Renowned Bangladeshi director Chayonika Chowdhury is set to receive a special honour at the CJFB Performance Award 2026, recognising her 25-year journey in television drama and filmmaking.
The awards ceremony will take place on 16 December. The recognition marks the silver jubilee of her career, during which she has earned widespread audience appreciation by directing numerous single-episode and television serials. Chayonika said she was delighted by the honour.
Over the past 25 years, she has directed 475 single-episode dramas and 18 television serials. Many of the country’s celebrated performers, including Nayak Raj Razzak, Alamgir, Abul Hayat and Afzal Hossain, have acted in her productions.
She has also played an important role in introducing newcomers to the acting industry. Several performers have had opportunities to establish themselves through her dramas, with Chayonika becoming a trusted name among emerging actors.
Popular television actor Apurba has acknowledged her contribution to his career on various occasions. Mahfuz Ahmed and many other actors have also expressed their gratitude to the director over the years.
Reflecting on her 25-year journey, Chayonika said reaching her current position had never been easy. She recalled the difficult moments when she cried in private, unseen by others.
“Reaching where I am today was not easy. The journey was full of challenges. During those difficult times, I often cried in hiding for various reasons. No one saw those tears. Only God did. God loves me dearly and has blessed me with great respect. I earned that recognition through immense hardship and hard work. I have also received the love of millions of drama lovers across the country. There is no comparison to that love,” she said.
She added that obstacles had repeatedly come her way throughout her directing career. However, she remained focused on her work and refused to lose sight of her goals.
“Many obstacles and challenges came along the way as I continued making dramas. Still, I never moved away from my desired goal and always gave priority to my work. That is how I eventually found success and gained the experience of completing this long 25-year journey,” she said.
Chayonika also expressed pride and gratitude for the recognition from CJFB.
“I am proud that CJFB is honouring me for this achievement. I extend my heartfelt gratitude and love to them,” she added.
