Shah Alam Shazu

Today marks the death anniversary of legendary Bangladeshi actor Farooque, a beloved figure in the golden era of Dhaka cinema. Renowned for his roles in social dramas, Farooque became a household name through films that resonated deeply with rural and urban audiences alike. Though he played romantic and liberation war heroes, it was the social narratives that elevated him to iconic status.

Actress Sushama Sarkar, known for her work on stage, television, and film, is returning to the screen with “Gulmohor”, a new web-series directed by Syed Ahmed Shawki. The series is set to premiere tonight at midnight and marks Sarkar’s first collaboration with the critically acclaimed director.

National Award-winning actress Runa Khan, known for her powerful performance in “Haldaa”, has recently wrapped up filming for a new web-series titled “Bohemian Ghora” opposite acclaimed actor Mosharraf Karim. Directed by Amitabh Reza, the series features Mosharraf Karim opposite eight different female leads, including Runa.

National Film Award-winning actress Jaya Ahsan, known for her stellar performances across both Bangladeshi and Indian Bengali cinema, is set to return to the silver screen with her new film “Jaya Aar Sharmin”, releasing on May 16. Directed by Piplu R Khan, the film was shot during the pandemic.

In conversations with The Daily Star, actors Sumaiya Shimu, Shajal, and Tama Mirza opened up about the invaluable roles their mothers played in shaping not only their careers but also their lives.

Acclaimed actor Fazlur Rahman Babu, a six-time National Film Award winner, is set to bring the inspiring life of Polan Sarkar to the silver screen in the upcoming government-grant film “Solte”, directed by Zahir Raihan.

At the mere sight of him on screen, Dhallywood audiences would shudder. His presence alone brought an air of terror to the silver screen. Jambu, who appeared in numerous films throughout his lifetime, built his career playing antagonists. Be it in black-and-white or colour films, or even commercial ventures, he left an indelible mark with his menacing portrayals.

The joyous atmosphere of Eid tends to bring with it the excitement of big-screen blockbusters, and this Eid-ul-Azha is no exception. As theatres continue screening films from Eid-ul-Fitr, producers and directors are shifting focus toward the next festive release window. Several high-profile titles are preparing to hit cinemas during Eid-ul-Azha, with some already generating significant buzz through posters, social media promotions, and star-studded casts.

Legendary Bangladeshi playback singer Khurshid Alam, whose golden voice once dominated the country's film music scene, says his fans still request his timeless classics. Despite his age, the Ekushey Padak-winning artiste continues to perform on stage and television with the same passion that marked the height of his career.

Once, they were some of the most popular stars in the country’s showbiz scene—some in films, some in television dramas, others in music. Eventually, they left the country and settled abroad. Among the stars who have moved overseas, most now live in the United States. A few are in Canada, Australia, or London. How are these cultural icons doing in their adopted countries, years after leaving the limelight?

Veteran Bangladeshi actor Rahmat Ali turned 66 yesterday (April 30), marking the milestone not with celebration, but by doing what he loves most- acting. The acclaimed stage, television, and film actor spent his birthday on the set of a Bangladesh Television (BTV) drama, alongside his wife and fellow actress Wahida Mallik Jolly.

Actress Mehbooba Mahnoor Chandni, known for her acclaimed performances in films like “Dukhai”, “Lalsalu”, and “Joyjatra”, is returning to the small screen after a long break. The National Film Award-winning actress enjoyed massive success through television dramas while working. She recently completed shooting for the drama “Tumi Ami O Se”, directed by Azizul Hakim and written by his wife, Zeenat Hakim.

When asked about his closest friendships in the industry, he paused briefly before saying, “There were many dear friends, though sadly many are no longer with us. Actor Alamgir remains a very close friend. We share a wonderful bond, often meeting at each other’s homes or offices and speaking almost daily. This friendship is very special to me.”

Suchanda not only flourished as one of the most celebrated actresses of her time, making her debut with “Kagojer Nouka”, but also proved her artistry behind the camera by directing the acclaimed film “Haajar Bachhar Dhorey ”. Honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Film Awards, she has long since stepped away from the glamour of cinema. But how does she spend her days now? How is the beloved actress of yesteryear? The Daily Star sat down with her to find out.

Mondera Chakroborty, one of Dhallywood’s rising stars, made her film debut with the Gias Uddin Selim directorial period film “Kajol Rekha”, and garnered acclaim both in Bangladesh and internationally, giving her significant visibility in the industry.

The film went on to be a major success. "There are countless stories like that in my acting life," Rozina reflects. "Every film holds its own memories. As long as I live, I’ll carry those stories with me."

"Jongli", a breakout film this year, isn’t just riding high tides at the box office—it’s leaving audiences visibly shaken. Actress Prarthana Fardin Dighi, who plays the emotionally complex character Nupur, shared how the film moved viewers to tears and sparked heartfelt conversations long after the credits rolled.

Three weeks since their Eid release, Bangladeshi films continue to draw strong audience turnout. Among the six titles released this festive season, “Borbaad”, “Daagi”, “Jongli”, and “Chokkor 302” have sustained their performance, contributing to a boost in the local box office.

The National Art Gallery Auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) lit up last Saturday with a vibrant gathering of popular faces from the acting world. Through direct votes, the Actors Equity Bangladesh elected a new leadership panel of 21 members, including its president and general secretary.

During his student years, Wasim gained fame as a bodybuilder, winning the East Pakistan title in 1964.