Shomi Kaiser:
In search of excellenceIf I hadn't become an actress, I definitely would have been a singer...or maybe an architect," says Shomi Kaiser, a celebrated actress of our theatre and electronic media. Indeed, the initial interest of the popular heroine of many TV plays was in music and hardly in acting. "Director Atiqul Haque Chowdhury once spotted me at a musical programme," recalls Shomi. "He was looking for a girl who could speak the native Noakhali dialect for his play titled Keba Apon Keba Por. And as I am from Noakhali, he asked me to do the role." After a little hesitation, Shomi finally agreed to perform. And the audience response showed that they liked the new girl on the block. However, Shomi at that stage did not have any plans to enter the acting arena. She was rather planning to study at a foreign university. It was at that time that Abdullah Al Mamun sent producer Fakhrul Abedin Dulal to Shomi asking her to do another role. It was the three-episode play Joto Durey Jai based on a novel of Imdadul Haque Milon. Shomi's acting in the role of a cancer-affected girl won the audience's hearts. "It also altered my decision," says Shomi. She stayed back home and went on performing scores of different kinds of roles in many popular TV plays and serials such as Nakkhotrer Raat, Chhoto Chhoto Dheu, Sparsho, Ekjona, Ariyana, Akashey Anek Raat, Mukti, Antorey Nirantor, Swapno, Thikana and many more. Besides the electronic medium, Shomi Kaiser has also been a successful name on stage. A member of Dhaka Theatre, Shomi's creditable stage plays include mainly Haat Hodai in which she acted against Shahiduzzaman Selim. "Theatre is the place where one actually develops their talent," asserts Shomi adding, "Most of the young generation performers lack acting skills." At present, Shomi is busy with her production house Dhansiri Production. Initially, after my mother's suggestion we decided to make plays and telefilms on our Liberation War. We have made Mukti and Antorey Nirantor--written by my mother, Panna Kaiser." Later, however, the house changed its policy. "At present, we are more into ad films. I'm also making a 26-episode drama serial from my house," says Shomi. Titled Tomay Dilam Prithibi, the serial is based on Shomi's story of two companies. Shomi's talents are evident on the silver screen. She has performed in two films: Lalon and Hason Raja. "I was not expecting much from Hason Raja as it was made completely from a commercial point of view. But Lalon has really been one of my favourite works," says Shomi. She has featured in another film, The Name of a River, based on the biography of eminent filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak. "Unfortunately, the film hasn't been shown in Bangladesh," says Shomi. One of Shomi's dreams is to make a film of Shangshaptak, the novel by her martyred father Shahidullah Kaiser. "The drama serial based on the novel was a super hit. So, I believe, the film should equally be great." However, Shomi has not yet decided when she is going to undertake that enterprise.Acting, My profession and passion -Bijori BarkatullahBijori Barkatullah, famous name in TV dramas of Bangladesh. First appearance on television was in a show called “Ma k niye” when she was only two and half years old. Her debut drama in Bangladesh Television was “Shukher Chharpotro” in 1988. So far she has acted in more than 300 drama serials. Apart from drama, she also appeared in 7 advertising campaigns. Here we present a little interview with this beautiful, talented artist: >>
What are your recent projects that you have done? :
I’m working in a mega serial called “Bandhan” in Ekushay TV. Just finished a single drama named “Brishtir Shobdo”. There’s a chance of changing the name of the drama. I’m also considering some other offers. >> Have you worked on the stage? : I worked on the stage long time back. Not with any group, rather I worked as Repertory of Theater Art, in a epic called “Kirtinasha”. >>
Will you work in stage dramas regularly? :
Yes, I would like to do. But time management is the only problem for me regarding stage performance. >> Did you ever take part in films? : No I didn’t. I worked in a short film called “NurJahan”. >> Do you have any intention to act in films? : Not much. Not in the commercial films, but if I get any offer for a suitable roll in any decent family movie, then may be I’ll think about it. >>
What else do you do apart from acting? :
I am a dance artist. But lately I’m not having enough time to concentrate on dancing. I’ve taken acting as my profession. >>
What are your future plans? :
Actually I don’t do anything planwise. Rather I always try to concentrate on my present works. >> What about your family life? How is it going? : It’s good. I spend my time in acting, only after fulfilling my family needs. >>
Did you go to any cultural tour abroad? :
Many times. India, Bhutan, Myanmer, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Dubai, Qatar, England, Italy, America—I travelled all these countries with the reason of cultural tours. England was the most beautiful country I’ve seen. >>
Say something about the channels of our country. :
It seems that Ekushay TV is promoting quality programs. I don’t get time to see the other channels many often. But it’s clear that other channels are still in backfoot if compared with Ekushay TV. >>
Which thing attracts you most in this city? :
Dhaka city at night is my favorite. When I’m on my way to home at night after packing up shooting, the jamless highways, neon lights are simply fabulous. It’s a completely different picture of Dhaka city by that time. >>
What else would you be if you were not an actress? :
I would be a teacher. >>
What is your dream? :
To stay in mental peace always. >>
How do you evaluate your success? :
As an actress, my success is a subject to be evaluated by the audience. I don’t think I can do that. >>
And as a human being? :
I am honest and that is my my success. >>
Do you have any wish to write drama script or making drama? :
Not yet. But if more channels appear, then I’ll think about producing drama serials.Jahid Hasan -- A well celebrated name in our showbiz world. Stage, television, film-- everywhere he has left is bright footprint. But in recent times he is facing controversies after appearing in a cigarette campaign.
