Two of Bangladesh’s most celebrated actors, Abul Hayat and Dilara Zaman, are set to share the screen in “Bela o Bikel”, a new drama that promises to be as heartfelt as it is rare in today’s industry.

Veteran actor, playwright, and director Abul Hayat has significantly reduced his screen appearances in recent times. However, he remains open to acting if the story and character appeal to him. “I no longer have the energy to work continuously like before. With age, the body demands rest. But I can’t stay away from acting altogether. So, if there’s a good story and a character I like, I’ll definitely consider it,” he shared.

Abul Hayat plays the father—a role that showcases his signature subtlety and depth—while Richi Solaiman portrays the daughter, bringing tenderness and nuance to the performance. The video also includes actor Humayun Chowdhury in a supporting role.

He recalled that childhood moment as a memorable experience and viewed acting and its associated culture as a cornerstone of his personal growth and a source of inspiration for his journey ahead. 

As the Bengali New Year arrives, four prominent cultural figures—Abul Hayat, Tariq Anam Khan, Fazlur Rahman Babu, and Fahmida Nabi— have shared their cherished memories of the cherished Bangladeshi festival with The Daily Star.

Pori Moni has been away from the silver screen for a while, making headlines for reasons beyond cinema. This time, her latest film “Kagojer Bou” premiered on the Bongo app yesterday (February 13). This release marks her long-awaited return, directly on an OTT platform instead of theatres.

Local cinemas have been awaiting welcoming new releases, from the beginning of the new year. Continuing this momentum, two government-funded films are hitting theatres nationwide today.

Alongside acting, Abul Hayat has been a renowned author for many years. His latest book, "Robi Poth", was published this year and is available at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair. "It took me a long time to complete this book. It will make me happy if readers enjoy it. They can get their copies from the book fair."

Christmas, the most significant religious celebration for Christians, is being observed today. To mark the occasion, various television channels across the country have scheduled special programmes.

Over recent years, director Vicky Zahed has made a name for himself through notable projects on television and OTT platforms. Known for blending mysteries, thrillers, and science fiction with local narratives, his latest venture is a web-film titled “Ondhokarer Gaan”. The trailer for the film debuted yesterday evening.

Veteran actor Abul Hayat has made a notable appearance in the music video for “Miche Duniya”, a thought-provoking Sufi Nasheed by renowned singer Muhammad Badruzzaman. 

In a rare, candid moment, Hayat shared a deeply personal story. “Three years ago, I found out I had cancer. When I came home from the hospital, I couldn’t speak.” He paused, then continued, his voice trembling, recalling how his wife had comforted him. “She told me, ‘What’s the problem? We’re all here. You will get better. We will do whatever it takes.’”

The book, titled “Robi Poth,” is set to be released on November 2 at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.

The five-day-long Durga Puja festivities kick off today. To celebrate, new songs have been released, and fresh dramas are set to premiere on TV and YouTube. Here’s a glimpse of some notable entertainment highlights for Durga Puja.

Now, the legendary actor embarks on yet another artistic venture, lending his voice to Antik Mahmud's latest animated project, with the recording already completed to perfection.

Famed actor Abul Hayat has left an indelible mark on both television and film, having been a part of countless productions. In addition to his acting career, he has also gained recognition as a successful theatre director. With more than 50 years devoted to his craft, his work in stage plays has further enriched his multifaceted career. His performances in popular TV dramas have earned him widespread acclaim and admiration from audiences over the years.

When asked which parts of his life he chose to highlight in his autobiography, Abul Hayat responded, “I’ve written about the moments from my childhood that I felt needed to be shared. Writing made me realise what was worth including, while some things felt better left unsaid. I hope that, together, these stories will give readers a complete picture of my journey.” His words promise a candid and thoughtful narrative, offering an authentic glimpse into the experiences that shaped him.

Renowned for her exceptional talent, Sharmili Ahmed captivated audiences with her performances in countless plays and acclaimed films. Notably, she starred in the country's first-ever serial drama and left an indelible mark with her role in the film "Abirbhab", which features the song "Sathti Ronger Majhe".

Celebrated Bangladeshi actor Abul Hayat, Kolkata's theatre luminary Manoj Mitra, filmmaker Prabhat Roy, and film producer Purnima Dutta were honoured in a grand ceremony in Kolkata yesterday (June 8).

To mark the 101st birth anniversary of the late Syed Badruddin Hossain, an eminent educationist, a language movement veteran, and lifetime chairman of Padatik Nattya Sangsad (TSC), a four-day long theatre festival titled "Syed Badruddin Hossain Smrity Natyautsab o Smarak Sammanona 2024" is set to take place at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) on May 16. This theatre festival has been orchestrated annually since 2010.