‘Support comes from unexpected places’: Badhan reflects on Venice ordeal

Actor Azmeri Haque Badhan has reflected on the difficult experience she faced in Venice and expressed gratitude to those who stood by her after she was allegedly assaulted while attending the Venice International Film Festival.

In a Facebook post on Thursday night, Badhan wrote, “When life puts you through difficult times, always remember that something beautiful may be waiting for you on the other side.”

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Reflecting on the experience, the “Rehana Maryam Noor” actor wrote, “What a long journey it has been! A journey filled with difficult moments — humiliation, harassment, physical assault and even the feeling of being abandoned by my own people. But through it all, I realised a profound truth: sometimes the greatest support comes from the most unexpected places.”

Badhan thanked the governments of Bangladesh and Italy, the Bangladesh Embassy in Italy, Italian police and the festival authorities for standing by her during the ordeal.

“When I needed help and support the most, you stood by me,” she wrote.

The actor said that when some of those close to her distanced themselves, the institutions and individuals who came forward became important sources of strength and protection.

She also expressed her gratitude to everyone who supported her, checked on her, prayed for her or simply offered words of kindness.

“I love you all,” Badhan concluded.

Badhan travelled to Italy to attend the screening of Rubaiyat Hossain’s “The Difficult Bride” at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.

She alleged that she was physically assaulted by a group of individuals while visiting a local park with her brother and his family on Monday night, September 7. According to Badhan, some of those involved identified themselves as supporters of the Awami League.

Following the incident, the Bangladesh Embassy and local authorities extended assistance to the actor. The alleged assault also prompted expressions of protest and support for Badhan from people in Bangladesh and abroad.