PremiumExclusive! Arjun Chakrabarty on Karnasubarner Guptodhon: The team's camaraderie made the summer shooting bearable
Arjun, who plays Sonada’s satellite Abir, talks to us about his nervousness before the big release.
Last Updated: 12.58 PM, Sep 29, 2022
After the massive success of Sonada’s two treasure hunt adventures, Abir Chatterjee, Arjun Chakrabarty, and Ishaa Saha are back with the third chapter of the franchise, Karnasubarner Guptodhon. Billed as the biggest Bangla release during Puja, the film will hit the theatre on September 30. Directed by Dhrubo Banerjee, the film has already taken a lead in advance bookings. Arjun, who plays Sonada’s satellite Abir, talks to us about his nervousness before the big release. Read on…
The Sonada franchise is a well-tested success formula. Are you still nervous?
Yes, there is an existing fanbase of Sonada. But our effort is to expand that. Also, we have received a lot of feedback. There is always a basic level of nervousness.
You have played Abir Lal Roy (character in the Sonada franchise) earlier also. How do you add innovation to the same character?
Yes, unlike other films, there is a common shape of my character, Abir. But that character also goes through an evolution. With every film, we try to bring in new traits of Abir and that is a challenge. Abir has certain traits. With Sonada, he reacts in certain ways. And with Jhinuk, that is completely different. We know that Abir is a foodie and he has a sense of humour. But he can also be heroic when need be. Along with situations, the character evolves.
You shot in Bengal during the summertime in the scorching heat. Tell us about the experience…
This is the third film and we have developed a strong bonding over this period of time. The entire team is like a family. When we first started, I knew Abirda but just met Ishaa there and soon we all became friends. This time we shot in hot and humid Purulia, Malda and Murshidabad. It was not easy for us. But now when I am watching the trailer and shots, they are looking fabulous. And it is because of our camaraderie, the strenuous shooting became bearable. The friendship and bond grew very organically between us. We three share chemistry. If one is missing in an event, we send out photos.
Tell us about your new projects.
Besides Anjanda’s (Dutt) murder series, I have worked in Mahabharat Murders. Earlier, I worked in Bonyo Premer Golpo. A lot of interesting works are taking place. I might work on some of the new slated projects. Besides, Arindamda’s (Sil) Khela Jokhon and Kaushikda’s (Ganguly) Kabaddi Kabaddi are also ready.
Do you think after the pandemic and lockdown OTT is calling the shots?
I don’t think OTT is calling the shots. Some films can only be enjoyed at theatres, for example, the Guptodhon franchise. OTT saw a sharp rise during the pandemic but theatre has its charm. It has also tapped a talent pool and has been offering a diverse range of content but it is not an alternative to theatres in general.