Achievements larger than life

Yet, I am optimistic, since a good number of young filmmakers are working on a bunch of great projects. I believe they can change the scenario.

Ekushey Padak awardee Raisul Islam Asad stepped into acting 50 years ago, winning 5 National Awards for his commendable screen presence. The star has been honoured for the sixth time this year, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Freedom Fighter, who currently resides in Boston, USA, shared his emotions upon receiving the honour with The Daily Star.

You have been honoured with the lifetime achievement award on the golden jubilee of your acting career. How are you feeling to have accomplished so much?

When we participated in the Liberation War, we fought for our freedom. However, when I started acting 50 years ago, I did not think about achievements. I only did it for my love of acting.

After spending all these years in the cultural arena, such recognitions make me realise that I have aged. Yet, it feels overwhelming.

Alongside the authorities, I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude towards all my well-wishers and supporters.

Last year, you were honoured with the prestigious Ekushey Padak and this year, another National Award. How is your family responding to your achievements?

My wife and daughter are celebrating these triumphs. If we had been in Bangladesh at the moment, our joy would have been doubled, as we could have shared it with our loved ones.

 Receiving two honours within this short span has left me with an exceptional feeling of contentment.

What is your opinion about the current scenario in the Bangladeshi film industry?

If we compare to the Indian film industry, our film fraternity is still very young and is at a developing stage. 

There is no denying that the film industry has given some of the best Bangla productions. Nevertheless, times have changed, and its sad how movie theatres are closing with every passing day.

Yet, I am optimistic, since a good number of young filmmakers are working on a bunch of great projects. I believe they can change the scenario.

You started your journey with theatre. What do you feel has changed and how much as theatre prospered?

We have improved a lot in recent years. After the Liberation War, we had only a handful of groups, but now we have numerous ones who pull off great productions.

Productions quality will vary and it always has. However, we are growing and that's what matters.