Actress Idhika Paul says she hopes to work in another Bangladeshi film like Priyotoma, the film that introduced her to audiences across Bangladesh and transformed her career.
Idhika, now a popular actress in both Bangladesh and India, won widespread acclaim after portraying the title character in Priyotoma opposite Shakib Khan. Directed by Himel Ashraf, the film became a major success, with the performances of both lead actors earning praise from audiences. Although she later reunited with Shakib Khan in another film, Idhika believes she has yet to surpass the popularity of Priyotoma.
Before entering films, Idhika worked in television dramas in Kolkata. Her performance in Priyotoma established her as a film actress and significantly increased her demand in both West Bengal and Bangladesh. She has since appeared in several other films and is currently busy shooting a new project directed by Srijit Mukherji in Kolkata.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Idhika said she still misses the experience of working on Priyotoma.
“I miss the Priyotoma days very much. I still remember the first day I arrived in Dhaka. That evening, I visited the BFDC and spent quite some time exploring the premises. Afterwards, I went to Hatirjheel before having coffee at a café. I then spent some time at the Versatile Media office. A few days later, shooting for Priyotoma began,” she said.
She recalled that the film was her first project with Shakib Khan. After completing the shoot, she returned to Kolkata before the film was released.
“Once the film came out, there was excitement everywhere. Later, I returned to Dhaka with my mother to watch it. We watched it with a packed audience at Bashundhara Cineplex. Even though I was wearing a mask, people recognised me when I came out after the screening,” she said.
Calling Priyotoma “a blessing” in her life, Idhika said she hopes to act in more Bangladeshi films with similar stories.
“I truly want to work in more Bangladeshi films like Priyotoma. I don’t know if I will get that opportunity again,” she added.
