Sharmin Joya

I don’t see films through a gender-biased lens: Shankha Dasgupta

On December 20, “Priyo Maloti” graced 20 cinema halls nationwide. Featuring Mehazabien Chowdhury in the titular role of Maloti Rani Das, the film marks a significant milestone for both the actress and its director, Shankha Dasgupta, as their silver screen debut.

5d ago

'Monsoon Revolution' workshop committee unveiled: What are the plans?

The Monsoon Revolution represents an unprecedented effort by the government to decentralise and professionalise the Bangladeshi film industry. By fostering regional talent and offering a platform for diverse storytelling, this initiative aims to reshape the industry. More than just an effort to develop skilled filmmakers, it is a step toward amplifying Bangladeshi narratives and creating works that resonate both nationally and internationally. 

1m ago

Film Certification Board: Ambitious plans, lingering challenges

In an effort to understand the challenges and tentative guidelines, The Daily Star reached out to board members and stakeholders. Their insights highlight the complexities of transitioning from the long-standing censor board to a modern certification body.

1m ago

When dance speaks the language of resilience and spirit 

With its universal message of hope, “A Rising Lioness: In Search of Beauty” speaks not only to burn survivors but to anyone facing disabilities, neurodiversity, or societal exclusion. By portraying a journey of courage and transformation, the production inspires reflection on the values of empathy, and inclusion, and celebrates the human spirit of resilience.

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Arnob back on the canvas

On a quiet autumn evening, we visited Arnob’s studio, Kolorob, where he shared reflections on his musical career, insights into his creative journey in art, and his upcoming projects.

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‘Can’t solely rely on acting anymore’

In times of national crisis, Bangladesh’s entertainment industry is often among the hardest hit. From artistes to crew members, everyone faces hardship due to a lack of work and opportunities. Actor Ziaul Roshan has recently expressed concerns about the struggle to maintain a stable livelihood in such uncertain times, highlighting the challenges when work for artistes dries up. 

1m ago

Shawon flies high

Marking a decade in showbiz, Sayed Zaman Shawon has captivated audiences across television, OTT platforms, and the big screens. Known for his acclaimed roles in Mabrur Rashid Bannah’s “Brothers” series, Shihab Shaheen’s “August 14”, Ashfaque Nipun’s “Sabrina”, and Golam Sohrab Dodul’s “Mobaroknama”, Shawon’s adaptability shines through each project.

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Lightmen struggle to light up their own lives in uncertain industry

Behind this essential aspect of filmmaking are the lighting technicians, whose efforts often go unnoticed. In Bangladesh, however, these technicians face an uncertain future, as the industry battles deep financial challenges.

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April 21, 2022
April 21, 2022

Mabrur Rashid Bannah reflects on his decade in showbiz

Having made his directorial debut in 2011 with the tele-fiction “Flashback”, Mabrur Rashid Bannah has spent a decade proving himself as one of the prolific young directors on television.

April 8, 2022
April 8, 2022

How representative is ‘Sabrina’ of Bangladesh?

“Sabrina, you cannot lose hope -- whoever did this to you, wanted to break your confidence,” says Dr Sabrina to her patient.

April 4, 2022
April 4, 2022

Upholding the National Poet’s legacy

A two-day festival, titled “Nazrul Utsav 2022”, was held at the capital’s Gulshan Society Lake Park recently.  Organised by Bangladesh Nazrul Sangeet Sangstha, Arunaranjani, and Gulshan Society, it aimed to celebrate the work and philosophy of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.  

April 3, 2022
April 3, 2022

National Film Day special

On this day in 1957, the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman proposed to form the Film Development Corporation, of the then East Pakistan Provincial Council.

March 23, 2022
March 23, 2022

Will ‘Teerondaj’ hit the mark?

Taneem Rahman Angshu’s debut web series “Teerondaj” will release today at 6 pm, on OTT platform Bioscope.

March 16, 2022
March 16, 2022

The bell tolls for him

Azizur Rahman, the director of iconic film “Chhutir Ghonta”, passed away in a hospital in Canada’s Toronto on Monday.

March 14, 2022
March 14, 2022

Shithi’s subcontinental ventures

After garnering accolades for the track “Raat Jaga Pakhi”, a collaboration with Pakistani sensation Shafqat Amanat Ali, talented singer Shithi Saha has now worked with eminent Indian musician Anup Jalota. Anup, considered a legend in his own field, is often referred to as the ‘Bhajan Samrat’.

March 12, 2022
March 12, 2022

Chorki dominates Channel i Digital Media Awards with 8 wins

Popular streaming platform Chorki won eight awards at the second edition of the “Channel i Digital Media Awards”, presented in association with the ICT Division. Snac Keeper was the title sponsor of the event.

March 11, 2022
March 11, 2022

Nibedita: A guiding light for women’s empowerment

Nibedita is a non-profit organisation founded by Anika Islam in 2018, which aims for women empowerment. It provides free training for women in digital marketing skills, entrepreneurship, lifestyle modification, and career placement. 

March 10, 2022
March 10, 2022

Farzana Chumki, Sallha Khanam Nadia to star in Indian film ‘Sunetra Sundaram’

Indian filmmaker Shiv Ram Sharma is set to direct the film “Sunetra Sundaram”, which sheds light on hygiene issues faced by working women.