Popular actress Deepa Khandakar has been in the television industry for more than 22 years. She used to be a regular presence on the tele-fictions of BTV. Currently, she is busy with a number of projects

In a conversation with The Daily Star, Deepa Khandakar talked about her current engagements and upcoming plans.

You have been acting in tele-fictions since 1999 and in your long career, you have starred in only two films. Why have you done such few films?

I have never liked commercial films. However, I have always admired television work, from the beginning of my career. Frankly, I did not receive offers of projects that I would have loved to do and so, I have not acted in many films. 'Bhaijan Elo Re' was my first film, and it was a Kolkata-based project. Recently, I finished the shoot for another film named 'Payer Chap'. This film realistically depicts the story of revolutionary women, and it has been directed by Saiful Islam Mannu. 

Every artiste has a story of struggle and hardship. What kind of struggle did you face at the beginning of your career?

I have not struggled much. A tele-fiction titled 'Kaktaroya' was aired on ATN Bangla in 1999, and it was similarly aired on Channel i and on Indian television. During that time Afzal Hossain, Tauquir Ahmed, Tony Dias, Azizul Hakim had helped me a lot and requested the director to cast me. I have just completed 22 years of my career.  

Did you always want to be an actress?

I was never determined to be an actress, in fact, I had taken up the profession of acting as a hobby.  I never cherished any high expectations. However, with time, I learned the art of acting and now, I can understand the difference between profitable and less profitable projects. I have spent more than two decades in this field and I do not regret anything. I feel proud to call myself an actress.  

Do you think the quality of tele-fictions and films has improved?

I do believe that the quality of the tele-fictions and films that we do has improved, even many international platforms are giving recognition to our work. This is a huge success for us and I truly admire the works of many artistes in our film industry. Our brilliant directors are coming up with many intriguing stories and hence, I can say that we have come a long way.

Many directors prefer to work with specific groups of artistes. Do you consider yourself to be a part of any group?

I have never considered myself to be part of any 'group'. I consider myself to be an original artiste. I have came this far on my own accord, and have not taken help from anyone. My success is the fruit of my sincerity. Nonetheless, I have acted in many different and critically acclaimed projects, and I am grateful for this opportunity.