[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Film Industry

[Saif]

Prabir Mitra no more

Legendary actor Prabir Mitra passed away today at 10:15 pm today at a Dhaka’s square hospital. The news has been confirmed to The Daily Star by his son, Sifat Islam. Battling oxygen deficiency and other ailments, Mitra was admitted to a private hospital on December 22. His health had continued...

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Prabir Mitra no more
Actor Prabir Mitra passes away

Prabir Mitra

Legendary actor Prabir Mitra passed away at 10:15 pm today at a Dhaka's Square Hospital. The news has been confirmed to The Daily Star by his son, Sifat Islam. Battling oxygen deficiency and other ailments, Mitra was admitted to a private hospital on December 22. His health had continued to decline over the past two weeks, prompting his family to seek urgent government intervention for advanced medical treatment.

The 80-year-old actor, whose career spans more than 400 films, had been suffering from multiple health issues.

Mitra's family had been tirelessly trying to reach out for help, but the situation had been compounded by the inaccessibility of key members of the Film Artistes' Association. Sifat had noted yesterday, "Today, Anjana Aunty passed away. Many people attended her Janaza at the FDC (Bangladesh Film Development Corporation), and through several individuals, we tried to contact the association. Unfortunately, many of the people who had close ties with my father are either abroad or not reachable within the country."

Prabir Mitra's illustrious career remains an integral part of Bangladesh's cultural history. Born on August 18, 1943, in Chandina, Cumilla, Mitra spent his formative years in Old Dhaka, where his passion for acting began to flourish. His early love for the stage was sparked during his school days, performing in Rabindranath Tagore's iconic play "Dakghar".

Mitra made his silver screen debut in 1969 with "Jolchhobi", directed by H Akbar. However, the film was not released until January 1, 1971. Despite initially playing lead roles, Mitra found lasting success as a character actor, captivating audiences with his depth, versatility, and innate ability to breathe life into complex roles. His performances in films such as "Titash Ekti Nadir Naam", "Jibon Trishna", "Fariyad", "Rokto Shopoth", "Charitrohin", "Angaar", and "Fakir Majnu Shah" are considered cinematic landmarks.

Prabir Mitra's contributions to the film industry are undeniable, and the family hopes for a dignified response from both the state and the industry that once celebrated his immense talent.​

 

[Saif]

FDC cuts rental costs to boost film production

In an effort to revitalise the BFDC, a plan to reduce rental fees for equipment and studio floors has been introduced. This experimental initiative, aimed at attracting more filmmakers to shoot at BFDC, will run for six months.

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FDC cuts rental costs to boost film production

Photos: Collected

For a long time, the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), once the heart of Bengali cinema and the Bangladeshi film industry, has been in a state of disrepair. Gone are the days when every corner of the BFDC was abuzz with lights, cameras, and action. High production costs have driven directors away from the BFDC to film elsewhere, leaving the once-bustling facility largely empty. This has led to irregular salaries for its staff, compounding the organisation's woes.

In an effort to revitalise the BFDC, a plan to reduce rental fees for equipment and studio floors has been introduced. This experimental initiative, aimed at attracting more filmmakers to shoot at BFDC, will run for six months.

According to a circular signed by BFDC's Project Director Md Rezaul Haque, the rental rates for floors 1 and 6 have been revised. Previously, the rates for set construction and filming on these floors were Tk 2,550 and Tk 6,500, respectively.

Under the new pricing scheme, they have been reduced to Tk 2,000 and Tk 5,000. Similarly, the rental for set construction and filming on floor 2 (without air conditioning) was Tk 5,100 and Tk 13,000, respectively, which has now been reduced to Tk 4,000 and Tk 9,000. The rates for floor 2 (with air conditioning) have also been revised, from Tk 5,100 and Tk 18,540 to Tk 4,000 and Tk 11,500 for set construction and filming, respectively.

