Pix by Pabitra Das

The years I spent in theatre between 1999 and 2003 were the best years of my life. Theatre meant that we had to do the most menial jobs even when playing lead roles. We packed away sets and even ironed the cast’s costumes. But it was this experience which made me realise that acting demanded a complete commitment. To date theatre remains my first love.

I switched to television as it was a magical medium with a wider reach. The first TV serial that got me recognition was Janmabhumi. Though I had a small role, the character that I played became very popular. I believe if you do just one thing but do it to the best of your ability, that’s all that matters.

The other highlight of my TV career was the serial Ek Akasher Neeche, in which I had a double role. The two characters were complete opposites of each other and I enjoyed the variations of the roles. Right now I’m enjoying acting in the serial Bou Kotha Kou especially since its director-producer Ravi Ojha and I share a fantastic working relationship.

My films and telefilms are also very dear to me. I felt proud to be a part of the film Teen Ekke Teen as it was completely new and innovative kind of cinema. Telefilms like Atanu Ghosh’s 700 sq.ft. and Anjan Dutt’s Megh Brishti Rodh are also very special to me as they were very well made films. Movies like Tista and Teen Ekke Teen rate high on my list of personal favourites. It was during Tista that I learnt from Debashree Roy how to ensure a comfortable work environment for one’s co-actors.

As of now I am looking forward to the India release of my next movie, Maya Bazaar, which has already shown at international festivals. For me it is the process and depth of the role that matters most and so far my journey has been great.

(As told to Amrita Mukherjee)