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
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.

March 13, 2023
March 13, 2023

‘She doesn’t know how to act, they said’

Actress Azmeri Haque Badhan recently won the National Film Award for the first time. She jointly received the ‘Best Actress’ award for her performance in “Rehana Maryam Noor”.

March 11, 2023
March 11, 2023

My son got to see me win, I am elated: Siam Ahmed

Siam Ahmed won his first National Film Award for his performance in Chayanika Chowdhury’s debut directorial film “Bishwoshundori”, in 2020. The actor has received the honour for the second time in the Best Actor category in 2021, for his performance in Roni Bhowmik’s “Mridha Bonam Mridha”.

March 4, 2023
March 4, 2023

Buker Moddhe Agun: Audience sure of Salman Shah connection

Audiences were left surprised when Hoichoi released the much-awaited Ziaul Faruq Apurba starrer web-series “Buker Moddhe Agun”, without any prior announcement. The makers didn’t release any trailers and so, when many entertainment groups announced its release, curious audiences piled up to watch the 8-episode series to find out whether it actually centers on Salman Shah’s life.

March 4, 2023
March 4, 2023

Hall owners threaten to close down if ‘Pathaan’ not permitted release

A lot of drama ensued following the permission that Shah Rukh Khan blockbuster “Pathaan” received, to be released in Bangladesh on February 24. Even SRK himself acknowledged the release in a tweet.

February 22, 2023
February 22, 2023

His works need to be digitally archived: Gazi Mazharul Anwar’s daughter

Some of his masterpieces are "Achhen Amar Moktar", "Ektara Tui Desh Er Kotha Bol Re Ebar Bol", "Ganer Khatay Swaralipi Likhe", "Shudhu Gaan Geye Porichoy", "Ei Mon Tomake Dilam", "Chokher Nojor Emni Koira", among countless others.

February 16, 2023
February 16, 2023

‘Unish 20’: Shuvoo and Bindu’s pairing hits the right notes

Fans are in for an experience of love and separation as Shuvoo and Bindu reunite in "Unish 20".

February 15, 2023
February 15, 2023

The future of music copyright

In recent times, Baul Shah Abdul Karim’s family received royalties from the Copyright Office after his songs were digitally archived. Similarly, Ayub Bachchu’s family also received royalties for his songs when they were brought under the digital protection act.