Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Shankar Chakraborty

Shankar Chakraborty (born Haradhan Chakraborty; 18 August 1962) is an Indian actor best known for his extensive work in Bengali cinema and television, spanning over three decades. Born in , , Chakraborty began his acting career with a lead role in the 1993 Bengali film Anubhav, directed by Deb Kumar Bose, marking his entry into the industry. He gained widespread recognition through television, particularly for portraying the character Gansha in the popular serial Bibaho Abhijan, which helped establish him as a household name in Bengal. Throughout his career, Chakraborty has appeared in numerous films, including notable roles in Dosar (2006), Kalishankar (2007), Kanamachi (2013), Belaseshe (2015), Belashuru (2022), and Bishohori (2025), often playing supporting or character roles that highlight his versatility. In addition to acting, he was active in industry advocacy, serving as the working president of the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists' Forum in 2020.

Early life

Birth and family background

Shankar Chakraborty, originally named Haradhan Chakraborty, was born on August 18, 1962, in , , .

Initial career steps

Shankar Chakraborty began his professional journey in the entertainment industry through , starting as a backstage worker during the 1985 staging of Utpal Dutt's play Aajker Shahjahan. This role allowed him to immerse himself in the technical and artistic elements of production, building a strong foundation in performance and . Seeking to move into , Chakraborty transitioned from behind-the-scenes work to on-screen roles in the early , a period when the Bengali film industry was navigating commercial and artistic shifts. His debut came as the lead actor in the 1993 film Anubhav (also spelled Anubhab in some references), directed by Deboki , which highlighted his entry into cinema.

Professional career

Film career

Shankar Chakraborty's film debut came with a lead role in Anubhav (1993), directed by Deb Kumar Bose. He gained prominence in the mid-1990s with supporting roles that showcased his versatility, beginning with Tobu Mone Rekho (1994), where he portrayed a key character in a family drama exploring marital tensions. That same year, he appeared in Charachar (1994), directed by Buddhadev Dasgupta, playing a villager in this poignant tale of rural life and . In the late 1990s, Chakraborty took on more substantial roles, including the lead as Samir in Bhoy (1996), a thriller delving into psychological suspense and personal fears. His performance in Asukh (1999), a critically acclaimed drama about urban alienation and relationships, further highlighted his range in introspective characters. Entering the 2000s, he earned praise for his portrayal of a conflicted family man in Uttara (2000), Buddhadev Dasgupta's adaptation addressing communal harmony and displacement. By the mid-2000s, he balanced lead and character parts, notably as the titular Kalishankar (2007), a satirical take on middle-class aspirations and societal pressures. Chakraborty's career evolved from supporting roles in the to leading and nuanced character parts across genres, amassing over 50 film credits in three decades. He demonstrated adeptness in drama, as in Buno Haansh (2014), where he played a supportive father figure in Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury's exploration of and ; comedy, evident in Kanamachi (2013), as a newspaper editor in this action-comedy critiquing sensationalism; and family-oriented stories, such as the patriarch in Belaseshe (2015), which examined marital fidelity and generational bonds. Later works like Maati (2018), where he depicted Meghla's father in a narrative of land disputes and familial legacy, underscored his enduring appeal in socially relevant dramas. In recent years, Chakraborty continued to take on diverse roles, including in (2022), a to Belaseshe where he reprised his family elder in a story of aging and relationships.

