On a sweltering summer evening, actress and dancer Mamata Shankar, along with her son Ratul Shankar, director Satrajit Sen, and Techno India Group’s co-chairperson Manoshi Roychowdhury, gathered in the beautiful Indian Museum. The discussion revolved around the recent film directed by Satrajit Sen — Check In Cheque Out, which explores the concept of legacy blending with heritage. But the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly a segment called Shankar’s Talking About Shankars, where Mamata and Ratul opened up about their family, creativity, and their strong mother-son bond.
Mamata Shankar, graceful as ever, spoke with poise and humility. Despite coming from a family deeply rooted in fame and artistic brilliance, she shared how grounded her upbringing was. Stardom never interfered with the values her family instilled in her, and she ensured that her children were raised with the same mindset. This relatability touched a chord with many, especially those trying to balance ambition with humility. Ratul, who carries forward the family legacy through music and acting, spoke passionately about his journey. He shared his unforgettable experience of working with the legendary Rituparno Ghosh in his first film Utsab. Ratul also shared how passion is the driving force behind everything he does —be it music or acting. His words resonated with many who believe that true dedication comes from loving what you do. He emphasised that while technology in filmmaking has evolved over the years, the essence —passion — remains unchanged. His dedication reflected a deep respect for his roots and a determination to innovate, yet stay true to what matters most.
Director Satrajit Sen praised the contribution of Techno India’s media students, who worked as part of his film crew. Their enthusiasm and commitment helped bring his vision for Check In Cheque Out to life. This gesture highlighted how heritage isn’t just about what is passed down, but also about nurturing new talent and stories. Adding another layer to the evening, Manoshi Roychowdhury shared her love for Bengali cinema, despite not being from the film industry. Her nostalgic connection to films reflected how art forms a bridge between generations and cultures.
The conversation turned light-hearted when Mamata recalled how she would often take a young Ratul to a film set, sometimes against his will because she believed in his potential. She shared a little anecdote that reminded everyone how parents sometimes see sparks in us before we even do. The panel discussion was a celebration of heritage, storytelling, and heartfelt human connections. In the museum room, voices of the past, present, and future came together, reminding us that legacy isn’t just about fame, it’s about love, values, and the passion that keeps stories alive.