We speak the same language, we are one: Prosenjit Chatterjee

There are few people who follow Bengali films, and do not love its omnipresent poster-boy, who is lovingly known as 'Bumba Da'. In Prosenjit Chatterjee's illustrious career of 24 years, he became one of the most revered faces in Bengali cinema, notwithstanding language or border. 

The eminent actor was last seen in "Kakababur Protyaborton", which released in Bangladesh on February 4. Because of the SAFTA agreement, the film was released on the same day in India and Bangladesh.

The ever-energetic 'Bumba Da', who is excited by the prospect of film industries on both sides of the border collaborating, talks to The Daily Star about his career, views and more.

How do you feel about reprising the role of 'Kakababu', especially after the film released in both countries through your efforts?

I have always tried to create a bridge amongst us, and I am glad that we have successfully done this. Our generation have dealt with great obstacles; the next generation must come forward to strengthen the bond.

A snippet from "Kakababur Protyaborton".

I believe that if we cooperate, we can create films like "Bahubali", or any other wonderful productions from the Tamil and Telegu industries.

We heard that you approached Srijit Mukherjee to direct the series, while having solicited the rights from Sunil Gangopadhyay.

Usually, directors happen to choose the artistes. However, in this case, the opposite happened. In fact, Srijit was not convinced to take up this project at all!

Can you differentiate between Sunil Gangopadhyay's Kakababu and Srijit's?

Sunil Da was an eminent writer, his Kakababu is very humane and considers Sontu, his college-going nephew, the only companion to all his adventures. This young adult has sharp wit and intelligence, and his mental strength is only comparable to Kakababu. However, whenever he aims for an adventure, he transforms into a superman. For our film, we have mordernised the relationship between Sontu and Kakababu, who are from different generations. The audience of this generation will be able to relate to the characters.

How much effort did you put in to actually look like the character?

I went through physical and psychological transformations simultaneously, while preparing for the role. For six months, I walked with the help of a crutch, I even wore customised shoes with heels of two different sizes. To be honest, my body language completely changed after playing the role.

Those who read Sunil Da's 'Kakababu', know that the character is quite witty and humorous. From top to bottom, I internalised all his quirks and habits.

A snippet from "Sankhachil"

In many interviews, you mentioned that you want to work in films that cater to children. Do you know how they are receiving "Kakababur Protyaborton"?

Parents used to introduce me to their kids as "Prosenjit uncle". However, I wanted to break that barrier and bring myself into a place where this generation can directly relate to me.

Children's films are rarely made in our region. "Kakababu" is for audiences of all ages.

Now, kids come up to me and say "Kakababu, where is your crutch?" It amuses me greatly!

Prosenjit in Goutam Ghoshes "Moner Manush"

Can we expect more films from this series?

There is an immense fan following of  Kakababu. The series has been received very well.  I think there should be more films from it.  However, it is ultimately the producers call. If everything goes well, I can carry on playing this role for the next three to five years.

You only appeared in one film made by a Bangladeshi director, Benazir Ahmed's 'Priyo Shotru' in 1995. Whom do you want to work with in the future?

It absolutely depends on the offer. Mostofa Sarwar Farooki is one of my most favourite directors, and unfortunately, I could not give him my schedule twice. One of the projects was his "Doob".

Benazir Ahmed directorial "Priyo Satru" released in 1995. Starring Prosenjit Chatterjee, Diti and Sohel Chowdhury.

I have directed some projects in BFDC -- Alamgir saheb and Razzak saheb know how much I adore them.

I am in touch with many talented directors from Bangladesh. If I get an offer for a good project, I will definitely take it up.

You had tweeted praises for 'Mohanagar', directed by Ashfaque Nipun, after it aired on Hoichoi. Do you regularly watch Bangladeshi content?

I even contacted Ashfaque Nipun and congratulated him, after watching his brilliant series.

I follow and admire contemporary Bangladeshi works a lot.

I have particularly become addicted to the OTT platform 'Chorki', they are simply amazing. I wholeheartedly congratulate them for their initiative; I eagerly await their new productions. 

Photos: Collected

I cannot differentiate between two Bengals. I am equally loved as 'Bumba Da' in Bangladesh as well. I am so proud of Bangladeshi artistes for exploring their talents in the international arena. Since we speak same language, I consider us as one.

When will you make your OTT debut?

I have already completed "Stardust", directed by Vikram Motwane. This is a huge project, which will be released in an Indian OTT platform very soon.

A screengrab from "Mayer Adhikar" directed by Narayan Ghosh starring Prosenjit and Rituparna Sengupta. It is the remake of Bangladeshi film of the same name directed by Shibli Sadik, starring Salman Shah and Shabnaz.

There was a time when Bangladeshi films prospered, and Tollywood remade many of them. Now, Tollywood, as an industry, has prospered greatly.

Even 15 years ago, people would laugh at our films. We did lot of joint ventures and remakes at that time. If we are united in our efforts, we can uplift both our film industries to greater heights.