Legendary Bangladeshi actress Shabnam, who built an illustrious career in both Dhaka and Pakistani cinema, turns 81 today, Monday (17 August).
Born in 1946, the celebrated actress has remained one of the most influential stars of Bangladeshi cinema.
From the 1960s until the late 1990s, she regularly appeared on the big screen and earned recognition across Bangladesh and Pakistan for her performances.
Her final film was Kazi Hayat’s Ammajan. Following its release, she became even more widely known by the title of the film’s central character.
However, Shabnam did not return to a film set after Ammajan. In a past interview, she spoke candidly about the hurt and disappointment that kept her away from shooting floors.
“After shooting Ammajan, I never went to a studio. I attended only a handful of programmes. There are many things I cannot speak about openly. I will not be able to. And there is no point in saying them either. My mouth is completely shut,” she said.
Shabnam also revealed that she had spent a long period abroad and did not want to discuss what she experienced after returning to Bangladesh.
At the time, she said she had already told her son that her body should never be taken to the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (FDC) after her death.
She referred to her late husband, legendary composer and music director Robin Ghosh, saying that his body had also not been taken there.
Asked why she felt so strongly about an institution where she had spent a significant part of her career, Shabnam said there were reasons behind her decision but that she did not wish to disclose them.
“I have received so much respect from FDC that I could never finish talking about it,” she said sarcastically.
“Yes, it is true that when I die, they will put a garland of flowers on me. That is all, isn’t it? I do not want to give anyone that opportunity.”
She further said she did not want anyone at FDC to publicly mourn her after her death.
“I am living quietly at home, and I am fine this way. I am at peace. I am an artiste. I am living life on my own terms. I am very well,” she said.
Shabnam’s remarks reflect the deep hurt she has carried despite her decades-long association with the film industry.
At this stage of her life, the legendary actress appears to want neither ceremony nor public tribute, but simply the peace and privacy she has chosen for herself.
