Shah Alam Shazu

Babita reigned as one of the most celebrated actors of the Bangladeshi film industry, during which she has starred in more than 250 films. In her 50-year illustrious career, she gained immense popularity at home and abroad. The seven-time National Film Award winner worked with several legendary filmmakers, including Zahir Raihan and Satyajit Ray.

The acclaimed film, Golapi Ekhon Train E , directed by Amjad Hossain, was a major turning point in Babita’s career. “This film was a milestone in my career as well as in the Bangladeshi film industry,” shares Babita. “It travelled to several film festivals abroad, including the Moscow Film Festival.”

Another Amjad Hossain directorial, Noyonmoni , starring Babita and Farooque, is considered one of the most successful movies of all time. “This film was screened for six months to one year at several theatres,” she adds.

Ashani Sanket , directed by Satyajit Ray, marked another milestone in Babita’s career and made her an international star. “I am still praised for my role in this film,” she shares. Accompanying Ray in multiple festivals, Babita was startled to see her work reach all corners of the world at the time.

Babita also talked about her roles in the films, Bashundhara and Dumurer Ful, directed by the famous filmmaker Subhash Dutta. “These were two unique stories and they left a profound impact on my career,” she says.

Renowned director Narayan Ghosh Mita helmed several successful films, including Lathial, which gained Babita immense acclaim.

She further represented Bangladesh at the prestigious Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in The Czech Republic with the film, Dohon , directed by Sheikh Niamat Ali.

Her phenomenal performances in the films, Obujh Hridoy and Smarolipi, captivated the audience and critics.

Lailee Majnu , directed by Ibne Mizan, was one of Babita’s most definitive movies. “This film truly struck a chord with the audience,” shares a nostalgic Babita.

Babita further recalled that after the film Nishan , directed by Ibne Mizan, gained immense popularity, its posters were showcased as rickshaw art at different locations.

She received multiple accolades for her role in the film, Ramer Sumoti, as well. Her performances in several Liberation-War based films, such as Orunodoyer Ognishakkhi , directed by Subhash Dutta, Alor Michil , directed by Narayan Ghosh Mita and Abar Tora Manush Ho , directed by Khan Ataur Rahman, truly captured the essence of our fight for independence.

“Not many live to look back on a 50-year career. I consider myself lucky for this privilege,” says the star. “Throughout these beautiful years, the audience’s love has been my biggest achievement.”

Babita aced all kinds of characters that she portrayed — be it in the genre of romance, war, social satire, or folk, winning the hearts of millions.

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Translated by Rasheek Tabassum Mondira

Photo: Shahrear Kabir Heemel