Zahid Akbar

Zahid Akbar

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

10 breakthrough artistes who left mark on OTT in 2024

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.

1w ago

Year-end recap: Most discussed stars, films, and soundtracks

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.

1w ago

Those we lost in 2024

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.

1w ago

‘Rongila Kitab’: A tale of love and betrayal

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. 

1m ago

Anam Biswas talks ‘Rongila Kitab’, his second book-to-screen adaptation

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.

2m ago

From acting to directing: Kushum Shikder reflects on new journey

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.

2m ago

‘Desh ta tomar Baper Naki’: Ethun Babu and crew recall risky resistance

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.

3m ago

I was ‘banned’ for seven years: Kanak Chapa

"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.

4m ago
April 19, 2023
April 19, 2023

Will watch ‘Leader Amie Bangladesh’ with my parents: Shakib Khan

Despite all the controversies this year, Dhallywood star Shakib Khan is currently gearing up for the release of his new film Leader Amie Bangladesh for the coming Eid.

April 17, 2023
April 17, 2023

The story of a road named after Kabori

Kabori, the ‘Mishti Meye’ of Bangladeshi cinema, has not been with us for two years now. On April 17, 2021, the actress left this world behind after a long battle with COVID.

April 13, 2023
April 13, 2023

‘The song has gone viral because it portrays reality’: Shakib Khan

The song had crossed over two lakh views within two hours of release and it dwells on the corruption occurring in the country.

April 9, 2023
April 9, 2023

10 Hindi films approved for import, ‘Pathaan’ coming soon

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will soon be giving permission to import 10 Hindi films this year. Next year, in 2024, around eight Hindi films will be released. Multiple sources have confirmed the news to The Daily Star. The ministry will issue a notice in this regard within a day or two.

April 8, 2023
April 8, 2023

The future is bright for Roshan

"The first thing I noticed was that it is a challenge to make good films regularly," the actor shared on his journey into the film industry.

April 1, 2023
April 1, 2023

Riaz defends himself against 'fraud' allegations 

Since the company annulled the contract with Addplus, Harunur Rashid Kajal was furious and filed a complaint against Riaz.

March 28, 2023
March 28, 2023

People in the industry are selfish: Shakib Khan

Recently Shakib Khan fell prey to some controversies regarding his personal life, despite which he is now gearing up for his upcoming film, “Leader Ami Bangladesh,” which is scheduled to be released on the upcoming Eid. In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, Shakib Khan talked about his birthday and his personal life.

March 25, 2023
March 25, 2023

If Salman Shah were alive, he would have celebrated 30 years of debut

On March 25, 1993, Salman Shah starrer “Keyamot Theke Keyamot” was released. Today marks 30 years of the actor’s career. The Sohanur Rahman Sohan directorial film also featured Moushumi as a debutant.

March 23, 2023
March 23, 2023

I didn't do anything wrong, I was wronged: Shakib Khan

Today, Dhallywood actor Shakib Khan held a press conference at his residence in Gulshan, regarding the whole fiasco surrounding the sexual misconduct allegations from producer Rahmat Ullah.

March 14, 2023
March 14, 2023

Playback singing is a syndicate: Fahmida Nabi

She has collaborated with many notable artists and has lent her voice to many creations.