PHOTO: SHEIKH MEHEDI MORSHED

ANIKA TAHSIN HAFSA

Over the years, she has built a strong acting career, appearing in notable films such as Aynabaji , Toofan , and her most recent work, Bonolota Sen . Known for her calm screen presence and thoughtful role choices, Nabila has maintained a steady position in the industry while balancing her personal life and career.

In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, she spoke about Eid traditions, childhood memories, motherhood, and her upcoming Eid release.

This Eid, Nabila returns to the big screen with a new film titled Bonolota Sen . She said, “The film is based on poetry. It has a very artistic and poetic feel in every scene and frame.”

“We did a lot of rehearsals, and I tried to give my best performance,” she shared. She also spoke about the effort behind her character’s appearance. “The director worked on the look with a lot of research and time.”

She emphasised that performance mattered more than appearance. “For me, the performance was more challenging than the look.” She added that she chose the project because it offered something new. “I did not want to miss the opportunity. Everyone wants to explore something new.”

She also shared, “The film is based on the work of Jibanananda Das. I consider it a part of history. I feel proud to be part of that history.”

However, for Nabila, Eid has always been a family affair rooted in Dhaka. She has celebrated this Eid in Dhaka with her family.

Recalling her childhood, she described how Eid-ul-Azha felt different in earlier days, especially in the way animals were kept at home. “When we were young, there was space in our house where cows and goats brought from the market were kept. Now they are usually kept in garages.”

She also remembered small everyday moments that made Eid meaningful. “We used to give leaves to the cows and goats and let them eat those. We did these things when we were children.” Now, she finds herself trying to recreate those experiences for her daughter. “Now I try to make my daughter do the same things. That is the difference.”

As a mother, Nabila now focuses on creating meaningful Eid memories for her daughter. “I try to make Eid as fulfilling as possible for her.” She shared how she plans small experiences during the holidays. “At night, we go out somewhere, maybe to a play zone. Last Eid, we went to the cinema to watch a film. It was her first cinema experience.”

Talking about the meaning of sacrifice, Nabila reflected on its religious and emotional significance. “In our religion, sacrifice is done to please Allah. That is the main message behind it.” She believes the idea carries an important life lesson. “Sacrificing something you love most teaches us an important lesson in life.” She added that sacrifice is often misunderstood. “Many people take sacrifice in a negative way, but I think it is important for unity, better relationships, and stronger families.”

Eventually, her message for the audience this Eid was direct and warm. “Eid is a day when even if you want to be sad, you cannot be,” she said. “The energy that passes between people — everyone is so happy. I hope everyone spends the day the way they imagined it.” She added, “And please come to the cinema hall and watch all the Bangla films that are releasing.”