Srijit Mukherji

Srijit Mukherji, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, has carved a niche for himself as a prolific film director and screenwriter, primarily known for his contributions to Bengali cinema. Born on September 23, 1977, Mukherji’s journey into the world of cinema is marked by a blend of talent, creativity, and a diverse range of experiences. Raised in Kolkata, Mukherji completed his schooling from Dolna Day School and South Point High School before pursuing higher education in economics at Presidency College, Kolkata. His academic pursuits continued as he obtained his MA and MPhil in environmental economics from Jawaharlal Nehru University, while simultaneously working as a social scientist in the Urban Transport and Pollution Sector with TERI in New Delhi. However, his passion for storytelling and the arts eventually led him to forsake his Ph.D. studies and embark on a journey into the world of theatre and films. Even while pursuing a career as an economist and statistician, Mukherji remained actively involved in the English professional theatre circuit in Delhi and Bangalore. He showcased his talents as an actor, writer, and director in various productions, including adaptations of literary works and iconic films such as “Twelve Angry Men” and “Pratidwandi ? The Adversary.” In 2008, Mukherji established his own theatre troupe, Pandora’s Act, which gained acclaim for its innovative productions, including “Feluda Pherot!” ? a non-canonical dramatization of Satyajit Ray’s famous sleuth, Feluda. His creative prowess extended to reinterpreting iconic characters like Byomkesh Bakshi in “Checkmate” (2009), further solidifying his reputation as a versatile storyteller. Mukherji’s transition into filmmaking marked a significant milestone in his career. He made his directorial debut with “Autograph” (2010), which was both a critical and commercial success, laying the foundation for a series of acclaimed films such as “Jaatishwar” (2014), “Chotushkone” (2014), “Rajkahini” (2015), “Ek Je Chhilo Raja” (2018), and “Gumnaami” (2019). His works have garnered numerous accolades, including National Film Awards for Best Direction and Best Original Screenplay. Beyond filmmaking, Mukherji has also made significant contributions as a lyricist, actor, and assistant director in various projects across film, television, and theatre. His diverse skill set and unwavering dedication to his craft continue to inspire audiences and fellow artists alike, cementing his legacy as a visionary filmmaker in the Indian cinematic landscape.