একজন অভিনেতার আসল USP কি শুধুই তার 'রোগা চেহারা' ' | Kanchan Mullick | SC PODCAST| EP #142

Handling Grief and Personal Loss

Coping with Death

• The speaker reflects on the difficulty of sharing personal grief, particularly regarding the death of a sibling.

• Questions arise about how to handle such profound loss at a young age, indicating a struggle with emotional expression.

The Journey in Theatre

• The speaker contemplates what life would have been like without pursuing theatre, hinting at its significance in their identity.

• A mention of Shibu (Shivprasad Mukherjee), who proposed an ambitious project involving gambling, showcasing the unpredictable nature of creative endeavors.

Introduction to Soul Connection Podcast

Gratitude for Support

• Arunab Hasnobish welcomes listeners and expresses gratitude for their support throughout the podcast journey.

• He emphasizes the importance of audience validation for meaningful conversations in Kolkata and Bengal.

Guest Introduction: Kanchan Mallik

• Kanchan Mallik is introduced as a significant figure from the speaker's early career in acting since 2008.

• The focus is on understanding Kanchan beyond controversies, aiming to explore his personality rather than engage in debates.

Conversation with Kanchan Mallik

Early Connections

• The discussion highlights a long-standing connection between Arunab and Kanchan dating back to 2009, emphasizing shared experiences in football.

Nostalgic Memories

• They reminisce about their first collaboration during a historical football shoot, illustrating their bond through shared memories.

Reflections on Childhood

Growing Up Experiences

• Kanchan shares anecdotes from his childhood, including challenges faced while playing sports barefoot due to poor field conditions.

Cultural Diversity

• He describes his upbringing in a culturally diverse neighborhood filled with various communities contributing to his formative years.

Community Life and Sports

Local Sports Culture

• Discussion shifts towards local sports culture where cricket was popular among older community members while he pursued hockey despite feeling out of place.

Reflections on Childhood and Early Influences

Early Life and Interests

• The speaker reminisces about their childhood, highlighting a strong connection to sports, particularly hockey and cricket, which were played in the neighborhood.

• They mention their schooling at Metro Institution in Bhawanipur, surrounded by friends from the same locality, emphasizing the importance of community during their formative years.

• The speaker reflects on their mischievous nature as a child, indicating that they often faced consequences for their playful behavior.

Artistic Aspirations

• An anecdote is shared about learning to draw; the speaker humorously compares themselves to famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Salvador Dalí while describing an imaginative drawing process.

• They express admiration for polished shoes worn by Amitabh Bachchan, linking this desire to personal aspirations and influences from popular culture.

Family Influence and Cultural Exposure

• The speaker recalls interactions with notable figures such as actor Rabi Ghosh and singer Hemanta Mukhopadhyay through family connections, showcasing early exposure to cultural icons.

• They discuss attending cultural events organized by family friends, where literature and cinema were prominent topics of discussion.

Academic Struggles

• The speaker candidly shares experiences of academic challenges, revealing feelings of inadequacy compared to peers who excelled academically.

• A humorous exchange is recounted regarding classmates' perceptions during math exams; the speaker felt pressure due to not conforming to typical student behaviors.

Personal Growth Through History

• Interest in subjects like history and geography is highlighted; the speaker finds joy in understanding diverse cultures and landscapes across India.

• They reflect on how historical narratives captivated them more than traditional academic expectations set by parents who envisioned careers in engineering or medicine.

Family Health Crisis

• A significant moment arises when discussing a family health crisis involving the father’s loss of vision due to a cerebro-retinal attack. This event marks a turning point in the family's dynamics.

Lasting Memories

• The narrative concludes with poignant memories tied to familial bonds during challenging times, illustrating how these experiences shaped resilience amidst adversity.

Family Struggles and Personal Growth

Impact of Family Tragedy

• The speaker discusses the significant impact of their father's health issues, which led to a major breakdown in the family dynamics.

