Actor Shantanu Maheshwari, known for his versatile performances, is closing the year on a high note by making his Bengali film debut with Chaalchitro. For the Kolkata-born actor, this project is more than just another milestone; it’s a heartfelt return to his roots.
A Special Connection with Bengali Cinema
Reflecting on his journey to Chaalchitro, Shantanu shared the deep connection he feels with this project. “I’m nervous because the Kolkata audience has a very distinct taste in cinema, and I’m unsure how they will judge my performance. But this is a proud moment for me—I’m doing something for the audience of the place I come from,” he said. After years of searching for the right opportunity, Shantanu expressed his happiness in finally finding a path into Bengali cinema.
A Stellar Year of Projects
Shantanu’s debut in regional cinema comes on the heels of an incredible year. He began 2023 with a theatrical release in Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, followed by the OTT success of Campus Beats. The actor also started shooting for the international project Love in Vietnam, which earned him a Cannes appearance.
While Campus Beats garnered an unexpectedly overwhelming response, Shantanu admitted to being pleasantly surprised. “I knew the show had potential, but the scale of the response was beyond my expectations. In a time when content is abundant and viewers often skip shows midway, the fact that audiences watched Campus Beats multiple times is a testament to its impact,” he remarked.
Lessons from Success and Setbacks
Despite his many highs, Shantanu also faced a low with the underwhelming response to Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha. However, he remains optimistic. “On the performance aspect, people loved my work, and my director was happy. That’s enough for me. Whether the film works or not is beyond our control. It’s a lesson that success is fleeting, and we must cherish it while it lasts,” he reflected.
Looking Ahead
As Shantanu wraps up a year filled with diverse projects and creative growth, his foray into Bengali cinema with Chaalchitro adds another feather to his cap. Fans eagerly await his performance, and the actor is hopeful about continuing to break new ground in his career.
Sources By Agencies
