Boosting the morale of Freedom Fighters
Popular actor-director Tariq Anam Khan, was an actor in Biplobi Bangladesh. He gave regular performances at the different camps of Sector Nine during the Liberation War.
Going back in time, Tariq said, "From my school days, in 1969, I was involved with cultural activities of a troupe named Kollol Natya Goshthi, which used to stage patriotic plays at different corners of Shatkhira. The troupe was active in different political movements against the then Pakistani military regime. In those days we staged Shekol Bhangar Gaan, which revolved around the political turmoil of those days.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. "In April 1971, I crossed the border and wanted to play an active role in the freedom movement. Later, I went to SBBK; as I was only a college student, I did not get any openings. Then I met Abdul Gafur, then a local MP, who told me about his plan to form a cultural team, which would present cultural events at the Freedom Fighters' camps. At that time Khairul Bashar and M Musa jointly wrote Biplobi Bangladesh. Khairul Bashar directed the play. It was a four- character play, which depicted the courageous masses who revolted against the military and their ultimate success. Along with Khairul Bashar and others, I performed in the play. I enacted the role of a Pakistani Major. We staged the play and rendered Gono Sangeet (song of masses) at the different camps of Sector Nine. Moreover to inspire the Freedom Fighters, we staged improvised motivational plays," added Tariq.
Recalling these eventful times, Tariq says, "These plays had a positive impact on the Freedom Fighters. I still remember the day when Major Jalil, the sector commander of Sector Nine, with about 2,000 Freedom Fighters watched our presentation. Encouraged by our performance, they cheered loudly."
Talking about the hurdles faced by cultural personalities, Tariq said, "With torn and tattered attire we spent four months (August- November) in sun and rain, travelling around different camps. We had no inkling about our future, but our confidence and youth were our only strengths. These helped us overcome all the hurdles."
When Shatkhira was freed from Pakistani occupation, Tariq Anam Khan and other artistes of the play Biplobi Bangladesh returned to country and staged the play there. Tariq said, "It was a huge gathering of both freedom fighters and masses. The elated audience rejoiced, particularly in the scene when my Pakistani character was killed by the Bangalees."