Television and web series

Shankar Chakraborty's foray into television began in the early , with his breakthrough role as Gansha in the popular serial Bibaho Abhijan on , which established him as a household name in . This performance helped bridge his film experience with episodic storytelling in family-oriented dramas. He expanded his television career in the mid-2000s, portraying nuanced family dynamics in popular Bengali serials. His role of Arijit in Rani Kahini (2006–2009) on depicted a multifaceted man grappling with interpersonal conflicts and societal expectations, earning acclaim for bringing depth to everyday domestic narratives. Following this, Chakraborty took on the character of Dibyajyoti Majumdar, a and aspiring painter, in Ishti Kutum (2011–2015) on , a long-running serial that explored generational bonds and personal aspirations through intricate episode arcs involving his character's relationships with his wife, children, and . The role highlighted his ability to convey emotional resilience, contributing to the show's popularity as a staple of television family dramas. He continued this trajectory with supporting yet impactful parts in later serials, such as Ajay Mittir in Mittir Bari (2024–2025) on , where his portrayal of a key figure emphasized themes of generational unity and cultural preservation amid modern challenges. In Roshnai (2024–present) on , he played Deeptajeet, adding layers to the narrative of familial tensions and redemption through pivotal episode developments. Transitioning to digital platforms in the 2020s, Chakraborty adapted seamlessly to over-the-top (OTT) content, beginning with the comedic-drama web series Chemistry Mashi (2024) on Hoichoi, where he essayed Sushobhan Lahiri, the supportive yet traditional husband to the protagonist, infusing humor and warmth into the story of a homemaker's unexpected online teaching venture. The series received positive reception for its innovative take on and , with Chakraborty's performance noted for grounding the family's emotional core. He followed this with a dramatic supporting role as Avinash Mitra, the eldest son in a cursed family, in the supernatural thriller Bishohori (2025) on Hoichoi, contributing to the web series' exploration of mythology, betrayal, and across its mystery-driven episodes. This shift to web series post-2020 underscored his versatility, extending his reach to younger audiences via streaming while maintaining his signature style of relatable, character-driven portrayals akin to his film work.

Music and other ventures

In 2019, Shankar Chakraborty expanded his creative pursuits beyond acting by collaborating with singers Abhijit Acharya and Gopa Acharya to launch a musical project called Khyapa, focused on blending poetry with traditional songs inspired by the and traditions of rural . The trio's debut performance took place on September 8, 2019, near Golpark in , featuring contributions from additional musicians including Indranil Sen, Sadhan Das Bairagya, and Arindam Ganguly, and aimed at engaging 's music and enthusiasts. This venture underscored Chakraborty's longstanding interest in music, evolving from his roots as an to embracing multifaceted artistic roles. The initiative received positive attention for its authentic revival of folk elements, positioning Chakraborty as a versatile performer whose foray into highlighted his personal growth and adaptability in the .

Personal life

Marriage and family

Shankar Chakraborty married Sonali Chakraborty in 1990. The couple built a shared life within the entertainment industry, where both pursued careers and often collaborated professionally. They appeared together in numerous television serials, telefilms, and movies. Additionally, they co-hosted non-fiction programs, such as Kolkatar Meye Borishaler Jamai, showcasing their chemistry and mutual support in public appearances. The couple had one daughter, Saji, who established her own career as an assistant director in Mumbai.

Life after loss

Sonali Chakraborty, the wife of Shankar Chakraborty, passed away on October 31, 2022, at a private hospital in Kolkata after battling prolonged liver complications. She was 59 years old at the time of her death, which followed her hospitalization earlier that week for chronic liver disease. Shankar Chakraborty announced the news on his social media, prompting an outpouring of grief from the Bengali entertainment industry, where peers described the loss as shocking and profound. In the immediate aftermath, Chakraborty was visibly distraught during Sonali's funeral rites, which took place the same day in . The event drew condolences from fellow actors and fans, highlighting the couple's long-standing presence in . Following the loss, Chakraborty has spoken openly about his struggles with , living alone in their home in while their daughter resides in . In a 2024 interview, he revealed experiencing triggered by memories of Sonali and disruptions to his eating habits in the initial months. To cope, Chakraborty has turned to as a refuge, which helps maintain his emotional well-being amid solitude. By mid-2024, he reported gradually regaining a sense of rhythm in his solitary life and making efforts to restore normalcy in daily routines. In August 2024, he addressed false rumors about his own death on , clarifying his health and ongoing adjustment to life after loss. Despite the grief, Chakraborty has continued his professional engagements in television, including roles in ongoing series that demonstrate his in the face of personal tragedy.

