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M E M I

Versatility and verve

Shah Alam Shazu
Monira Yusuf Memi became hugely popular after she played a substance abuser in the drama serial "Feriye Dao Aronno". She has also displayed her acting skills in theatre and films. Mid-career, she took a brief break from acting. She has now returned to the hurly burly of life in front of the camera.
In a recent interview, The Daily Star spoke to the talented actress about her professional life and future plans.
How did you step into the theatre world?
Memi: During my schooldays, I was involved with Sabdabali Theatre in Barisal. My first drama was "Payer Aawaj Pawa Jaye". I believed that I could win hearts by acting despite my keen interest in dancing, singing and poetry. I always disliked multitasking so I took to serious acting.
How did you develop links with Theatre Arambagh?
Memi: In Barisal, I played the daughter of noted actor Momtajuddin Ahmed in a BTV play. An impressed Momtajuddin enquired whether I would be interested in joining his group Arambagh. Subsequently, I came to Dhaka after my SSC examinations and started working with the group. My first assignment was "Jamidar Darpan". I was lucky to get the opportunity to act in all the group's plays.
Which TV play put you in the spotlight?
Memi: "Firiye Dao Aronno" produced by K M Harun where Tauquir Ahmed was cast opposite me. The critically acclaimed drama serial was the defining moment of my career.
Which was the next serial that earned you popularity?
Memi: Definitely, "Kon Kanoner Phool" where I played a negative role. In between, I did several one-hour plays.
Any memorable moments during the shoot for "Firiye Dao Aronno"?
Memi: I was a student of Eden College. As I had played a substance abuser in the serial, some youths often waylaid my rickshaw on my way to my Kalabagan home and asked me to carry a dangerous drug in my bag. Obviously I had played my role convincingly.
Any views on the current crop of TV plays?
Memi: Though many quality plays are being made alongside some substandard ones, audiences are not interested in viewing them due to the mushrooming of TV channels. What's more, people, who are now busier than ever, hardly manage time to watch the plays. Moreover, the irritant of TV ads discourages viewers from this medium.
What were the package dramas you acted in?
Memi: My first package TV play was
"Antor Antore" where Azizul Hakim was my co-artist. In the second one, I was cast opposite Sahiduzzaman Selim. I also worked with Hakim and Selim in several plays.
Any assignments at the moment?
Memi: My current assignments include the serial "Rangtuli" on Gazi TV, "Angginai Jothsna" on BTV and "Sanir Akra" on another channel. In addition, I am busy with the serials-"Kokhono Rodh Khokhono Brishti", "Mone Ke Pore Amai", "Mayagriho", "Samporko", "Ghurnijhor" and many others.