Shah Alam Shazu

Film actress Airin Sultana made her silver screen debut with the film “Bhalobasha Zindabad” in 2013. Since then, she has been consistent on screen, appearing in around a dozen movies already, with several more slated for future release.

Pori Moni, who is one of the most vocal actresses of the country and a humanitarian by her own merits, has recently made a heartfelt plea to the nation, urging everyone to support those affected by the devastating floods that have ravaged parts of Bangladesh.

Among those impacted by this catastrophe is Mahfuz Ahmed, one of the 90s' most beloved actors. Despite his decades-long residence in Dhaka, Mahfuz’s heart remains tethered to his ancestral village of Jagatpur in Lakshmipur’s Ramganj upazila, now submerged under floodwaters. “I have never seen so much water in my life,” he shared, his voice heavy with concern. “Floods have happened before, but never has the water level risen like this.”

Following a hiatus of nearly six weeks, Tanzika Amin is back on set, shooting for a new series on MaasrangaTelevision. Directed by Nazrul Islam Raju, this drama highlights the complexities of city life. 

Regarding the flood victims, she added, "Many people, both domestically and internationally, are eager to donate funds for relief efforts. This aid must be used effectively. I am coordinating and verifying to ensure that the donations are properly allocated."

Flash floods have wreaked havoc across northeastern and southeastern Bangladesh, submerging vast areas in districts like Cumilla, Feni, Chattogram, and Noakhali. The catastrophe has left 1,89,663 families stranded, and conditions are worsening as eight rivers surge above the danger level till the filing of this report on Thursday afternoon.

The actor Abdur Razzak, often hailed as a cinematic legend, earned the prestigious title of “king” for his exceptional contributions to the local film industry. He elevated the nation's cinema to new heights and established a legacy of blockbuster films that speak volumes with audiences to this day. His commanding presence on the silver screen, whether in romance, social dramas, historical pieces, or action-packed thrillers, showcased his versatility and cemented his legacy in every genre.

Recalling a specific incident, Mousumi described how, like many others, she changed her social media profile picture to red in solidarity with the movement. Not long after, she received a phone call during the ongoing curfew, with someone repeatedly inquiring about her whereabouts. Fearful for her safety, she and her husband fled their home. “We returned 12 hours later, only to receive another call the next day, warning me not to post anything else. But I didn't stop. I spoke out against injustice, and I wasn’t afraid."

The 45th Toronto International Film Festival is set to begin on September 5 and will run for ten days. The actress plans to attend the festival in full glory.

"We filmed ‘Padatik’ in 2022, and it was a challenging time for me because my father passed away during the shoot. Despite that, I continued with the filming. The director encouraged me, and I performed with confidence," shared the “Aynabaji” actor.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, Jeetu reflected on the events that compelled him to speak out. "I was deeply disturbed by a photo of a bloodied female student, from Dhaka University, circulating on social media. The image struck me hard, especially because I have a daughter. I couldn’t help but think, what if that had been her? The thought of such violence against women was unbearable," he said.

When some senior artistes from the industry visited the state television station BTV after it was vandalised, Sadia didn't hesitate to criticise their actions (crying for inanimate objects) on social media. "I always respect and honour them as seniors," she clarifies, "but I felt compelled to speak out."

If I wanted, I could have received major awards during the BNP government, but I did not. It is not in my nature. However, the previous government did not do so. There has been lobbying in grants, the censor board, national film awards, Ekushey Padak, and Independence awards. Yet, it was martyred President Ziaur Rahman who introduced the National Film Awards.

National Film Award-winning actress Zakia Bari Mamo has been vocal in support of the student movement against discrimination from the very beginning. She has taken a stand in favour of the students everywhere, from posting on Facebook to being present at Shaheed Minar and Shahbagh. She spoke to The Daily Star about the issues.

Ekushey Padak-winning artiste Mamunur Rashid is a prominent figure in the theatre arena of Bangladesh. He has always stood by the people during any democratic movement in the country. In an interview with The Daily Star, he shared his views on the ongoing situation in the country.

Today, artistes and directors from the Dhallywood industry took to the streets to advocate for ordinary protesting students amid the country's current events. Despite the rain, they protested and voiced their support for the students. National Film Award-winning actress Azmeri Haque Badhan was among those present and spoke to The Daily Star.

The country is going through a critical period, and as a result, all shootings have almost come to a halt. Eminent actor and cultural personality Tariq Anam Khan is observant of the ongoing turmoil regarding the quota protest movement that has turned into a massive nationwide protest, leaving more than 150 innocent students and citizens dead.

Babita began her journey in cinema 50 years ago. From romantic to social films, the actress is known for her mesmerising performance throughout her career. She has countless fans both at home and abroad.

Within just 6 years of her career, small screen actress Keya Payel has become a household name. To date, she has appeared in over a hundred tele-fictions. Her on-screen chemistry with actors like Apurba, Farhan Ahmed Jovan, and Musfiq R Farhan is liked by the audience.

In response to another question, she said, “Those who have tried to harm the country in various curses are unforgivable. They should be punished by the law.  No sane person can support such destruction.”