Shimul Yousuf returns to stage

Noted thespian Shimul Yousuf is set to return to the stage today after a year-long hiatus, through a staging of Dhaka Theatre's popular mono-drama "Binodini". The play's sole actor is Shimul Yousuf, while the direction is given by Nasiruddin Yousuff.

 "I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, for which I am in constant physical pain. But I am determined to get back on stage. Staying home and being ill depresses me. You can say my return to stage is my fight against my illness. I am nervous and scared, but my team gives me a lot of support and encouragement," Shimul Yousuf told The Daily Star.

 "Binodini" is a biographical play based on the life of legendary Bengali theatre actress Binodini Dasi. Saymon Zakaria, under the guidance of Selim Al Deen, dramatised the production. During the dramatisation, Zakaria used two autobiographies of Binodini Dasi – "Aamar Kotha" and "Amar Obhinoy Jibon". The play depicts Binodini's rise from an entertainer, who society looked down upon, to a venerated artiste.

 "Binodini" is Dhaka Theatre's 31st stage production and this is their 124th staging of the play.