‘No one can outgrow Razzak’s legacy’

After having a humble beginning to his career, Nayak Raj Razzak transformed his fortunes with hard work and dedication, reaching unparalleled heights in his acting career. Marking his fifth death anniversary (August 21), The Daily Star spoke to his friend and confidante, Sohel Rana.

Razzak is the only actor from our industry who earned the title of 'Nayak Raj', while he was still active in work. Starting from his magical screen presence to his amazing persona as a human being, Razzak has left the mark on the minds of Bangla audience which will not fade even after decades.

He had left us with no choice but to celebrate his contributions, which is crucial if we look back on the rise of Bangla cinema.

As one of the strongest pillars of the history Dhaka-based films, Razzak worked relentlessly from dusk to dawn, forgetting to complain about tiredness or monotony.

Today, we take a lot of opinions and suggestions about Bangla cinema. However, we keep forgetting that he was one such figures that made the existence of the entertainment industry evident before the masses. He managed to bring the audience's attention to Bangla cinema, competing with the foreign productions that masses were used to and appreciated as a form of entertainment.

Not only was he a brilliant actor, but his dedication and passion were such that inspired other to work harder, if they wanted to become a part of the showbiz world.

Starting from the day he stepped into acting to the day he left the world, he never ceased his efforts to develop this industry – that too without expecting any reward.

I have worked with a lot of artistes, and I also had the privilege to work with Razzak multiple times in my active years. He was senior to me, but always treated me courteously.

Neither have I ever seen him hurting anyone, nor have I heard negative comments regarding him.

Speaking of his performances, how can we ever forget his on-screen chemistry with Kabori? Many other actors, including me, have paired up with Kabori – I have multiple films with her. However, the pair of Razzak-Kabori is synonymous to Bangla cinema.

Razzak achieved the impossible by crafting a bond between the artistes of this industry – a bond based on love, respect and friendship.

I know of many stances when he had taken up projects without even expecting his due payments. Steered by his love and passion for acting, he worked in films for free at times.

No one has been able to exceed Razzak's legacy till date, and I stand strong in my claim that no one will be able to do so in the next 50 years.