Shah Alam Shazu

Azmeri Haque Badhan has been steadily returning to the spotlight with a string of new projects after a challenging period in her career.

The day has been celebrated for many years, when women speak about their rights and independence. In that spirit, four actresses shared their thoughts on Women’s Day with The Daily Star.

“I’ve always spent my birthdays with my family,” she said with a smile. “This year was no different. I enjoy keeping the day simple and close to the people who matter most.”

With Eid just around the corner, discussions about new film releases are already in full swing in Dhallywood. Some predict a record number of releases this Eid, while others question whether there are enough cinema halls to accommodate them all. But who are the leading ladies of the films awaiting release? Let’s take a look.

The film is based on the novel “Kichukkhon” by acclaimed writer Humayun Ahmed.

On the other hand, Beauty remains busy with stage shows throughout the year. She said, “There are stage shows lined up after Eid. Stage performances mean getting closer to the audience through music.”

Some say a record number of films may be released, though theaters are not as many as before. Like previous Eids, Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan will have a new movie this Eid.

The film is slated for release this coming Eid and features a star-studded ensemble, five of whom shared their thoughts on the much-anticipated project.

Over the course of her illustrious acting life, Babita has earned numerous accolades. But this one, she insists, stands apart.

Regarding Raihan Rafi’s body of work, he said, “I have watched his other films. He makes outstanding cinema, which is why audiences go to see his films. I have watched them myself. Rafi means diversity and something new.”

In the Eid drama “Happy Divorce”, directed by Topu Khan, Mou plays one of two sisters alongside Keya Payel. Describing the story as a family drama, she praised the director’s organisation and the ensemble cast.

He added firmly, “One day, the country may regret. It may say, why should he not receive the Independence Award? I fought directly in the war.” There was no bitterness in his voice, only conviction.

At midnight, Shajal cut a cake with his parents. “Cutting a birthday cake with my parents feels truly special. I am here because of them. I pray they live many more years,” he said.

She concluded by expressing gratitude towards the director for trusting her with such a role. “He believed I could carry the story. For that, I’m truly thankful.”

With the country entering a new political chapter following the parliamentary election, attention is also turning to the future of the cultural sector. Artistes across disciplines are hoping for stability, institutional support and an environment where creative expression can thrive without fear or disruption.

The definition of love varies from person to person. To some, love means trust; to others, it means dependence. Celebrities, too, have shared diverse opinions on what love means to them. Let us take a look at what they have said

While stories of broken marriages often make headlines, there are equally inspiring examples of couples who have spent years under the same roof in love and harmony. Several star couples have been together in enduring affection for decades. This Valentine’s Day, we spotlight four such couples who exemplify such love.

For more than two decades, Sushama Sarker has remained familiar and had a respected presence in Bangladesh’s theatre scene.

Babita is an internationally acclaimed film actress. After acting in Satyajit Ray’s “Ashani Sanket”, she was honoured in many places around the world. In her own country, she has received the National Film Award many times. She has also received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Film Awards. The Mayor of Dallas gave her a lifetime honour. She has received many other awards and honours as well.

The actor credited much of his personal and professional stability to his wife, Shirin. “Her contribution is immense. After marriage, I was working, acting, dedicating long hours to theatre and television. She held the family together. I would say ninety per cent of what I am today is because of her,” he said.