Shah Alam Shazu

Speaking of Monwar’s musical abilities, Hayat added, “He had a wonderful singing voice and was an excellent singer. I heard him perform on many occasions, and he always captivated his audience.”

As artists and admirers across the country remember his extraordinary life and legacy, actor Tariq Anam Khan reflects on the mentor, polymath and generous soul whose influence shaped generations of creative minds.

Actor, playwright and director Mamunur Rashid reflected on a lifelong relationship with one of Bangladesh’s most revered cultural figures.

Long before she became an actress, Nima Rahman was introduced to the world of arts and culture as a child performer under the guidance of her uncle, Mustafa Monwar. From children’s television programmes and recitations to her early performances on Bangladesh Television, Monwar remained a constant source of encouragement throughout her formative years. Looking back, Nima credits his mentorship, unwavering support, and belief in her abilities with shaping her lifelong artistic journey.

Two of Tawsif Mahbub’s dramas “Dorodia” and “Warish”, released during Eid-ul-Azha, have received tremendous appreciation from audiences. His performance in the romantic drama “Dorodia” earned particular praise for portraying a character unlike any he had played before, while “Warish”, in which he played the role of an elder brother, further strengthened his popularity.

As football fans around the world celebrate Lionel Messi’s birthday today, actor Chanchal Chowdhury has joined the tributes in his own artistic way. A lifelong admirer of the Argentine footballer, the actor recently shared a hand-drawn portrait of Messi on social media, drawing praise from fans.

Recalling some of the stars who shaped Bangladesh's football scene, he adds, "I remember the excitement when brothers Monju and Nannu played for rival clubs — Monju for Mohammedan and Nannu for Abahani. I watched so many great players, including Kaisar Hamid, Salahuddin, Munna and Sabbir. Those memories will stay with me forever."

This Father’s Day, actor, director and advertising professional Tropa Majumdar, actor Samrat, filmmaker and actor Sohel Arman, and actress Oindrila Ahmed reflect on the fathers who shaped their lives and left an indelible mark on the nation’s arts and entertainment scene.

For actor and dancer Nadia Ahmed, football has always been more than just a game. But this time, her love for the sport turned into a once-in-a-lifetime memory — watching Argentina play live from the stadium, with Lionel Messi on the field.

As she prepares to celebrate her birthday today (June 18), legendary actress and cultural icon Ferdousi Mazumder, born in 1943, reflects on a remarkable journey that spans theatre, television, radio, film, literature, and education. A recipient of both the Independence Award and the Ekushey Padak for her contributions to acting, she has also been honoured with the Bangla Academy Literary Award for her writing.

With World Cup fever sweeping across the country, The Daily Star caught up with the actor to learn more about his favourite team and his fondest football memories.

Generations have changed, cinema has evolved, and the industry has transformed. Yet Shabana remains as cherished as ever—a timeless icon whose legacy continues to inspire. And perhaps that is why one statement still rings true today: there is no comparison for Shabana except Shabana herself.

“Yes, many years ago,” she said. “He was an extraordinary footballer. Watching Maradona was always a special experience. There was something unique and beautiful about the way he played. That is why he remains Maradona.”

The Daily Star hosted a star-studded roundtable with Ekushey Padak-winning actor-director Mamunur Rashid, filmmaker Gias Uddin Selim, TV directors Sohel Arman, Animesh Aich, Arif Khan, Aranyo Anawer, Shakal Ahmed, and theatre actor-director Tropa Majumdar, discussing television’s shift from a cultural powerhouse to a medium struggling for survival.

For Azizul Hakim, football may not have become a lifelong profession, but the lessons, memories and dreams forged on the pitch continue to shape the person he is today.

Fans are competing to hoist their favourite team’s flag. Showbiz celebrities are no different. Each has a team they love and support.

Veteran actor Nader Chowdhury says he never dreamed of becoming a hero. Instead, his lifelong ambition was simply to become an actor—a goal he continues to pursue decades after beginning his career on the stage.

“It is difficult to put into words. There are certain moments and certain times in life when everything cannot be fully expressed. That is how I feel right now. Even after hearing the news, I find it hard to describe my emotions,” Shabnam told The Daily Star.

Once a familiar face on Bangladeshi television, particularly in BTV dramas and literary adaptations, Tonima has shifted her focus entirely to academia. She currently teaches at East West University and says she has found fulfilment in her role as an educator.

Few actors in Bangladesh have earned as much admiration for their craft as Chanchal Chowdhury. From theatre to television, cinema and OTT platforms, the acclaimed performer has built a career defined by versatility and critically acclaimed performances.