Well-known actor, Trinamool Congress nominee for Bankura Lok Sabha constituency in West Bengal and daughter of legendary actor Suchitra Sen, Moon Moon Sen is pitted against nine times MP Basudeb Acharya of the CPI(M). She tells Arup Chanda that she is ready to honour the promises made to the people.
Would your mother have approved of your joining politics?
No. She would have been too worried. She didn’t like the idea of my acting in “jatra” (folk theatre) because of the physical strain involved. She wanted me to look after my children and husband. But she would be very happy and proud whenever I succeeded.
After being in films were you ready for politics?
Yes. I would like to do some social work. People have showered their love on me. My mother has taught me a few truths. I hope to abide by them. My Ma’s extraordinary backing is my asset. I don't want to do anything which will hurt the people or Mamata Banerjee. I don't want people to say, “She is a film star. She just came, showed her glamour and left.”
Mamata Banerjee had helped during the last days of Suchitra Sen. Is the decision to contest, a gratitude towards her?
Of course, that’s there. She has a lot of courage. Thousands of people come to listen to her.
Are you confident to win?
Yes, I am. Initially, I was new. But having toured my constituency and with such a good team of Trinamool Congress helping me, our victory is assured. I have been under the spotlight throughout my life. Politics is an unknown arena. But I have learnt a lot during the last one month. Trinamool is doing very well. It would have won here even without me.
How about personal attacks in politics?
It is there and might become worse. The party will decide my course of action. They have a definite plan and definite task for me. Even other film stars who have been nominated will follow the guideline.
You are contesting against a formidable opponent.
(Stops before question is completed) Please, formidable or not is a big question. People in big cities like Kolkata are tomtoming his name as being 'formidable'. They should come to Bankura to see that even after being elected nine times to Parliament, he has done nothing for the people here. He has never shown his face here. People here are fed up with him. Hardly 50 people are turning up to meet him as he is going around now.
How does it feel to be in the dust and heat of Bankura?
I have worked under worse conditions while shooting here. I am not new to Bankura. I have come here innumerable times for shooting and jatras. The situations are identical. I am not a hardcore politician and have a very long way to go.
What will be your priorities if you become MP?
My priorities will be providing water, uplifting education, building schools and colleges from the funds I will get as an MP. I would have to be in Delhi during the Parliament sessions. But I will remain in Kolkata and would like to visit Bankura at least once a month and try to resolve the problems.