[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Television

[Saif]

Shimana’s 14-day battle ends, actress passes away

After battling for life for 14 days at the hospital, Rista Laboni Shimana passed away today due to severe brain hemorrhage complications.

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Shimana's 14-day battle ends, actress passes away

Photo: Collected

After battling for life for 14 days at the hospital, Rista Laboni Shimana passed away today due to severe brain hemorrhage complications. The 39-year-old actress breathed her last around 6am. She was admitted to the hospital on May 20 after suffering a brain bleed, and had been unconscious for the past 14 days. Ejaz Bin Ali, Shimana's brother, confirmed the news of her passing. She leaves behind her husband and two sons: eight-year-old Shreshtho and three-year-old Sworgo. According to the family, Shimana fell suddenly ill on the night of May 21. Around 11:30pm, she was rushed to a private hospital in Dhanmondi, where it was discovered that she had suffered from a brain haemorrhage.

The following day, she was transferred to another hospital in Dhanmondi for better treatment. Eventually, on doctors' advice, she was admitted to the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in the capital's Agargaon.

She remained there for several days, undergoing brain surgery on May 27. Last Wednesday, she was moved to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) last Wednesday (May 29) for further treatment.

Shimana's journey in the entertainment industry began in 2006 when she gained recognition through the Lux-Channel i Superstar competition. She has since been a regular in television dramas and commercials and has appeared in films.

However, she took a six-year hiatus starting in 2016 due to family commitments, returning to the screen only last year.​

 

[Saif]

BTV’s ‘Anandamela’ to feature wedding-themed performances

BTV’s “Anandamela”, famous for bringing together celebrities, has come up with a unique theme for this Eid. This year, Sazu Khadem and Rukaiya Jahan Chamak will host the show as a newlywed couple.

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BTV's 'Anandamela' to feature wedding-themed performances

Photo: Courtesy

BTV's "Anandamela", famous for bringing together celebrities, has come up with a unique theme for this Eid. This year, Sazu Khadem and Rukaiya Jahan Chamak will host the show as a newlywed couple.

The special Eid-ul-Azha Anandamela programme will be broadcast on Bangladesh Television (BTV) during the day of Eid-ul-Azha, after the airing of the channel's 10pm English news.

According to BTV sources, the makers have created a wedding-like set to showcase a pretend wedding between the hosts. Artistes who have performed for this year's celebrations come in as " wedding guests" to deliver their respective performances.

For instance, Ziaul Hoque Polash and Parsa Evana enter together and exchange funny banter with the hosts. However, a cinematic wedding is incomplete without a villain—Dhallywood's popular hero Misha Sawdagar's entry scares everyone. Following this, Solaiman Shukhon and Dana Bhai join the celebration.

After that, singers Kona, Shafi Mondol, and Mahtim Shakib deliver a beautiful musical performance for the pretend wedding. Atiya Anisha performs the song "Cholo Niralai". Glamorous actress Puja Chery also grooves to popular music while twin brothers Shoumya Joyti and Dibya Joyti also attend the wedding.

No wedding is complete without the presence of veteran artistes so Mamunur Rashid, Abul Hayat, and Dilara Zaman, come in and share memorable stories about their own married lives.

Additionally, the programme's arrangement includes a special performance by Joler Gaan.​

 

[Saif]

This drama conveys a powerful message: Mehazabien

Recently, the actress completed shooting for her upcoming film titled “Tithi Door”, which is slated for release on Eid-ul-Azha.

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This drama conveys a powerful message: Mehazabien

Photo: Collected

Mehazabien Chowdhury, who is winning the hearts of audiences with her fantastic performances on OTT platforms, will soon be entering the world of cinema.

The actress, once a popular face on television, has stepped away from TV dramas and is now rarely seen on the small screen. Her last drama, "Anonna", directed by Mostafa Kamal Raz, was released on December 16 last year on the Cinemawala YouTube channel.

