National Award-winning Indian musician-actor-director Anjan Dutt has urged for a swift resolution to the ongoing political tensions between Bangladesh and India. He stated that the film industries of both Kolkata and Dhaka stand to gain significantly from closer ties. The two cities, he emphasised, are crucial markets for one another, particularly in the realm of arts and culture.

At 72, Dutt remains a prominent figure in both Bengali cinema and theatre, with a significant fan base in Bangladesh. Speaking to PTI on Monday, he expressed his frustration with the political impasse that he believes is stifling collaboration between the cultural sectors of the two nations. "I hope to see a quick solution to the present impasse. There is a big market in the field of art and culture which needs to open up for the benefit of both the nations," Dutt said.

Known for his long-standing opposition to political interference in the arts, Dutt reiterated his belief that art serves as a unifying force where politics often creates divisions. "Politics only divide the people whereas art unites them," he stated. "There are many sensitive people in Bangladesh, some of them are good filmmakers, theatre personalities, and singers. Such a great heritage and tradition should not be sacrificed at the altar of politics."

Dutt's comments come at a time of heightened political tension, but his focus remains resolutely on the potential for artistic collaboration. He underscored his point by highlighting Bangladesh's rich cultural heritage and the wealth of talent that could contribute to a more vibrant, and interconnectedly creative landscape. "The role of art will prevail over everything else in Bangladesh," he added, reaffirming his belief in the enduring power of cultural exchange.

Dutt's remarks were made ahead of the release of "Ei Raat Tomar Amar", a Bengali film in which he stars opposite veteran actress Aparna Sen. Directed by Parambrata Chattopadhyay, the movie explores the relationship between an elderly couple, with Dutt taking pride in working under Parambrata's direction. 

"I enjoyed acting under Parambrata's direction. I felt at ease with him behind the camera," Dutt shared, adding that his collaboration with the director is especially significant, given that he had cast Parambrata early in a directorial of his.

Dutt also lamented a decline in the traditional "actor's director," suggesting that many contemporary filmmakers prioritise camera techniques, such as drone shots, over an actor-focused approach. "This makes actors helpless in a way," he noted, reflecting on the shift in filmmaking priorities. However, he remains optimistic about the new generation of filmmakers, praising Parambrata for maturing as both an actor and a director.

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