IBNS-CMEDIA: Released during Durga Puja, Srijit Mukherji’s Emperor vs Sarat Chandra brings literary icon Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s legacy to the big screen. In an exclusive conversation with IBNS correspondent Souvik Ghosh, actor Tota Roy Chowdhury opens up about his initial reaction to the role, preparing to portray the celebrated author, and how the film hopes to connect younger audiences with their cultural heritage.
Q: What was your first reaction when you were offered the role of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay in such a huge film?
Tota Roy Chowdhury: Initially, I was dumbfounded. I couldn’t imagine that somebody would imagine me as Sarat Babu.
I was quite surprised, and my next question to Srijit (Srijit Mukherji, director) was, “Are you sure you’ve thought about it?” He was quite sure. Once the final look was created, I was convinced that I would be able to pull it off.
Q: Did you feel any pressure while portraying such an important literary figure?
Tota Roy Chowdhury: I didn’t feel the pressure. Not at this point in my career. I don’t feel pressured anymore. I enjoy the process.
However, playing someone who was a living character is tricky in today’s times. I had to be responsible and pay attention to every nuance.
Q: How would you describe Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay as a person?
Tota Roy Chowdhury: He’s an extremely sensitive human being, not just a novelist. He was very perceptive and loved his surroundings and the simple people around him. He was also rebellious.
Towards the end of his glorious career, he had the audacity to take on the might of the British Empire and protest against its high-handedness.
Q: What would you say to younger audiences who may not read books regularly?
Tota Roy Chowdhury: Contrary to popular belief, the younger generation is more interested in their roots these days. They want to know about their legacy and glorious past.
I have absolute faith and hope in them that they will probably watch this film because it’s a part of their culture and heritage.
It’s a slice of their heritage that we are trying to represent to them and the audience at large.
(Photos: Avishek Mitra/IBNS)
