In a remarkable display of talent beyond their call of duty, several officers from the Kolkata Police are making significant strides in the world of arts, including acting, storytelling, and music composition. These men in khaki and white are proving that a demanding career in law enforcement can successfully coexist with a passionate pursuit of the creative arts.
From Anti-Terror Ops to OTT Stardom
Alok Sanyal, who recently retired as a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) and now serves as an OSD involved in community policing, has had an exceptionally busy year on screen. Despite his pivotal role in the police commissioner's office, Sanyal has managed to build an impressive acting portfolio. He has appeared in popular OTT series such as ‘Birangana', ‘Bibhishon', and ‘Advocate Achintya Aich'. His film credits include ‘Benaras e Eken', ‘Dawshom Awbotaar', and ‘Killbill Society', with upcoming releases ‘Waiting Room' and ‘Loho Gouranger Naam Re' eagerly awaited.
"I always put my job as top priority. But I decided to pursue my hobbies, too," Sanyal stated, explaining his disciplined approach. "I shoot on weekends. I shoot late at night and early in the morning. When I work, I give my very best. When I shoot, I give my very best too. I enjoy both jobs and do not see any conflict between the two."
His journey into acting began during his school days. While posted as the assistant commissioner of traffic police in 2016, he made his screen debut with an advertisement film. However, his major breakthrough in feature films came with Srijato's ‘Manobjomin' in 2023.
Policemen Turned Storytellers and Lyricists
Another officer balancing duty with creativity is Debasis Datta, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Maniktala Police Station. Datta was recognized for penning ‘Mrigaya' and had two of his short films showcased at the prestigious Kolkata International Film Festival last year, with one even featuring him as a lyricist.
"I am OC of Maniktala PS. Hence, I chose the oddest times to shoot — sometimes 4 am, sometimes post 11 pm," Datta revealed, highlighting the logistical challenges he overcomes for his art.
His short film ‘Shiva', which has been screened at 39 film festivals worldwide, explores the footballing dreams of a child from the slums. Another film, ‘Tel' (oiling), delves into the intense pressures of the corporate rat race. Furthermore, one of his stories is being adapted into a crime thriller that will incorporate two songs he wrote, and another film project is set to use two more of his compositions.
A Police Commissioner's Foray into Music
Murlidhar Sharma, the Commissioner of Barrackpore Police, has also ventured into the arts, composing a song for the film ‘Mrigaya'. Preferring to stay humble about his accomplishment, Sharma said, "I am a Ghazal writer. I write Urdu poetry. I write what comes to my mind. It (the film song) just happened."
These officers represent a growing trend of individuals who refuse to be defined by a single profession. They handle critical responsibilities, from anti-terror operations at the KP STF and managing riots in Behala to dealing with agitations like Hok Kolorob and vandalism at RG Kar Hospital. Yet, they have found the drive and time to cultivate their artistic passions, offering a fresh and inspiring perspective on the lives of those who serve in the Indian police force.
