I Wish to Get a National Award Shakuntala Barua

A famous Bangla Cinema actress talks about her past, present and future.

- Sanjay Sinha

Each year hundreds of regional films are made, through which many artists make their names. One such actress is Shakuntala Barua who acted in many Bangla movies and through her emotional acting carved a niche for herself. She has also shared screen with Uttam Kumar. Alive had a chat with her at her Kolkata residence. Excerpts:

It is said that you wanted to become a singer, but ended up acting. Why did you quit singing?

Actually, I started singing from as early as ten. Even though no one in my family had any remote connection with either singing or acting, but somehow I had this inclination. From a very early age I started singing for radio. Then some offers of acting from the film industry started coming in. After a lot of persuasion I agreed. Even though I made my name as an actress. I still love singing. I haven’t quit singing altogether. Whenever I have time from my acting schedule I sing. Everyone has his or her destiny. I was destined for acting so here I am.

Which was your debut film and how did you feel?

My debut film was Sona Rani with ‘Mahanayak’ Uttam Kumar. Initially I was a bit nervous, but gradually with the help of Crew Members I became relaxed. Uttam Kumar helped me a lot. The film was successful. To be honest, I couldn’t believe myself that I could act so well.