I prefer simple storytelling: Arif Khan

After a long career in journalism, Arif Khan ventured into television direction in 2004. Ever since, his stars have been on the ascendant. So far, Arif Khan has directed around 60 single-episode plays and four drama serials, besides directing numerous music programmes on television channels. He believes it is quality that makes a work special. The Daily Star recently caught up with him. Excerpts from the interview:   

How did you venture into television direction?

Arif Khan: During my career as a journalist, I used to work with Arun Chowdhury and Faria Hossain as chief coordinator of their plays. After working with them for around six years, I ventured into direction with single-episode play “Chhaya” which was telecast on BTV as part of its Eid programmes. As a newcomer, it was a great achievement.

You were a cultural journalist for many years; what do you think are the differences between the television plays of then and now?

Arif Khan: At earlier times every one, starting from scriptwriters to actors, would give of their best simply out of love and passion for the medium. There was only one channel and plays would reach a larger audience. Nowadays, a whopping number of plays are being made, but their quality is questionable.

How do the artistes of the previous generation compare with their contemporary counterparts?

Arif Khan: Acting was guided by love and passion in the past. Despite all that adulation, actors worked with complete dedication and sincerity. Actors like Afzal Hossain and Subarna Mostafa are unmatched. But most of the artistes of this generation are restless; on the shooting sets they wait for the day to end. Most of them lack sincerity. A large number of young artistes don't get emotionally involved with their work.

What is the most important element of a play?

Arif Khan: Definitely the story, but you need to know how to narrate it. A good story, good casting and simple presentation -- that's my way of making a play. Starting from Humayun Ahmed to Masum Reza, Faria Hossain, Badrul Anam Saud, I have worked with many veteran and young scriptwriters.

Your biggest achievement as a director?

Arif Khan: I have worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. Be it singers or actors, I worked with a-list stars. That's my biggest achievement as a director.   

What's the ultimate dream?

Arif Khan: My ultimate dream is to make a film. However, the scope of cinema is limited in our country. If an opportunity arrives of making a film on the big screen, I will make one. Otherwise I wouldn't do it.