Zahid Akbar

Zahid Akbar

Zahid Akbar is a renowned lyricist, writer and, journalist. He is working as a Staff Reporter at The Daily Star.

A legacy of Tagore songs in Bengali and Hindi films

Today, on 25th Boishakh, the 164th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, the legacy of his music continues to echo far and wide- not just in the hearts of Bengalis, but across the cinematic landscapes of both Bengal and Bollywood. While his poetry and songs remain an inseparable part of everyday life, Rabindra Sangeet has also found a cherished place in both Bengali and Hindi cinema, often adapted, referenced, or directly used to elevate cinematic storytelling.

2w ago

Subir Nandi’s voice still reverberates through the hearts of listeners

Today marks the sixth death anniversary of legendary singer Subir Nandi, whose timeless voice continues to resonate with generations of music lovers. Though he passed away on May 7, 2019, his melodies remain ever-present—on the radio, across streaming platforms, or simply heard in passing—stirring memories and emotions among fans old and new.

2w ago

‘Borbaad’ and ‘Daagi’ dominate overseas theatres

Bangladeshi films “Borbaad” and “Daagi” have sustained packed audiences in theatres both locally and internationally, even twenty days after their Eid release.

1m ago

A musical Eid: Songs that are still making memories

A total of six movies were released during Eid-ul-Fitr this year. Among the songs from these films, “Chand Mama” from “Borbaad” and “Konna” from “Jinn 3” have each surpassed 10 million views on YouTube.

1m ago

I can't enjoy Eid while the strays remain unfed: Jaya Ahsan

For the first time, Jaya Ahsan is featured in any Bangladeshi web series, that too during the Eid festival. Such occasions made her festival even more special. The “Jimmi” actress shared how she spent her Eid day.

1m ago

Shakib’s simple Eid with family and friends

Two of Shakib Khan’s films were released in cinemas this Eid-ul-Fitr– “Borbaad” and “Antaratma”. Dhallywood's Superstar shared that he did not have any special plans on the occasion. However he spent time with family and friends which is one of the essential things he does at the festivals.

1m ago

Not leaving films at this moment: Barsha

Actress Afia Nusrat Barsha had revealed her decision to step away from acting. However, for now, she is still working on the silver screen.  

2m ago

Eid special: OTT releases to watch out for

This Eid-ul-Fitr, in addition to star-studded films, audiences can look forward to exciting web content, as major OTT platforms have curated special projects for the festive season. From intense dramas to light-hearted romantic comedies, the list includes "Amalnama" by Raihan Rafi, "Jimmi" by Ashfaque Nipun, and "How Sweet" by Kajal Arefin Ome, among others.

2m ago
September 19, 2021
September 19, 2021

Suchanda to pen her own autobiography

Eminent actor, director, and producer Kohinoor Akhter Shuchanda is all set to write down her own autobiography.

September 19, 2021
September 19, 2021

No memorial plaque for Salman Shah at BFDC in 25 years

Today would have been celebrated actor Salman Shah’s 50th birthday. Born on this day in 1971 in Sylhet, he starred in 27 movies in his brief acting career. Known as a style icon amongst his fans and fellow co-artistes, Salman Shah shot all over the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) throughout his career. Yet, sadly, there is no memorial plaque or shooting floor dedicated to him at its premises.

September 16, 2021
September 16, 2021

I am afraid of marriage: Bobby

Prominent actress Bobby joined the film industry with the movie “Khoj—The Search”. She produced and acted in “Bizli”, the very first superhero film of Bangladesh. Additionally, her films include “Nolok”, “Hero: The Superstar”, and “Dehorokkhi”. She is currently shooting for a television commercial. In a candid chat with The Daily Star, she talked about her upcoming ventures, and more.

September 15, 2021
September 15, 2021

This is an open challenge to my naysayers: Pori Moni

Popular film actress Pori Moni declared an open challenge for her detractors with another cryptic ‘message in mehedi’ on her palm.

September 14, 2021
September 14, 2021

In fond memory of Sadek Bachchu

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.

September 13, 2021
September 13, 2021

Remembering Anwar Hossain on his 8th death anniversary

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.

September 7, 2021
September 7, 2021

Stumbling across Shakib Khan and Nusraat Faria in Banasree

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. 

August 30, 2021
August 30, 2021

Remembering Abdul Jabbar on his death anniversary

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.

August 28, 2021
August 28, 2021

Childhood memories of my birthdays are truly special: Samina Chowdhury

Eminent singer Samina Chowdhury was born on this day in 1966 in Dinajpur. She studied in Agrani School and College in Dhaka.

August 25, 2021
August 25, 2021

Shahiduzzaman Selim, Misha Sawdagar, and Purnima declared board members of Film Artistes Welfare

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.