Recently, the actress completed shooting for her upcoming film titled "Tithi Door", which is slated for release on Eid-ul-Azha. Mehazabien played the role of Nishat, and the shooting, which took place in Dhaka, was finished by June 10.

In an interview with Prothom Alo, the actress revealed what drew her to the script. She was originally scheduled to shoot the drama last Eid but was unable to complete it due to unforeseen circumstances. This Eid, however, she was determined to tell the story, believing it would play an important role in raising awareness among audiences.

"Many people around us are suffering from various problems, and some are becoming depressed because of it. This kind of despair can spread among people. By sharing such stories, people can learn and gain awareness. The story is very relevant for the present time," said the actress.

The actress also went on to reveal how this problems can lead to frustration at one stage, which eventually pushes people to contemplate suicide. "We want to create awareness as to how this disease can affect the family and society," said Mehazabien.

The "Sabrina" actress feels that this is an important issue for all, particularly for women. "Every individual has a tendency to contemplate suicide at some point of time due to depression. This is an issue that needs to be talked about," revealed the artiste.

When asked why she works on dramas after large intervals, the actress revealed that she now prefers to work only on fiction with unique storylines.

"From now on, I want to work like this. Earlier, I worked on different types of stories. Even now, I want to work on stories that haven't been told before. If I get the perfect script, I will surely work on it. If I get such good stories in the future, I will definitely work on 1-2 projects for sure," asserted the actress.

Although the actress has reduced her work in dramas, she is actively involved in web-films and series. Recently, she also completed work on a web-film. The production house will soon announce the film's name, director, release date, and other details.​

 

[Saif]

Three Bangladeshi dramas being filmed in Korea

South Korea, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque locations, has long captivated the hearts of travelers and filmmakers alike. The country's natural beauty serves as a stunning backdrop, drawing directors from around the world to capture its essence on film.

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Three Bangladeshi dramas being filmed in Korea

Photo: Collected

South Korea, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque locations, has long captivated the hearts of travelers and filmmakers alike. The country's natural beauty serves as a stunning backdrop, drawing directors from around the world to capture its essence on film.

Amid this captivating scenery, director Hasan Rezaul has embarked on a creative endeavour, to film three dramas in the heart of South Korea.

Accompanied by Yash Rohan and Tania Brishty, the team arrived there on August 13. The filming is now well underway, with the team fully immersed in the captivating surroundings that South Korea so beautifully offers.

The dramas being filmed in South Korea include "Love Lock" and "Mone Pore Tomake", both penned and scripted by Ahmed Tawkir, as well as "Reflection of Love," written by Tanim Rahman.

The shooting locations span across Seoul, Jeongseon, and the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

Ahmed Tawkir shared that "Love Lock" and "Mone Pore Tomake" are romantic stories. Having previously received positive feedback for his female-centric stories, Tawkir expressed hope that audiences will find these new romantic dramas both refreshing and enjoyable.

Reportedly, these dramas will first be aired on various private TV channels before being released on YouTube.​

 

[Saif]

Masud Ali Khan no more

Ekushey Padak-winning veteran artiste Masud Ali Khan has passed away, as confirmed by a relative to The Daily Star. The beloved actor reportedly died around 4:20pm.

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Masud Ali Khan no more

Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

Ekushey Padak-winning veteran artiste Masud Ali Khan passed away today at his home in the Green Road area, confirmed a relative of his to The Daily Star. The beloved actor died at 5:20pm, according to his official death certificate.

His relative further informed that his wife had served him lunch around noon, and upon checking on him around 4pm, she found him unresponsive. Doctors arrived shortly after and pronounced him dead.

Masud Ali Khan had stepped away from acting some time ago. As a founding member of the country's first theatre troupe, Drama Circle, his contributions to stage, television, film, and radio are invaluable. Through his performances in countless timeless productions, he earned widespread admiration from audiences.

He gained nationwide recognition for his performance in the BTV drama "Kul Nai Kinar Nai". He made his film debut with "Nadi O Nari" and went on to appear in numerous films, including "Jonakir Alo", "Dipu Number 2", "Matir Moina", "Dui Duari", and "Molla Barir Bou".

