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.

1d 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.

2d 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.

2w 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.

4w 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.  

1m 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.

1m ago
April 29, 2023
April 29, 2023

The potential of ‘Paap’ and how it actually fared this Eid

The crime-thriller was different from the rest of the Eid releases this year, and had the potential to be the biggest hit from this Eid.

April 25, 2023
April 25, 2023

The state of Eid cinemas

Unlike the previous Eid, this one was quite special for the Bangladeshi film industry, as a total of eight films were released in theaters. The movies released were: "Leader Amie Bangladesh", "Jinn", "Kill Him", "Paap", "Shotru", "Prem Pritir Bandhan" and "Adam".

April 19, 2023
April 19, 2023

I'm in love, but don't know when I will get married: Bobby

The Bobby Haque starrer film, “Paap” is all set for release during Eid. Directed by Saikat Nasir, the film will see Bobby take on the role of a DB police officer.

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.