Legendary Tollywood actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, widely regarded as the backbone of Bengali film industry for over four decades, has expressed deep admiration and affection for celebrated Bangladeshi actor Chanchal Chowdhury.
In a recent televised interview, Prosenjit’s heartfelt tribute to Chanchal not only highlighted their strong personal bond but also drew attention for his striking remark that had Chanchal not been younger, he would’ve touched his feet out of sheer respect.
The two actors first worked together in Moner Manush, directed by Goutam Ghose, where their friendship began and has since flourished.
Speaking via video message during Chanchal's appearance on a private television interview, Prosenjit began by greeting the audience with a traditional namaskar before launching into glowing praise.
“The person I’m about to speak of is someone very close to my heart; Chanchal Chowdhury,” Prosenjit said. “I don’t know if I’m even qualified to critique his acting, but I love him dearly. I’ve closely watched his growth as an actor.”
Recalling their first meeting on the set of Moner Manush, Prosenjit shared how impressed he was after watching Chanchal’s breakout Bangladeshi film Monpura. “Before we met, I had already watched Monpura in Kolkata and remember saying; ‘Wow! Who is this guy? He’s incredible.’”
Their professional collaboration soon turned into a meaningful friendship, with the two frequently speaking on the phone, discussing acting and life.
“From that connection, a deep mutual affection and respect has developed between us,” Prosenjit said.
Highlighting his admiration for Chanchal’s versatility, Prosenjit revealed that he had gone to Nandan, a renowned Kolkata film centre, to watch Hawa and Debi with the audience.
“I’ve seen most of his plays too,” he added. “Recently, he did a project in Bengali that left me stunned. If he weren’t younger than me, I would’ve touched his feet. His portrayal of Mrinal Sen in Padatik was extraordinary; not an easy role by any means.”
Concluding his message, Prosenjit said, “I am proud to know Chanchal Chowdhury; not just the brilliant actor, but the wonderful human being he is. To be a truly great actor, you need to be a good person at heart — and Chanchal is living proof of that.”
Prosenjit’s candid admiration comes as a rare and powerful moment of cross-border artistic solidarity, resonating with fans on both sides of the Bengal border.
SH
