Swagata’s journey through cinema, music and upcoming films

Zinat Sanu Swagata has worn many hats over the years — film and television actor, model, presenter and singer. Yet, one of the lesser-known chapters of her career began when she was barely three and a half years old.

The daughter of late musician and Bangladesh Television music composer Khoda Boksh Sanu, Swagata grew up surrounded by music and the arts. She started learning music from her father at an early age, but long before audiences came to know her as an actress, she had already appeared on the big screen.

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Between the ages of three and a half and seven, Swagata acted in four films. Her childhood screen debut came with “Linza”, followed by “Satiputra Abdullah”, “Shomman” and "Top Mastan". It is a part of her journey that remains largely unknown to many.

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Looking back, Swagata says she entered films at such a young age largely because of her parents.

Today, with a career spanning acting, music, modelling and presenting, Swagata continues to remain connected to the arts. One of her films, “Manusher Bagan”, is currently awaiting release after receiving censor clearance.

Swagata enrolled at Tarang Lalitkala Academy when she was young, where she received training in acting. She said she began learning music from her father, Khoda Boksh. "Music lessons were held at our home. My father taught me," she said.

She also said, "I learnt classical music from Anil Kumar Saha when I was young. To be honest, my love for music goes back many years. Although audiences mostly know me as an actress, I have continued to pursue music."

Speaking about her father, Swagata said, "My father was a music composer for Bangladesh Television. I learnt many things about music from him. I received a lot of support from my father and mother."

Renowned cultural personality Abdullah Al Mamun was the head of Swagata's university's Film and Media Department. Swagata said, "I was very happy to have Abdullah Al Mamun Sir at that time. He was an immensely talented person. One day, Sir told me, 'I'm writing a series for you. You have to act on it.' I told him, 'I want to become a filmmaker. I am more interested in directing.' Sir said, 'Who told you that you can't do anything else if you act? You can do everything while acting as well.'"

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Swagata said she was deeply impressed by his words. "I liked what sir said. I had once thought I would never act and would only pursue music. I was completely focused on music and had big dreams centred around it. But Abdullah Al Mamun sir encouraged me to act. He told me I would do well in acting. When I was a little reluctant, he said, 'Why wouldn't you be able to? You can do everything.' After that, I acted in “Ek Jonome”, a series written by sir."

Swagata acted in Abdullah Al Mamun's “Ek Jonome” more than 20 years ago. She said, "It was a big opportunity for me. The script was beautiful and there was ample scope to perform. Most importantly, renowned actress Ferdousi Majumdar was also in the drama. There were many other prominent artistes as well. Getting the opportunity to work alongside them was a big deal for me."

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She has also acted alongside Nayak Raj Razzak and worked in films directed by Kazi Hayat. Her most recently released film is “Deyaler Desh”.

Swagata's film “Manusher Bagan” is awaiting release and has already received censor clearance.

Swagata first appeared as a heroine opposite popular actor Manna in “Shotru Shotru Khela”. The film generated considerable discussion at the time. Swagata said, "I received a lot of praise from everyone after working with Manna bhai”.