In a significant boost to the regional cinematic landscape, India’s premier casting director, Mukesh Chhabra, led an intensive five-hour “Exclusive Masterclass” at the ICCR in Kolkata. The event, coinciding with International Women’s Day, drew a diverse crowd of aspiring actors, filmmakers, and media professionals eager to learn from the man who redefined the art of casting in Indian cinema.

As the founder of Mukesh Chhabra Casting Company (MCCC), Chhabra shared rare insights into the evolution of professional casting, the raw reality of auditions, and the discipline required to thrive in a competitive industry. His session emphasized MCCC’s long-term vision of identifying raw talent and integrating regional performers into the mainstream cinematic ecosystem.

The event was conceptualized and executed by actress, entrepreneur, and producer Payel Mukherjee through her production house, Anonymous Films. The initiative aimed to create a structured bridge between Bengal’s vibrant talent pool and the national film industry. The masterclass was held in collaboration with the Kolkata Film and Television Institute (KFTI), where founder and mentor Rubia Banerjee highlighted the necessity of professional training and industry alignment for upcoming artists. The session was seamlessly moderated by actor and creative producer Sandip Bhattacharya.

Marking the significance of International Women’s Day, the event honored several distinguished women for their contributions to society and media, including:

• Vaishali Dalmiya: Politician and Social Activist
• Rusa Banerjee: Business Head, ZEE5
• Kakoli Ghosh Kundu: Social Activist and Senior Police Officer

The evening concluded with a landmark announcement: an upcoming advanced three-day masterclass and a student selection process by MCCC, hosted in association with Anonymous Films. This initiative reinforces MCCC’s commitment to nurturing new talent and marks a pivotal moment for Kolkata’s film fraternity.

Priyanka Dutta