Shah Alam Shazu

As The Daily Star celebrates 35 years, these voices from the creative community underline a shared sentiment—of trust, expectation, and a desire to see the publication continue championing culture, truth, and the stories that matter.

To be honest, the drama will conclude next month. For all of us who have been part of this journey, working together for so long, it had begun to feel like a family. That is why the ending feels quite emotional.

longside delivering numerous commercially successful films, she has also directed television dramas and films over the years.

He also recalled that Tanvir Mokammel once told him “Naiori” could have been a film, but since it aired on television, it did not receive the recognition it deserved. “The structure of our industry has, in many ways, limited us. More work could have been done, but quality is always a consideration,” he added.

Notably, some of Matia Banu Shuku’s well-known television serials include “Gollachhut”, “To-Let”, and “Ekta Kinle Arekta Free”. She is also the daughter of Language Movement veteran Abdul Matin.

At sixty, Tauquir Ahmed stands at a point where a life in the arts begins to take on its full shape. Today (April 19), at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, colleagues gathered to take stock of a career that has moved steadily across theatre, television, and film.

Despite the decline, directors agree that audience demand for strong storytelling remains.

I give credit to everyone who was with me during the making, including the artistes, scriptwriters, cinematographers, and the entire team who gave 100% of their labour and love.

For Bengalis, Pahela Baishakh is more than just the first day of the year—it is a feeling, a rhythm of life that returns with colour, music, and the promise of renewal. Long before city processions and curated celebrations, the day lived in simpler, more intimate moments—village fairs, homemade delicacies, and shared joy.

Asha Bhosle (1933-2026) was a legend not only in the context of South Asia, but the entire musical world feels her absence.

On a lighter note, when asked who wished him first on his birthday, his face softens. “My daughter,” he says with a smile. “She’s grown up now. She cares for me, even scolds me—just like a mother would.

Asked how it felt to be back, she smiles, reflecting on the familiarity of the space. “The Faculty of Fine Arts is a place I deeply love. I studied there, so it will always remain very special to me.

At his Dhanmondi residence, veteran actor and playwright Mamunur Rashid, sits with the quiet assurance of a man who has spent more than half a century shaping the soul of Bangla theatre. Widely regarded as one of its driving forces, his work has long bridged the emotional landscapes of audiences across both sides of Bengal.

Actor Sushama Sarkar, known for her work across theatre, television, film, and OTT platforms, has recently received strong audience response for her performances in television dramas.

With three upcoming releases, Mim is set to showcase her versatility—focusing on meaningful roles rather than frequent appearances.

Veteran actor Dolly Zahur has described her Eid release “Domm” as a rare departure from conventional storytelling, as the film draws a positive response from audiences.

Ending on a warm note, Ujjal said, “Today is Alamgir’s birthday. I send him my heartfelt prayers and love. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.”

Mosharraf Karim, widely admired across Bangladesh and beyond, continues to receive praise for his performance in the Eid release “Bonolota Express”. The film, directed by Tanim Noor, has emerged as one of the most successful releases of the season.

When asked whether she had managed to watch all her Eid releases, she said she had seen several and plans to catch up on the rest. “I’ve also watched others’ work. I feel there’s more variety in Eid dramas now, with diverse storytelling coming through.”

It is also worth mentioning that his film “Insaaf”, released last year, was well received by audiences.