Deepto Star Hunt winner Misti Ghosh, a performer from Kishoreganj, recently spoke in Dhaka about her acting career, her lifelong connection with dance, and her plans for the future as she continues to establish herself in Bangladesh’s television industry.
In a conversation with The TIMES of Bangladesh, the actress reflected on a career path that began unexpectedly through social media. Regularly sharing dance videos online brought her to the attention of casting directors, creating her first opportunities in the entertainment industry.
However, Misti admitted that she was initially hesitant about pursuing acting professionally because of the negative perceptions often associated with the media industry.
That changed after she participated in Deepto TV’s reality show ‘Deepto Star Hunt’, where she emerged as the winner. The achievement opened new doors and encouraged her to take acting more seriously.
Currently, Misti plays the lead role in Deepto TV’s mega serial ‘Khusbu’, which she describes as a turning point in her career. She also appeared in the drama ‘Oporichita’, directed by Rubel Anush, alongside veteran actor Abul Hayat.
Discussing her inspirations, Misti said the work of Afran Nisho and Mehazabien Chowdhury has long attracted her.
“There was a time when I watched their performances and wished I could work like that,” she said.
She also cited television dramas from the 1990s, particularly the works of Humayun Ahmed, among her favourites.
While viewership numbers often dominate discussions about success in the entertainment industry, Misti believes quality should remain the primary consideration.
According to her, views are important, but they cannot replace good work. If given a choice between a highly viewed project and one with stronger artistic merit, she would choose the latter.
The actress believes talent and merit are the most important factors for long-term success in the industry. She said people with genuine ability do not need shortcuts and stressed that professional decisions ultimately remain a matter of personal choice.
When asked about her dream co-star, Misti named Zahid Hasan, saying she has long hoped to work alongside him.
She also emphasised the importance of family support. The irregular schedule of acting would have been difficult to manage without the encouragement of her mother and elder sister, whom she credits as playing a particularly significant role in her journey.
Artistic pursuits have always been part of her upbringing. While she was trained in dance, her sister learned music and her brother studied tabla, creating a family environment rooted in cultural practice.
Dance remains central to her identity. She began training at the age of five under instructor Manas Kar and developed skills across folk, classical and contemporary forms. Even today, she describes dance as her first love and acting as her second.
Although she is now a regular presence on television, Misti is in no hurry to move into films. She believes that cinema requires a different level of preparation and intends to wait until she feels fully ready for the challenge.
Her perspective on success has also evolved over time.
“At one stage I thought success was the most important thing. Experience has taught me that mental satisfaction is far more valuable,” she said.
The actress described herself as deeply committed to her craft, often feeling pressure before filming scenes because she wants to give her best performance. Among her recent roles, she considers Shyuli in the drama ‘Ek Ticket Dui Chobi’ to be her favourite.
She said she became so immersed in the character that she sometimes felt she could remain Shyuli forever. Looking ahead, she hopes to take on roles that require months of preparation and allow for deeper character development.
Audience recognition continues to motivate her. She recalled being recognised by a fan at a stadium through her character in ‘Khusbu’, adding that moments of appreciation from viewers are among the most rewarding aspects of her work.
Before entering the entertainment industry, Misti worked in digital marketing for a fashion house. Had acting not become part of her life, she believes she might have continued in that profession, started a business, or pursued dance full-time.
Despite a busy schedule, she now hopes to find more time for travel and exploring new places. At the same time, she remains grateful for the opportunities she continues to receive.
As for the future, Misti says her priorities are clear. Rather than focusing on popularity, she wants to create work that she herself would enjoy as a viewer.
For Misti, that is where the true fulfilment of acting lies.