Camera rental fees have also been significantly slashed. The cost of renting a Red Dragon camera has been reduced from Tk 6,120 to Tk 3,000 for local productions. For outdoor shoots within Bangladesh, the fee is now Tk 3,500, down from Tk 6,630. For international shoots, the rate has dropped from Tk 19,500 to Tk 10,000.

Sony camera rental prices have similarly decreased. The previous fee of Tk 5,100 is now Tk 2,000. For outdoor shoots in Bangladesh, the rental fee has dropped from Tk 5,610 to Tk 2,500, and for international shoots, the price has gone from Tk 16,500 to Tk 7,000.

The charges for digital editing machines have also been reduced, from Tk 2,100 per shift to Tk 1,500, while digital color grading costs have gone from Tk 3,150 to Tk 2,500 per shift. Additionally, the fees for other equipment, such as lighting, audio gear, and set construction materials, have also been lowered.

Several conditions apply to these new rates. If filmmakers bring in external equipment, they must obtain prior approval from the BFDC, and electricity charges will be billed based on shifts. All rental payments must be made according to the official schedule.​

 

[Saif]

Razzak is the ‘Mahanayak’ of our times: Suchanda

Kohinoor Akhter, popularly known as Suchanda, is one of the most celebrated actresses of the 1960s. She recently reminisced about her time working alongside esteemed actor Abdur Razzak, who would go on to become the beloved "Nayak Raj" of Bangladeshi cinema. Their pairing, which began with the...

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Nayak Raj’s 83rd Birth Anniversary
Razzak is the ‘Mahanayak’ of our times: Suchanda

Photos: Collected

Kohinoor Akhter, popularly known as Suchanda, is one of the most celebrated actresses of the 1960s. She recently reminisced about her time working alongside esteemed actor Abdur Razzak, who would go on to become the beloved "Nayak Raj" of Bangladeshi cinema. Their pairing, which began with the iconic film "Behula", became one of the most cherished in the industry, with the duo starring in over 30 films together.

Speaking on the occasion of Razzak's 83rd birth anniversary today, Suchanda recalled their first encounter as co-stars.

"Razzak's first film as a lead actor was the Zahir Raihan directorial film, 'Behula', where I played the lead actress. Before filming began, we met unexpectedly one day." Esteemed Bangladeshi novelist, writer and filmmaker Zahir Raihan, who was also Suchanda's real-life partner, told Razzak, "I'm casting you as the lead in my next film, 'Behula'." "Razzak was so overwhelmed, he touched Zahir's feet in gratitude," Suchanda shared.

In "Behula," Suchanda took on the titular role, while Razzak played the role of Lakhindar. The film was an instant hit, marking the beginning of Razzak's legendary status in the industry.

The pair became a popular on-screen couple, delivering a string of box-office successes. "Our films were always well received by the audience," Suchanda noted. "Razzak's dedication to acting was unlike anything I'd seen. He loved his craft, constantly refining his skills. Acting was his first love, and when the camera rolled, he transformed into another person entirely."

The legendary on-screen duo was featured in iconic films "Shuorani Duorani" "Jibon Theke Neya" and "Behula"—all directed by Zahir Raihan.

Reflecting on Razzak's legacy, Suchanda added, "I've worked with many co-stars, and so had he, but our pairing always resonated with the audience. Even today, people remember the songs from our films. Razzak was a towering figure as an actor—he set a record, a benchmark for what it meant to be a leading man."

She continued, "Razzak was one of the greatest actors we've ever had. While actors may come and go, he was a true star—someone who truly embodied the essence of acting. It was ingrained in his soul."

Razzak was known for his versatility, excelling in both romantic and social dramas. "He was unmatched in every genre," Suchanda reflected. "His performances in socio-political dramas were exceptional, and as a romantic hero, he was the ultimate heartthrob."

