Dhallywood actress Apu Biswas says the approach of Durga Puja brings back cherished childhood memories and deepens her longing for her late mother, particularly the special payesh she used to prepare for the festival.
“My mother passed away a few years ago. Whenever Puja approaches, I miss her dearly. I will never again get to taste the payesh she made,” Apu said in an interview with The Daily Star.
For the actress, Durga Puja has always been a time of joy and family traditions. She recalled growing up watching people celebrate the festival and said she hoped this year’s celebrations would bring happiness to everyone.
“Puja is all about joy. I hope everyone can celebrate this year’s Puja happily, with the festive spirit intact and without any problems,” she said, extending her wishes to the community.
While the festival evokes memories of her childhood, Apu is also keeping busy with three upcoming films — Shikar, Durbar and Secret.
She recently travelled to Nepal to shoot Shikar, but sudden flooding disrupted the production and forced her to return to Bangladesh before completing the shoot.
“I couldn’t complete the work entirely,” she said.
Meanwhile, filming for Durbar and Secret has progressed considerably, although both projects still have some work left to finish.
Reflecting on her career, Apu said cinema had shaped her life and expressed hope that the Bangladeshi film industry would regain its former glory.
“Cinema is what has made me who I am today. I want to see Dhallywood enjoy its glorious days again,” she said, adding that she has several plans for the industry and hopes to contribute to its future.
Alongside acting, Apu manages her beauty parlour, attends product photoshoots and inaugurates establishments. She is scheduled to travel to Bogura on October 17 for an inauguration.
Family remains central to her life. Celebrating her birthday on October 11, Apu was particularly moved when her son saved Tk 1,000 to buy her a cake.
“I was deeply moved. My heart was filled with happiness because of my son’s love,” she said.
Women working at her beauty parlour also arranged a celebration, while fans marked the occasion by cutting cakes. Apu said she considers her employees part of her extended family and appreciates the affection shown by her supporters.
