Zahid Akbar

In 2024, we lost several prominent figures from the entertainment world. Though they have departed, their contributions to film, television, music, and dance will remain etched in our memories. Here are some of the individuals we lost this year.

The web-series “Rongila Kitab”, directed by Anam Biswas, premiered on the OTT platform Hoichoi on November 8. Adapted from Kinkar Ahsan’s novel of the same name, this series unfolds across eight episodes. 

Anam Biswas became a household name after his much-appreciated movie “Debi”. His directorials tend to reflect his talent, and he has garnered praise for every project he’s undertaken—be it a film or web content. Besides directing, Anam is also recognised for his songwriting skills.

Kushum Shikder, known for her powerful performances in “Gohine Shobdo” and the National Award-winning “Shankhachil,” has made a bold transition from an acclaimed actress to a filmmaker with her directorial debut, “Shoroter Joba.” Released on October 11, this marks a pivotal moment in her career, where she not only took the reins as director but also wrote the screenplay and led the film's production.

Ethun Babu, most known for composing the all-time hit “O Priya Tumi Kothay”, was prosecuted by the previous government for merely voicing out his political opinions.

"I was banned for a full seven years due to my political identity. Although it may seem irrelevant, the Covid pandemic taught me a lot. I realised that one can survive with fewer possessions. Excessive food and luxuries are unnecessary, and true peace comes from standing closely with people in need," shared Kanak Chapa.

Industry insiders point to one major cause: The reluctance of production companies. In the current political climate, investors are hesitant to back new films. Producers prefer to wait until the situation in the country stabilises before committing to any major projects. 

With social media activity at a standstill and the curfew ongoing, many are left wondering how celebrities are coping without the internet. Although broadband internet resumed on Tuesday night in a few regions, Facebook remains inaccessible, leaving many feeling disconnected. We reached out to some of our favourite celebrities to see how they are handling this digital hiatus.

The Raihan Rafi directorial was expected to run for the foreseeable future before the quota reform protests started. According to the producers, the film earned around Tk 25 crore, a rare feat for a Bangladeshi film. Even though some people did go see the film at the start of the movement, cinema halls had to close down after nationwide violence started, claiming the lives of many involved.

In the first six months of this year, around 30 films have been released in the country, with only a few achieving notable commercial successes. However, several movies and songs have generated significant buzz in the entertainment industry and among audiences.

The artiste was honoured with the National Film Award eight times. He first won the National Award in 1982 for the song “Hayre Manush Rongin Phanush” from the film “Boro Bhalo Lok Chilo”, with lyrics by Syed Shamsul Haque and composed by Alam Khan.

This Eid-ul-Azha, Eamin Haque Bobby starrer film “Moyurakkhi” was released nationwide. Shortly after, the actress expressed disappointment in her portrayal, claiming it did not match what was promised. She also accused the film’s director, Rashid Polash, of not paying her full remuneration.

Over the past few years, films starring Shakib Khan have consistently dominated the box office post-release. All things considered, local audiences have undoubtedly and eagerly been embracing this leading star's films.

Several movies, songs, and OTT content have hit the screens and digital platforms during Eid ul-Azha, garnering significant attention and applause from audiences. Among them, the spotlight has prominently shone on the movie "Toofan", directed by Raihan Rafi.

The film's poster and a 30-second teaser have already been released, garnering praise from viewers. The teaser depicts a dramatic scene where a pilot pleads for help during an airplane hijacking.

Shimana emerged in showbiz in 2006 through the Lux-Channel i Superstar competition. She gained wide recognition for her role as Kakoli in the drama "Sakin Sarisuri", directed by Salahuddin Lavlu.

Dhallywood ‘King’ Shakib Khan has been single-handedly dominating our film industry for over two decades now. The actor, who began his career with Sohanur Rahman Sohan’s "Ananta Bhalobasha" (May 28, 1999), notably completed 25 years in Dhallywood, today. To celebrate the momentous occasion of hitting his silver jubilee, the actor cut 25 different cakes.

Recently, Zayed Khan addressed some issues in detail with The Daily Star in an exclusive interview. The actor also shed light on regaining his membership, his feud with fellow artiste Nipun, his love life, marriage, and his current showbiz projects.

Today marks the first death anniversary of the legendary actor Farooque. On this day of remembrance, actress Farida Akhtar Babita shared her memories of the iconic actor. Together, they starred as a duo in nearly 40 films.

Following the release of 11 Dhallywood films for and on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, there have been changes in the line-up of movies still screened during the third week. Certain theatres have witnessed a decrease in screenings, while others have seen an increase. Additionally, there's been varied buzz surrounding different films, with some garnering more attention than others.