Ujaan Ganguly remembers his Oxford days, opens up about his choice to come back

Actor Ujaan Ganguly earned a postgraduate degree from Oxford University in world literature, after doing a postgrad from Jadavpur University. He had a plan of further studies in Oxford. He researched the censorship process, government intervention, and the evolution of digital media in India, Britain, and South Africa. The professors advised him to opt for a PhD after doing such good work. However, he took a flight back home because of his unending love for cinema. On Monday, he took to his social media and elaborated on the reasons behind his choice.

In an interview with Anandabazar Online, Ujaan said, “I explained to them why I took a break after my higher studies. Some of them still hope that I will research under one of them.”

But Ujaan has no plan right now to go to Britain. It is a lucrative offer, he admitted. Kaushik Ganguly and Churni Ganguly have different opinions about their son's academic career.

Ujaan said, 'My father wants me to stay in the film industry, to write films and act better. But that is not limited to the Bengali film industry. But my mother reminds me that I am a scholar and will be happier in academics. I respect both opinions. I know what I am doing at this moment.”

On Ujaan’s social media post, Kaushik wrote, “This cine-bug silently once called me and your mother also. Since we are parents, we are scared to think about this profession's uncertainty in our child's life.” Churni wrote, “I firmly believe you can do it again. The call of that faraway cold and sunless country is also attractive. Don't ignore it.”

Ujaan used to recite debate, design magazine covers, and play guitars, besides studying, from his school days. Ujaan thinks all of these culminated in cinema. 'I had a passion for telling film stories from my childhood. Now I can do it. Hence I have no regrets. I could respect my wish.'

Ujaan is writing the scripts for some web shows. He is writing and directing a national-level animated show. 'I want to leave my mark in the acting world, however small it may be.'

But if he joins academics, the film works will be hampered. Will he be sad? Ujaan thought and replied 'I will try to balance. I could do it all right during my school days. Then there was a bit of pressure during my university days. I know it will not be busy. I have to consider every aspect.'