Ramendu Majumdar, a resplendent figure of the cultural arena of Bangladesh, has been associated with the world of theatre for over 50 years now. He is also the honourary member of the International Theatre Institute (ITI). The Ekushey Padak winning thespian stepped into his 82nd year yesterday, and took time to speak to The Daily Star over the phone.

"There's a philosophy I've always followed in life, that is we should live for others, not for ourselves," said the eminent thespian, whose contributions to the local theatre industry is immeasurable. "We shouldn't live by ourselves, we should live together. I also believe work is integral to our lives, I've never sat idle, always doing something".

"However, at this age, my biggest want is to be healthy. Want to remain healthy as long as I am alive, don't want to be bed-ridden," continued Ramendu, also adding that he wants to spend more time concentrating on writing.

When asked about what expectations he has from the country, he expressed his desire to keep the spirit of the Liberation, afloat. "People need education, if that is done and people become worthy of themselves, it will make our country a better place".

Speaking about his birthday, Ramendu talked about how nostalgic he gets during that time, missing his birthplace Lakshmipur. "I have been to many places all over the world, but none have enamoured me as much as my own city, even walking around feels like home".

On a more serious note, Ramendu expressed his concern over the tumultuous political situation of the time, "Communal power is on the rise. When I see it at this time of life, I feel bad. Communal forces were defeated in 1971. But again, they are raising their heads. I mean religious, but not sectarian. This is because of their use in politics."

On a parting note, the thespian mentioned that his biggest inspiration in life has been Rabindranath Tagore, saying that in times of despair, Ramendu finds solace in the Nobel laurate's writing, providing him shelter.

Read more

Attacks on Bengali culture will not go very far: Ramendu Majumdar