Just a four-year career—but an astonishing level of success. Out of 27 films, the majority were commercially successful. Salman Shah’s performances in these films still make audiences laugh, cry, and reflect. Even prominent critics often remark on how “vibrant” his acting was.
In Bikkhov, he portrayed a rebellious youth, in Kanyadan a responsible man, and in Ei Ghor Ei Songshar and Jibon Songshar, he vividly captured the complexities of middle-class life, including daily struggles, love, and conflicts. His other roles brought characters to life, touching hearts with authenticity. Similarly, in Anondo Oshru and Sotyer Mrityu Nei, it would be hard to find a viewer whose heart was untouched by his performance. Few commercial actors have delved so deeply into their characters—but astonishingly, this unparalleled actor never received a National Film Award during his lifetime. The question arises, why?
During that period, actors like Ilias Kanchan, Alamgir, and Rubel were working in films with strong social and humanitarian themes. In the eyes of the jury board, these films were considered more significant. By comparison, Salman Shah’s films were often viewed as mere expressions of youthful exuberance. Filmmaker and writer Chhotku Ahmed opines, “Salman Shah was a hundred percent actor. But the kinds of films and characters that typically won National Film Awards were not the ones he usually did. Most of his roles were romantic or those of rebellious youths. Even though he acted brilliantly in them, perhaps the jury did not take them into account.”
Another filmmaker, Mostafizur Rahman Manik, adds, “Not just Anondo Oshru or Bikkhov, I also think he deserved the National Award for Mayer Odhikar. But perhaps competition was very tough at that time. I believe if he had lived two or three more years, he would have won.”
Manik further explains, “Salman Shah never lobbied or sought political influence for awards. He was a popular actor, so naturally, he did more mainstream films.”
Jakir Hossain Raju, director of Jibon Songshar, expresses only regret on this matter: “He deserved the award, but why he didn’t receive it, I won’t comment on for now.”
Film journalist Mahfuzur Rahman mentions that when Salman passed away, young actors did not enjoy the easy recognition they do today. Even Zafar Iqbal and Jashim did not receive awards in their lifetimes. Sohel Rana won the National Award for the first time only after completing two decades in his career, the same year Salman passed away. During his lifetime, Raisul Islam Asad and Alamgir received awards sporadically.
He explains, “In his four-year career, Salman Shah never had a single role strong enough to compete in the awards that year. Those who won during that period were undoubtedly deserving, and the jury had strong preferences for them. So, even though Salman Shah delivered outstanding performances in some films, the National Award remained out of his reach.”
Salman Shah expressed his frustration once regarding the National Award during his lifetime. In a private conversation, he shared his feelings about actor Alamgir, which were later reported by a prominent weekly magazine, leading to some restrictions. Fans and supporters believe that “film politics” played a role in why he did not receive the National Award.
Yet time has proven that awards are not the ultimate measure. Salman Shah remains alive in the hearts of millions of fans. The emotions shown on his birthdays and death anniversaries cannot be measured by any medal. One viewer once remarked, “Whether he got a National Award or not doesn’t matter. Salman Shah has become an immortal actor in our hearts.”