• After the breakdown, the speaker became the sole earning member of the family, taking on various jobs including tutoring children to support them financially.

• The speaker reflects on their college experience, noting that they attended night classes while working during the day, missing out on typical youthful experiences.

Coping with Loss

• The death of the speaker's sister due to heart complications in 1990 was a major setback for the family, leading to feelings of darkness and despair.

• The father’s mental health deteriorated following this loss, resulting in schizophrenia and requiring medical attention over several years.

Resilience Through Adversity

• Over time, with treatment and support, the father began to recover from his mental health struggles after about four or five years.

• The speaker emphasizes feeling isolated during these tough times as they could not share their burdens with others.

Finding Solace in Theater

• Despite hardships, theater became an escape for the speaker. They liken it to a transformative experience that provided joy amidst life's challenges.

• A friend introduced them to theater activities which helped them engage socially and creatively during difficult periods.

Building Community through Art

• Involvement in theater allowed for personal expression and connection with others who shared similar interests despite initial casual interactions.

• The speaker worked at a beauty parlor while pursuing theater; this job provided financial stability but also served as a source of stress relief through creative outlets.

Reflection on Life's Journey

• Theater is described as essential for emotional well-being; it offered an "oxygen" that helped manage daily life stresses.

• The narrative concludes by acknowledging how past experiences shaped resilience but also left lingering pain that remains unaddressed.

Exploring the Depths of Depression and Theatre

The Struggles with Depression

• The speaker expresses feelings of deep depression, contemplating what life would be like without engaging in theatre.

• They reflect on their family responsibilities, highlighting the helplessness of their parents and grandparents, which adds to their emotional burden.

• The speaker emphasizes that they are not a person who seeks comfort through technology; instead, they feel compelled to maintain fitness for the sake of others.

Family Dynamics and Societal Expectations

• There is a sense of frustration as the speaker feels misunderstood by friends who do not grasp the significance of their struggles or contributions.

• They articulate a need for support but feel isolated in their fight against depression, indicating that no one offers practical help despite giving advice.

The Journey into Theatre

• The speaker discusses how they began mimicking others from a young age, showcasing an innate talent for performance that was nurtured over time.

• They describe acting as an intricate art form requiring detailed observation and understanding of gestures and expressions.

Learning and Growth in Performance

• The importance of education is highlighted; however, there’s uncertainty about what to study or how it applies to their theatrical journey.

• A mentor figure emerges in the narrative, emphasizing the value of guidance while also presenting challenges related to personal growth.

Defining Moments in Theatre Experience

• The speaker recounts learning about various theatre groups and influential figures within the industry, expanding their understanding beyond local contexts.

• They mention reading extensively about theatre arts as part of their preparation for performances, indicating a commitment to mastering their craft.

Passion for Theatre Production

• A vivid description is given regarding physicality in acting—how characters can embody different personas through intense emotional expression.

• The excitement surrounding theatre production is conveyed through discussions about props and set design, illustrating a hands-on approach to creating art.

The Importance of Theater and Learning in Art

Understanding the Essence of Theater

• The speaker emphasizes that true theater requires a deep care for the craft, starting from set design to performance. They express that their understanding of theater differs significantly from others.

• Acknowledging Iranian directors, the speaker reflects on their limited knowledge but recognizes the importance of learning through observation and interaction with experienced individuals.

• The speaker shares insights gained from workshops, highlighting the distinction between static and variable props in theatrical productions.

Personal Experiences in Theater

• Discussing a documentary project on Kumar Roy, the speaker recounts personal experiences that shaped their understanding of art and life lessons learned from mentors like Amar Ganguly.

• The conversation shifts to interactions with Tapan Sinha, where they reflect on long discussions that enriched their perspective on acting and directing.

The Role of Questions in Learning

• The speaker stresses the significance of asking questions in learning environments, noting how many people hesitate to inquire due to fear or uncertainty.

