Targeting celebrities just for 'clout' is wrong: Nazifa Tushi

I have always wanted to work in films, and after "Ice-Cream", I felt that I needed to dig deeper into the craft, and different shades of portraying a character realistically.

Starting with "Ice Cream" in 2016, Nazifa Tushi's focus has always been films. She went on to feature in one of the most successful OTT projects last year, "Networker Baire".

The joy-chorus turned into chaos when the cast suffered a deadly accident, leaving Tushi with a broken shoulder and a long recovery time. However, the actress is now back with Shihab Shaheen's "Syndicate".

We caught up with Tushi to know more about her recent endeavours, and upcoming projects.

Photos: Courtesy of Nazifa Tushi

You took a break after "Ice Cream", despite being appreciated for your performance. Why did you stay away from the screen instantly after your debut?

I have always wanted to work in films, and after "Ice-Cream", I felt that I needed to dig deeper into the craft, and different shades of portraying a character realistically. I was also busy with my studies during that time, but never stopped working on myself as an actor.

I came back with Mejbaur Rahman Sumon's "Hawa". With the emergence of OTT platforms, I started to explore this new medium, and have thoroughly enjoyed working here.

You will be seen in Shihab Shaheen's web series "Syndicate", with Afran Nisho and Tasnia Farin. How was your experience of working with them?

I was approached for "Syndicate" a while ago, but I was unsure if I could pull it off, as I had to visit India for surgery after the accident in Gulshan. The team of "Syndicate" was kind enough to wait for me, and finally, we managed to shoot for the production.

This is the first time I worked with Shihab Shaheen and Afran Nisho, and they were very helpful. Farin is one of the nicest people I have known so far, and I loved the experience.

Being my first web series, "Syndicate" left me with loads of good memories, new sides to discover in this line of work, and amazing friends.

You were recently caught up in an incident at the Ekushey Boi Mela, that stirred up a lot of controversies. However, the video violated your personal space…

'Syndicate' marks the first time I worked with Shihab Shaheen and Afran Nisho, and they were very helpful. Farin is one of the nicest people I have known so far, and I loved the experience.

Shooting a video without permission violates one's privacy, and the incident we are talking about was one such instance. I understand that we are public figures, but it is also unethical to only showcase parts of an incident for the sake of views.

That day, I had only demanded them to turn off the camera, but never said that I would not comply with them. Targeting celebrities just for clout is wrong.

What else are you looking forward to?

I am already in talks for a few OTT projects and films. The viewers will know more when it's the right time!