Advocate Anjali Awasthi Star Puneet Chouksey On Shooting In Kolkata: It Feels Like A Living Piece Of Art

Actor Puneett Chouksey talks about the distinct rhythm of shooting in Kolkata, the city's festive energy, and why Mandarmani Beach is his perfect getaway. Shooting in Kolkata has been a refreshing change for Puneett Chouksey, who plays the lead role of Ved Rajyavanshi in Advocate Anjali Awasthi. The actor says the city's pace, culture, and people have given him a very different experience compared to Mumbai.

"Shooting in Kolkata has been a very different experience compared to Mumbai," Puneett shares. "The techniques, direction style, and overall approach to filming have their own unique rhythm. The crew here is like family - super supportive and collaborative, which makes the set feel warm and grounded."

He notes that the work culture in the two cities also stands in contrast. "Mumbai is more systemized and time-bound, while Kolkata feels more intimate and detail-focused."

What stands out most for the actor is the city's vibe. "Kolkata is a big metro but feels like a living piece of art," he says. "The festival season from September to December is massive - Durga Puja, Diwali, Christmas - the energy is incredible. I also enjoy the history: old libraries, museums, and heritage spots give the city so much character."

For Puneett, the people truly embody Kolkata's title as the 'City of Joy'. "Everyone is joyful, warm, and helpful," he says. "Daily life has its own pace. Many shops close from 2 to 6 in the afternoon, and evenings wind down earlier than Mumbai. But the food scene is amazing, with great local cuisine and nice cafes and restaurants."

When it's time to unwind, the actor heads to Mandarmani Beach, about two hours from the city. "It feels like Kolkata's version of Goa," he says. "It's clean, scenic, and less crowded. I went with a few co-actor friends, and we did beach rides and sports. The company made it a really fun, relaxing break from shoots."

Puneett has completed over a decade in television, headlining prominent roles such as Arjun Venkatraman in Naati Pinky Ki Lambi Love Story and Ekansh Agnivanshi in Baazi Ishq Ki. He starred as Dr. Akshay Kaul in Shakti - Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki and Anshul Oberoi in Sirf Tum, and expanded into streaming platforms with the web series Ishq Aaj Kal.