Raima and her pooch Dasho seem to make a picture-perfect duo.
Text: Buddy Life editor Pradeep Verma
Raima Sen has always carried herself with a quiet grace— an actress who doesn’t need to announce her presence, because her lineage and her artistry speak for her. From the luminous legacy of her grandmother Suchitra Sen to her own acclaimed performances in Bengali and Hindi cinema, Raima has carved out a space that is both timeless and contemporary.
But away from the arc lights and applause, Raima’s world is tender, unhurried and filled with the kind of love that only pets can inspire. Her Shih Tzu, Dasho, is more than a companion; he’s family, confidant and comic relief rolled into one furry bundle. Friends say Raima lights up differently when she talks about him—her voice softens, her laughter lingers and her eyes sparkle with the kind of affection that fame can’t conjure up.
In her home, glamour doesn’t vanish—it softens, melts and mingles with gentleness. The bond between Raima and her four-legged companions is more than affection; it’s a living reminder that love, in its purest form, is not performed or rehearsed—it’s mutual, messy, and magnificently real. Buddy Life editor Pradeep Verma in a spirited conversation with Raima Sen.
You welcomed Dasho after years without a dog. How did that decision transform your daily life and emotions?
Raima: We’ve always had dogs — my father always had dogs, but after losing our last one, we decided not to keep any for a while. During the lockdown, I brought Dasho home after 10–15 years. I didn’t know what it would entail, I was very excited and scared at the same time, but it turned out to be the best decision. He has changed my entire life. Raising him from the start made me more caring, more responsible and I discovered how much love I had to give. I almost feel like his mother.
Do tell us more about the origin of his name. Does he live up to it by dashing around, or is he more of a couch philosopher?
Raima: Dasho’s name has its origins in Bhutan. We have a lot of friends in Bhutan. As kids we always used to visit Bhutan for our family holidays and they used to come down. True to his name, Dasho dashes around when he wants a chewy, but mostly he’s a lap baby. Otherwise, he bosses everyone around and makes sure he’s greeted first and played with first.
How does Dasho show that he understands you—are there particular words or gestures he responds to?
Raima: His ears perk up, he nods his head, moves it from side to side and understands everything we say. He responds to favourite words and gestures.
Dasho seems rooted mostly in Kolkata life. Why do you prefer keeping him there rather than making him travel?
Raima: Actually, it’s funny — Dasho hasn’t travelled at all. I haven’t had the chance to bring him anywhere. I go to Mumbai primarily for work. He’s most comfortable in Kolkata with my mom, the building staff, and everyone who adores him. I don’t want to make him travel unless it is absolutely necessary.
West Bengal is often described as “Baro Mase Tero Parbon” (13 festivals in 12 months). Durga Puja and other festivities are steeped in food and tradition. How do you make these festivals special for Dasho — does he get his own kosha mangsho moment?
Raima: “No kosha mangsho moment, but he gets little bits of sweets, roshogullas or pantuas. He loves sweets.”
Having three moms (Moon Moon, Riya, and you) of royal lineage — Dasho couldn’t have wished for more. Who spoils Dasho the most, and what’s the most extravagant treat he’s received?
Raima: All three of us pamper him, but my mother spoils him the most. She gives him everything she eats. We make homemade chewies since he’s allergic to most other things. On birthdays, he gets a little cake or sweets.
Shih Tzus are known to be such velcros. Would you say Dasho is the hook and you’re the loop — and who else in the family does he cling to most?
Raima: Dasho clings to me the most. He plays with everyone, sleeps with my mom at night, but in the afternoons, he comes to me. I think he doesn’t get enough of me since I’m in and out.
Does Dasho ever crash your me time — say, when you’re watching OTT shows or preening your social media avatar? Or, is it the other way around, with Dasho making you feel that you are butting into his me-time?
Raima: We both butt into each other’s metime. When I’m doing yoga or meditation, he jumps on me and kisses me. When he’s napping, I pick him up and cuddle him. It’s mutual mischief.
We’ve heard that apart from walking Dasho, you also take him to pet cafés. How’s the experience for both of you? Any suggestions for upping the quality of service at the cafés?
Raima: Yes, we go to dog cafés in Calcutta. I wish there were more cafés with a variety of food for dogs. Dasho sits quietly beside me, wants my food but gets his own bowl. I’ve taken him to clubs and hotels that allow pets. I take him to Tolly club, it’s great fun.
He looks to be such a pampered doggo on Instagram; does Dasho ever surprise you with mischief—digging carpets, zoomies or pulling the classic Shih Tzu “noodle” trick?
Raima: He’s spoiled and a bully. He bullies the cook for food, bullies me to take him down. He often creates havoc and bullies Rita, the house help to play many games with him and then has his food. He does zoomies daily, creates drama at mealtimes, and no one says no to him.
What’s Dasho’s grooming routine—daily brushing by you, or does he prefer the professional spa treatment every few weeks?
Raima: A dog boy comes three times a week. Once in two months I take him to the parlor, which he hates but it’s good for him.
When Dasho curls up beside you after a long day, what does “home” feel like in that moment—sound, smell and heart?
Raima: When Dasho curls up beside me and snores, it’s the best moment. I’m very sensitive to noise, but his snoring feels comforting. When he snores or puts his head on my chest, there is no greater feeling. He’s the only one who can share the bed with me.
And finally, if Dasho could play matchmaker, what kind of date would he set up for you—and would you trust his instincts?
Raima: Dasho is very possessive. If he had to set up a date, he’d just set himself up with me, locked in the bedroom 24/7. He doesn’t let me talk to anyone without demanding attention first.
