Photo: Ridwan Adid Rupon

JAYANTA CHATTOPADHYAY
The Multi-Faceted Icon

To poetry lovers, he is one of the best poetry reciters in the country. To devoted filmgoers, he is an incomparable doyen of the Bangladeshi film industry. Be it his impeccable portrayal of a strict, ultra-religious patriarch in Matir Moyna or his clear, articulate recitation of Rudrashankar's Utshob, Jayanta Chattopadhyay excels in every role that he undertakes. The Star speaks to this gifted artist about the most interesting role he's had to portray, his formula for success and much more.

If you had not been in this century when and where would you have liked to live?
If I had the option, I'd have liked to live in this century France, as it is the central hub of art and culture.

Your Favourite Poem
Jibananda Das' Bonolota Sen and Nogno Nirjon Haate

Acting or Poetry Recitation – Your First Love
I don't see acting and recitation as two different entities. I believe that these two creative forms complement each other.

Two Actors You'd Have Liked to Work With
Smita Patel and Naseeruddin Shah

The Most Interesting Role of Your Life
The overly devout patriarch, Kazi Shaheb, in Matir Moyna is probably the most interesting role that I had to portray.

Magic Formula for Success
You should have immense love for your profession, your work. If you aren't devoted and committed to your work, you'll never be able to succeed.