“Bangla cinema is now reaching audiences across the globe with honour. At a time when our films are doing well, a vested quarter has launched a conspiracy to destroy this progress. The films that are performing well are being targeted for piracy. I would say, this is not just a conspiracy against our cinema—it’s a conspiracy against the country,” said Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan.
Amid the box‑office success, reports emerged that an HD copy of “Taandob” had been leaked on YouTube and other platforms. In response, the production company adopted a hard line. The producer, Shahriar Shakil, filed a complaint with the police seeking legal action under copyright legislation, and detectives have now arrested three suspects in connection with the piracy. At around 11:45 am today (Wednesday), Dhaka Metropolitan Police Detective Branch (DB) Joint Commissioner Nasirul Islam confirmed the arrests to Prothom Alo.
Released in 133 theatres across Bangladesh, “Taandob” quickly captured the audience’s attention with its high-octane plot, gritty tone, and surprise cameos from Afran Nisho and Siam Ahmed.
Six films were released across cinemas in Bangladesh this Eid. Among them, “Taandob”, starring Shakib Khan and directed by Raihan Rafi, has led the charts from Eid day through the fifth day of the holiday. The film was released in 133 theatres nationwide, with midnight screenings (12am–3am) running in venues such as Chhaya Bani in Mymensingh, Rajtilok in Rajshahi, and Modhubon Cineplex in Bogura.
In light of this overwhelming local demand, the film is now set for overseas audiences. Starting today, the film will begin screening across more than 50 cinemas in Europe, America, and Canada in a phased schedule. Notably, the overseas distribution is being managed by BiosKope Films.
This Eid-ul-Azha, actress Jaya Ahsan returned to the silver screen with two new films—“Taandob”, directed by Raihan Rafi, and “Utshob”, directed by Tanim Noor. Since Eid day, she has been visiting various theatres across the country as part of the promotional campaign.
It was during the school-free weekends when my maternal cousins and I would huddle in front of our grandparents' grey old box TV after a hearty, yet customary lunch arrangement at their place. We would take up the gap on the floor between their king-sized bed and the unforgettable TV set to watch the black and white Satyajit Ray films, and even the vibrant late 20th-century Bangladeshi cinema, previously defined by over-the-top performances. The adults would lounge about on the bed, imbuing us with not only the significance of family viewing content but also a perception of what we understood as “our cinematic language.”
As “Taandob” gears up for its theatrical release this Eid, a special press conference was held at a hotel in Dhaka’s Gulshan, featuring the film’s core cast and crew.
Regarding her experience working with Shakib Khan, Jaya shared, “Shakib Khan is a major star in our industry. I must say, he’s doing exceptionally well. Although we shared screen previously, this time while working on ‘Taandob’, I noticed he has become even more dedicated and serious about his craft.”
This year, an estimated 50 Bangladeshi films have been released. Among these, only a handful have achieved commercial success. Then again, despite not performing well at the box office, other cinematic aspects like actors, actresses, and film songs have managed to remain at the centre of discussions throughout the year.
Star Cineplex, a leading choice for cinema enthusiasts with refined tastes, has maintained its position as a crowd favourite. While Hollywood films dominated the scene a few years ago, the rising wave of Bangladeshi cinema has gradually shifted the spotlight.
Star Cineplex, the country’s most advanced cine-theatre, has marked 20 years since its establishment. This milestone year witnessed a groundbreaking achievement with the Shakib Khan-starrer “Toofan”. The global blockbuster became the most successful movie at Star Cineplex, surpassing Hollywood and Bollywood hits.
Puja Cherry plays a glamorous role in the web-series “Black Money”, directed by Raihan Rafi. The show has finished filming and is expected to premiere on Bongo in the new year.
The Vicky Zahed-directed film, titled “Andhokarer Gaan”, revolves around a love story at its core. Apu plays the son of a wealthy man, a young individual struggling with drug addiction.
In a recent media interview, Shakib faced tough questions about the delicate relationship between India and Bangladesh and offered his perspective on the matter.
After a hiatus of about six years, Puja is working with Raihan Rafi again. “I am a bit nervous about what will happen. I previously worked on two hit projects with him, “Poramon-2” and “Dohon”, in the same year. For the first time, I will be starring in a web project directed by him. Also, sharing the screen with Rubel bhai is another reason why I am nervous. I hope it will be well-received by the audience."
Rafi has hinted that the story of “Black Money” is a significant departure from his usual narratives, expressing his excitement about working on this unique project. He also hinted that the cast reveal will surprise many. Meanwhile, there are rumours that film actor Rubel may join the cast, though both Rafi and the production company have opted to keep all official announcements for the press event.
Last Eid-ul-Azha, filmmaker Raihan Rafi created a buzz by directing “Toofan” starring Dhallywood’s megastar Shakib Khan. At the end of the movie, it is hinted that “Toofan 2” will be coming.
Rafi, known for his hit films like “Poran” and “Damal,” among others broke the news about this next venture yesterday. Speaking to Bangla Tribune, he revealed, “My next film, which is slated for release during the upcoming Eid, is titled ‘Lion’. It will feature two leading men—Jeet from Tollywood and Razz from Dhallywood. Everything else you’ve heard is just rumours.”
