I strongly protest the use of the term ‘landless artistes’: Riaz

National Award-winning actor Riaz will be contesting for the position of vice-president from Ili as Kanchan and Nipun's Panel, at the Bangladesh Film Artistes' Association elections for 2022-2024.

The actor talks about his plans, his expectations from the elections, and more in a candid chat with The Daily Star.

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You are a candidate for Bangladesh Film Artistes' Association elections for 2022-2024. What is your opinion about the artistes of the industry?

I only wish to help maintain the respect that each artiste deserves in this industry. We performers are craved for love and respect and I feel that is very necessary as it will motivate us to work harder. This will empower the growth of this industry and that will lead to more work for our artistes.

How confident are you about winning?

I have already turned in the nomination papers. Only the one who is mandated by the members will win, and I believe they are wise to make a sound decision.

Nevertheless, I, along with my panel, am hopeful. I request everyone to support me with their votes.

Problems arose between the members of the former panel of Bangladesh Film Artistes' Association. Similar tension was seen between the Bangladesh Film Producers and Distributors Association. What is your take in this regard?

Many producers have stopped investing in films, due to this conflict. This is harmful to the industry and we all, be it directors, actors, or crew members, have to suffer.  

This industry is like a big family and maintaining a healthy relationship with each member of this family should be the prime concern of the elected committee members. A strong bond and the mentality to collaborate for the greater good should be the aim for the leaders.

What do you think about your contesting panel?

I wish them all the best for the upcoming elections. Moushumi had contested against them last time, and lost. This time, she will be contesting from their panel. I give her my love and best wishes for this time.

The number of police officials at BFDC is reportedly going to be increased for the elections. What are your views in this regard?

The BFDC is flooded with police officers, but I don't know who has brought them in. We are artistes, and I can't seem to understand why we need such a big force.

Zayed Khan, the vice-president candidate from your opposite panel said that he wants to help 'landless artistes' build a safe shelter for themselves. How far is the term 'landless artistes' justifiable?

I strongly detest the term 'Landless artistes'. We are artistes and our art should speak for us, not our financial status. No one has the right to define an artiste with such demeaning adjectives. It is inhumane to insult a fellow colleague just to reach a powerful position.

The former committee was in power for two consecutive terms. I want to ask them: How many plots have you allotted and houses have you built for artistes? Please stop looking down upon others and treat all artistes as equals.