In this exclusive interview, we sit down with the talented actress Tridha Choudhury to explore her remarkable journey from a microbiology student to a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry. Tridha shares insights about her career switch, memorable roles in Mishawr Rawhoshyo, Bandish Bandits, and Aashram, and her experiences working in different regional cinemas and web series. She also discusses her approach to choosing projects, her return to Bengali cinema, and her future aspirations, including her passion for wellness.
1. Reflecting on Your Journey
- How does it feel to reflect on your journey in the entertainment industry so far?
- Response: Honestly, it feels like a dream. I was in a lab coat as a microbiologist in college in Calcutta, and now I’m wearing a lab coat, but playing a character. It’s funny how I get to play so many different characters, live their experiences, and learn so much from them. My journey in the entertainment industry has been very educational.
2. Switching Careers
- You initially pursued a course in microbiology. What motivated you to switch from a promising academic career to modeling and acting?
- Response: Yes, I pursued a course in microbiology.
Appreciation and the constant support of my parents motivated me. Many times, you may have talent or intent, but lack support. For me, my parents’ support gave me the push I needed to make the switch from a promising academic career to acting.
3. Debut Film Experience
- What was your experience like working on your debut film, Mishawr Rawhoshyo and how did it shape your career in cinema?
- Response: Working on Mishawr Rawhoshyo was a mystery in itself; I initially said no to the project, but it came back to me. I’m happy it did because working with Srijit Mukherjee and Prosenjit Chatterjee, who is a superstar in Bengal, put me on the map. Despite being a novice in acting, my presence was acknowledged, which shaped my career.
4. Role in Bandish Bandits
- How did your role in the web series Bandish Bandits differ from your previous work, and what challenges did you face while portraying your character?
- Response: My role in Bandish Bandits as Sandhya is one of my favorite characters. Unlike my usual lead roles, Sandhya was a parallel character who added a unique flavor to the series. This role differed because it wasn’t centered on screen time but on enhancing the story. Portraying Sandhya was challenging but rewarding, as it allowed me to explore a different facet of acting.
5. Acclaimed Role in Aashram
- Your role in Aashram
received significant acclaim. Can you share more about your preparation for this role and the impact it had on your career? - Response: My role as Babita in Aashram received significant acclaim. People often greet me with “Jap Naam,” and they’re surprised when they see me in casual attire, as opposed to the mature look in the series. Preparing for Babita required me to embody a very different persona, which was challenging yet fulfilling. This role significantly impacted my career, showcasing my versatility to the Bollywood
industry.
6. Memorable Role
- What has been your most memorable role so far, and why?
- Response: Choosing the most memorable role is tough as there are many, but Swadheenta Ramakrishnan from the Disney Hotstar series Dehleez is very close to my heart. It was ahead of its time, involving politics, terrorism, and complex characters. Swadheenta was stuck in a loop of these intense themes but managed to survive, making the role very memorable.
7. Choosing Projects
- After working in different regional cinemas and web series, how do you choose your projects now? What criteria do you consider most important?
- Response: My approach to choosing projects has evolved. Earlier, it was just about the script, but now, it’s also about the director, production team, and co-actors. These elements significantly enhance a film or series, making them crucial criteria for my project selection.
8. Return to Bengali Projects
- Can you tell us about your return to Bengali projects with Sin-Whispers of Guilt and your experience working on it?
- Response: Returning to Bengali projects with Sin-Whispers of Guilt was refreshing. Bengal is full of talent, and working with dedicated directors & actors who focus on their craft rather than stardom is always a pleasure. The experience was rejuvenating and fulfilling.
9. Future Roles and Goals
- Looking ahead, what kind of roles and projects are you most excited about, and what do you hope to achieve in the next phase of your career?
- Response: I’m excited about exploring action and comedy roles. We need Indian female superheroes, and I’d love to represent strong women in action films. I have several OTT projects lined up for release and a new project with Mika Singh. Additionally, I’m investing in a wellness project, focusing on mental and physical well-being, which is essential for an actor. This project aims to help others and enhance my career further.