Jaya Ahsan’s dedication is unmatched: Gias Uddin Selim

As Jaya Ahsan celebrates her birthday on July 1, filmmaker Gias Uddin Selim reflects on the years they worked together, recalling the dedication, professionalism and optimism that shaped the early career of one of Bangladesh's most accomplished actors.

Speaking to The Daily Star, Selim reflected on Jaya's work ethic, generosity and unwavering optimism, describing her as "one of the most dedicated actors" he has ever directed.

Image

Photo: STAR

"There was a time when I directed Jaya in many dramas," Selim said. "From 2001 onward, we worked together continuously for about seven years. We did several television serials and around 15 to 20 single-episode dramas. Those productions were very well received, and Jaya earned immense love from audiences."

Among their notable collaborations were the serials “Enechi Surjer Hashi”, “Songshoy”, and “Tebhaga”, where Jaya's performances drew widespread acclaim. Selim recalled one incident that, he says, perfectly captured her professionalism.

"We were shooting a drama in Jessore when another actor missed a flight because of heavy fog. We were in real trouble. I somehow managed to contact Jaya—communication wasn't as easy then—and explained the situation. She immediately agreed to help. We arranged a car and an assistant, and she travelled overnight to Jessore so we could continue shooting. I'll never forget that."

Tap Here to Add The Daily Star As A Trusted Source

Image

Photo: Collected

For Selim, that willingness to step in reflected the commitment that has defined Jaya's career.
"Jaya is incredibly dedicated. That quality has always been part of her. It's why she has continued to grow as an actor, earned so much respect, and sustained such a remarkable career. She genuinely loves her work and takes her responsibilities very seriously."

He believes her success is rooted not only in talent but also in character. "Jaya's dedication is unmatched. I always say she has a very good soul. That's her greatest strength."

According to Selim, technical skill alone cannot sustain a performer over time. "When an actor has a good soul, everything else follows. That's what takes someone a long way. Jaya developed her craft through her own hard work and perseverance. She came this far because she truly loves acting."

Image

Watching Jaya establish herself in both Bangladesh and India has been deeply satisfying for the filmmaker. "I'm genuinely happy with where her career stands today. I see her journey very positively. Her discipline, artistic practice, and commitment to her craft have brought her to this position."

Looking back on some of her memorable performances, Selim singled out her portrayal of Motibanu in “Tebhaga”, which he described as one of the performances that cemented her reputation. He also recalled the single-episode drama “Interview”, which generated considerable discussion, and “Swapnoshiri”, starring Jaya alongside Mahfuz Ahmed and Tinni, as another landmark production.

Beyond her achievements as an actor, Selim says it is Jaya's personality that has always impressed him most. "Jaya is an incredibly loyal friend. Her love and compassion for animals have always amazed me. She's also one of the most positive people I know. She approaches life with optimism, and that's a wonderful quality to have."