Let's see what he says about it and what are his future plans>>
1. What projects do you have in your hand now? :
Right now I'm working in several serials which include 13 episodes "Foizu Kobiraz", 10 episodes "Nayikar Naamay Naam", 13 episodes "Niil Towalay" and 13 episodes "Amader Choto Nodi".
2. You have disappeared from the film scenario in recent times- why?
I'm thinking about signing two new films.
3. Many actors eventually turned into directors. Do you have such plans for the future?
I've also directed a drama called "Onno Tepantor", where Mou and Faridi Vai also took part. The whole drama was shooted in Thailand. I felt some lacking while editing the drama, as I like quality work. Perhaps, I should have spent a little more time for the shooting. However, I don't have any intentions to be a professional director. Rather I'd like to direct one or two dramas in a year.
4. Recently you were criticized for appearing in a cigarette campaign, what is your reaction?
My fans were shocked to see me in such advertising campaign. In the future, I'll never do anything that can hurt my fans. Wherever I go, I'm being interrogated about this advertisement. It seems like everyone tries to prove their intellect by asking questions about the campaign. However, I'm getting used to it and now I feel rather disappointed when I'm not facing the question. But one thing makes me amazed. There are some so-called intellectuals who make such advertisement of cigarette and distribute them, when they also ask me the same question, it really changes my impression about them.
5. What is your future plan?
To be a good man, to do some good work. I don't want to stop my work even if I reach up to a certain stage. I want to spend my life in acting and good works. I'll never want to be a so-called intellectual.
6. How is your family life?
It's good going by the Blessing of Allah. I'm very happy with my family. I've struggled a lot in my life and in comparison, I've got some feedback. Actually, success is bound to come if someone works with honesty and integrity.
7. Say something about the performers of the forthcoming generation?
Once I was also like them. Then everyone said that Afzal, Faridi vai era was the golden time and no one like them is upcoming. The most interesting thing is, now people say that new generation performers don't seem to have the potential like Toukir, Jahid. Actually it's just a course of time. If the newcomers do their work honestly, then definitely one day they'll find themselves in a strong position.
8. Which part of this city fascinates you most?
Actually, many things of Dhaka city are uncertain. Everything seems disguised. Air is polluted, roads are jam-packed. Never-the-less, after a long working day, when I reach near my home, it’s a big relief for me.TinniThe name that is well-celebrated in contemporary showbiz world is Tinni, talented youngster and a rising star in the world of modeling. Gifted glamour and intelligence has already made her the uncrowned queen of Bangladeshi advertising media. Just like some of her ancestors, she is now stepping into the film industry. Soon she’ll be seen on the silver screen. Producers and directors of Dhaliwood are already cooking plans through this beautiful model. Let’s see what is her reaction and plans about joining the film industry:
9. What made you think about joining the film industry?
It’s been my childhood dream to join the film industry. But when it was time for me to enter, the overall environment of film was polluted. I didn’t have enough idea about the media but now I think I’m matured enough.
10. Are you going to take part in films regularly?
I’ll decide it only after I begin to work. Right now I don’t want to get fully involved. May be just 4 films in a year. I will only participate in films with quality story, reputed producer and productions.
11. Do you think it’s possible to maintain all these if you take acting as your profession?
Actually the output of my first film will show me the way. Acceptance of media and the audience is also a major think-about. In my opinion, a good story is more important than a character. There should be chance to perform as well.
12. How is your preparation for your arrival in the films?
I’m mentally prepared. Camera is nothing new for me. I’m already acting in 4 serials. I’m learning how to dance. I will not participate in action films, so no need to learn it. Basically I like the movies which are based on female sentiment. I’ll never show up in films which can not be categorized as complete family movie. Audience is now refusing vulgar films.
