To avoid crowds, we’ve decided not to let Mahanayak fans gather at our residence this year: Gourab Chatterjee

Though July 24, 1980, marked the end of an era in Bengali cinema with Mahanayak Uttam Kumar’s demise, the matinee idol continues to live in every Bengali’s heart even today. Every year, on the actor’s death anniversary, people gather at his residence to pay homage, but this year, it’ll be a bit different. Uttam Kumar’s grandson, Gourab Chatterjee, told CT, “Usually, on Dadu’s death anniversary, we keep one of our rooms open for his fans to drop by.But this year, we have decided to not do so keeping the pandemic in mind. Though we understand their sentiments, maintaining social distance is of prime importance now. We have planned to make it a very close and private affair.”
Gourab feels that 2020 is going to be an unforgettable year for everyone. “Not just the pandemic, but waking up to horrific news every morning has become a ritual of sorts. The whole situation is depressing. There is absolutely no assurance as to when things will get normal. I try to remain fit, both mentally and physically, as much as possible in these difficult times,” said the actor.
Returning on the shooting floors was a happy moment of Gourab because it kind of felt normal. “On the first day of shoot, it was a different feeling altogether. When I reached the sets of Rani Rashmoni, I foundeveryone around me in face shields and masks. Initially, it felt weird, but soon I got used to it. I wish, we will get back to normal soon and make up for all the things we missed in the past few months,” said Gourab.