Badhon to star in 'Gulshaner Chameli', explains ‘activist’ role

After building a career that has moved seamlessly between independent cinema, international festival favourites and streaming platforms, Azmeri Haque Badhon is preparing for a different kind of project. Her next film, “Gulshaner Chameli”, marks a return to mainstream Bangladeshi commercial cinema—one she says was driven by the strength of its female-centred story rather than its genre.

"My character is quite intriguing," Badhon told The Daily Star. "The story revolves around women, and I have always wanted to work on female-driven narratives. Altogether, I feel this could become something special."

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Directed by Mohammad Iqbal, “Gulshaner Chameli” is being produced by Jahangir Sikder from a screenplay by Abdullah Zahir Babu. Badhon will portray a human rights activist.

The film also features veteran actors Rozina, Misha Sawdagor, Omar Sani, and Amin Khan, while the title role will be played by an Indian actress, whose name has yet to be announced.
For Badhon, the project also offers an opportunity to share the screen with performers she has admired for years.

"There are many senior actors in this film," she said. "Working alongside such accomplished artistes will be a new experience for me."

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Over the past few years, Badhon has built a diverse body of work, from “Rehana Maryam Noor”, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, to collaborations with acclaimed filmmakers including Srijit Mukherji and Tanim Noor. Most recently, she received praise for her performance in the commercially successful “Bonolota Express”.

Reflecting on her varied career choices, she said she welcomes opportunities that allow her to step into unfamiliar territory.

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"I've worked with Srijit Mukherji, with Tanim Noor, and I have done ‘Rehana Maryam Noor’. I've had the chance to work in many different kinds of productions. This film will be another new experience."

Badhon also praised the professionalism she has encountered since joining the project. "So far, both the director and the producer have treated me with great respect. That has meant a great deal to me."

Production on the film is expected to begin soon.