13. Are you confident about your success in film?
I’ll only work in chosen films. I don’t want to be lost. I’m not interested to come in the limelight by doing something vulgar. I want to amaze the audience with my performance. Film industry is now almost out of the grip of nudity. However, if such problems arise, I’ll leave film industry.
14. What type of character do you like?
I prefer modern, romantic characters. I didn’t get any rural character yet, neither I’m interested. Rather I’m much more suitable in urban and glamorous character. Same thing happened in drama serials. However, if there is enough scope to perform, I don’t mind to perform in negative role. Actually my target is to perform as long as I’ll get the chance as the main Heroin. I don’t wan to be mother or grandmother in films.
15. Are you satisfied with your performance in TV serials?
Not at all. Every time I performed in a drama, I had a feeling that I could have done better. I’m also very choosy in TV media. I have a different type of fascination for TV. I’ve put up many conditions to join the film industry so that some changes can be made. Media has warmly welcomed my decision to join films.
16. Are you getting support from your family members?
In the beginning, they were not ready at all. Later, they agreed. Pial is also helping me a lot as my dress designer. I’m acting in the main character of the film. I hope everyone will appreciate my performance after the release of the film. Besides, I’m really lucky that I got the opportunity to work with some big artists.
17. Do you think it will create a negative impression on your modeling and acting if you fail in film?
I’m not here to fail. The output of my debut film will decide about my success or failure. Many famous actresses started their career with complete failure. I’m very much confident about my success. I don’t think film career will have any impact on modeling or acting. Artists like Jahid Hasan and Shuborna Mustafa also took part in films once and they never had any problem with their acting. Besides, I participate in advertising campaigns for a few selected products. But I have plans to stay in TV media all of my life.
18. Are you feeling any kind of limitation regarding acting in film?
Problems or limitations can be pointed out only after performing in the film. I have experience of working in the media. I have enough idea of acting and dance. I’m a little bit tensed about dubbing and prompt. I hope I’ll recover these little problems soon.
19. What are your plans for your acting career?
Each and every step will be well-planned. I’ll work for the media as long as there is public demand and temptation. I have some plans for doing something for the handicapped people of our country in the future.
In search of excellenceIf I hadn't become an actress, I definitely would have been a singer...or maybe an architect," says Shomi Kaiser, a celebrated actress of our theatre and electronic media. Indeed, the initial interest of the popular heroine of many TV plays was in music and hardly in acting. "Director Atiqul Haque Chowdhury once spotted me at a musical programme," recalls Shomi. "He was looking for a girl who could speak the native Noakhali dialect for his play titled Keba Apon Keba Por. And as I am from Noakhali, he asked me to do the role." After a little hesitation, Shomi finally agreed to perform. And the audience response showed that they liked the new girl on the block. However, Shomi at that stage did not have any plans to enter the acting arena. She was rather planning to study at a foreign university. It was at that time that Abdullah Al Mamun sent producer Fakhrul Abedin Dulal to Shomi asking her to do another role. It was the three-episode play Joto Durey Jai based on a novel of Imdadul Haque Milon. Shomi's acting in the role of a cancer-affected girl won the audience's hearts. "It also altered my decision," says Shomi. She stayed back home and went on performing scores of different kinds of roles in many popular TV plays and serials such as Nakkhotrer Raat, Chhoto Chhoto Dheu, Sparsho, Ekjona, Ariyana, Akashey Anek Raat, Mukti, Antorey Nirantor, Swapno, Thikana and many more. Besides the electronic medium, Shomi Kaiser has also been a successful name on stage. A member of Dhaka Theatre, Shomi's creditable stage plays include mainly Haat Hodai in which she acted against Shahiduzzaman Selim. "Theatre is the place where one actually develops their talent," asserts Shomi adding, "Most of the young generation performers lack acting skills." At present, Shomi is busy with her production house Dhansiri Production. Initially, after my mother's suggestion we decided to make plays and telefilms on our Liberation War. We have made Mukti and Antorey Nirantor--written by my mother, Panna Kaiser." Later, however, the house changed its policy. "At present, we are more into ad films. I'm also making a 26-episode drama serial from my house," says Shomi. Titled Tomay Dilam Prithibi, the serial is based on Shomi's story of two companies. Shomi's talents are evident on the silver screen. She has performed in two films: Lalon and Hason Raja. "I was not expecting much from Hason Raja as it was made completely from a commercial point of view. But Lalon has really been one of my favourite works," says Shomi. She has featured in another