Satyam Bhattacharya: I try to strike the perfect balance between risk and relatable

Satyam Bhattacharya recollected his memorable experiences working on Hoichoi webseries Subharambha.

Satyam Bhattacharya has been part of some of the most popular Bengali films of late including Nirontor and Gumnaami. The accomplished actor is now set for a stint in Subharambha, a Hoichoi original web show, that is slated to release on Friday.

Ahead of the show’s release, the actor talks to OTTplay in an exclusive interview about why it took him three years to collaborate with Subharambha director Abhijit Chowdhury, how his co-star Jasmine Rao kept him in line when he strayed out of character and why he prefers films over shows. Excerpts from the interview:

What made you choose the role of a dentist in Subharambha?

I didn’t exactly choose; it was the writers’ thought. However, I connected with the character. I think they (the makers) made a wise decision by making the character a dentist. Some people think dentists aren’t really doctors. It gives a little edge to the character.

What is your criteria of picking a role? Do you prefer something relatable or challenging?

It’s always good to take up a challenging character. I’m not really Mainak, but when I pick a role, I prefer to keep a little bit of me in the character as well. Everybody has their own mannerisms and way of acting. I try to strike the perfect balance between risk and relatable.

Is it the contrast between a dentist and a musician that inspired you to be part of this series?

Yes, absolutely. It’s the story of a musician and her journey. It’s not very common that a person like Mainak would come into the life of a musician. That was the catch, which attracted me to the role.

Tell us about your experience of working with Jasmine.

We met twice or thrice during the scripting process. I found her cool and open to ideas. We both helped each other as actors. I remember it was the last day when I completely went out of character and started acting like myself. After the first shot, Jasmine asked me what was I doing? She reminded me how I completely went out of the character and I then asked the director Abhijitda to do one more take.

Did you take a lot of the character home though?

At times, yes. I think not wearing glasses helped me to a great extent. However, I also think some part of Mainak is still in me. It’s good actually, because he’s a good guy.

It was your first time working with Abhijit too. How was it?

I want to reveal something very embarrassing (laughs). Abhijit da used to talk about this a lot during the shoot. Actually, a few years ago, he texted me to offer a role, but I did not respond because my notifications were off for three-four years. When I started shooting, he told me that he texted me for the role, which took me by surprise. Then when I checked my phone, he had actually texted me three years ago. He’s a very sorted, level-headed guy and a team worker who is open to new ideas.

You also worked as an assistant director after starting your acting career. What prompted you to do that?

I originally wanted to assist in Mishawr Rawhoshyo, not act in it. However, the film happened by chance since I told the director to consider me if he didn’t find anyone else. I wanted to learn more about films, since I was keen on knowing how different it was from theatre. I always had a thing for direction so I assisted in five films.

Do you think that experience helped you understand how to pick films?

Absolutely. If you stand behind the camera and watch other people perform, that definitely helps. I got to learn all technical aspects in the three years when I assisted on films. It’s a very small industry, so every alternate project almost has the same unit. I have a very good connection with all of them, so when we met, they would take care of me since they consider me one of them.

What is the difference between shooting for a film and web series?

In the pre-production of films, we get to decide how to build the character, because we have the time. The difference is that you get to shoot for web-series for 14 hours, while in films, you can shoot for as long as you want, with an eight-hour break. I personally prefer working in films and theatre. But then again, TV and web series provide you with a lot more exposure. It also gives you monetary stability. In either case, there is some divine pleasure in doing films.

I think the movie Nirontor was one of the best experiences of my life. I was shooting for nine days in North Bengal. It was fantastic starring opposite Prosenjit Chatterjee and being directed by Chandrashish. I don’t think I would probably have that same experience with web series.

What are you watching on OTT currently?

Vikings. I’m hooked and hoping to complete it by tomorrow. I’m also a huge Game of Thrones fan, so it takes me back to that.

What’s next for you?

Currently, I’m trying to lose weight during this lockdown.

Share