Emerging actress Shahnaz Sumi first caught the audience's attention with her debut film "Paap Punno", directed by Giasuddin Selim. Besides acting, she is also a dancer and a model. She was a participant in the talent hunt Shera Nachiye, in 2016.

Recently, her chemistry with Siam Ahmed in the film "Damal" received appreciation from the audience. In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, she shared her journey in showbiz and more.

Tell us about your character in "Damal"

In this film, I have played the character of a refugee in 1971. While playing the character, I had to keep in mind the suffering of the refugee people had to go through during the liberation war. To be honest, the film "Damal" has everything from love to liberation war.

You debuted in the film industry through the film "Paap Punno". Tell us about your experience.

I was selected through auditions for the film "Paap Punno". I was feeling nervous on my first day of shooting because I had to share the screen with such senior actors. I have seen them on the screen so far. However, they made me feel so comfortable and easy that my nervousness was gone.

Do you remember your first scene?

Yes! The dialogue of my first scene was "Choto Lage?". When I first gave my shot, nobody was telling me anything including the director. I was feeling anxious at that time. However, when I asked the director if my take was okay. He said, Yes. Then, I felt relaxed.

You have also appeared in television dramas. Tell us about the experience.

I have appeared in two dramas titled "Shonar Kathi, Rupar Kathi" and "Priyo Din Priyo Raat" directed by Salahuddin Lavlu. Both of the dramas gained popularity among the audience. I learned a lot from the brilliant actor.

How do you feel about the showbiz industry?

I always wanted to watch myself on the big screen. I feel lucky that at the beginning of my career, I got to work with senior directors like Salahuddin Lavlu and Gias Uddin Selim. Apart from that, I also did some modeling. Honestly, I love our showbiz industry.

Whose film do you watch the most?

I watch a lot of films of different genres. However, I have watched the films of Shabnur the most. She is my favourite actress, and Salman Shah is my favourite actor. I have watched this duo's film "Anandaosru" a lot of times. I don't know why, but I was obsessed with Shabnur growing up and kept waiting to see her on the silver screen.