In the upcoming Bengali film Durgapur Junction, actor Swastika Mukherjee takes on the role of an investigative journalist navigating a challenging and dangerous case. In an interview with Hindustan Times, she shared her insights on journalistic integrity, the transformation brought by social media, and the pressures of being a celebrity today.
On Durgapur Junction
Swastika expressed her optimism about Durgapur Junction, noting that Bengali cinema is currently thriving. She stated, “I hope audiences come to theaters to watch our film. Overall, we are in a positive space, as people are returning to cinemas, and recent releases have performed well. Various genres are being explored—like Manikbabur Megh, which is a deeply personal film, and Puratawn. There’s something for everyone.
”With Durgapur Junction, she believes the thriller genre will resonate with viewers. “Indian audiences have a strong affinity for thrillers. This film presents a fresh premise related to medical and pharmaceutical stories. As an artist, I always strive to bring something new to the table,” she added.
The Rush for Breaking News
Portraying Ushahsie, a fearless journalist in Durgapur, Swastika discussed the evolving challenges faced by journalists today. “Before social media, journalists had a challenging job. Finding stories required significant effort, unlike today, where information is often just a fingertip away. However, this shift has led to a decline in fact-checking. The rush for breaking news results in misinformation spreading rapidly,” she explained.
Swastika reflected on her 25-year journey in the industry, noting a decline in journalistic responsibility. “When I started, there was a filter among journalists regarding what should be published. Today, it feels like there’s a competition to unveil the most sensational stories. Everyone is under pressure to think twice before speaking or writing, as our words can easily be misconstrued,” she stated.
The actor recalled personal experiences with media misrepresentation. “In a recent interview, I joked about my daughter being a huge fan of Jeet, which led to headlines suggesting she disapproves of my past relationship. The disconnect between my words and the headlines was stark,” she said.She cited another incident involving a public event where a quote misattributed to her caused unnecessary backlash. “We’re living in a chaotic time where journalists seem to neglect their basic responsibilities. It’s distressing to witness this trend,” she concluded.