He also became a household name through his roles in the iconic drama series "Kothao Keu Nei" and "Ei Sob Din Ratri". Additionally, he appeared in popular series such as "Ekanno Borti", "69", and "Poush Phaguner Pala".

Masud Ali Khan is survived by his wife and two children. He will be laid to rest on Friday after Jummah prayers in his ancestral village of Paril, Singiar upazila, Manikganj district.​

 

[Saif]

BTV celebrates diamond jubilee with special programmes

Bangladesh Television (BTV), the country’s national broadcaster, celebrates its diamond jubilee today, marking 60 years since its inception. The BTV family has planned a series of festive events to commemorate the milestone, starting with a cake-cutting ceremony at midnight on December 24.

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BTV celebrates diamond jubilee with special programmes

Photos: Collected

Bangladesh Television (BTV), the country's national broadcaster, celebrates its diamond jubilee today, marking 60 years since its inception. The BTV family has planned a series of festive events to commemorate the milestone, starting with a cake-cutting ceremony at midnight on December 24.

Additionally, the channel will air a variety of special programs throughout the day.

To honour its 60th anniversary, a theme song arranged by Milton Khondokar has been composed. The song will be performed by renowned artistes Alam Ara Minu, Rizia Parveen, Romana Islam, Hasan Chowdhury, Bashiruzzaman Sabbir, Muhin, and Swaralipi.

A live music show will feature celebrated singers Khurshid Alam, Rizia Parveen, Ferdous Ara, Bulbul Islam, Apu Aman, Swaralipi, Rajib, Shahnaz Beli, Gamcha Palash, Ayesha Zebin Deepa, and Monir Baula. Additionally, a special dance performance, directed by Munmun Ahmed, will showcase Munmun herself alongside Tamanna, Nisa, Upoma, and others.

The day's programming also includes a special talk show, congratulatory messages from various celebrities, a documentary titled "From DIT to Rampura," and a drama titled "Shonar Sinduk."

BTV Director General Md Mahbubul Alam expressed his gratitude to the artistes, crew members, advertisers, and viewers. He stated, "Bangladesh Television has reached a significant milestone, completing 60 years. There are two important aspects to remember about BTV: first, it is a national television station; second, as a public broadcaster, it has the responsibility to produce programmes that benefit the people."

He added, "Internationally, this is known as public service broadcasting. BTV's content encompasses information, news, and wholesome entertainment, aimed at refining the audience's taste rather than simply following popular trends."

"If BTV were compared to a home-cooked meal, many entertainment channels would be like fast food. BTV will never compromise on creating constructive, beneficial, and tasteful content for the public," he concluded.

Bangladesh Television began its journey on December 25, 1964, from the ground floor of the DIT building in Dhaka. Following the country's independence, BTV became a government-owned entity in 1972.

In 1975, the station relocated to its current premises in Rampura. BTV entered a new era in 1980 by introducing colour broadcasts. Currently, its broadcasts are available in HD (High Definition) and can be accessed via terrestrial networks, satellite, and mobile app platforms.​

 

[Saif]

Govt trying to empower BSS, BTV: CA press wing

The interim government is trying to empower national news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) and state-run Bangladesh Television (BTV), Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said on Sunday. “A country has a state broadcaster and a state news agency. This is a very vital t

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Govt trying to empower BSS, BTV: CA press wing
FE Online Desk
Published :
Jan 05, 2025 21:32
Updated :
Jan 05, 2025 21:32

The interim government is trying to empower national news agency Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) and state-run Bangladesh Television (BTV), Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said on Sunday.

“A country has a state broadcaster and a state news agency. This is a very vital task,” he said while responding to a question at a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka this evening, reports BSS.

Alam said people may have a lack of understanding in this regard. “If you look around the world, you will see a state has a government broadcaster with a programming TV, news channel, English TV channel, vernacular language channel,” he said.

