PHOTO: SHEIKH MEHEDI MORSHED

“She still remembers many of her dialogues by heart. It feels wonderful to even think about it. Watching her closely and seeing her perform has been deeply inspiring. I truly enjoyed acting alongside her.”

SHAH ALAM SHAZU

Afzal Hossain remains one of Bangladesh’s most enduring screen icons—once the most celebrated leading man of television dramas and still active across OTT platforms, films, and television today. A recipient of the Ekushey Padak, his creative identity extends beyond acting; he is also an accomplished director, painter, and writer.

He has recently appeared in the telefilm Zohra Begumer Icchapotro , written by Tauquir Ahmed and directed by Arif Khan. In the project, he plays the elder son of veteran actress Ferdousi Majumdar. “There is still one more day of shooting left,” he noted.

The telefilm marks a reunion between the two artistes after many years. Afzal Hossain had written a drama titled Shundor Sarbonash long ago, in which Ferdousi Majumdar had performed. This time, they share the screen again in a work that carries both personal and artistic significance.

Speaking about her, Afzal Hossain said, “She is one of the most distinguished artistes in this country—a truly gifted performer who has won audiences’ hearts through her contributions in the art and cultural arena. She remains just as fluent and compelling on stage even now.”

He added that roles are rarely written with artistes of her stature in mind. “However, this time it has happened. She plays the role of an actress in the telefilm—something quite fitting for her.”

He expressed admiration for her dedication and experience. “She still remembers many of her dialogues by heart. It feels wonderful to even think about it. Watching her closely and seeing her perform has been deeply inspiring. I truly enjoyed acting alongside her.”

Reflecting on the shoot, he said the entire team worked with great joy. “Everyone involved approached the work with genuine enjoyment. We spent time chatting, taking breaks, and filming together. It felt as though certain emotions that had been lost over time were rediscovered.”

The telefilm also brings together artistes from multiple generations. “Yes, several generations have acted together in this project. That in itself is a valuable experience. The days we spent shooting were truly memorable.”

Afzal Hossain revealed that the project was initiated by him as a tribute. “I proposed making this telefilm to honour Ferdousi Majumdar. I felt she deserved such recognition. After completing the project, it feels like our wish has been fulfilled.”

Meanwhile, he is also set to appear in Nuhash Humayun’s upcoming film Moving Bangladesh .