Maati Maay is based on a short story (Baayen) by noted Bengali writer Mahasweta Devi. It is a heart-rending tale of a young mother called Chandi who is trapped between her instincts and needs, and the compulsions of her ancestral duty as dictated by the social system.

The performances are first rate, especially by Nandita Das, Atul Kulkarni and Kshitij Gavande. Cinematography by Debu Deodhar brings out the emotion the scene intends.

In short, the film is a strange and unapologetic concoction of sunny optimism and dark brooding.