He said such state broadcasters are found in Turkey, Russia, India, Pakistan, Indonesia and China and all the countries have made their state broadcasters bigger.

For instance, the press secretary said, a private channel may not run news of remote area due to its financial model but this news is a vital one.

“Who will run this news? The state broadcaster will run this news. The state broadcaster has an importance too,” he said.

So, Alam said the government is trying to empower the BTV and BSS and make the organisations bigger so that people can watch and know all the news of Bangladesh.​

Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder also spoke at the press briefing.

 

[Saif]

Teleplays, drama serials for TV channels suffer amid OTT rise

The production of teleplays and drama serials for television channels is suffering due to lack of budget amid a rise of over-the-top platforms.

www.newagebd.net

Teleplays, drama serials for TV channels suffer amid OTT rise
MA Aslam Molla 01 March, 2025, 01:08

The production of teleplays and drama serials for television channels is suffering due to lack of budget amid a rise of over-the-top platforms.

Such mass entertainment productions for the purposes of festivals or national days only get somewhat higher budget, industry insiders said.

‘A quality teleplay needs minimum four to six days of shooting involving production costs and casts, but the television channels offer maximum Tk 2,00,000 for a 40-minitue production,’ said former Director’s Guild general secretary SM Kamruzzaman Sagor, adding that the TV channels raised budgets only for productions aimed at festival days, including Eid, Valentine’s Day and national days.

The low-cost productions, even the special productions of the TV channels, cannot compete with the productions by OTT platforms due to lack of budget, said Kamruzzaman.

Young director and scriptwriter Preety Dutta said that a lot of TV channels created possibilities of works.

‘Now the TV channels maintain social media, including YouTube, Instagram and Facebook commercially so the budget for the regular television drama is higher now than that in the past two or three years,’ said Preety, adding that the budget depended on actors.

The TV channels allocate a healthy budget for the Eid teleplays, said Preety, adding that due to the recent political unrests, the TV channels decreased the budget for the forthcoming Eid teleplays.

Producers and directors with casts and crew members work as a team as the TV channels need quality productions with a lot of terms and conditions, as the TV productions are made for common audiences, added Preety, who is aiming to work for the OTT platforms where directors get financial and artistic freedom for the story’s demand.

Director Hasan Rezaul said that the regular portion of the television programme for drama was decreasing.

Due to the recent political unrests in the country, the TV channels also decreased the budget for the forthcoming Eid special dramas, said Hasan, adding ‘for a quality 40-minute TV drama production, a minimum budget of Tk 10,00,000 is needed, otherwise its artistic quality decreases.’

Hasan also mentioned that the TV channels have to follow the government guidelines set to cover all age range of audiences. ‘As a result, the scope for diversified contents becomes somewhat limited here,’ he said.

‘Unlike the TV channels, the OTT platforms attract more investment as they do not have any such guidelines and enjoy much more freedom in content creation, which, in turn, enjoys a much larger audience base generating more revenues,’ said Hasan.

He proposed that the TV channels should focus on the TV serials instead of single plays to attract more audiences, because a huge number of audiences is watching quality drama serials produced by the local and international TV channels.

Mohammad Ali Haider, head of content at Bongo BD, said that on the OTT platforms most of the content audiences watched with subscription fees, which created pressure on the platforms to maintain the quality of contents.

‘To attract the audience, the OTT contents apply special treatments of filming and detailed arrangements with professional casts and crew that increases the production costs. These are the reasons for the higher budgets for OTT contents,’ said Ali Haider.

A 40-minute drama for the subscription category needs a minimum Tk 30,00,000 while the subscription-free category needs Tk 5,00,000, he said.

‘OTT platforms offer diverse contents, including short films, dramas, mini-series, serials, films, music video, and dubbed programmes from different language, for the audience, which offers freedom for the audience as well as the content makers,’ said Ali Haider, adding that the audience looked for quality contents on the global platforms so the country’s OTT platforms had to ensure the quality production.​