References

  1. [1]
    Shankar Chakraborty - IMDb
    Shankar Chakraborty was born on 18 August 1962 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. He is an actor, known for Kalishankar (2007), Minister Fatakesto (2007) and ...
  2. [2]
    Shankar Chakraborty: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography ...
    Born - Aug 18, 1962 India. Shankar Chakraborty is a popular Actor. Showing 300 results. Follow us. All(300); Articles(260); Videos(1); Photos(39)
  3. [3]
    Anubhav (1993) - IMDb
    Anubhav: Directed by Deboki Kumar Bose. With Shankar Chakraborty, Rozina Chatterjee, Tarun Kumar Chatterjee, Ritu Das. Anubhav based on a love story and ...Missing: Anubhab | Show results with:Anubhab
  4. [4]
    Anubhav - Bengali - Prime Video
    Anubhav is a 1993 Indian Bengali film, directed by Deb Kumar Bose and produced by Debasish Bose. The film stars Dipankar Dey, Mamata Shankar, Ritu Das, Shirsha ...Missing: Anubhab | Show results with:Anubhab
  5. [5]
    Shankar Chakraborty Movies and Shows - ‎Apple TV
    Shankar Chakraborty is an Indian film and television actor who primarily works in the Bengali Film Industry and the Bengali Television Industry.
  6. [6]
    Shankar Chakraborty - Latest News, Photos, Videos, Awards ...
    Biography : Shankar chakraborty has done several tele serials and has appeared in pivotal roles in numerous bengali films. his debut was in a bengali film ...Missing: notable person
  7. [7]
    Shankar Chakraborty — The Movie Database (TMDB)
    Shankar Chakraborty is known as an Actor. Some of his work includes Belaseshe, The Wrestlers, Belashuru, Dosar, Moner Majhe Tumi, Buno Haansh, ...Missing: Gansha | Show results with:Gansha
  8. [8]
    Meet Yash's filmi friends | Bengali Movie News - Times of India
    Jan 17, 2018 · Yash is happy to work with Rajatava Dutta and Shankar Chakraborty in Total Dadagiri. “This was the first time I worked with Rony da ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  9. [9]
    While Tolly begins post-production, when will shooting resume after ...
    Actor Shankar Chakraborty, who is the working president of West Bengal Motion Picture Artists' Forum, said no call has yet been taken on when to begin the ...
  10. [10]
    Bengali actor Sonali Chakraborty dies at age 59 - Hindustan Times
    Oct 31, 2022 · Bengali actor Sonali Chakraborty died at a private hospital in Kolkata on Monday following a prolonged illness. She was 59 and survived by her actor-husband ...
  11. [11]
    Senior artist Sonali Chakraborty passes away - The Times of India
    Oct 31, 2022 · Artist Sonali Chakraborty died early this morning (October 31). She wasn't keeping well and was admitted to the hospital on Friday, where she breathed her last.
  12. [12]
    Bengali actor Sonali Chakraborty passes away at age 59
    Oct 31, 2022 · Bengali actor Sonali Chakraborty passes away at age 59 · She was 59 and survived by her actor-husband Shankar Chakraborty and their daughter.
  13. [13]
    Shankar Chakraborty - Biography - IMDb
    Shankar Chakraborty was born on August 18, 1962 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. He is an actor, known for Kalishankar (2007), Minister Fatakesto (2007) and ...Missing: career | Show results with:career
  14. [14]
    Aajker Shahjahan - Resurrection Of An Utpal Dutt Classic - The Citizen
    May 5, 2023 · Shankar Chakraborty who kept himself captive in roles in teleserials and occasionally, in films, returns to 'Aaajker Shahjahan' as Kunjabihari.
  15. [15]
    TV show 'Kunjochaya' to go off-air soon - Times of India
