Anirban Bhattacharya speaks to t2 on his association with Manikbabur Megh.
What made you get involved with this film?
I got involved after speaking to Bauddhayanda (Mukherji). It is not as if I have seen a lot of Abhinandan (Banerjee)’s work. But I have worked with Bauddhayanda in a short film titled 251 that was screened at several film festivals, including KIFF. Abhinandan had made the poster for the film. An artist leaves an impression of the depth of his art in every aspect of his work. I also heard of Chandanda getting a prize for the film. He is my teacher in acting. So I took a lot of pride in the news. I was in touch with Bauddhayanda last year as 251 was touring the festivals. When he gave me the proposal, I agreed even before seeing the film. I have since done so and honestly, this film is much bigger than the fact that Anirban Bhattacharya is presenting it. Rather ete amar somman barbe. If even 10-20 more people go to watch the film because of my involvement, I would be delighted.
What’s your view of the film?
I believe this film deserves to be seen. But now films are compartmentalised, and tags are put on each. We have to live with this practice. Manikbabur Megh tells the tale of a mind, of multi-layered living. The fact that my name got connected to such a film is an honour for me, though I don’t know if I am worthy of the honour.
Does it help the song that the director and screenplay writer is the lyricist?
Yes, there is a deep connection but many lyricists can also achieve that. When I am shooting the song, it feels as if it is an extension of the film itself. What it is creating is the mood for the film’s making. It will work as a preface to the film.
How much does it help lip-syncing a song you have sung yourself?
Very much. When it is a different singer who did the playback, I have to understand his breathing pattern. But here I know how I pronounce or how I breathe in and out in the song, that memory is fresh.
Some actors just utter the words on camera but some sing. What do you do?
Even here I am singing along. I have not had too many songs picturised on me, maybe in two or three films.
Whose work do you like in this regard?
Several actors do a good job. I think the best in Bengali and Hindi films combined in this regard is Uttam Kumar. Unless you are singing along, you cannot get the harkat right. I have heard from contemporaries that Uttam babu used to sing (hums Dole dodul dole, a light classical number from Deya Neya). Unless someone sings this, it is impossible to match the neck movement, face and expression or the movement of the Adam’s apple that you refer to.
Your film Athoi is in theatres now.
Yes. We are getting a lot of response. It is our aim to make a film a talking point, be it to praise it or discuss its faults. We are happy that this conversation is happening.
What comes from you next?
I am working in a web series, for which shooting will soon resume. Some other projects are also lined up this year. And seeing Manikbabur Megh, I am so excited that I want to direct a film again, maybe next year.
