Swastika Mukherjee Former cricketer Sourav Ganguly has reacted strongly to the tragic death of actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee, who died in a drowning incident in Odisha on March 29 while shooting for the Bengali show Bholebaba Paar Karega.A few days ago, when Sourav was asked to comment on Rahul’s death, he said it was a “very unfortunate” incident, but added, “I don’t know why he went into the water even though it was to shoot.” Many on social media did not welcome the announcement.In response, Swastika questioned the tone and intent behind the statement.
“As a public figure, he should be aware of his words”
Speaking to Sharmila Maiti on her channel, Swastika said, “As a public person she should know what words are coming out of her mouth. I don’t understand cricket or football. Now if I say to you, “Why are you bothering about a few likes on a YouTube channel?” This comment has an inherently condescending tone. You are doing your job well and this is your income. It might not be mine. Someone might be horrible. But if I say today why are you doing this YouTube interview? Do something else... then I’m immediately making you feel less of a job”.
“Not everyone understands all areas”
He further added, “Everybody can’t know about everything. Now he is essential and without him the project may not take off. But if Rahul doesn’t get into the water body, someone else will replace him and he will go. Even a public figure of his stature should understand what he is talking about. He does a non-fiction show as Sourav Ganguly, how it should be done on the AC floor.” He is given everything he needs because he is Sourav Ganguly. But another Rahul Ganguly may not get all the comforts.”
Rahul’s death has also sparked conversations about stage safety in the Bengali entertainment industry. According to reports, the actor was shooting a sequence with co-star Sweta Mishra in knee-deep water when they slipped into a ditch. Both were taken to Digha hospital, but Rahul could not be saved. Following the incident, the Bengali film and television industry has called an indefinite strike from April 7, demanding stricter security measures on the sets.
