Despite getting acclaim from critics and audiences for his performances on both big and small screens, Chandan Roy Sanyal’s first love has always been theatre. He now enjoys the chance to go back to his favourite medium through teleplays like Zee Theatre’s crime thriller Shadyantra (2022).

“Teleplays are truly redefining the grammar of popular entertainment and winning over even those who may never have explored theatre as an entertainment option before,” said Chandan at a recent interview.

Recalling how teleplays had given playwrights and actors a platform to showcase their talents during the pandemic, Chandan praised the medium for its diverse storytelling techniques and formats. “Teleplays are not always linear or predictable as they also engage with unusual themes. They can play a catalytic part in popularising live theatre while broadening its reach and popularity among both committed and nascent theatre enthusiasts.”Chandan, who first fell in love with theatre during a workshop with Habib Tanvir, learned about the streaming of online plays when he was a part of theatre director Tim Supple’s troupe in London. “I learned that the Royal National Theatre, a very prominent performing arts venue, streamed its plays online. I am thrilled that Zee Theatre and ZEE5 have also made it possible now for Indian plays to reach viewers in different parts of the world.”

“In any country, theatre in all its diversity has a wide cultural significance, and Zee Theatre is playing a hugely important archival role in preserving classic and contemporary stores not just for viewers at home but for a global audience,” he added.