Shah Alam Shazu

For actor and dancer Nadia Ahmed, football has always been more than just a game. But this time, her love for the sport turned into a once-in-a-lifetime memory — watching Argentina play live from the stadium, with Lionel Messi on the field.

As she prepares to celebrate her birthday today (June 18), legendary actress and cultural icon Ferdousi Mazumder, born in 1943, reflects on a remarkable journey that spans theatre, television, radio, film, literature, and education. A recipient of both the Independence Award and the Ekushey Padak for her contributions to acting, she has also been honoured with the Bangla Academy Literary Award for her writing.

With World Cup fever sweeping across the country, The Daily Star caught up with the actor to learn more about his favourite team and his fondest football memories.

Generations have changed, cinema has evolved, and the industry has transformed. Yet Shabana remains as cherished as ever—a timeless icon whose legacy continues to inspire. And perhaps that is why one statement still rings true today: there is no comparison for Shabana except Shabana herself.

“Yes, many years ago,” she said. “He was an extraordinary footballer. Watching Maradona was always a special experience. There was something unique and beautiful about the way he played. That is why he remains Maradona.”

The Daily Star hosted a star-studded roundtable with Ekushey Padak-winning actor-director Mamunur Rashid, filmmaker Gias Uddin Selim, TV directors Sohel Arman, Animesh Aich, Arif Khan, Aranyo Anawer, Shakal Ahmed, and theatre actor-director Tropa Majumdar, discussing television’s shift from a cultural powerhouse to a medium struggling for survival.

For Azizul Hakim, football may not have become a lifelong profession, but the lessons, memories and dreams forged on the pitch continue to shape the person he is today.

Fans are competing to hoist their favourite team’s flag. Showbiz celebrities are no different. Each has a team they love and support.