody. Unlike in the teaser, she sheds her fierce image and looks venerable, benign and spiritual in her demeanour. Sohini Sarkar, as the tribal warrior Gunja, can be seen casting admiring glances at Raghu while he dances and sings with passionate fervour. It is implied that she is in love with Raghu and may perhaps compete with Idhika Paul’s character (viewed in the teaser) for Raghu’s affections.

While Sugata Guha’s evocative lyrics beautifully blend devotion and defiance in the song, Joy Kali derives its raw force and energy from Rathijit Bhattacharjee’s music composition. The deep, intense and powerful vocals of Ishan Mitra, Shreya Bhattacharjee and Rathijit Bhattacharjee bring the composition alive, weaving a soundscape that resonates with divine energy, emotion, and vigour.

Set against a historical canvas that is steeped in folklore and fantasy, Raghu Dakat promises to be a film that unfolds the eternal tale of the oppressor and the oppressed, with the character of Raghu being the mysterious messiah of the masses. Joy Kali, as the first song of the film, establishes the background of the story and its main character, effectively creating the perfect buildup as the film approaches its release date.