Acclaimed actor Chanchal Chowdhury has expressed regret over not being able to collaborate with Indian actor-producer Dev, citing unavoidable scheduling conflicts that prevented two proposed projects from materialising. In a recent video interview with leading West Bengal daily Anandabazar Patrika, the actor spoke candidly about the missed opportunities while reaffirming the cordial nature of their personal relationship.
Chowdhury, who has built a distinguished career across stage, television, and cinema, is widely regarded for his versatility and psychological depth in performance. Over the years, he has worked in both Bangladesh and India, contributing to a growing body of cross-border productions that bring together talent from Dhaka and Kolkata. His ability to navigate distinct production cultures while maintaining artistic integrity has earned him praise from critics and audiences alike.
Most recently, he completed filming for Shekhor, directed by noted theatre personality and filmmaker Bratya Basu. The film is significant for its collaborative framework, involving artists and technicians from both sides of the border. Chowdhury described the project as creatively fulfilling and emblematic of the shared cultural heritage of the Bengali-speaking world.
Looking ahead, several projects are in various stages of development. Bonolota Express, directed by Tanim Noor, is slated for release during the upcoming Eid festival. He is also currently filming Shasti, helmed by Leesa Gazi. Additionally, discussions are underway regarding a new collaboration with filmmaker Suman Mukhopadhyay.
During the interview, Chowdhury reflected on his prior collaborations with celebrated directors such as Goutam Ghose and Srijit Mukherji. He emphasised that each filmmaker possesses a distinct aesthetic grammar and working methodology, and that creative partnerships thrive on mutual respect rather than comparison.
The most notable revelation, however, concerned two unrealised projects with Dev. According to Chowdhury, he had received offers on two occasions. One related to an earlier production that ultimately did not proceed. The second was a proposed film titled Khadaan. Owing to prior professional commitments, he was unable to accommodate either project. He acknowledged that Dev may have felt disappointed but clarified that there has been no strain in their personal rapport. The two have met at international film festivals and industry events, where they discussed the possibility of future collaboration.
A summary of Chowdhury’s recent and prospective projects is provided below:
| Film Title | Director | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Shekhor | Bratya Basu | Filming completed |
| Bonolota Express | Tanim Noor | Awaiting Eid release |
| Shasti | Leesa Gazi | In production |
| New Project | Suman Mukhopadhyay | Under discussion |
| Khadaan | Dev | Did not proceed (scheduling) |
Through his sustained engagement in both Bangladeshi and Indian cinema, Chowdhury continues to function as a cultural bridge between the two regions. He maintains that art transcends geographical boundaries and that collaborative ventures reinforce shared heritage. A future project with Dev, he suggested, would represent not merely a professional milestone but also a symbolic affirmation of cross-border creative solidarity.