• They highlight that those who have achieved excellence often desire engagement through questioning, indicating a continuous quest for knowledge.

Engaging with Experts

• The discussion reveals how effective questioning can lead to deeper understanding; however, it also points out challenges when formulating precise inquiries.

• An example is provided about surrendering oneself before knowledgeable figures to gain insights and learn effectively.

Reflecting on Personal Growth

• The speaker narrates an experience meeting Kumar Babu (Kumar Roy), illustrating initial hesitations but ultimately leading to significant learning moments during their collaboration.

• They describe how past experiences influenced their artistic journey while working alongside notable figures in theater, emphasizing growth through collaboration.

Discussion on Personal Experiences and Acting

Emotional Reflections on Performance

• The speaker reflects on the emotional weight of their performances, comparing their experiences to bringing flowers instead of blood, indicating a desire to convey beauty rather than pain.

• They discuss the isolation felt by individuals in personal and societal struggles, emphasizing that those facing dire situations often do not show vulnerability or tears.

• The speaker expresses that all they can offer is their tears, highlighting a sense of limitation in what they can provide emotionally.

Insights into Acting and Character Development

• The speaker shares personal insights gained from acting experiences, suggesting that these lessons are deeply personal and transformative.

• They mention being typecast early in their career but later receiving diverse roles, indicating growth and recognition of their acting abilities over time.

Acknowledgment of Influential Works

• The speaker lists various plays they've seen featuring talented actors like Kanta Mallik, acknowledging the impact these performances had on them.

• They reflect on how perceptions of an actor's physical appearance can influence casting decisions in the industry.

Challenges Faced in the Industry

• The speaker discusses challenges related to typecasting and expectations based on physical appearance, revealing frustrations with industry standards.

• They recount an experience involving a commercial audition where they were expected to perform without proper attire, illustrating the absurdity sometimes faced by character actors.

Commercial vs. Artistic Value

• There’s a contrast drawn between how leading actors are compensated versus character artists; this highlights disparities within the industry regarding value assigned to different types of performers.

• The speaker mentions working with well-known directors while also noting that commercial success does not always equate to artistic merit or recognition.

Character Development and Regrets in Acting

The Impact of Popularity on Character Choices

• The speaker reflects on how certain characters have significantly contributed to their popularity, emphasizing the importance of unique roles in an actor's career.

• They mention a specific character from "Shikar," created ahead of its time, highlighting the uniqueness and depth required for impactful performances.

Challenges in Casting and Character Interpretation

• The discussion shifts to casting challenges, particularly regarding Kanchan Mallik's ability to embody complex characters, showcasing the director's role in this process.

• The speaker emphasizes the necessity of fully committing to a character, likening the actor's role to that of a ship captain who must navigate through various creative waters.

Emotional Depth and Human Connection

• Acknowledging the emotional weight behind characters, they stress that portraying human experiences authentically is crucial for resonating with audiences.

• They discuss how actors can connect deeply with their roles by drawing from personal experiences or emotions, enhancing authenticity in performance.

Reflections on Regret and Life Lessons

• The conversation transitions into regrets experienced throughout life. The speaker suggests that everyone has regrets but emphasizes the importance of moving forward rather than dwelling on them.

• They share personal anecdotes about past struggles and emphasize that acknowledging mistakes is part of being human; it's essential for growth.

Finding Peace with Past Mistakes

• Discussing regret further, they propose that individuals should reach a peace agreement with their past errors instead of carrying burdens indefinitely.

• Ultimately, they advocate for self-forgiveness as a means to live more freely without being hindered by past decisions.

Discussion on Personal Life and Career

Clarity in Personal Relationships

• The speaker emphasizes their clarity regarding personal relationships, mentioning three marriages and two children. They express frustration with societal norms around parenting.

