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Urge to go back to stage

In conversation with Shahnaj Khushi

Shah Alam Shazu
Shahnaj Khushi is a popular face on the television, especially when it comes to plays with rural settings. The versatile actress, however, is more than capable of portraying any role that comes her way Beginning her actingjourney with 'Mukto Natok', the seasoned actress survived the test of time by consistent performances on both the stage and TV. The Daily Star (TDS) recently had the chance to interview the actress.
TDSiTell us about your recent projects.
Shahnaj: The serials that I'm working on at the moment include "Har Kipta”, "Pathorer Kanna", "Taal Bahana", "Putro Shok”, "Aaj Kichhu Hote Cholechhe", "Kobiraj Golap Shah". I also recently completed work on several one-hour-dramas. Looking at the bulk amount of my work, many may assume that acting takes up all my time. But it is nothing like that. I never shoot for more than seven days a month.
TDS: Is there any specific reason behind the limited amount of working days?
Shahnaj: 1\vo reasons: my sons Shoummo and Dibbo. I try to give them adequate time and attention. My husband Brindabon Das is busy with writing plays and acting. If I don't give enough time to my family, how will my husband have the time to write? If I wanted, I could've given 30 days to shooting. Many even get hurt, as I have to turn down offers. But my family comes first.
TDS: You can portray a wide array of roles. How is that possible?
Shahnaj: My experience in acting has taught me. I’ve been working on Dhaka stages since 1994. Dedication and willpower allows me to do good work After I get the scripts, I do my homework and think deeply about the character that I'll need to play. I feel the urge from within. That’s why it is possible for me to portray different types of roles.
TDS: Tell us about your career in theatre.
Shahnaj: I come from Pabna. When I used to live there, I was involved with a group called Mukto Natok After coming to the capital, I joined Aranyak Natya Dal and stayed with them till 1997. Since 1998, I’ve been with Prachyanat. Although I'm a founder member of the group, now I'm not that regular as before.
TDS: Which productions have you worked on with Aranyak and Prachyanat?
Shahnaj: With Prachyanat, I performed in "Dui Boloder Golpo", "Kaadte Mana”, "Dorir Khela" and "Cir-
cus Circus". With Aranyak, I acted in "Jai Jayanti", "Lebedef' and several other street plays. Truth be told, it is the theatre which taught me all about acting.
TDS: Which TV plays put the limelight on you?
Shahnaj: Many of my plays went on to become audience-favourites. But the ones that were the most popular are — "Ghor Kutum”, "Alta Shundori”, "Sakin Shari Shuri", "Kedara”, "Warrant", "DholerBaddi", "Potro Mitali".
TDS: You are the favourite artiste of many. But who are your favourite artistes?
Shahnaj: Joya Ahsan, Mosharraf Karim, Chanchai Chowdhury and Anisur Rahman Milon. I consider them as remarkable actors.
TDS: Do you want to become a regular on the stage again?
Shahnaj: Every night I plan on returning to the stage. The immediate gratification one gets on stage is not possible when working in TV plays.