It was not a pre-planned decision, it was fate…and she became ‘Goyenda Ginni’. Can you guess what we are talking about? Well, we are referring to Indrani Haldar, who is currently essaying the role of a private detective in the Bengali serial ‘Goyenda Ginni’ on Zee Bangla.

In a face-to-face interview with Tellychakkar.com, the actress talks about her reasons for choosing this serial and her favourite detective, Soumitra Chatterjee and more…Excerpts: 

You have returned to Bengali serials after such a long time...

Honestly speaking, before 2008 I did a lot of Bengali serials. In 2008, I got ‘Sujata - Ek Stree Ka Samarpan’ (Sony TV). In 2010, I came to Kolkata for about six to seven months and worked in a Bengali serial ‘Shomoy’ (Ruposhi Bangla). In mid-2010, I went to Mumbai to work in soaps like ‘Maryada...Lekin Kab Tak’ (Star Plus) and Savitri (Life OK). After Savitri, I took a break and returned to Kolkata. During that break, ‘Aro Ekbar’ (Ariziet Halder's debut film) happened, followed by ‘Goyenda Ginni’.     

Why did you choose to stay away from Bengali dailies? 

Mainly for two reasons: the payment package was not rewarding and it lacked proper technical facilities. But now I must admit that the Bengali Industry has improved a lot. It’s my pleasure to work with ‘Shree Venkatesh Films’ (Media and Entertainment Company). I feel that they are the best team to work with in Bengal. In fact, they have provided me a with big AC room because they know that I cannot stay in a small room. 

What other reasons encouraged you to give your nod to ‘Goyenda Ginni’?  

I was anyway thinking of returning to Kolkata. My family also wanted me to spend quality time with them. I was looking for a strong reason to stay here and at the same time, I was auditioning for Hindi serials. I was just waiting for the right opportunity to go back to Mumbai. As luck would have it, Goyenda Ginni came my way. It gave genuine reason to stay here. It’s like ek teer do nishana. I am very happy with this project. 

What is the USP of this serial? 

I think people are bored of the same family drama. Through Goyenda Ginni, the television audience is getting a family drama, but in a different package that is something new to them. Also, suspense and mystery make a story more gripping. 

How is the feedback?  

The feedback is very impressive. As far as the TRP is concerned, presently we are on the top. I think the kids are especially enjoying this soap. The new generation is not aware of Indrani Haldar as I was away from Kolkata for a long period but they are recognising me as Goyenda Ginni. It feels great that people are enjoying my work.

In the serial, you are leading a dual life of a housewife and of a detective. Do you think it's easy to enact both?

It’s a very tough role, but I also believe that women generally have this quality. Parama is a simple woman who cracks the cases in a simple way. She is a very intelligent woman. I think that is why they have chosen me because looks also matter here (winks). 

Who is your favourite detective? 

Feluda. But of course, Feluda means Soumitra Chatterjee. For some of the scenes, I take inspiration from Soumitra uncle. It is quite obvious that our expressions won’t match so I am only retaining the feel. I am imbibing his thought process and applying it in Parama’s style. I can say that Feluda is influencing me.

Are you reading any detective book to understand the psychology of a private investigator?  

I have read the complete series of Feluda. But currently, I am not reading any detective book. Our story is a bit different so I don’t think I need any other influence to understand the psychology of a private investigator. I need to understand Parama well to do justice to this role.