Though the Nayak Raj is no longer with us, Suchanda believes his influence remains. "In many ways, Razzak reminded me of Uttam Kumar. It was as though he carried a part of Uttam within him. That's my personal view," she said. "The love and admiration the audience had for him endures, even today."

As she concluded her reflections, Suchanda spoke about the lasting impact Razzak made on the country's film industry. "His name will forever be a part of Bangladeshi cinema's history. He was the 'Mahanayak'—our great hero. Though he's no longer here to celebrate his birthday, may he rest in peace wherever he is."

Their other popular collaborations were "Moner Moto Bou", "Jibon Thekey Neya", "Osru Diye Lekha", among others. Suchanda received a National Film Award in 2005 for producing and directing the film "Hajar Bochor Dhore", based on Zahir Raihan's novel of the same name​

 

[Saif]

Industry leaders to address challenges in Bangladeshi cinema

In an ambitious move to strengthen the future of Bangladesh’s cinematic landscape, the Bangladesh Film Students’ Association (BFSA) is set to host a National Film Conference at Dhaka University tomorrow. The conference, taking place at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban, is set to be a...

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Industry leaders to address challenges in Bangladeshi cinema

Photo: Collected

In an ambitious move to strengthen the future of Bangladesh's cinematic landscape, the Bangladesh Film Students' Association (BFSA) is set to host a National Film Conference at Dhaka University tomorrow. The conference, taking place at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban, is set to be a landmark event for over 500 filmmakers, students, educators, and film professionals — all united in their vision for a brighter future for the Bangladeshi film industry.

Under the banner of the theme "Shongskarey Cholochitro, Poribortone Desh", the conference aims to tackle the urgent challenges lying ahead of the film sector in Bangladesh. The event is not just a gathering of minds but a call for action — one that seeks to ignite conversations on reinvigorating the country's filmmaking ecosystem, making it a powerful cultural and commercial force in the region.

The conference will feature passionate voices from industry leaders and experts, including the chief guest, Information Technology Adviser Md Nahid Islam, as well as special guests, Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and Mahfuj Alam, special assistant to the chief adviser. Together, they will steer the dialogue toward concrete solutions that benefit filmmakers and the country's broader entertainment and cultural landscape.

For the first time, key topics that have long hindered the growth of Bangladesh's film industry will take centre stage. From outdated certification laws to the underdeveloped infrastructure of film distribution and exhibition, the conference will strive to dismantle the barriers preventing the industry from realising its full potential.

The need for a revamped Bangladesh Film Certification Law, a restructured Film Development Corporation, and improved digital distribution networks are just some of the pressing issues that will be explored. The discussion will also delve into the commercialisation of the industry, focusing on ticket sales, box office management, and revenue-sharing systems that currently limit the profitability of local films.

As the film industry grapples with these systemic challenges, the importance of film education will also be underscored. Expanding access to said education across the country and creating more opportunities for young filmmakers will be integral to the conversation.

The conference will also look at how an improved educational infrastructure can nurture future generations of filmmakers, technicians, and storytellers, ensuring that Bangladesh remains at the forefront of cinematic innovation.

Another critical point of discussion will be the development of Gazipur Film City, which holds immense promise as a hub for film production, not just in Bangladesh but across South Asia. The conference will explore how to make this vision a reality, offering a glimpse of what the future of Bangladeshi filmmaking could look like on the global stage.

Perhaps one of the most urgent issues to be discussed is the ongoing battle against piracy and the lack of government investment in the sector. Without robust protections against piracy and strategic support from the government, filmmakers are left vulnerable, and the industry's growth remains stunted. Conference attendees will work towards establishing an anti-piracy framework and advocate for increased government funding to bolster local film productions.

The National Film Conference aims to transcend political barriers, fostering a future where creativity, commerce, and culture thrive. By focusing on actionable solutions, it expects to elevate Bangladesh's film industry and secure its legacy for future generations.

