Tenida and Company is a comedy-adventure film, which is a cinematic adaptation of the novel Jhaubangalow r Rohoshho by Narayan Gangopadhyay. The charming quartet of Tenida, Kyabla, Pyala and Habul embark on a scenic sojourn in the picturesque town of Darjeeling, only to find themselves caught up in a mysterious adventure that features a labyrinthine plot, unexpected twists and turns, as well as ample moments of mirth and friendship. Kanchan Mullick, Gaurav Chakrabarty, Sabyasachi Chakrabarty, Ridhima Ghosh, Mithu Chakrabarty, Soumendra Bhattacharya and Sourav Saha star in the May 19 film directed by Sayantan Ghosal. A chat with Gaurav.

Do you remember the first time you read a Tenida story?

I have no memory of my first read. It probably was Cricket Maane Jhijhi.

What was your first impression?

Tenida made me laugh. The essence of Tenida is the humour that is absurd but pure. This purity is what sets Tenida apart. I was always more of a Ghonada fan, to be honest. I liked the massive scale of the Ghonada stories. But Tenida with his Potoldanga Street, Chatujjeder Roaak, Habul, Pyala, Kyabla exudes the charm of Calcutta. The old Calcutta of my childhood and even before. There is a certain warmth about the stories.

When did Sayantan approach you for the film?

Sayantan approached me a long time ago. His plan for the film then was slightly different. We couldn’t come to an understanding. This was before Sagardwipey Jawker Dhan happened. He eventually came with the offer again. I was apprehensive because I felt my age would be an issue. He asked me to hear the script. I fell in love with what Sougata Basu had written.

How did you prepare for your character?

I had Kyabla from the books as a reference. But since the character in the film is older, I stuck to Sayantan and Sougata’s brief. I have tried to do exactly what they have asked me to.

What are the high points of Tenida and Company?

Lots! The story, the relationship between the four comrades. North Calcutta’s goli, cricket, Professor Satkari Santra and his family, the mystery, the setting. They are all high points.

What kind of questions did you have for Sayantan?

My main question was always: “How do you want me to play Kyabla?” It was very important for me to know how to approach the role. The rest fell into place automatically. I really hope the audience will align themselves with Sayantan and Sougata’s vision.

How was it like shooting with Sabyasachi and Mithu Chakrabarty and Ridhima?

It was almost a family reunion on sets. Arjun was sorely missed. It was a lot of fun working with family. I had scenes with all three of them and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it! And for everyone on social media having a mini heart attack on seeing Ridhima and me together in the film, let me assure you Kyabla does not have any romantic interest in Tenida and Company. There is no romantic angle between our characters.

A moment from the film, which releases on May 19

How was your shooting experience?

It was probably the best outdoor schedule of my life thus far. First, there was family, second, there was Sayantan and his unit who I love working with, third, any shoot with Kanchanda is bound to end up being a lot of fun. All of that put together made this the most fun shoot ever. I will be ever grateful to Sayantan Ghosal and Surinder Films. I have the fondest memories from the shoot of Tenida.

Did anything take you by surprise while shooting for the film?

There are very interesting twists to Baba and Ridhima’s characters. Unfortunately, not much can be said about it. How that turned out in the final film did take me by surprise. And also Ma’s performance is to watch out for. And last but definitely not least I must talk of Kanchanda. He has the immense responsibility of portraying Tenida. Chinmoy Roy’s performance in the same role is still fresh in the memory of a huge section of our audience. And Kanchanda has the responsibility of matching that. It’s an uphill task for sure. And Kanchanda has given it his all. If not for anything else, I hope this film becomes a blockbuster hit for Kanchan Mullick.

Tell us more about your character in the film....

I play Kyabla aka Kushal Mitra. He’s considered the smartest and bravest of the four. The group looks to Kyabla for most of the problem-solving. Tenida and Kyabla share a unique bond. And that too plays an integral part of this story.

You also play cricket in the film....

The Botokeshto Smriti Challenge Cup is where the film starts off. Potoldanga Thunder Club are the organisers. They have to win the cup to save face. Playing cricket in the bylanes of north Calcutta was so much fun. There were times when we forgot we were playing for the camera. In fact, I almost took out the camera with a straight drive. It was like going back to my childhood.

What is your takeaway from the whole experience?

My biggest takeaway from this film is the camaraderie that we shared as a film unit. Every actor and every technician remembers the shoot fondly. I hope the audience has as much fun watching the film as we did while making it.