Contesting Divorce and Parental Rights

• The speaker discusses the complexities of a contested divorce, highlighting that they initially contested for their child's visitation rights. They reflect on the emotional toll of such legal battles.

Artistic Journey and Achievements

• The speaker shares their artistic journey, noting significant achievements like working on films by renowned directors such as Satyajit Ray. They express pride in their contributions to various art forms.

Longevity in Theatre

• With 30 years of experience in theatre, the speaker reflects on their dedication to the craft, stating that without it, they would feel lost. They mention directing plays and collaborating with other artists.

Changes in Friendships Over Time

• The speaker observes how friendships evolve over time due to life changes. They note that some friends have distanced themselves while others remain supportive despite controversies surrounding them.

Navigating Controversy and Support

Judgment from Peers

• The speaker describes experiencing judgment from friends after becoming non-alcoholic and non-smoker. Some friends avoided contact or expressed discomfort during interactions.

Understanding True Friendship

• Despite facing criticism, the speaker values those who confront them about mistakes directly rather than resorting to social media backlash. This highlights a distinction between genuine concern and superficial friendship.

Resilience Amidst Challenges

• Reflecting on a period of isolation during controversy, the speaker acknowledges unexpected support from individuals they didn't anticipate standing by them during tough times.

Misunderstandings in Public Perception

• The speaker addresses misconceptions about their actions during controversies, emphasizing that they have not engaged in any illegal or immoral behavior but have faced unwarranted scrutiny nonetheless.

This structured summary captures key discussions from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference back to specific moments within the conversation.

Reflections on Personal Life and Career Journey

Personal Life and Relationships

• The speaker discusses their current life situation, mentioning having a daughter, a wife, and a stable household. They express contentment with their life despite feeling that someone is avoiding communication.

• The speaker reflects on how they have not treated anyone poorly, even when faced with criticism from friends about their behavior.

Early Career Experiences

• The speaker recounts starting their career in 1996 and highlights the significant changes that occurred by 1999, including financial improvements.

• They mention working alongside a colleague named Lamma during their first debut in television series, emphasizing the collaborative nature of early projects.

Transition to Television

• A pivotal moment occurs when Shibu, a programming head at the channel, approaches the speaker regarding their work ethic and salary expectations.

• The speaker humorously recalls discussions about earning money quickly through various jobs while reflecting on past financial struggles.

Challenges Faced

• The speaker describes feelings of pressure related to job security and family responsibilities, indicating an internal conflict about leaving a stable job for uncertain opportunities in acting.

• They share conversations with family members about pursuing happiness over financial stability, revealing personal dilemmas regarding career choices.

Breakthrough Moments

• A turning point arises as the speaker decides to leave their job for acting opportunities after contemplating familial pressures and personal aspirations.

• They reflect on connections made within the industry, including interactions with notable figures like Uttam Kumar which shaped their perspective on success.

First Steps into Acting

• After resigning from their previous job, the speaker prepares for promotional shoots and auditions while navigating initial challenges in front of cameras.

• They describe early experiences shooting episodes for "Janata Express," highlighting both excitement and nervousness associated with being in front of an audience.

Evolution as an Actor

• The desire to become an actor rather than emulate others like Uttam Kumar becomes clear as they assert individuality in artistic pursuits.

• Reflecting on early performances leads to recognition of growth; they acknowledge how initial episodes laid groundwork for future success in non-fiction entertainment.

Reflections on Career and Personal Experiences

Struggles with Identity and Career Choices

• The speaker expresses feelings of instability, likening their situation to having no ground beneath their feet while contemplating drastic actions.

• They reflect on the early days of their career, recalling how popular shows like "Janata Express" were a significant part of their childhood and community life.

Nostalgia for Past Productions

• A vivid example is given about the impact of "Mahabharat," illustrating how such shows brought entire neighborhoods together in shared experiences.

• The speaker reminisces about the excitement surrounding filming episodes, emphasizing the energy and camaraderie among crew members during production.

