Upcoming ventures
About his first major break as a director, Debashish says, "It is a natural progression for me. I was an assistant director of my father eminent director Dilip Biswas when I joined the film industry in 1997. Subsequently, I became a director."
He adds, "I'm happy with my first film Shoshurbari Zindabad, a comedy. Depicting comedy is very tough. I've just finished shooting Tak Jhal Mishti, which is also based on a light hearted story."
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. On his attitude to criticism, Debashish says, "First, I determine if the criticism is valid or if it's generated by people who are simply on the look out for their self-interest. I've found that there are some of both. Where it is valid, I learn from it.
There is no formula for success, except honesty and dedication. I'm completely focused on my work. I have never looked back. I have always taken risks."
About the factors he always bears in mind when making a new programme, he says, "I basically prefer programmes that would appeal to the masses. As one can see, the educated young urbanites are rapidly switching over to foreign TV channels such as the Discovery channel and other movie channels. This is because there are no good shows to attract them, apart from a handful of serials. So, I want to tap this segment of the audience and would like to bring out innovative programmes that appeal to them. In fact, I had produced Gop Shop, an entertaining talk show with celebrities, for new TV channel RTV. Television, however, is a medium that requires complete dedication."
Talking about his plans for the future, Debashish says, "I enjoy making movies and will continue to do so. There is much room for learning and improvement. I feel an actor or a director needs to keep growing. My first film won plaudits from the audience but no other formal recognition. Frankly, I don't care for awards but just want to do my best as a director. It's time to do versatile roles and good films."