Subhashree Ganguly talks about her new film Babli, working with husband and filmmaker Raj Chakraborty, and balancing her professional and personal lives.

When did Raj Chakrabarty approach you for Babli?

Subhashree Ganguly: Raj has been wanting to make Babli since 2004. It was his dream project. He wanted to make a telefilm but Buddhadeb Guha told him, ‘I will definitely give you (the rights to) the story if you want to make a film. This is not for the small screen.’ Raj had asked Buddhadeb babu about who would be the right actors to play Babli and Abhirup Sen. He had mentioned me and Abir-da (Chatterjee). I was finalised after that. It has been a long journey.

What was the most challenging part of playing Babli?

Subhashree Ganguly: In the Hoichoi series Indubala Bhaater Hotel, I had to portray Indubala’s journey from age 24 to age 75. I knew I had to play an age that I hadn’t reached yet. This challenge was there in Parineeta too, where I played a teenage Mehul and then a grown-up Mehul.

We get to see women like Babli everywhere. It becomes challenging as you have to make the character relatable. In the book, Buddhadeb Guha describes Babli as a smart, intelligent girl who falls in love and has self-doubt. I worked on the emotions and nuances so that it didn’t sound too loud or feel too understated. I also worked on my diction and body language. The look and feel is quite unique and I will give full credit for this to Raj.

I read Buddhadeb Guha’s Babli for the first time in my maternal uncle’s house; I was in Class XII then. I read it again in 2020. And when the film was finalised, I read it many times more. Raj has just changed the way the story is told, as literature and cinema are different mediums, but each and every dialogue has been taken from the story.

You worked with Abir Chatterjee for the first time…

Subhashree Ganguly: I have wanted to work with Abir-da for a long time. I was supposed to do the film Switzerland opposite him but couldn’t due to date issues. But I am happy that we got together for this romantic film. Abir-da is a genuine person and you can talk to him about anything. He is a very intelligent actor and technically strong, which is something I want to pick up from him.

You were directed by Raj Chakrabarty for the first time in the film Challenge (2009). How has he evolved as a director over the years?

Subhashree Ganguly: Post-Challenge, we did Abhimaan. In this profession, you will have to upgrade yourself every time, else you will hang like a software does. Raj also believes that and works on himself. He is very passionate about his craft, which is increasing day by day, and that is something to learn from him.

How has life been after the birth of your daughter Yaalini?

Subhashree Ganguly: It is exciting. It has been a roller coaster ride. I love doing both (being a mother and an actor) and am doing both with a lot of love. With God’s blessings and our family’s support, things have been easy. I will keep doing it till the time my audience loves me.

I started shooting for Babli within a month of my daughter’s birth. I am born confident (laughs). This is a character that any actor would grab with both hands.

I have a hunger for good roles. I had to go through physical and mental challenges while shooting Babli but none of it played on my mind when I was working. This film will definitely add value to my filmography.

How has motherhood changed you?

Subhashree Ganguly: Women are usually more mature than men. After becoming a mother, I became wiser and a more positive person. With time and age, I have also evolved as an actor. I can now understand a character’s psychology much better. This helps me to highlight the character’s nuances and feelings more effectively.

I feel whatever we want to do in life, if we do it with all our heart, it doesn’t really feel like work. It becomes very smooth. We plan our work in a way that leaves us with enough time for our kids.

⁠Which of your screen roles is your favourite?

Subhashree Ganguly: Mehul from Parineeta will always be close to my heart.

What is next for you?

Subhashree Ganguly: There are many scripts but I’m yet to read them. I have finalised one project as of now.