Behind-the-Scenes Challenges

• Details are shared about logistical challenges faced during shoots, including managing time effectively to film multiple episodes in one day.

• The absence of equipment like tripods forced creative solutions, highlighting the resourcefulness required in production environments.

Audience Engagement and Safety Concerns

• An incident is recounted where crowd control became an issue during filming, showcasing the unpredictability of live productions.

• The speaker emphasizes their commitment to staying on set despite safety concerns, demonstrating dedication to their craft.

Regrets and Family Dynamics

• A poignant regret is revealed regarding family not witnessing their work on television, indicating a personal connection between professional success and familial acknowledgment.

• The narrative shifts to reflections on past projects involving children, revealing a sense of nostalgia for growth and change over time.

Authenticity in Performance

• Discussion arises around authenticity in performance; the speaker notes that true engagement comes from being genuine rather than performing a facade.

• They highlight that recognition does not define worth; instead, personal satisfaction from work holds greater significance than awards or accolades.

Popularity vs. Personal Satisfaction

• The conversation touches upon how popularity can be fleeting; what matters more is creating meaningful content that resonates with audiences.

• Insights into how energetic performances elevate game shows are shared, stressing the importance of maintaining high energy levels for audience engagement.

Connection with Audiences

• There’s an exploration of how performers often seek validation from audiences while balancing authenticity with entertainment value.

• Finally, it’s noted that people desire genuine connections; thus actors must navigate between public persona and private identity.

Insights on Personal Experiences and Challenges

Navigating Complex Situations

• The speaker reflects on personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive demeanor despite challenges. They advise against wearing half pants in certain situations, suggesting alternatives like lungis or pajamas for comfort.

• The discussion highlights how one's behavior defines their identity. A sweet demeanor can lead to better outcomes in various scenarios, showcasing the power of interpersonal interactions.

Behind-the-Scenes of Filming

• The speaker shares anecdotes from filming episodes during hot weather, mentioning the need for makeup vans and the discomfort faced while shooting outdoors.

• They recount specific scenes from a project titled "Devdas," illustrating the physical demands of acting under challenging conditions.

Audience Engagement and Reactions

• The speaker discusses their connection with audiences, recalling moments when they had to deliver lines that resonated deeply with viewers. They emphasize the significance of being memorable in performances.

• An anecdote about an unexpected response from an audience member illustrates how unpredictable reactions can be during live events or shows.

Cultural References and Humor

• The conversation touches upon cultural practices such as Diwali celebrations involving firecrackers, leading to humorous exchanges about noise levels and public safety concerns.

• A light-hearted moment arises when discussing a competition involving eating traditional sweets quickly, highlighting both humor and cultural elements within entertainment.

Reflections on Enjoyment in Performance

• The speaker emphasizes that true enjoyment is essential for effective performance; if they do not find joy in what they do, it becomes difficult to engage others positively.

• They reflect on past experiences where enjoyment was key to connecting with audiences, reinforcing that authenticity is crucial for any performer.

Conclusion: Authenticity in Acting

• The discussion culminates in a reflection on how actors must continuously seek authenticity within their roles. If they fail to connect personally with their characters, it affects their ability to resonate with viewers.

• Ultimately, the speaker believes that genuine enjoyment leads to successful performances and meaningful connections with audiences.

What is the Truth of an Actor?

The Essence of Acting

• The speaker reflects on the truth of acting, recalling a previous conversation about the importance of being present in the moment while performing.

• Many artists prioritize staying in the moment over focusing on their process, indicating a preference for emotional authenticity during performances.

Approaches to Acting

• The speaker expresses skepticism towards method acting, suggesting that it can hinder performance when faced with challenging scenes like violence or intense emotions.

• They emphasize the need for a good script reader who can effectively convey the story and character, which aids in understanding one's role.

Character Development

• Upon receiving a script, the initial reading creates a connection with both the story and character, allowing for mental sketches of how to portray them.

