Zafar Iqbal would play the guitar and sing to me: Babita remembers a cherished friendship

Among the many leading men she shared the screen with over a career spanning more than five decades, Babita says few remain as vividly etched in her memory as the prominent actor, singer and freedom fighter Zafar Iqbal. 

Remembering one of Bangladeshi cinema's most beloved stars, the veteran actor told The Daily Star that away from the camera he was a very charming, cultured and deeply musical human being—often reaching for a guitar to sing to her between takes.

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Photos: STAR

"Zafar Iqbal was very smart and modern for his time. We shared a wonderful friendship," Babita said. "He came from a cultured family. Prominent singer Shahnaz Rahmatullah was his sister. He could sing beautifully. During breaks in shooting, he would tell me, 'Madam, today I'll sing for you.'"

She smiled as she recalled those moments. "Zafar would play the guitar and sing to me. We shared a beautiful friendship. Today he is no longer with us."

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For Babita, those memories represent more than personal nostalgia—they reflect the camaraderie that once defined Bangladesh's film industry.

"In fact, I had wonderful relationships with everyone—from Razzak to Zafar Iqbal. We always worked together with mutual respect."

Looking back on her own journey, Babita said cinema gave her far more than fame. It offered her the opportunity to represent Bangladesh on international stages, particularly after starring in Satyajit Ray's acclaimed “Ashani Sanket”, which introduced her to global audiences.

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"There was a time when I was constantly busy with films. I travelled to major international film festivals and had the chance to present Bangladeshi cinema—and my country—to the world," she said. "Cinema has enormous power. Through it, so much good can be done."

The actor also revealed that artistic conviction often mattered more to her than financial reward. "I struggled a lot. For some of my best films, I didn't take a single penny. Those films earned audiences' love, critical appreciation and awards, and they gave me a special place as an artist."
 

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Now one of the country's most decorated performers, Babita has received multiple National Film Awards, the National Film Award for Lifetime Achievement and the Ekushey Padak. Yet she insists no honour compares with the affection she continues to receive from audiences.
"People love and respect me. For an artist, that is the greatest reward."

Despite the passage of time, Babita says she remains optimistic about life and grateful for the career that has defined it.

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Photos: From Babita's official Facebook page

"Life is beautiful. It comes only once. I always try to look at it positively. People can do so much good if they truly want to. They can think positively, stand beside others and make a difference."

Reflecting on a lifetime in cinema, she said the friendships she built and the love of audiences remain her greatest achievements. "I seek everyone's blessings and affection."