Catching up with Dipa Khondokar

Photo: Tuhin Hossain

Dipa Khondokar, with 13 years of experience behind her, grabbed public attention with her appearance in a commercial even before her debut in the TV play “Kaktarua”. A product of a golden age of media newcomers, Dipa Khondokar has refined her resume with acting performances opposite many big stars on the scene.
The drama serial “Roopkotha”, featuring Dipa, is now being aired by ntv. The actress talked to The Daily Star on her recent projects, along with many other subjects.

Which dramas are you doing at the moment?
Dipa: I'm doing a daily soap called “Jononi”, which will be aired soon. Shahadat Sujon is the director. Banglavision is airing “Gulshan Avenue”; ntv is telecasting the serials “Roopkotha” and “Priyo”. I'm also working on a new mega serial called “Ma”, as well as performing in a drama titled “Chup Adalot Cholchhe”.
Are you also working on the remake of “Gronthikgon Kohey”?
Dipa: Yes. I forgot about that one. “Gronthikgon Kohey” was a drama made during the golden years of BTV. Badrul Anam Soud is remaking the serial now. I will be playing the role of Belowari.
Who played Belowari in the original BTV version?
Dipa: Saberi Alam. Belowari is a character who used to be a jatra actress, before a fan falls in love with her and marries her. However, after the marriage, the husband starts having doubts about his decision.
After 13 years on the acting scene, what are your priorities on the professional front?
Dipa: I'm emphasising on work that challenges me and tests my acting skills. I'm tired of playing the roles of university girls in relationships. I'm choosing only those roles that would allow me to use my experience as an actress.
You are doing both daily soaps and serials. Is there any conflict between the two?
Dipa: No, not really. Because I get plenty of time to think about my characters. I don't shoot throughout the month; instead I work for 15 days on an average. On my free days, I give time to my child, focus on the characters I have to play and memorise the dialogues. I stay absorbed in my roles.
You also work with many new directors. Any comment about their works?
Dipa: The new directors are doing brilliant work. I'm mostly working with newcomers and I'm very optimistic about their potential. Fresh blood can take on new challenges, unlike many veterans who are afraid to break out of an established format or take any risk. Many veterans think that they can still continue the same techniques they used 15 or 20 years ago. But times have changed, and so have audiences' expectations.
Who are your closest friends in the media?
Dipa: Sharmin Shila, Tanvin Sweety, Mir Sabbir, Farzana Chumki, Bonnya Mirza, Shahriar Nazim Joy -- these are my long standing colleagues in the media and my close friends. Many of the new actors are also my good friends, like Moushumi Bishwas and Mou.
Many people now do plays without scripts. Have you had any such experience?
Dipa: I've done couple of works like that. But I felt that it is not for me; I cannot adjust to such dramas. I get tired and it increases my mental pressure. That's why I choose not to do script-less dramas.