Everyone should follow safety protocols while shooting: Shahiduzzaman Selim

National Film Award winning actor-director Shahiduzzaman Selim is a prominent artiste in theatre, television, and films. Since 1983, Selim has been a part of Dhaka Theatre and had formed Jahangirnagar Theatre with his peers, which is active to this day. The actor is currently serving as the president of Obhinoy Shilpi Shongho (Actors' Equity Bangladesh). In a candid chat with The Daily Star, the multi-talented personality talks about the recent scenario

You have asked all the actors to take the Covid-19 vaccine and then come to shooting sets. Is this a decision taken unitedly by Obhinoy Shilpi Shongho board?

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I have made this personal request as a senior actor, a well-wisher, and a conscious citizen of this nation. I believe, as vaccines are now being facilitated by the government and the age limit has also been altered, everyone should be safe on sets.

Shooting for tele-fictions and films has already begun. When can we expect theatres to be open?

The government has already allowed industries to open. Public transportation is also active in full swing. We will resume theatre activities as soon as the government approves that it's safe to open theatres for our audience. I am currently directing a play which will be presented by Dhaka theatre. Many of us are solely dependent on theatre as a source of our income and thus, we hope to begin as soon as possible.

Do you think it's possible to maintain all safety hygiene during shooting?

Obhinoy Shilpi Shongho has always strongly requested to maintain all safety and health regulation on sets. Everyone should wear a mask, use hand sanitizers and avoid the crowd as much as possible during shoots. We had also asked the production houses to limit crew members on sets. From our side, we are trying our best and I believe, everyone on set is well aware of their personal safety as they are mature individuals.

You have had a long and successful career in the showbiz industry. You have played various roles throughout the years. Do you have any regrets?

As a person, I have very few needs and demands and am content with very little. I love my audience and they have always respected my work, for which I am very grateful.

You used to regularly work as a director for television productions alongside acting. However, we don't come across your directorial ventures often now. Any particular reason behind this break?

I am finding it difficult to cope-up with the new trends in tele-fictions. Nowadays, the director seldom has the freedom to choose his/her artistes and sponsorship plays a big part when it comes to productions, which was not the case a few years ago. I am a creative person and enjoyed direction very much, but I refuse to be strapped by commercial, economic, or personal bonds in professional life. 

Translated by Ashley Shoptorshi Samaddar