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From Madhabi Mukherjee’s restraint in ‘Charulata’ to Aparna Sen’s unruly village belle in ‘Samapti’ and Sharmila Tagore’s raw appeal in ‘Apur Sansar’, Satyajit Ray’s women exuded a charm that was distinguished, endearing and timeless. At an age when women were shackled by the chains of tradition and patriarchy, the auteur explored contentious terrains that had female leads articulating change, courage and rebellion. On the cineaste’s death anniversary — he passed away on April 23, 1992 — TOI-Crest gets three of his leading ladies to talk about the legend and his unique style of story-telling