For the attendees, it is an opportunity to transform the way the country sees its film industry by pushing boundaries, challenging old conventions, and sparking a cultural renaissance. In the words of one of the organisers, "This is the time for change, for a film industry that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh, while embracing the future of global cinema."​

 

[Saif]

Modhumita Cinema Hall to close down after Eid

Madhumita Cinema Hall, a decades-old theatre in Dhaka will be completely shut down after the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha

en.prothomalo.com

Modhumita Cinema Hall to close down after Eid
Entertainment Correspondent
Dhaka
Published: 31 Jan 2025, 20: 00

One of the oldest cinema hall in Dhaka. Prothom Alo

One of the country’s historic theatres, Modhumita Cinema Hall in Motijheel area of Dhaka had been opened 58 years ago. This decades-old theatre was in a loop of being open for a few months and then closed for a few months during last few years.

Owner of the theatre Iftekhar Uddin Naushad said Thursday afternoon that their theatre will be completely shut down after the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha. A multi-storey building will be constructed in its stead. And the new building will have a Cineplex.

Iftekhar Uddin Naushad said that they had to take this decision from the family. He added that the Modhumita Cinema Hall did not have much business in the past few years, except on special occasions.

Inside of Modhumita Cinema Hall in DhakaProthom Alo

Even then, Iftekhar Uddin Naushad held on to this ancestral business. But recently he had to accept the proposal of demolishing the current theatre and build a multi-storey building there based on their family decision.

Iftekhar Uddin Naushad told Prothom Alo, “Films are not being released nowdays in our country. If there are no films, there is no point in keeping our cinema hall running either. Now we will wait for Shakib Khan’s Eid film. I heard that Shakib’s film will be released on Eid-ul-Azha as well. When Shakib’s film is released on Eid-ul-Azha, we will stretch the screenings for two months.”

“Then, after releasing another film of Shakib Khan on Eid-ul-Azha, we will close down the theatre for good. We don’t get any films to do business during other times of the year apart from the two Eids. Such a cinema hall cannot run when it’s left empty for months at a stretch, right?” he continued.

Managing director of Madhumita Cinema Hall, Iftekhar Uddin Naushad. Collected

In the course of the conversation Naushad said, “We are just counting losses by keeping it open. So, we finalised the decision to close down Modhumita two weeks ago. While other members in our family had already been in favour of closing it down for the last couple years, I was the one against it till now. Now, I also agree with my brothers that this is the right decision. There are no films, let’s just shut it, I said.”

“Recently, we had brought a new sound system and had carried out a lot of renovations at the theatre. We had to invest a lot of money in that. But even then, if we could release films regularly and have decent films to do business, there was no problem in investing.”

In the last two years, we have been able to do some business only on the films ‘Priyotoma’, ‘Toofan’ and ‘Dorod’. We had to count losses on all other films that were screened at the theatre apart from these. Now there’s no films at all. There is no point in leaving such a big institution idle like this. But, we’ll keep a cinema hall even when we build a multi-storey building there,” he added.

On 1 December 1967, speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Justice Abdul Jabbar Khan had inaugurated the Modhumita Cinema Hall. Iftekhar Uddin Naushad said, “I still remember that day clearly. The show started with the film ‘Cleopatra’ starring Elizabeth Taylor. There was such interest among the spectators on the first day. We started with modern sound (magnetic sound) system from the very first day.”

Siraj Uddin, a businessman from Old Dhaka, was the founder of the hall. He had placed an advertisement in the Daily Ittefaq asking for a suitable name for the cinema hall. Many people suggested names and sent them. From those suggestions, Siraj Uddin chose the name Modhumita and rewarded the person, who suggested the name, with Tk 500 at that time.

