In 2024, Bangladeshi web series and films flourished across OTT platforms, bringing fresh talent to the forefront while revitalising the careers of seasoned actors. Strong, character-driven content allowed these 10 actors and directors to break through, leaving a lasting impact on viewers and reshaping the country's OTT landscape.
This year, an estimated 50 Bangladeshi films have been released. Among these, only a handful have achieved commercial success. Then again, despite not performing well at the box office, other cinematic aspects like actors, actresses, and film songs have managed to remain at the centre of discussions throughout the year.
In 2024, we lost several prominent figures from the entertainment world. Though they have departed, their contributions to film, television, music, and dance will remain etched in our memories. Here are some of the individuals we lost this year.
The web-series “Rongila Kitab”, directed by Anam Biswas, premiered on the OTT platform Hoichoi on November 8. Adapted from Kinkar Ahsan’s novel of the same name, this series unfolds across eight episodes.
Anam Biswas became a household name after his much-appreciated movie “Debi”. His directorials tend to reflect his talent, and he has garnered praise for every project he’s undertaken—be it a film or web content. Besides directing, Anam is also recognised for his songwriting skills.
Kushum Shikder, known for her powerful performances in “Gohine Shobdo” and the National Award-winning “Shankhachil,” has made a bold transition from an acclaimed actress to a filmmaker with her directorial debut, “Shoroter Joba.” Released on October 11, this marks a pivotal moment in her career, where she not only took the reins as director but also wrote the screenplay and led the film's production.
Ethun Babu, most known for composing the all-time hit “O Priya Tumi Kothay”, was prosecuted by the previous government for merely voicing out his political opinions.
"I was banned for a full seven years due to my political identity. Although it may seem irrelevant, the Covid pandemic taught me a lot. I realised that one can survive with fewer possessions. Excessive food and luxuries are unnecessary, and true peace comes from standing closely with people in need," shared Kanak Chapa.
Popular film actress Pori Moni declared an open challenge for her detractors with another cryptic ‘message in mehedi’ on her palm.
National Award winning actor Sadek Bachchu was one of the most celebrated faces in Bangladeshi cinema. Today marks the first death anniversary of the artiste who sadly passed away at the age of 66 due to Covid-19.
National Award winning actor Anwar Hossain was one of the most celebrated faces in Bangladeshi cinema. Known as the ‘Nawab Sirajuddaula’ of the silver screen, the actor worked in over 500 films in his illustrious career, spanning over five decades. Today marks the 8th death anniversary of Anwar Hossain.
White kaash (catkin) flowers cover miles of lands while fluffy clouds hover in the blue sky above — such scenery announces the arrival of Autumn in Bangladesh. On one such beautiful afternoon, I was at a shooting spot at the Meradia area of Dhaka’s Banasree, where I came across popular stars Shakib Khan and Nusraat Faria. They were shooting for a television commercial under the scorching heat. The production is directed by Samiur Rahman.
Today is the fourth death anniversary of the heroic freedom fighter and vocalist Abdul Jabbar. The eminent singer passed away on August 30, 2017. Making his death anniversary, Syed Abdul Hadi talks to the Daily Star about Jabbar’s legacy.
Eminent singer Samina Chowdhury was born on this day in 1966 in Dinajpur. She studied in Agrani School and College in Dhaka.
A board of trustees has been formed for the welfare of film artistes. Actors Shahiduzzaman Selim, Misha Sawdagar, and Purnima will take their positions as board members at the Film Artists Welfare. Shahiduzzaman Selim and Purnima confirmed the matter to The Daily Star earlier today.
After two months of strict lockdown, cinema halls have reopened recently. However, as of now, they are mainly screening old movies.
Nayak Raj Razzak was one of the most beloved actors of the country. On his fourth death anniversary, popular actors of today speak about their favourite movies of him.
Today marks the 74th birthday of the "Miah Bhai" of Dhaliwood, Farooque. The best way to commemorate the actor, brave freedom fighter and Member of Parliament is through one of his own anecdotes.