film, The Name of a River, based on the biography of eminent filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak. "Unfortunately, the film hasn't been shown in Bangladesh," says Shomi. One of Shomi's dreams is to make a film of Shangshaptak, the novel by her martyred father Shahidullah Kaiser. "The drama serial based on the novel was a super hit. So, I believe, the film should equally be great." However, Shomi has not yet decided when she is going to undertake that enterprise.Acting, My profession and passion -Bijori BarkatullahBijori Barkatullah, famous name in TV dramas of Bangladesh. First appearance on television was in a show called “Ma k niye” when she was only two and half years old. Her debut drama in Bangladesh Television was “Shukher Chharpotro” in 1988. So far she has acted in more than 300 drama serials. Apart from drama, she also appeared in 7 advertising campaigns. Here we present a little interview with this beautiful, talented artist: >>
What are your recent projects that you have done? :
I’m working in a mega serial called “Bandhan” in Ekushay TV. Just finished a single drama named “Brishtir Shobdo”. There’s a chance of changing the name of the drama. I’m also considering some other offers. >> Have you worked on the stage? : I worked on the stage long time back. Not with any group, rather I worked as Repertory of Theater Art, in a epic called “Kirtinasha”. >>
Will you work in stage dramas regularly? :
Yes, I would like to do. But time management is the only problem for me regarding stage performance. >> Did you ever take part in films? : No I didn’t. I worked in a short film called “NurJahan”. >> Do you have any intention to act in films? : Not much. Not in the commercial films, but if I get any offer for a suitable roll in any decent family movie, then may be I’ll think about it. >>
What else do you do apart from acting? :
I am a dance artist. But lately I’m not having enough time to concentrate on dancing. I’ve taken acting as my profession. >>
What are your future plans? :
Actually I don’t do anything planwise. Rather I always try to concentrate on my present works. >> What about your family life? How is it going? : It’s good. I spend my time in acting, only after fulfilling my family needs. >>
Did you go to any cultural tour abroad? :
Many times. India, Bhutan, Myanmer, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Dubai, Qatar, England, Italy, America—I travelled all these countries with the reason of cultural tours. England was the most beautiful country I’ve seen. >>
Say something about the channels of our country. :
It seems that Ekushay TV is promoting quality programs. I don’t get time to see the other channels many often. But it’s clear that other channels are still in backfoot if compared with Ekushay TV. >>
Which thing attracts you most in this city? :
Dhaka city at night is my favorite. When I’m on my way to home at night after packing up shooting, the jamless highways, neon lights are simply fabulous. It’s a completely different picture of Dhaka city by that time. >>
What else would you be if you were not an actress? :
I would be a teacher. >>
What is your dream? :
To stay in mental peace always. >>
How do you evaluate your success? :
As an actress, my success is a subject to be evaluated by the audience. I don’t think I can do that. >>
And as a human being? :
I am honest and that is my my success. >>
Do you have any wish to write drama script or making drama? :
Not yet. But if more channels appear, then I’ll think about producing drama serials.Jahid Hasan -- A well celebrated name in our showbiz world. Stage, television, film-- everywhere he has left is bright footprint. But in recent times he is facing controversies after appearing in a cigarette campaign.
Let's see what he says about it and what are his future plans>>
1. What projects do you have in your hand now? :
Right now I'm working in several serials which include 13 episodes "Foizu Kobiraz", 10 episodes "Nayikar Naamay Naam", 13 episodes "Niil Towalay" and 13 episodes "Amader Choto Nodi".
2. You have disappeared from the film scenario in recent times- why?
I'm thinking about signing two new films.
3. Many actors eventually turned into directors. Do you have such plans for the future?
I've also directed a drama called "Onno Tepantor", where Mou and Faridi Vai also took part. The whole drama was shooted in Thailand. I felt some lacking while editing the drama, as I like quality work. Perhaps, I should have spent a little more time for the shooting. However, I don't have any intentions to be a professional director. Rather I'd like to direct one or two dramas in a year.
4. Recently you were criticized for appearing in a cigarette campaign, what is your reaction?
My fans were shocked to see me in such advertising campaign. In the future, I'll never do anything that can hurt my fans. Wherever I go, I'm being interrogated about this advertisement. It seems like everyone tries to prove their intellect by asking questions about the campaign. However, I'm getting used to it and now I feel rather disappointed when I'm not facing the question. But one thing makes me amazed. There are some so-called intellectuals who make such advertisement of cigarette and distribute them, when they also ask me the same question, it really changes my impression about them.