• This process involves parallel thinking about both personal character development and overall narrative progression.

Practical Experience vs. Theory

• The speaker argues that practical experience in acting should take precedence over theoretical knowledge from books; real-life application is crucial.

• They highlight that improvisation is an inherent part of life and acting, where actors often create dialogue spontaneously without premeditation.

Learning Through Experience

• The discussion touches on how learning grammar as children becomes instinctual over time; similarly, actors should internalize their craft to perform naturally.

• Emphasizing reflexes in performance, they compare this to sports where practice leads to automatic responses during critical moments.

Artistic Flow and Collaboration

• Actors often prefer to go with the flow rather than rigidly adhering to their processes; they trust their instincts and collaborative efforts with writers and directors.

• Acknowledging collective artistry, they stress that successful performances arise from harmonious collaboration among all creative contributors involved.

Self-Awareness as an Artist

• Artists must remain self-aware amidst external validation; true understanding comes from within rather than public perception or acclaim.

• Reflecting on personal pride as an artist, they note that genuine satisfaction stems from knowing one’s work has been done well despite outside opinions.

Conclusion: The Nature of Pride in Artistry

• There exists a unique pride among artists when they feel they've successfully executed their vision; this sense of accomplishment is intrinsic rather than externally validated.

Reflections on Acting and Performance

The Nature of Performance

• The speaker reflects on a recent performance, suggesting that while others may praise it, they feel a critical moment was missed by just half an inch.

• They discuss the physical demands of acting, noting that actors often consume large amounts of food to maintain energy for short scenes.

Memorable Moments in Acting

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of standout moments in films that audiences remember, highlighting how certain performances resonate more than others.

• They illustrate how one actor can capture attention in a crowded theater through their unique portrayal, connecting with the audience on a personal level.

Character Connection and Preparation

• The speaker shares their struggle with memorization in theater compared to film, indicating that visualizing characters helps them connect better during performances.

• They argue that true connection with a character comes from understanding them deeply rather than overthinking their portrayal.

Individual Approaches to Acting

• The discussion shifts to the diversity of acting methods among performers, emphasizing that each actor's life experiences shape their approach to roles.

• As they reflect on past performances, they note how experience enhances an actor's ability to portray complex characters authentically.

Observational Learning in Acting

• The speaker discusses the importance of observing real-life behaviors and interactions as part of an actor's training process.

• They humorously describe actors as "good thieves," stealing expressions and mannerisms from everyday life to enrich their performances.

Emotional Authenticity and Technique

• The conversation touches upon how actors must tap into genuine emotions while performing intimate scenes or actions.

• They highlight the significance of subtlety in performance—how small gestures can convey deep meaning without overt dramatization.

Legacy and Influence

• Reflecting on influential figures in acting, the speaker expresses admiration for established artists who have shaped their understanding of performance.

• They conclude by acknowledging the complexity involved in crafting memorable performances while recognizing public perceptions about returning guests like Kanchan Mallik.

Conversation with Actor Kanchan Mallik

Introduction to Kanchan Mallik

• The speaker expresses interest in talking to actor Kanchan Mallik, highlighting the multiple personalities that reside within each individual, with acting being his primary persona.

• The intention behind the conversation is to introduce Kanchan Mallik to the audience, emphasizing a personal connection and shared experiences over time.

Personal Reflections on Self-Validation

• The speaker reflects on self-validation and how personal enjoyment translates into broader acceptance among others, indicating a deep understanding of self-worth.

Highlights from Kanchan's Career

• Kanchan shares various roles he has played throughout his career, mentioning characters like Mahadev and Benur, while humorously noting some roles he did not get to portray.

Conclusion of the Episode

• The episode concludes with gratitude expressed by both parties for the engaging conversation. The speaker emphasizes the importance of spreading knowledge and positivity as essential elements of empowerment.