The Bengali actress opens up about her new film, festive plans and rumours of a December wedding
Entertainment desk: Popular Bengali actress Mimi Chakraborty is gearing up for the release of Emperor Versus Sarat Chandra this Durga Puja. Amid a hectic promotional schedule, the actress has also addressed speculation about her personal life, including rumours that she may get married in December.
Born and raised in Jalpaiguri, Mimi moved to Kolkata for work and gradually became part of the city’s grand Durga Puja celebrations. For her, the festival is as much about community and tradition as it is about festivities.
“Once the film promotions are over, it will be time to immerse myself in the Puja celebrations. Where else can you find such grandeur as in Kolkata?” she said.
The actress said the city’s traditional music, dazzling lights and lively neighbourhood celebrations never fail to lift her spirits.
Mimi celebrates Puja at home, offering anjali and distributing flowers among devotees. She also joins her neighbours in preparing for the festivities. During the festival, she prefers wearing sarees and traditional jewellery, sometimes choosing pieces from her mother’s collection.
“Spending time with friends, eating out and enjoying the beautifully illuminated city are all part of the celebrations. Dhunuchi dance to the rhythm of the dhak is a must, too. And, of course, I will wear my favourite saree for anjali,” she said.
First film with Srijit Mukherji
This Puja, Mimi will appear as Sumitra opposite Abir Chatterjee in Emperor Versus Sarat Chandra, directed by Srijit Mukherji. Although she has known the filmmaker for years, this is their first professional collaboration.
“There were many obstacles to working with him, but I believe everything happens at the right time, and that is when the right things fall into place,” she said.
Mimi revealed that Srijit used Pupi, her much-loved character from the television series Gaaner Oparey, as a reference while developing Sumitra.
“He gave me Pupi as a reference from the very beginning. Period films require a lot of preparation, and I also had to be careful not to offend or belittle anyone through my portrayal,” she said.
The actress admitted that the pressure was particularly intense this time. She said she still struggles to sleep before starting a new project because of nervousness.
“I would reach the set 15 minutes early to see if anyone was getting scolded,” she recalled.
Srijit, meanwhile, reportedly said that the fire within Mimi was also reflected in her portrayal of Sumitra.
‘I’m hearing about my wedding too’
While her new film is generating interest ahead of its release, rumours about Mimi’s personal life have also made headlines, with reports suggesting that she may tie the knot in December.
Asked whether this year’s Puja was particularly special for her, the actress responded with a shy smile.
“I’m hearing about my wedding too,” she said, neither confirming nor denying the reports.
Mimi was more forthcoming when asked about her ideal life partner. She said she wanted someone kind, fun-loving and, above all, a close friend who shared her passion for travelling.
“Most importantly, he must love my children very much,” she said.
The actress also had a light-hearted request for the wedding menu, should the occasion arise.
“I love attending weddings, but please make sure there are plenty of vegetarian dishes. I don’t eat fish or meat,” she said.
Asked when she planned to get married, Mimi laughed and replied, “When I get married, I’ll think about it then.”
