17 August marks the birthday of renowned actress, national icon and living legend of Bangladesh, Shabnam.
On the eve of her birthday, celebrated actress Shabnaz and popular actor-director Afsana Mimi surprised her with an unexpected visit to her home in Baridhara’s Diplomatic Zone in the capital.
The surprise was planned by journalist Ovi Moinuddin. Shabnaz and Afsana Mimi arrived at Shabnam’s residence with flowers and wished her on her birthday. They also presented her with gifts.
Shabnam was visibly delighted by their unexpected visit. The three actresses then spent time reminiscing about their earlier days and sharing memories.
Their long-standing relationship dates back to the film Dil, directed by Azizur Rahman.
Shabnaz and Afsana Mimi had the opportunity to work alongside Shabnam in the film, which was released on 22 May, 1992. Their work together led to a warm relationship with the veteran actress.
The gathering also featured a birthday cake-cutting ceremony. Singers Rashed and Tanzin Mithila, who were present at the event, performed several songs dedicated to Shabnam.
Rashed opened the musical segment with Mahmudunnabi’s Aynay Oi Mukh Dekhbe Jokhon.
He then performed his original song Ami Khujechi Tomay Mago and Mohammed Rafi’s popular Chandni Ka Chand Ho.
Songs from Shabnam’s film Harano Din were also performed, including Ami Rupnagarer Rajkanya, sung by Ferdousi Rahman, and Lag Ja Gale, popularised by Lata Mangeshkar.
Renowned guitarist Sakil Mohammad Dipon accompanied the performances.
The songs by Rashed and Mithila added to the celebratory atmosphere and were also praised by Shabnam.
Speaking about the surprise birthday celebration, Shabnam said, “I permanently moved back to Dhaka towards the end of the 1990s. Since then, I have never had a birthday celebration like this. I was genuinely surprised to see Shabnaz and Mimi. It means a lot to me that they made time to come and celebrate my birthday. It felt wonderful to talk openly and reminisce after such a long time. I am grateful to Ovi Moinuddin for making all these arrangements behind the scenes.”
Shabnaz said, “Shabnam Apa is a pride of our cinema. We share a family-like relationship. I felt it was my responsibility to make some time for her. I have learnt so much from her throughout my life. I am very happy. I hope she stays healthy.”
Afsana Mimi said, “Being able to wish Shabnam Apa with flowers, embrace her and sing a couple of lines of Ogo Ma Tumi Shudhu Ma on her birthday was incredibly special for me.”
