For cinematographer Soumik Haldar, the path from a film school classroom to the sets of 100 feature films has been a long, layered, and profoundly personal journey. An alumnus of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, Haldar graduated in 2000 and made his industry debut in 2002 with the film Rasta, starring Bratya Basu. "That marked the beginning of my career in cinema," he reminisced, highlighting the humble start to what would become a remarkable cinematic voyage.
A Career Forged Through Collaboration
Over the years, Haldar has had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most celebrated names in Bengali cinema. His portfolio includes work with luminaries such as Rituparno Ghosh, Aparna Sen, Srijit Mukherji, Kamaleswar Mukherjee, Kaushik Ganguly, and Dhruva Banerjee. "I had the fortune to work with almost everyone," he shared, underscoring the breadth of his experiences and the rich tapestry of artistic partnerships that have defined his career.
Defining Influences and Breakthrough Moments
Reflecting on the journey that led him to this milestone, Haldar credits Rituparno Ghosh as a defining influence. "Among the people because of whom I've been able to achieve this milestone, one of them is definitely Rituparno Ghosh," he said, adding that the film Shob Choritro Kalponik provided him with a major breakthrough. This collaboration not only elevated his craft but also solidified his reputation in the industry.
Another pivotal figure in Haldar's career has been actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, who played an instrumental role in shaping his professional trajectory. Their collaborations have been marked by mutual respect and creative synergy, contributing significantly to Haldar's growth as a cinematographer.
The Turning Point with Autograph
A key turning point in Haldar's career came with the film Autograph, directed by Srijit Mukherji. "From Autograph onwards, my professional journey took a significant leap," he revealed. This project not only showcased his technical prowess but also opened new avenues for creative expression, setting the stage for many more successful ventures in the years to come.
Celebrating the 100th Film: Saptadingar Guptodhon
Haldar's 100th film, Saptadingar Guptodhon, marks a significant achievement in his illustrious career. As the fourth instalment of the popular franchise, the film is set against the captivating backdrop of the Sundarbans. "It has a very interesting background and story," he said, expressing excitement about this milestone project. The film not only represents a numerical achievement but also symbolizes the culmination of years of dedication, innovation, and artistic evolution.
Through his journey, Soumik Haldar has not only contributed to the visual storytelling of Bengali cinema but has also inspired a new generation of cinematographers. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, collaboration, and a deep-seated passion for the art of filmmaking.
