West Bengal actress Idhika Paul says Priyotoma, her Bangladeshi debut opposite Shakib Khan, remains one of the most memorable and significant projects of her career.
Directed by Himel Ashraf, Priyotoma introduced Idhika to Bangladeshi audiences and earned her widespread acclaim.
Although she has since reunited with Shakib Khan in other films, the actress believes the success of Priyotoma holds a special place in her journey.
Idhika began her acting career in Bengali television before making her breakthrough on the big screen with Priyotoma.
Since then, she has worked in several productions across both the Bangladeshi and West Bengal film industries.
She is currently busy filming a new project directed by acclaimed filmmaker Srijit Mukherji in Kolkata.
Speaking to the media recently, the actress looked back on her first visit to Bangladesh during the making of Priyotoma.
“I miss the Priyotoma days a lot,” she said. “I still remember my first day in Dhaka. That evening, I visited the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) and spent quite a while there. Later, I went to Hatirjheel and had coffee at a café.”
She added that she also spent time at the office of Versatile Media before filming began.
“A few days later, we started shooting Priyotoma. It was my first film with Shakib Khan. After completing the shoot, I returned to Kolkata. When the film was finally released, it received an overwhelming response from audiences.”
Recalling the film’s release, Idhika said she returned to Dhaka with her mother to watch it with local audiences.
“My mother and I watched Priyotoma at Bashundhara Cineplex with the audience. Even though I was wearing a mask, people recognised me as I was leaving the theatre. I can never forget the love I received that day.”
Describing the film as one of the greatest blessings of her career, the actress said she hopes to work on similar projects in Bangladesh again.
“To be honest, Priyotoma is a blessing in my life. I would love to do more Bangladeshi films with stories like this. I don’t know whether I’ll get that opportunity again, but I truly hope I do,” she said.
