Saswata Chatterjee replaces Tota Roychowdhury in a Bangladeshi web series by Shawki

Tota Roychowdhury was scheduled to work in a Bangladeshi series Gulmohar, created by Syed Ahmed Shawki. However due to some unknown reasons, he has been replaced by Saswata Chatterjee.  

After his initial silence, Tota spoke about this change. In an interview with Anandabazar Online, he said, “I liked the story, screenplay, and character. But before signing the contract, I came to know that I had to give 30% of my earnings as tax to the Bangladesh government. That is the rule. I objected.” The actor’s other principle is that he will only lower his remuneration if it is a Feluda role since this role made him famous. From that point, if he gives 30% of his earnings to the Bangladesh government, his earnings will be lower than that of the Feluda roles. Tota regretted, “Shawki as a person and as a director is my favorite and the character is also tremendous. Still, I could not compromise with my principles.” Shawki became a household name in Bengal after his web series Karagar was dropped on Hoichoi.   

The production house said that they would give 30% extra to the actor and then deduct the money. Tota said that he has to be given at least one rupee more than his earnings from Feluda. If he gives away 30%, his earnings will be less than that. The production house then said that this amount was out of their ability. Then Tota backed off.  

Saswata has been selected for the role. Does he know? Tota said, “I did not tell anything to Apu da. My best wishes to him. He is the best person for this role. This reminds me of an old incident.” Saswata was the first choice of Karan Johar to play in Rocky Aur Rani. But Saswata said that could not learn Kathak in one month. He backed off and Tota replaced him in the role.