35 years of ‘Chandni’: Naim recalls the making of his debut film

The film “Chandni” was released on October 4, 1991, marking the on-screen debut of the popular pairing of Naim and Shabnaz. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ehtesham, the film became a major hit and went on to draw audiences to theatres across the country.

On the 35th anniversary of the film’s release, Naim spoke to The Daily Star about his memories of making and releasing "Chandni".

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Before entering films, Naim had worked as a model, with his television commercials gaining popularity. He had a family connection with filmmaker Ehtesham, who had a good relationship with Naim’s father. After seeing Naim one day, Ehtesham approached him about acting in a film. He later visited Shabnaz’s home to cast her as the female lead. Shabnaz’s father had also acted in "Chandni" and was involved in the arts.

Naim recalled that the songs were recorded before shooting began, with renowned lyricists and composers involved in the project. The film’s mahurat ceremony was also a memorable occasion for him.

“I still remember that day clearly. It remains vivid in my memory,” he said.

The first day of shooting took place in Baridhara. After completing the Dhaka schedule, the team travelled to Sylhet and spent several days shooting in Jaflong.

Naim said he did not experience much camera anxiety because of his previous modelling experience. However, the outdoor shoot presented its own challenges. The team stayed at a house in Jaflong that did not have electricity at the time, so they used hurricane lamps for night shoots.

He also remembered the harsh winter conditions. There was a pond at the house where the team stayed, but Naim avoided bathing there because he was afraid of leeches. Instead, he would heat water for a bath.

Many of the cast members were newcomers at the time. Veteran actors Sadek Bachchu and Rani Sarkar were also part of the film.

Naim said the director worked on the project with great care, while everyone in the unit contributed with dedication despite the difficult conditions.

After completing the shoot, the team returned to Dhaka and waited anxiously for the film’s release.

Initially, “Chandni” received a limited theatrical release. According to Naim, some exhibitors were hesitant to take a film featuring a new lead pair. Eventually, around 20 to 22 theatres, including Madhumita and Balaka, screened the film.

The night before its release remains particularly memorable for Naim. He and members of the film’s team travelled around Dhaka to check whether the banners and posters had been properly put up. They continued until around 4am. Some members of the team also travelled to Sylhet to visit the shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal and seek blessings before the release.

The initial morning shows did not draw large crowds. However, Naim said the situation changed dramatically from the afternoon shows, as reports of packed theatres began arriving.

“The news just kept coming that the shows were full, and the number of theatres began increasing,” he recalled.

One of his fondest memories came when he went to Madhumita Hall with his family the Tuesday after the film’s release. After the screening, he could not leave the theatre because of the crowd gathered outside to see him.

He also remembers travelling to Barishal in December that year. After arriving by launch from Sadarghat, the team found a huge crowd waiting for them. Even after the electricity went out, thousands of people continued to welcome them by showering them with flowers.

Decades later, Naim said audiences still talk about "Chandni".

“The fact that people still remember and talk about "Chandni" is a huge achievement for me,” he said.