Director Sayan Basu Chowdhury has started the shoot of his new film Arai Chaal, starring Bonny Sengupta, Darshana Banik, and Hrishie Raj. A t2 chat with Sayan.

Is it a film about chess? Why this name?

No, it’s not a film on chess but a particular move that only the horse (in chess) can move and is called arai chaal. It denotes an unexpected move to take care of your enemies, which has relevance to the plot of the film.

Why did you decide to direct this film?

I wanted to direct a thriller. Also, the plot of the film is something that attracted me a lot. What goes comes back. Karma has a way of teaching everyone lessons. No bad deed goes unpunished.

Tell us about the cast.

Bonny Sengupta plays the main protagonist Bodhisatwa. Darshana Banik plays his wife Priyanka. Hrishie Raj plays Rwitobroto along with Roshni Bhattacharya, who plays his girlfriend. Ananda Choudhuri and Sukanya Basu play significant roles.

What are their strengths as actors?

Bonny is a really underrated actor. His strength lies in his eyes, which emote a lot. Hrishie Raj is a great learner and his dedication is his plus point. Darshana Banik is a fantastic performer.

What are the high points of the film?

It’s a story on how certain things have consequences later on in a person’s life. Sometimes karma takes time but it is something that will surely hit you back.

What are you trying to say through the film?

That manipulation and power doesn’t mean people will get tricked by you throughout their life. Someday someone better is waiting to get back at you.