Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association celebrates its 50th birth anniversary today. On March 25, 1971, under the leadership of thespian Khan Ataur Rahman, the organisation was founded.

Previously known as the Pakistan Producer's Association, the organisation emerged as Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association on March 25, 1971.

Along with Khan Ataur Rahman, several noted directors and producers, including Zahir Raihan, Abdul Jabbar Khan, Alamgir Kumkum, Mosharraf Hossain Chowdhury, Mostafizur Rahman, S M Parvez, Abul Khair, Azizur Rahman Buli, A E R Khan, Kamaluddin Ahmed, Fakhrul Alam, Abdul Hamid, Md Sirajuddin, Obaidul Islam Milon, Haider Ali, Ibne Mizan, Nurul Azim, Rownak Chowdhury and Niranjan Saha among others were present at the founding ceremony in 1971.

"Our organisation has reached 50 years and this is a big achievement for the film industry," shares actor and producer Uzzal. "Producers are an integral part of a film and this association has been working tirelessly for the industry for all these years."

"I was once the president of this association and it is a source of life for us," shares Sohel Rana. "I produced the film lOra Egaro Jon" right after our independence."

"I was the last president of this association and now it is run by an administrator," says Khorshed Alam Khosru. "Unfortunately, no celebratory arrangements were made by the organisation on this joyous occasion, I express my heartfelt greetings and love for this association."

Khan Ataur Rahman was the first-ever President and noted director and producer Azizur Rahman Buli was the first-ever General Secretary. "Our producer's association has reached its 50 years along with the golden jubilee of independence," expresses Azizur Rahman Buli. "This is a big achievement and an occasion of celebration for us."

Translated by Rasheek Tabassum Mondira