“It has been quite overwhelming”

Following its release during Eid ul Azha, “Boro Chele” has been at the tip of everyone's tongues. Within a few days the play has racked up over 3 million views on YouTube. In the play, Apurba plays the role of the titular elder son, and in a recent conversation with The Daily Star, the actor talks about the drama and its aftermath. 

Why do you think “Boro Chele” became such a hit?

Apurba: I believe the play's owes its success to the solid, compelling script. The story is everyone's story, and recounts incidents that have happened to most of us at some point in our lives. The narrative focuses on a middle class family, thus focusing on a major population group. In such families, the elder sibling often has to make a lot of sacrifices for the better interests of others, which is highlighted in the story.

How does it feel to receive all these praises for the play?

Apurba: It has been quite overwhelming, because it's after quite a while that a television play is generating such a response. It goes to show how receptive our audience is to quality work. This also would not have been made possible without the collective efforts of the entire filming unit, and Mehazabien has done a tremendous job in playing her role.

What were your thoughts on the play after first receiving the script?

Apurba: When the director, Mizanur Rahman Aryan, first handed me the script I could not help but feel emotional after reading it. I have been in a lot of plays, but this one stirred something within me.

How does it feel to know the tele-film has had over 3 million views on YouTube?

Apurba: I would say this is a new record for us, there are over 60 thousand views adding up every hour, and there are over 15 thousand comments on the page. As an artiste involved with the project, I cannot be happier than I am now.

Do you have a message for your fans and viewers?

Apurba: I would like to request their never ending support, and to keep watching our work. There are a lot of excellent dramas and TV plays being produced in our country. Another message is that, “Boro Chele” will be aired, without commercial breaks, on Channel 9 for three days from Friday- Sunday. This has been done to meet the viewers' requests.

What are your plans now?

Apurba: I have never followed a plan throughout the course of my career. I live like there's no tomorrow and focus all my energies on the present.

Have you begun shooting after Eid ul Azha holidays?

Apurba: I have begun work for a new drama series, and after completing its filming, I will move on to work on a single episode play.