SHARMIN JOYA

This Eid, Xefer Rahman surprised fans not just with new music, but also with her return to acting. After her debut in Mostofa Sarwar Farooki’s Monogamy , she appeared in the highly anticipated web-series Myself Allen Swapan 2 , directed by Shihab Shaheen. She not only shared the screen with Nasir Uddin Khan but also lent her voice to the series with the track Boyam Pakhi 2.0 . Simultaneously, her song Niye Jabe Ki from the film Daagi added to the festive lineup.

How did you find yourself joining the cast of ‘Myself Allen Swapan 2’ ?

It all started when Shihab bhai and I had a meeting for the song in Daagi . During our conversation, he mentioned that he was considering me for a role in his upcoming web series. At that point, I didn’t know which role I would play or what the project was about. But once I learned more, it was hard to say no. Shihab Shaheen is known for his craft, and Myself Allen Swapan already has a massive fan base. I also wanted to take on roles that would help shape my acting career. That’s one of the core reasons I joined the team.

How was your experience sharing the screen with Nasir Uddin Khan?

I had previously worked with Nasir bhai on No Dorai , where I was the executive producer. Back then, he wasn’t as popular as he is now, and OTTs weren’t popular in Bangladesh. He has this rare quality—wherever he goes, he stands out. Working with him as a co-actor was inspiring, and I was particularly moved when he said that we would both “give it our all, together” during our scenes.

Tell us about your song ‘ Niye Jabe Ki’ from ‘ Daagi’ .

Many people think I’m only a vocalist—mostly because I’m a woman—and they often overlook the fact that I compose as well. It is something that triggers me. In most cases, whenever you hear me sing a song, it’s likely one I’ve composed myself.

When I was speaking to Shihab bhai , I told him the same thing, and said I’d like him to use a song composed by me. What touched me most was that during the shoot, the cast and crew would listen to the demo of my composition. Later, I co-wrote the lyrics with Badhon, based on the plot of the film, and completed the track.

Though people know me more for Jhumka , I want to do more melodious songs—this genre has been close to my heart since childhood. The song was released with the film’s theatrical debut, and now that it’s out on all platforms, people have been searching for it. That is incredibly fulfilling for me.

You not only voiced but appeared in the song Boyam Pakhi 2.0 . What was the experience like?

The previous version was already popular, but it had only the male perspective. Now, with my voice added, it includes a female gaze, which I think adds depth and relatability—especially for female listeners. That’s what makes it beautiful. Also, my voice and appearance added an extra strength to it, I believe!

You started your career with English songs and became popular for your covers. Any plans to return to English releases?

Absolutely. My journey began with English songs, and I also compose in English. Last year, I released Spicy , which was in English, though, ironically, the Bengali part—“Sona Bondhu Tui Amare”—went viral! (laughs)

This year, most of my releases will be in Bangla, but I plan to keep nurturing my English catalog as well. I’m also thinking of converting some of the Bengali songs that the audience loves, into English versions.

This Eid-ul-Fitr saw several film songs become popular. Aside from your own, which ones stood out to you?

Definitely Chand Mama by Pritom Hasan from the film Borbaad . I also really liked Ektukhaani Mon by Tahsan Khan and Masha from Daagi . I’m happy that all five films released during Eid had a good response. If we keep up this momentum, our industry will continue to grow—and that includes the music scene as well.

Since your acting debut, your appearance has changed dramatically. Do you miss your previous look?

Honestly, no. I carried that look for a long time. I can always go back to it if I want, but right now, I’m enjoying the change. Since I’m acting alongside making music, I don’t want to be tied to one look.