Lucknow’s hidden gems: Have no regrets about putting my career on hold for personal reasons, says actor Divya Bharadwaj Bhattacharya

Divya Bharadwaj Bhattacharya, a popular actor based in Lucknow, is best known to many for her work on TV and in theatre. The multi-talented lady, who has also worked as a Production Manager and designer,  began her journey in this field in the 90s and carved a niche for herself with her work in Kachchi Sadak and nearly 14  TV shows, including  Rishtey. She, however, took a break from acting in the late 90s due to personal reasons after her marriage. 

Years later, in 2022, she returned to acting with the play Swaha. In an exclusive chat with Roktim Rajpal Diaries, Divya opens up about her decision to take a break from acting and the story behind her comeback. 

(Edited excerpts from the interview)

How did your tryst with acting begin?

I was fond of acting and mimicry right from a young age. My father was my audience. I was also fond of singing. Phulwari (a children’s program) was a major moment in my life. In 1995, I was paid Rs 300 for hosting it, and I liked it. Then I expressed a desire to act and was chosen for a role in Husn-e-Jana. 

Divya Bharadwaj Bhattacharya. | Credit: Kashi

Thereafter, I joined a workshop, and that gave me the opportunity to get into theatre. My parents never opposed this. I then did Kachchi Sadak as the lead, which was based on Amrita Pritam’s work. In 1999, I moved to Mumbai and did Rishtey for Zee. Thereafter, I shifted to Lucknow for personal reasons and got married. 

What made you put your acting career on hold?

After moving back, I took a sabbatical as there were no good job opportunities in Lucknow. I did work off-screen and even worked as a Production Manager on Gadar but nothing on-screen. Then there was a complete break after the birth of my daughter Kashi. 

How did your comeback materialise?

I had done a play with actor Anil Rastogi in 1996. Many years later, in 2022, he called me and said that he wanted me to play the lead opposite him in Swaha. It was the role of a 65-year-old woman. I spoke to the director, Shubhdeep Raha-- who is an alumnus of the National School of Drama (NSD)-- and eventually agreed to return. The script was powerful. I convey my thanks to him. 

Divya with Anil Rastogi in Swaha. | Credit: Instagram/Anil Rastogi

I drew strength from my elder daughter. She said that we have heard about how you used to act, and now we want to see you live. It's time you prove yourself again. 

How was the experience of facing the lights again?

When I returned initially, confidence jaa chuka tha. I needed someone to hold my finger again so that I could regain it. The first show was housefull and that worked wonders for me. We have since performed the play 16 times. 

How did you prepare for your role in Swaha?

I was playing a Bangladeshi woman in the play. My husband helped me learn the slang that I needed to know. Moreover, my family was supportive of my comeback. There were also no complaints from the children, which helped. 

Do you regret putting your career on hold when you were in what many would call the prime of your life?

There aren’t any regrets. Had I not taken a break, I would have missed the opportunity to be with my parents in their last days. I would have also missed out on the joy of bringing up the kids