A meeting at Gazi Mazharul Anwar’s home years ago has remained a cherished memory for singer, presenter and social worker Dithi Anwar and actress Poppy.
Gazi Mazharul Anwar, Dithi’s father, was one of the most prominent lyricists, producers, directors and storytellers in the subcontinent. During the 1990s, many leading actresses of Bangladeshi cinema hoped to work in his films.
Among them were Moushumi, Shabnur, Poppy and Purnima. Moushumi eventually worked in several of his directorial ventures, while Poppy appeared in only one—’Ragi’.
The film featured an ensemble cast including Nayak Raj Razzak, Bobita, ATM Shamsuzzaman and Rubel. It became a commercial success, but Poppy did not work in another film directed by Gazi Mazharul Anwar.
Although Poppy remained away from his films afterwards, Dithi said the actress always held her father in great respect.
A few years ago, while Gazi Mazharul Anwar was still alive, Poppy visited his home to meet him. Shabnam, Omar Sani, Moushumi and several others were also present.
“It was a beautiful time. We talked and spent time together, and I also sang at the gathering. Poppy apa deeply respected my father even though she acted in only one of his films. Looking back now, those memories feel even more precious,” Dithi said.
She added that her father’s absence has left a void that cannot easily be filled.
“If my father were still alive, perhaps many more beautiful moments would have been created. Now that he is gone, many things feel empty. Perhaps that emptiness can never truly be filled,” she said.
Poppy also fondly remembered the gathering and described Gazi Mazharul Anwar as a source of pride for Bangladesh’s film industry.
“Gazi uncle was a pride of our cinema and of our country. Even though he is no longer with us, he continues to live through his songs. I was fortunate to spend a beautiful time at his home a few years ago, and I also had a wonderful time with Dithi,” Poppy said.
Poppy praised Dithi’s singing and personality as well.
“Dithi sings very well and has a big heart. It is natural that such a father would have such a daughter. My prayers are always with her,” she said.
Meanwhile, Dithi has recently released a cover of the song ‘Emoni Kore Ekdin’ on her YouTube channel, adding another musical chapter to her continuing journey.
