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.
Today marks the fifth death anniversary of rock legend Ayub Bachchu. On this day in 2018, the iconic singer left us at the age of 56. Ayub Bachchu's untimely demise left a void in the music industry and the hearts of countless fans. Born in Chattogram on August 16, 1962, he was not only a rock guitarist but also a composer, singer, and songwriter.
The esteemed musician has come to Bangladesh to attend the premiere of 'Mujib', marking his first visit to the country. In an interview with The Daily Star, he talked about the music of the film and shared insights about his experiences, as well as his thoughts on Bangladesh, during his visit.
Eamin Haque Bobby is gearing up for a return soon. She was last seen in “Paap”, where her role as an ACP officer was embraced well, despite the outcome of the film. As a producer, she has an assortment of genres under her belt, including the superhero film “Bizli”.
James, also known as the modern 'guru' of Bangladeshi rock music, has accomplished unimaginable feats since he started his career with the band Feelings. Today marks the National Award-winning artiste's 59th birthday.
Zayed Khan and Tollywood actress Sayantika Banerjee is acting in a film titled, "Chayabaaz”. However, the production hit a tumultuous bump when Sayantika returned to her hometown, Kolkata, following nine days of shooting, after complaining against the film's dance director and producer. Yet in this chaos, she praised her co-star Zayed Khan to the Kolkata media.
Bollywood's Shah Rukh Khan starrer "Jawan" made its debut in Bangladesh on September 7, coinciding with its global release date. This marked a significant milestone as it was the first time since Bangladesh's independence that a Hindi-language movie premiered in the country simultaneously with its worldwide release.
Salman Shah was not only a beloved actor, but also a style icon. Today is the 27th death anniversary of the superstar. He passed away on September 6, 1996, leaving behind legions of fans. In his brief acting career, he starred in 27 films, most of which were blockbuster hits. Popular leading ladies of the current Bangladeshi film industry spoke to The Daily Star about films of Salman Shah they would have liked to star in.
"Tumi Ki Dekhechho Kobhu Jiboner Porajoy", "Salam Salam Hajar Salam", and "Joy Bangla, Banglar Joy" stand proudly as three of the most beloved songs to have graced the top 20 all-time Bangla songs list in the 2006 survey conducted by BBC Bangla. These timeless melodies were brought to life by the inimitable voice of the Bangladeshi musical legend, Abdul Jabbar.
"1971 Shei Shob Din" has the potential to resonate with audiences across different backgrounds, and shed light on a crucial period in Bangladesh's history. As this cinematic gem gradually reaches more viewers, it's bound to make a significant impact in both the realm of entertainment and historical education.
While reminiscing about what inspired “Eksho Ta Shopno”, Asif mentioned that he wrote the song about the shattered dreams and aspirations of a lyricist, the uncertainty that a lyricist goes through with their songs, whether anyone would want to sing or not.
