Shankha Dasgupta is the creative mind behind the popular series Guti, showcasing his exceptional talent to those familiar with his work. Premiering on Chorki in January, Guti captivated viewers who eagerly devoured its content. A photo shoot featuring the main characters paying tribute to the acclaimed series Breaking Bad quickly went viral. The seven-part series delves into the world of drug peddling and smuggling in Dhaka, focusing on the compelling story of drug smuggler Sultana, skillfully portrayed by versatile actress Azmeri Haque Badhan.
The ensemble cast of Guti includes Shahriar Nazim Joy, Sharif Siraj, Moushumi Hamid, Nasir Uddin Khan, Arya Aritra, Tuntuni Sobhan, Arfan Mridha Shiblu, and Mahmudul, among others. While the talented cast contributed to the show’s acclaim, it is the director’s masterful storytelling that truly sets Guti apart. Originally envisioned as a film, Guti was transformed into a web series, a decision that has now become part of its success story. Shankha skillfully explores the complexities and moral ambiguity within the drug trade through his narrative.
The central character, Sultana, is thrust into the ruthless world of local drug trafficking, where survival demands a cold and chaotic demeanor. However, Shankha also showcases Sultana’s softer side as a loving mother striving for a better life for her daughter. Filmed in Dhaka, Cumilla, and Chattogram, Guti is currently available for streaming on Chorki.
Shankha Dasgupta, a gifted director, began his career as a prodigy in 2007, directing television dramas and commercials for various clients. His talent shone brightly, leading to significant recognition in 2012 with the film Hello Amit and a commercial for Robi Nobanno, earning him the best director award from Srijon Shonman in Kolkata. Establishing his own production house, Filmy Features, Shankha also initiated a learning center for aspiring film professionals. His subsequent projects, including the telefilm Taxi in 2014 and a commercial for Doze internet, further showcased his creative prowess. Additionally, Shankha is a co-founder of One Minute Film.
Originally intended as a short film, Guti faced delays due to the pandemic, prompting Shankha to present the concept to Chorki, where it was met with enthusiasm. If you haven’t watched Guti yet, it’s definitely worth checking out!