It’s a blessing to watch my kids grow up in Kolkata, the way I did: Koel Mallick

Koel Mallick has built a career that has stood the test of time, having completed 22 years in the industry. Starting out in mainstream commercial hits like Nater Guru (2003) and Shubhodrishti (2005), she has carved a space where box-office success met meaningful storytelling, with films like the Mitin Mashi series and Sharthopor. Koel has been loved by audiences while staying deeply rooted in Kolkata. The city remains both her anchor and inspiration, shaping her choices on and off screen. She is now ready to step into new shoes as an member of Parliament. In a chat, the actress-MP tells us what Kolkata means to her, and what stepping into politics holds in store. You’ve maintained a sense of mystery, something actors once believed was essential. Is that a conscious choice?Not consciously, actually. I’ve always been a private person by nature. I would rather be known for my work than for my personal life. Fame comes with constant scrutiny, so I make a deliberate effort to protect my space and hold on to a sense of normalcy. I’ve seen my father (Ranjit Mallick), do the same since I was a child. Even on social media, I share only what I’m comfortable with. I don’t feel the need to put out what I eat, who I meet, or the details of my everyday life. In a way, it helps me decide where I want feedback and where I don’t. The moment you post, you invite opinions and judgement – why do that unnecessarily? When it comes to work, my team ensures my audience stays updated with everything they need to know.Do you think your privacy makes people wait for your Sunday posts?(Laughs) I honestly don’t know! I’ve never thought of it as maintaining mystery. In fact, my team keeps reminding me – “It’s been days since you posted.” That’s when I quickly click a picture while heading to an event or travelling, to keep them happy. Many Tollywood actors have explored work in Mumbai and in the South. Why not you? I started receiving offers from Mumbai very early in my career. Sometimes things didn’t work out, sometimes I wasn’t comfortable with certain roles. Even recently, I turned down a national OTT project because I wasn’t okay with a few scenes. But I’ll admit, I didn’t push too hard either. I’m deeply connected to Kolkata – this is my comfort zone. I breathe this city, and that played a big role in my choices.Fans still want to see you in big commercial films with co-stars like Dev and Jeet. Are you open to it?Absolutely. I come from commercial cinema and respect it deeply – that’s where my mass connect comes from. But today, I want to do films I truly believe in. Whether commercial or arthouse, it has to connect, resonate, and leave an impact.Are you instinctive or methodical as an actor?A bit of both. I prepare thoroughly – reading scripts multiple times and discussing the director’s vision. But I’m also instinctive. I allow myself to feel during a scene, that makes it real.Even now, do your parents still scold you?Oh, absolutely! My mom (Deepa Mallick), still calls every morning with a long list of things I haven’t done yet! (laughs) My day feels incomplete without it.As a mother of two, would you call yourself a strict parent?I believe parenting comes with responsibility and discipline. That’s how I was raised. I don’t follow gentle parenting. I believe in clear boundaries so my kids grow into good human beings.What does a good day look like for you now?Every day feels like a good day. With my two little ones, life is full of laughter and chaos. Watching them grow is pure joy.‘I hope I can connect with more people as an MP’I feel honoured to serve in the Rajya Sabha, representing the people of Bengal. I’m deeply grateful for the love and support I’ve received through my acting journey, and I hope it continues. This is a new path, but the intention remains the same—to connect with people, serve them, and have their encouragement.Blurb:My idea of success is leading a happy content life where I receive from and give love to people around me. Spreading happiness and joy wherever I go is success I have completed 22 beautiful years in the industry. I literally have to pinch myself to believe it. Kolkata has given me so much love, and I survived this long, all because of my fansPix: Anindya Saha