Prosenjit Chatterjee, a titan of Indian cinema, particularly in the Bengali film industry, has graced the screen for over three decades with his dynamic range and compelling performances. Celebrated for his ability to blend mainstream success with critically lauded roles, Prosenjit has firmly established his place in the annals of cinema. In an exclusive conversation with ETimes, he delves into his remarkable career, his enduring collaboration with actress Rituparna Sengupta, and fond memories from his father, Biswajit Chatterjee’s Bollywood era.
Prosenjit and Rituparna Sengupta have created cinematic magic across 50 films, a journey that spans over decades. Their latest project, ‘Ajogya’, marks a milestone in their prolific partnership. Prosenjit recounts how their paths diverged for about 14 years, during which he explored diverse roles and characters. Their reunion in the film ‘Praktan’ signaled a new era of collaboration, leading to one of the biggest blockbusters in Bengali cinema. Now, they focus on substantive narratives rather than the traditional formula of romance interspersed with songs and dances.
Over the years, Prosenjit and Rituparna’s on-screen relationship has matured, reflecting their growth as actors. No longer merely seen as the quintessential hero and heroine, they are celebrated for their acting prowess. Films like ‘Drishtikone’, directed by the acclaimed Kaushik Ganguly, have showcased their evolved chemistry and garnered significant success. Prosenjit credits their enduring appeal to the audience’s unwavering support and nostalgic connection to their pairing.
Comfort on set is a crucial aspect of Prosenjit’s approach to acting. Having collaborated with around 100 directors throughout his career, he emphasizes the importance of aligning with a director’s vision and fostering a harmonious working environment. This sense of ease extends to his interactions with co-actors. The seamless chemistry he shares with Rituparna often requires minimal rehearsal, a testament to their mutual understanding and rapport.
Reflecting on his journey, Prosenjit expresses a sense of gratitude. Despite his extensive body of work, he remains eager to explore new horizons and continually reinvent himself. The influx of fresh talent in the industry provides a constant source of inspiration and challenge, motivating him to deliver his best.
Prosenjit’s connection to Bollywood is deeply personal, rooted in the legacy of his father, Biswajit Chatterjee. Fond childhood memories of visiting his father’s sets and meeting legendary actresses like Mumtaz and Mala Sinha have left an indelible mark. He recalls a particularly memorable event where he dedicated a song to Asha Parekh, which resonated widely and went viral.
Prosenjit also cherishes his experiences working with Aishwarya Rai on the film “Chokher Bali”. Despite the differences in their stature at the time, Aishwarya’s professionalism and warmth fostered a familial atmosphere on set. Their recent reunion at a film event rekindled those cherished memories, reflecting the enduring bonds formed through collaborative artistry.
As Prosenjit continues to captivate audiences, his legacy as a versatile actor and his contributions to Indian cinema remain a source of inspiration and admiration.
