Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

National Award-winning actor Chanchal Chowdhury began his journey in theatre, befxore carving a space for himself in television and films. He recently made his comeback to the stage after a hiatus. We caught up with the actor to learn about his experiences of acting in the plays, his forthcoming ventures and more.

You recently acted in a couple of plays after a long gap from theatre. How did you feel upon returning to the stage?

I learned acting through theatre.  I acted in plays regularly when I started out, and  have fond memories of acting on stage. Eminent actor Mamunur Rashid, who spearheads Aranyak Natyadal, is my mentor. I acted in the play, Cher Cycle, on the occasion of his birthday this year. I also recently acted in a production of Rarang. It was a fantastic experience. Initially, I was nervous about taking up the plays, but I gradually regained my confidence.

Do you plan to appear in plays more frequently from now on?

I have no such plans as of yet, since I am quite busy with my television projects and films. However, I would love to work on a few plays at some point in the near future, as theatre is very close to my heart.

Commemorating 'Mujib Barsho', a number of artistes read out letters by Bangabandhu in a special video. You read out one of the letters. How was the experience?

I had the honour of reading out a letter Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman wrote to Tajuddin Ahmed in 1966. It was one of the best moments of my life.  I believe the Mujib Barsho celebrations will play a pivotal role in educating the younger generations about the history of Bangladesh and about Bangabandhu, who was a national hero.

What can you tell us about your upcoming films?

Gias Uddin Selim's Paap Punno and Mejbaur Rahman Sumon's Hawa are two of my upcoming films. I have teamed up with Gias Uddin Selim for Monpura before and I admire him immensely. On the other hand, Hawa is based on the life of boatmen and their struggles at the sea. It is an exciting film and Mejbaur Rahman Sumon is a brilliant director.