Satyajit Ray’s favourite hero Soumitra Chatterjee is no more. After battling for life for a few months after being diagnosed with Covid-19, the thespian breathed his last in Kolkata. Soumitra Chatterjee was not just Ray’s favourite hero, but also an extremely talented actor who had proved his mettle in every film he worked in. Not just an actor, he was a brilliant orator, and his abritti was something one listened to in awe. Etched in the memories of Bengalis as Feluda forever, the extremely renowned Indian actor’s work has mainly been focused in the Bengali film industry. The actor has been an inspiration to many with his marvellous work in Bengali cinema. As Soumitra Chatterjee leaves behind a lifetime of memories, here is a list of a few things everyone should know about this versatile and evergreen performer.
Watch Soumitra Chatterjee’s film Apan Amar Apan here:
1. Faced rejection in his first screen test
The now-famous Bengali actor was rejected for his first-ever screen test, for ‘Nilachale Mahaprabhu.’
2. He once turned down a National Award
Soumitra had turned down a national award for the 2001 Special Jury Award for his film ‘Dekha’ as a sign of protest against the bias in the selection process of awards.
Also read: Birthday Special: 5 Movies Of Stalwart Soumitra Chatterjee That You Must Watch On ZEE5
3. Apur Sansar was a surprise to Soumitra
Soumitra met Satyajit Ray on the sets of another film, with no clue of his selection for the film ‘Apur Sansar.’
Also read: COVID-19: WB CM prays for actor Soumitra Chatterjee’s speedy recovery
4. Soumitra’s magazine was named by Satyajit Ray
A surprising fact about their relationship is that Soumitra asked Satyajit Ray to name his magazine for him. Not only did the director name Soumitra’s magazine ‘Ekkhon,’ but he also designed the first front cover of it.
5. Soumitra’s 14 films with the Oscar-winner director
Soumitra Chatterjee is a renowned actor who received several accolades during his time in cinema. But did you know that he has been a part of over 14 Bengali films with the eminent oscar-winning director Mr. Satyajit Ray? Yes, 14.
Also read: Here’s Why You Need To Watch The Soumitra Chatterjee-Starrer Amar Artanad On ZEE5
6. Soumitra Chatterjee’s work with Mrinal Sen
Although the notable actor is largely known for his roles in the Satyajit Ray films, he has given countless performances in other films as well. Soumitra appeared in ‘Punascha,’ ‘Pratinidhi,’ and ‘Akash Kusum’ with the celebrated director Mrinal Sen.
7. Soumitra Chatterjee, a thespian
Although we mostly know Soumitra Chatterjee for his versatility in his films, he has also been an active part of many theatrical acts. In 1978, the actor went back to theatre work with his production ‘Naam Jiban’ after a journey of 20 years in Bengali cinema. Soumitra has not only acted in plays but has also written, translated, and directed a few of them.
8. The inseparable – Soumitra & ‘Feluda’
Soumitra Chatterjee has played the role of Pradosh Mitra aka ‘Feluda’ in so many of Satyajit Ray’s films with such conviction, that the audience who have watched those diligently, will probably never be able to not associate the two names with each other.
9. Soumitra Chatterjee’s short film appearances
A lesser-known fact about Soumitra is that he has been part of a few short films like ‘Ahalya,’ ‘Baalir Niche Jawler Shabda,’ and ‘The Forlorn.’
10. Sisir Bhaduri’s mentorship
Watching Sisir Bhaduri’s play eventually helped Soumitra decide to be an actor. Later, for 3 years, before Sisir Bhaduri’s death, Soumitra made him his mentor.
Soumitra Chatterjee recently went through surgery due to his critical health conditions and has been battling them with valour. The Dadasaheb Phalke award winner’s health is currently being considered to be stable but critical.
Watch Soumitra Chatterjee’s films on ZEE5!
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