Siraj Uddin’s son Iftekhar Uddin Naushad is the current managing director of the cinema hall and the four sons of Siraj Uddin are the joint owners. The cinema hall can house 1,221 spectators at a time.​

 

[Saif]

Decentralising filmmaking: Monsoon Revolution Film Production Workshop hosts Dhaka event

The Monsoon Revolution Film Production Workshop has officially been launched under the initiative of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, with the vision of decentralising the filmmaking industry and nurturing new talent from across the country. The workshop aims to create opportunities for...

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Decentralising filmmaking: Monsoon Revolution Film Production Workshop hosts Dhaka event

Photos: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

The Monsoon Revolution Film Production Workshop has officially been launched under the initiative of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, with the vision of decentralising the filmmaking industry and nurturing new talent from across the country. The workshop aims to create opportunities for aspiring filmmakers beyond Dhaka, empowering them with hands-on training in storytelling, cinematography, production, editing, and the application of technology in filmmaking.

Dhaka division's session commenced today, with notable figures in attendance, including Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Professor Dr Sumon Rahman, fimmaker Tanim Noor and prodigal filmmaker Nuhash Humayun at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, marking the beginning of a five-day intensive programme.

Speaking about the workshop's significance, Nuhash Humayun shared, "Through films, we can bring change. A nation's culture, its films, and OTT web-series alike are its creative superpowers. The stronger the storytelling, the more impactful the message. Films allow us to present our perspectives without restrictions."

As part of the project, eight selected filmmakers will produce eight medium-length films in collaboration with novice and trained film workers. A search committee, formed last December, selected these filmmakers to conduct workshops and create films this year.

The selected directors are — Anam Biswas, Humaira Bilkis, Nuhash Humayun, Shankha Dasgupta, Shaheen Dill-Riaz, Robiul Alam Robi, Tasmiah Afrin Mou, and Mohammad Touqir Islam.

Today's event was graced by cultural adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, who highlighted the overwhelming response from aspiring filmmakers. "In this innovative workshop led by Nuhash Humayun, over 500 participants have submitted their writings, which are a promising sign that we are heading in the right direction," he stated.

As part of a nationwide initiative, the Monsoon Revolution Film Production Workshop will be conducted across all eight divisions of Bangladesh, each facilitated by accomplished young filmmakers. By decentralising access to filmmaking education and mentorship, this initiative is expected to encourage a new generation of storytellers.​

 

[Saif]

‘Borbaad’ official teaser reignites fan excitement around the film

After months of anticipation surrounding the Eid-ul-Fitr special film “Borbaad”, starring Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan, the excitement surrounding it has reached a new palpable height following the official teaser release yesterday.

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‘Borbaad’ official teaser reignites fan excitement around the film

After months of anticipation surrounding the Eid-ul-Fitr special film "Borbaad", starring Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan, the excitement surrounding it has reached a new palpable height following the official teaser release yesterday.

Directed by Mehedi Hassan Hridoy and packed with high-intensity action and savagery, the one-minute-and-forty-four-second teaser has been generating enthusiastic reactions from the audience. It premiered on the official Facebook and YouTube channels of both Shakib Khan and the film's production company.

Last Eid, Shakib Khan captivated audiences with his remarkable transformation in Raihan Rafi's "Toofan". Now, the release of the "Borbaad" teaser has raised fans' expectations for his upcoming film.

The "Borbaad" teaser showcases Shakib Khan in a few distinct looks, hinting at a gripping tale of love and revenge. The glimpses revealed make it clear that the action will be raw and intense, adding to the film's high-energy appeal. While all of Shakib Khan's looks in the teaser have sparked conversations, the most talked-about is his long-bearded appearance in the final scene.

Moreover, despite his brief appearance in the teaser, West Bengal star Jisshu Sengupta has managed to leave a strong impression among fans. His look and expressions have already sparked discussions online, with many anticipating an intense showdown in the film.

Speaking about "Borbaad", Shakib Khan confidently stated, "This film will surpass all of my previous works."

