Once upon a time, Mahfuz Ahmed ruled over TV screens. After a long hiatus, Mahfuz Ahmed is now back with a new film, "Prohelika", opposite actress Shabnom Bubly. Directed by Chayanika Chowdhury, the film will soon be released in theatres.

In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, Mahfuz Ahmed shared his experience of working on the film and more.

What is your reason for returning with "Prohelika" after such a long hiatus?

I wanted to return with a project that would make the audience forget that I have been away from the screen for a long time. I was waiting for a good story and character, which I found in "Prohelika". People will know why I had not returned for a while, after watching it. "Prohelika" is just the right film for me.

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How much have you internalised the character, Mona?

After shooting the film, my character in the film, Mona, lived inside me for a long time. It was hard for me to get out of character. When I started the dubbing for the film, I was once again involved with Mona. I even went abroad to get out of this character.

How was the experience of working with Chayanika Chowdhury?

From bringing me back on screen—or maybe even forcing me to get back after a long time—to waiting two and a half years just to do the film with me, it all happened because of her. "Prohelika" is the biggest gift for me, from Chayanika. The way she stuck with me and brought out the best in me, I will be forever grateful.

The audience will be the final judge about the kind of director Chayanika is. However, her storytelling is amazing. As a director, she did what was necessary for the story.

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How was your experience with Bubly?

I have never worked with an actress as punctual as Bubly. She went above and beyond for her character. Bubly has an amazing sense of timing, punctuality, and dedication. I am impressed by her positive attitude.

What was your reason for staying away from the limelight?

I wanted to leave the showbiz world. I didn't want the celebrity life. A star has to take a lot of pressure, which I don't want. I only want to live a normal life. A star has to become someone else in front of the camera, which is something I didn't want to do.

How was life before you were a star? Do you regret leaving it behind?

I grew up in the Jagatpur village of the Lakshmipur district. I still like to walk along the village path, wearing a lungi and I love to meet and talk with the people from the village. A school friend of mine still lives in the village, and is now a rickshaw puller.

When I became a star, he did not want to meet me anymore. However, I still go to his house and meet him. I don't want to forget the life I left behind, I don't want to lose it and that's who I am. I still go to the village shop where I used to eat jilapi. I think a life that has no joy, is no life at all.