Shakuntala (1941) is a Bengali drama directed by Jyotish Bannerjee, starring Jyotsna Gupta, Dhiraj Bhattacharya, Joynarayan Mukherjee, Manorama Devi, and Amal Bandyopadhyay. Based on Kalidasa's revered Sanskrit play Abhijnanashakuntalam, the film narrates the timeless love story of Shakuntala and King Dushyanta.

Born to sage Vishwamitra and celestial nymph Menaka, Shakuntala is raised in the hermitage of Sage Kanva. One day, she meets King Dushyanta, and the two fall in love, secretly marrying in a Gandharva ceremony. Before leaving, Dushyanta promises to return for her. However, when Sage Durvasa, angered by Shakuntala’s distraction, places a curse on her, Dushyanta forgets her entirely. Heartbroken, Shakuntala arrives at his palace, but he fails to recognize her. She leaves in sorrow, only to be reunited with him later when a lost ring restores his memory. Their story of love, separation, and destiny ultimately leads to their son, Bharata, becoming a legendary ruler.

With music composed by Krishna Chandra Dey, Shakuntala beautifully brings Indian mythology to life. Released on June 7, 1941, the film became a landmark in Bengali cinema, capturing the essence of classical literature in an emotionally compelling way.