Exclusive! Riddhi Sen: OTT has 'made the industry a lot more democratic than before'

After working in theatres and films, National Award-winning actor Riddhi Sen debuted on OTT with Hoichoi’s Sundarbaner Vidyasagar in March this year. While talking exclusively to OTTPlay, the actor shared his experience of working in the digital space.

“OTT has a wider reach. Hence, our friends and audience abroad get to watch my work immediately. They had to wait for a while for the films that were released in theatres. I remember my friends outside Kolkata were very happy when Nagarkirtan was released on Hoichoi,” Riddhi said.

Talking about the challenges, he said, “So far, I was used to acting for the big screen. Over the years, I learned how much to emote so that it suits the big screen. In the case of OTT content, a show can be watched on a big TV screen, laptop, or even on your mobile phone. I was constantly conscious of that while shooting. I think all the technicians are also conscious of that. We are all getting a hang of it.”

However, Riddhi emphasised how OTT helped filmmakers, and young artists to explore their art forms. “There was a time when releasing a film used to depend on several factors. A film backed by a strong lobby would get preferences. An established actor would get priority over a newcomer. OTT has changed that game. A lot more young artists, filmmakers, technicians, and musicians are getting a chance to flourish in the industry. In a way, OTT has made the industry a lot more democratic than before,” he said.

Riddhi will soon be portraying Hamlet for Swapnasandhani’s new play, which is directed by his father actor Kaushik Sen. “Theatre is my first love. I grew up working on stage. Also, Hamlet is a dream character for an actor. I am prepping up for the play,” said the actor.