Veteran actress Shanta Islam has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) in recognition of her contribution to the arts.
The organisation presented the honour at the Don Valley Hotel and Suites in Toronto, Canada.
Speaking from Canada, Shanta said she was deeply honoured by the recognition.
“I am extremely happy and delighted. FOBANA has given me a Lifetime Achievement Award in Canada. I feel deeply honoured,” she said.
Shanta has acted in numerous television dramas throughout her career and has received several major honours. She received the Bachsas Award for her performance in Mayur Singhasan with Aranyak Natyadal and later won the National Film Award for acting in films.
“This is the first time I have received such a major honour outside the country — and that too a Lifetime Achievement Award,” she said.
Shanta expressed gratitude to the organisers as well as the directors, producers, fellow artistes and journalists who supported her career.
“We artistes work for the people. Alongside receiving people’s love, when an organisation or a state recognises our work, it gives us encouragement and a sense of fulfilment,” she said.
Recalling her career, Shanta said she acted in numerous dramas for Bangladesh Television and also worked in package dramas and stage productions.
She became involved in cultural activities while studying at Dhaka University and went on to appear in popular dramas including Rupnagar. She also worked as a presenter for many years.
“Receiving this honour has brought back memories of the work I did throughout my life,” she said.
Shanta is currently spending time with her only son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter in Canada. She said her son’s success gives her peace and fulfilment, while she considers her daughter-in-law like another mother and her granddaughter an inspiration.
“I am doing very well with all of them around me,” she said.
She has also been meeting friends and well-wishers in Canada and enjoying time with her family. She said she particularly enjoys going out and exploring places with her daughter-in-law during holidays.
Shanta added that her son and daughter-in-law were both happy to see her receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Acclaimed magician Jewel Aich also received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the same event.