    Jan 7, 2020 · In this show, Shankar played the role of a much older man. The actor, who started his career with theatre, is known for his acting chops. He is ...Missing: early debut<|separator|>
  16. [16]
    Shankar Chakraborty on Moviebuff.com
    His debut was in a Bengali film called Anubhab, where he played the lead role. He became a household name in Bengal when he played the character of Gansha in ...
  17. [17]
    Shankar Chakraborty | Personalities - Bengal Film Archive
    Shankar Chakraborty (Bio to be added soon) Selected Filmography Anubhab | Kancher Prithibi | Bidrohini | Tobu Mone Rekho | Charachar | Mejo Bou | Sansar Sangram
  18. [18]
    Shankar Chakraborty Family Tree and Lifestory - iMeUsWe
    Shankar Chakraborty is an accomplished Indian actor primarily active in Bengali cinema and television known for his versatile performances. He continues to be ...Missing: notable | Show results with:notable
  19. [19]
    Shankar Chakraborty Movies List | Rotten Tomatoes
    Filmography ; Belashuru · 2022 · Barin, Biswanath and Arati's only son ; Ke Tumi Nandini · 2019 · Nandini's father ; Maati · 2018 · Meghla's Baba ; Gohin Hridoy · 2018.<|control11|><|separator|>
  20. [20]
    Uttara Movie - Bengali - The Times of India
    Oct 13, 2001 · Uttara is a Bengali movie released on 13 Oct, 2001. The movie is directed by Buddhadev Dasgupta and featured Jaya Seal, Tapas Pal and Shankar Chakraborty as ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  21. [21]
    Shankar Chakraborty - Wikipedia
    Shankar Chakraborty (born Haradhan Chakraborty; 18 August 1962) is an Indian film and television actor who primarily works in the Bengali Film Industry and the ...
  22. [22]
    Ishti Kutum - ‎Apple TV
    Ishti Kutum. TV Show · Drama. Despite the hardships, village belle Baha lives ... Shankar Chakraborty. Actor. About. Ishti Kutum. Drama. Despite the hardships ...
  23. [23]
    Watch Mittir Bari Online All Episodes (1-224) on ZEE5
    Watch Mittir Bari Latest Episodes Online in full HD on ZEE5. Enjoy Mittir Bari ... Anuradha Roy. Ajay Mitter. Shankar Chakraborty. Tapati. Sonali Choudhury. Share.
  24. [24]
    Chemistry Mashi Web Series - Times of India
    Chemistry Mashi Review: After being a homemaker for the better part of 35 years, Sucharita decides to teach chemistry online and her channel becomes a hit.
  25. [25]
    Cast & Crew - Hoichoi
    Cast & Crew. Srijit Roydirector. Solanki Royactor. Rohaan Bhattacharjeeactor. Koushik Royactor. Shankar Chakrabortyactor. Moyna Mukherjiactor.
  26. [26]
    Shankar Chakraborty's new act | Bengali Movie News - Times of India
    Aug 31, 2019 · A small team of three artistes – actor Shankar Chakraborty, folk singer Abhijit Acharya and singer Gopa Acharya – have joined hands to bring ...Missing: early career debut
  27. [27]
    TV actress Sonali Chakraborty passes away - Times Now
    Oct 31, 2022 · Their only daughter works in Mumbai as an assistant director. Both Sonali and Shankar Chakraborty were popular faces to Bengali audiences.
  28. [28]
    TV actress Sonali Chakraborty passes away - Telegraph India
    Oct 31, 2022 · Married to actor Shankar Chakraborty, Sonali was a well-known face in TV serials and also acted in several movies. Her performance in Rachana ...
  29. [29]
    Television Actor Sonali Chakraborty Passes Away | Kolkata News
    Nov 1, 2022 · Born on November 10, 1962, in Kolkata, Sonali displayed her acting skill both on screen and on stage – a fact attested even in chief minister ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography