Veteran Bangladeshi actor and dialogue writer ATM Shamsuzzaman is being remembered today, 10 September, on his birth anniversary.
Abu Taher Mohammad Shamsuzzaman was born on 10 September, 1941, at his maternal grandfather’s home in Daulatpur, Noakhali.
He was the eldest of five brothers and three sisters.
His father, Nuruzzaman, was a prominent lawyer and politician who was associated with the political circle of Sher-e-Bangla AK Fazlul Huq.
Shamsuzzaman began his film career in 1965 with Noya Jindagani. However, the film was never released.
His first screen appearance came in 1968 with Etotuku Asha, in which he played a newspaper seller.
He became particularly popular for portraying villains, comedians and supporting characters. His notable films included Lathiyal, Nayanmoni, Jadur Banshi, Ramer Sumoti and Hajar Bochor Dhore.
His performances, especially in negative roles, helped establish him as one of the country’s celebrated villains.
Alongside acting, Shamsuzzaman worked as a story writer and screenwriter. He wrote the story and screenplay for Jolchobi, which marked actor Farooque’s film debut.
Shamsuzzaman received several honours during his career. He won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 1987 for Dayi Ke?.
He later received the Best Comedian award for Madam Fuli, Churiwala and Mon Boshe Na Porar Table e. He also won the Best Supporting Actor award for Chorabali.
In 2009, Shamsuzzaman made his directorial debut with Ebadat, in which he also starred alongside Shabnur and Riaz.
He also received a special award for his performance in Guerilla.
ATM Shamsuzzaman died on 20 February, 2021, at the age of 79.
