Bangladeshi actor Tamalika Karmaker is set to return to the stage in the United States after nearly six years, bringing her long-standing love for theatre to an American audience.
Tamalika is familiar to television and film audiences for her performances in dramas including Kon Kanoner Phool, Kothao Keu Nei and Sharabela. However, theatre has remained her greatest passion.
She joined Mamunur Rashid’s theatre troupe Aranyak in the early 1990s after being invited by the playwright and director. She made her Aranyak stage debut in 1992 with Pathor, written by Mamunur Rashid and directed by Azizul Hakim.
She later performed in productions including Mayur Singhasan, Joy Joyonti, Rarhang, Shotrugon, Uparwala, Bhangbang, The Jubilee Hotel, Iblish, Helakhela and Prakritojon Kotha. The experience of receiving an immediate response from audiences gradually deepened her attachment to theatre.
Tamalika has been living permanently in the United States for years. On 4 October at 5:30pm, she will perform in Omanush at the City of Alexandria-Lee Center on Jefferson Street in Alexandria, Virginia. The production is being staged by Suchona Theatre.
Written by Mamunur Rashid more than three decades ago, Omanush explores social decay and class realities.
For Tamalika, returning to the stage after such a long break and performing in a play written by her theatre mentor make the production particularly meaningful.
However, she also feels some apprehension because Mamunur Rashid will not be beside her this time.
“The show of Omanush is happening, but my respected Mamun Uncle is not beside me, which makes me a little nervous.
I know his blessings are always above me. Even so, taking on Amanush has increased my responsibility. I have to perform well despite all the challenges,” Tamalika said.
Despite her extensive stage experience, Tamalika believes every performance remains a new test before an audience.
“No matter how experienced I become as a stage actor, every time I perform, I have to face a new test before the audience. Theatre is not merely entertainment; it is a sharp tool of class struggle. The reaction I receive from audiences after performing on stage is an intense addiction for me. I want to immerse myself in that feeling again and again,” she said.
Tamalika also expressed gratitude to Omanush director Jannatul Tumpa for bringing her back to the stage.
