Arpita Chatterjee has donned many hats ever since she debuted in Prabhat Roy’s
Tumi Ele Tai in 1999. With a slew of powerful performances in
Utsab (2000) and
Guldasta (2020) to her credit, she has been busy playing entrepreneur and director, having shifted her base to Delhi. CT caught up with the multi-faceted actress who also has an important role to play off-screen, that of a doting mother to son Mishuk, as she talks about creating a new and independent life for herself.
If I have to direct Prosenjit for a particular film, I would be okay to do it, given he likes the script: Arpita ![Arpita with husband Prosenjit Chatterjee in a still from Deva (2002) P2_SS_Arpita and Prosenjit- Deva](https://cdn.statically.io/img/static.toiimg.com/thumb/imgsize-23456,msid-111597704,width-600,resizemode-4/111597704.jpg)
Arpita with husband Prosenjit Chatterjee in a still from Deva (2002)
I’m there for my family, financially, emotionally : Arpita
From Howrah, to Kolkata, to Noida. How do you manage it all?
When one doesn’t have any other options, they find ways to supervise everything (laughs). It is not taxing, as I believe God has built each one of us to execute everything that comes our way. On the personal front, it is not only about my son, but also my parents in Howrah and in-laws in Mumbai. I happily take the responsibility of being the emotional, and sometimes financial provider to them. All women are
Doshobhujas, and that is why insecure men try to dominate us. They know that given a chance we can rule the world.
Model, actor, producer, entrepreneur and director– out of all your avatars, which one is your favourite?
Performing arts is an important part of my existence, and my production house is also closely related to creative projects. Currently, my musical play
Gauhar Jaan is gearing up for international shows. From dancing, singing to acting, I am the only performer in it So, there are no favourites, as any craft that’s prolific, is close to my heart.
Kolkata or Delhi, which city is closer to your heart?
My heart and soul lies in Kolkata as its wamth, culture and food is unmatched. However, on the workfront, Delhi has more opportunities and money. It is the right place to be if someone wants to grow professionally.
Are you satisfied with how things have shaped up over the years? Do you have any regrets?
I am not the kind of person who holds on to memories, rather I love to look forward in life. All of my decisions have always been well thought out, and each choice has helped me move forward in life. I am blessed to have had a fulfilling journey from
Howrah to Delhi.
![Arpita with friend and filmmaker Onir during her recent trip to Kolkata. The duo worked together in 2017 film Shab p4_ss_2635](https://cdn.statically.io/img/static.toiimg.com/thumb/imgsize-23456,msid-111597832,width-600,resizemode-4/111597832.jpg)
Arpita with friend and filmmaker Onir during her recent trip to Kolkata. The duo worked together in 2017 film Shab
How was the experience of being behind the camera for the first time?
I believe in teamwork, and donning the director’s hat for the first time has never made me feel anything extra. I have so much to learn about the craft. Throughout my professional life I have worked with talented people from the LGBTQIA+ community. My directorial debut celebrates them.
‘Fortunately my work & my passion are the same’
When it comes to spending ‘me-time’, Arpita utilises it to watch as much OTT content as possible. “It not just relaxes me, but is also needed for my profession. Given my work and passion are similar, I don’t feel the pressure to do multiple things simultaneously” she says, adding, “I love cosy addas too, and I’m not much of a party person. The idea of getting ready stresses me out.”
Pix:
Ajay Kumar Gautam
Makeup, hair and styling:
Aniruddha Chakladar