Shah Alam Shazu

Decades after he first appeared as the doomed lover, Bulbul Ahmed remains, for countless viewers, the face of “Devdas” in Bangladeshi cinema.

With “The Difficult Bride”, Badhan is preparing for another major festival appearance. She is travelling to Venice today to attend the festival.

For veteran actress Suchanda, Uttam Kumar was never simply a celebrated screen idol. He was the hero she eagerly waited to see on the big screen, the actor whose films she followed with the excitement of a devoted fan, and the star whose voice, mannerisms and personality stayed with her long after the lights came up in the cinema hall.

He subsequently acted in the television dramas “Talpatar Sepai” and “Nikhoj Shongbad”. However, financial stability had remained a distant reality for much of his early career. “I never imagined I would actually earn money from acting. We were many siblings, and my father was a teacher,” he said. While studying at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chanchal supported himself by tutoring students.

“I want to continue being part of films, but only if they are meaningful. I’m receiving scripts, but I’ll only commit to a project when I genuinely connect with it.”

Popular actor Faruque Ahmed is set to return to the literary scene with his fifth book, “Muchhe Jaowa Dinguli”, a memoir drawing largely from real-life experiences.

Kumar Bishwajit has enjoyed a long and illustrious career in music. Through his quality work, he has carved out a unique place for himself in the country’s music scene. Several of his songs have become household favourites, earning him the reputation of an evergreen singer. He has received numerous accolades at home and abroad, including the National Film Award on multiple occasions.

“So much came into my life. I became famous and achieved multiple honours, but my mother never got to see any of it. I will carry that pain for the rest of my life,” Babita says.

“I am happy that we are going to present a play before the audience. It is a great joy for me, especially because it is theatre. Performing on stage brings a different kind of joy,” she told The Daily Star.

Looking ahead, Mim wants to take on more distinctive projects. “I have been fortunate to be part of good films throughout my career. I believe choosing meaningful work is my way of returning the love, blessings and appreciation audiences have given me.”

For now, her work and family take up most of her time. “I have to give a lot of time to my office, and I love my work. Outside the office, I spend lovely moments with my sister’s child. My parents are at home, and I spend time with them. That is all I can say — I am doing well.”

“Razzak had many qualities. He possessed a strong work ethic and a willingness to work hard. He was honest. That is why he was able to take himself to such great heights. He managed to find a place in the hearts of audiences, and they embraced him as one of their own,” Suchanda said.

Nayak Raj Razzak remains one of the most beloved figures in the country’s cinematic history. 

As today marks Farooque’s birth anniversary (August 18), internationally acclaimed actress Babita spoke to The Daily Star about her memories of the late actor.

“I have acted opposite many heroines, but I have rarely come across someone with a heart as big as hers.” On Shabnam’s 80th birthday, Sohel Rana offered his heartfelt wishes to the legendary actress.

"I learned from Sadi Mohammad, from Sanjib da, and from many others over the years. To be honest, music is deeply rooted within me. I've always loved singing."

Acclaimed actor Chanchal Chowdhury is gearing up for the release of his new film "Andhar", directed by Raihan Rafi. Playing Shamsher in the big-budget production, Chanchal says the film ventures into territory rarely explored in Bangladeshi cinema.

Despite enjoying the shoot, she misses one person dearly. "I'm in Nepal, but the person I miss the most is my son, Joy. I miss him terribly."

Despite adapting to life in the UK, she admits that Dhaka remains close to her heart. "I miss Dhaka so much. I even miss riding rickshaws despite the traffic. I miss eating chotpoti and fuchka. I miss every corner of the city. I'm here because life has brought me here, but I miss Bangladesh every single day." Speaking about her family, she said, "My daughter lives in Australia, while my only son is studying at school in London. I have a few plans for the future."

As a cultural icon, his contribution to stage theatre has been immense. Even at the age of 86, he continues to perform on stage in the productions “Love Letters” and “Meraj Fakirer Ma”.