Alongside Shakib Khan, "Borbaad" features Idhika Paul, Jisshu, Manav Sachdev, and Misha Sawdagar in key roles. Additionally, Kolkata actress Nussrat Jahan will appear in a special item song. A significant portion of the film was shot in Maharashtra, India.​

 

[Saif]

HC orders screening of 'The Remand' on July Uprising

The High Court on Wednesday directed the issuance of a certification for the film, The Remand, which is based on the anti-discrimination student movement. A HC bench of Justice Md Akram Hossain Chowdhury and Justice KM Rasheduzzaman Raja passed the order and issued a rule following a prelimin

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

HC orders screening of 'The Remand' on July Uprising
UNB
Published :
Mar 19, 2025 22:23
Updated :
Mar 19, 2025 22:23

The High Court on Wednesday directed the issuance of a certification for the film, The Remand, which is based on the anti-discrimination student movement.

A HC bench of Justice Md Akram Hossain Chowdhury and Justice KM Rasheduzzaman Raja passed the order and issued a rule following a preliminary hearing of a writ petition.

Lawyer Md Gias Uddin Chowdhury represented the petitioner in the court.

Lawyer Gias Uddin said that the high court ordered the issuance of the certification certificate within three days.

Earlier, the film's producer and director, Syed Belayet Hossain Belal, had filed a writ petition.

The writ named the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Vice Chairman, and the Deputy Director of the Bangladesh Film Certification Board as defendants.

Directed by Ashrafur Rahman, The Remand features actors Zakia Bari Mamo, Parvez Abir Chowdhury, Salha Khanam Nadia, Lutfur Rahman George, and others.

After completing production, the film was submitted to the Bangladesh Film Certification Board and previewed on December 30.

However, the authorities have not granted permission for its screening, and despite sending two legal notices, no response has been received.

Consequently, the petitioner filed the writ seeking a court order to release the film within three days.

Producer Belal said that the film is a historical document that aims to preserve the memory of the heroic sacrifices made by students and the public during the July uprising.

He explained that after the film's screening process was completed on December 30, the law mandates that any anti-state content must be notified within seven days.

Since no letter or notification has been issued by the authorities and no discussions have taken place, he urged that the certification be granted immediately so the film can be released by the Film Certification Board.​

 

[Saif]

Star Cineplex to launch new branch in Uttara this Eid

In response to growing audience demand, Star Cineplex continues to expand its network of multiplex cinemas across the country. As part of this initiative, a brand-new branch is set to be opened in Dhaka’s Uttara area on Eid day.

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Star Cineplex to launch new branch in Uttara this Eid

Photo: Collected

In response to growing audience demand, Star Cineplex continues to expand its network of multiplex cinemas across the country. As part of this initiative, a brand-new branch is set to be opened in Dhaka's Uttara area on Eid day.

"Located at the shopping arcade Centrepoint near the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the new branch of the popular multiplex is being launched as a special Eid gift for moviegoers," said Cineplex authorities to local media. From Eid day onwards, audiences will be able to enjoy films at this newly built cinema.

Mesbah Uddin Ahmed, senior manager of Media and Marketing at Star Cineplex, stated that the Uttara area has long awaited its own branch. "We've received countless requests—both online and in person—from residents of Uttara to open a branch here. We're thrilled to finally make that happen," he said.

The new multiplex will feature four auditoriums: one VIP hall (83 seats), one Royal hall (48 seats), and two Premium halls (175 and 331 seats respectively). Like its other branches, this one promises a world-class cinematic experience with modern amenities, giant screens, and state-of-the-art sound systems.

Mesbah Uddin added that this location was chosen with convenience in mind, especially for residents of Uttara, Tongi, Savar, and Gazipur, who often face long commutes and traffic congestion to reach existing branches.

Star Cineplex, the country's first multiplex cinema, has gained popularity for its high-quality environment and technology. It currently operates branches in Bashundhara City Shopping Mall, Shimanto Shambhar, SKS Tower, the Military Museum, and Sony Square in Mirpur.​