5. What is your future plan?
To be a good man, to do some good work. I don't want to stop my work even if I reach up to a certain stage. I want to spend my life in acting and good works. I'll never want to be a so-called intellectual.
6. How is your family life?
It's good going by the Blessing of Allah. I'm very happy with my family. I've struggled a lot in my life and in comparison, I've got some feedback. Actually, success is bound to come if someone works with honesty and integrity.
7. Say something about the performers of the forthcoming generation?
Once I was also like them. Then everyone said that Afzal, Faridi vai era was the golden time and no one like them is upcoming. The most interesting thing is, now people say that new generation performers don't seem to have the potential like Toukir, Jahid. Actually it's just a course of time. If the newcomers do their work honestly, then definitely one day they'll find themselves in a strong position.
8. Which part of this city fascinates you most?
Actually, many things of Dhaka city are uncertain. Everything seems disguised. Air is polluted, roads are jam-packed. Never-the-less, after a long working day, when I reach near my home, it’s a big relief for me.TinniThe name that is well-celebrated in contemporary showbiz world is Tinni, talented youngster and a rising star in the world of modeling. Gifted glamour and intelligence has already made her the uncrowned queen of Bangladeshi advertising media. Just like some of her ancestors, she is now stepping into the film industry. Soon she’ll be seen on the silver screen. Producers and directors of Dhaliwood are already cooking plans through this beautiful model. Let’s see what is her reaction and plans about joining the film industry:
9. What made you think about joining the film industry?
It’s been my childhood dream to join the film industry. But when it was time for me to enter, the overall environment of film was polluted. I didn’t have enough idea about the media but now I think I’m matured enough.
10. Are you going to take part in films regularly?
I’ll decide it only after I begin to work. Right now I don’t want to get fully involved. May be just 4 films in a year. I will only participate in films with quality story, reputed producer and productions.
11. Do you think it’s possible to maintain all these if you take acting as your profession?
Actually the output of my first film will show me the way. Acceptance of media and the audience is also a major think-about. In my opinion, a good story is more important than a character. There should be chance to perform as well.
12. How is your preparation for your arrival in the films?
I’m mentally prepared. Camera is nothing new for me. I’m already acting in 4 serials. I’m learning how to dance. I will not participate in action films, so no need to learn it. Basically I like the movies which are based on female sentiment. I’ll never show up in films which can not be categorized as complete family movie. Audience is now refusing vulgar films.
13. Are you confident about your success in film?
I’ll only work in chosen films. I don’t want to be lost. I’m not interested to come in the limelight by doing something vulgar. I want to amaze the audience with my performance. Film industry is now almost out of the grip of nudity. However, if such problems arise, I’ll leave film industry.
14. What type of character do you like?
I prefer modern, romantic characters. I didn’t get any rural character yet, neither I’m interested. Rather I’m much more suitable in urban and glamorous character. Same thing happened in drama serials. However, if there is enough scope to perform, I don’t mind to perform in negative role. Actually my target is to perform as long as I’ll get the chance as the main Heroin. I don’t wan to be mother or grandmother in films.
15. Are you satisfied with your performance in TV serials?
Not at all. Every time I performed in a drama, I had a feeling that I could have done better. I’m also very choosy in TV media. I have a different type of fascination for TV. I’ve put up many conditions to join the film industry so that some changes can be made. Media has warmly welcomed my decision to join films.
16. Are you getting support from your family members?
In the beginning, they were not ready at all. Later, they agreed. Pial is also helping me a lot as my dress designer. I’m acting in the main character of the film. I hope everyone will appreciate my performance after the release of the film. Besides, I’m really lucky that I got the opportunity to work with some big artists.
17. Do you think it will create a negative impression on your modeling and acting if you fail in film?
I’m not here to fail. The output of my debut film will decide about my success or failure. Many famous actresses started their career with complete failure. I’m very much confident about my success. I don’t think film career will have any impact on modeling or acting. Artists like Jahid Hasan and Shuborna Mustafa also took part in films once and they never had any problem with their acting. Besides, I participate in advertising campaigns for a few selected products. But I have plans to stay in TV media all of my life.
18. Are you feeling any kind of limitation regarding acting in film?
Problems or limitations can be pointed out only after performing in the film. I have experience of working in the media. I have enough idea of acting and dance. I’m a little bit tensed about dubbing and prompt. I hope I’ll recover these little problems soon.
19. What are your plans for your acting career?
Each and every step will be well-planned. I’ll work for the media as long as there is public demand and temptation. I have some plans for doing something for the handicapped people of our country in the future.
